Bar Benjamin

Tucked above The Benjamin on bustling Melrose Avenue, Bar Benjamin is one of those hidden gems that rewards those who venture up the stairs. This dimly lit lounge carries the same throwback aesthetic as its downstairs sibling, but here the focus shifts squarely to some of the most creative cocktails in the neighborhood. It’s the kind of place where you might pop in for a quick drink before dinner and find yourself staying for the entire evening.

What sets Bar Benjamin apart is how the bartenders treat cocktails like culinary creations. These aren’t your standard spirit-and-mixer affairs—think savory gibsons featuring gin infused with everything bagel spices, tomato-forward negronis that taste like summer in a glass, and a Persian-inspired tequila-brandy concoction that channels the rich complexity of fessenjoon. The drinks sound almost too ambitious on paper, but the team behind the bar knows exactly when to push boundaries and when to pull back, ensuring every pour remains balanced and genuinely enjoyable.

The atmosphere here strikes that perfect balance between cozy neighborhood hangout and proper cocktail destination. Walk-ins can grab a spot at the bar, but if you’re planning to settle in with a few miso manhattans and good conversation, booking one of the spacious booths in the back is the way to go. The low lighting and vintage decor create an intimate vibe that makes it easy to lose track of time.

For anyone serious about craft cocktails or simply looking for a distinctive spot on Melrose, Bar Benjamin delivers. Come hungry for something different, leave impressed by how well these unconventional flavor combinations actually work.