One of my favorite LA dives is just down the road from Glendale in the slackified Silver Lake area. From the outside, the place looks like an unassuming old style dive bar which just happens to feature German biers. But, venture in and you’ll be amazed at a kitschy, over the top yet intimate old style German gastro pub serving up delicious, hearty and authentic German fare including unbelievably rich potato pancakes, several different types of German sausages (get the Sausage Platter) and even Black Forest torte for desert.

Several high quality German brews are on tap and a large bottle assortment is also available. Fun seekers should order the humongous ‘boot’ of beer; a full 1.5 liter that rivals anything seen at Oktoberfest! For that added touch of authenticity, the waitresses are also clad in dirndls and love to carry liter mugs by the plenty to the dark wood booths.

On any given night you’re likely to rub shoulders with young hipsters and cranky german expats. Watch out for live music nights; one of my favorites was the accordian guy that shows up occasionally.

Highly recommended and not to be missed!

Red Lion Tavern
Address:   2366 Glendale Blvd, Silver Lake, CA, 90039
Phone:  323/662-5337