Village Tavern

Village Tavern in Atwater Village embodies the spirit of a true neighborhood hangout. This isn’t a place you come to for a fancy meal—it’s where you gather with friends, catch a game on one of the TVs, and maybe challenge someone to a board game over cheap drinks. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, the kind of spot where the staff remembers your face and nobody’s trying too hard.

The menu focuses on smoked BBQ meats with a Mexican twist. The brisket is the star of the show, tender and slightly sweet, served your way—wrapped in a taco, stuffed in a burrito, or melted into a quesadilla. A house-made spicy avocado sauce ties everything together. The pulled pork holds its own too, though you might want to skip the chicken altogether. For sides, the Crazy Corn is a must—a generous cob slathered in cheese, agave aioli, and lime that screams Southern California summer.

This is a bar first, restaurant second, and the drink specials reflect that priority. Five-dollar Bloody Marys on Sundays and margaritas on Tuesdays make it an easy choice for casual afternoon hangs. The dining room never feels overcrowded, and you can always snag a spot at the bar or a table without much fuss.

Village Tavern won’t blow you away with culinary innovation, but that’s not the point. It’s the kind of genuinely likeable place where good company and cold drinks smooth over any rough edges. Bring your crew, order the brisket, and settle in for a relaxed afternoon—you’ll leave happy.