Van Nuys

Right from its start in 1911, the city of Van Nuys was labeled as “the Town that Started Right,” and still is one of the best places you can start or end in when out for a great time in all of LA’s nightlife.

As with the rest of the Valley, Van Nuys has the distinct touch of being directly initiated by the many emerging film, auto and aviation industries that moved west from Hollywood in the turn of the century. From exceptional restaurants to local dive bars, Van Nuys has hidden gems that rival many of the more affluent places up the hill in Hollywood or downtown LA, but without the snobbish attitude and many more times the charm.

At less than half the size of the many luxurious LA nightclubs you’ll find in Hollywood or Sunset, the Coda Bar is almost mistaken for a speakeasy, but is always a hit with locals. With hip-hop and top hits to dance to, and a trendy, comfortable setting to do it on, Coda is easily missed but a must stop of the entire Valley.

For live sports or any kind of event, Springbok’s Bar and Grill is the best place to go. Rugby, lagers, ales, burgers and karaoke, Springbok’s has it all and with a spacious interior including patio seating, there is no better place to catch genuine South African cuisine and live sport events. Ireland’s 32 is a local favorite and unique in most Irish pubs in that it is authentically Irish. A perfectly poured Guinness or Smithwick’s to pair with live music, karaoke and traditional Irish fare, Ireland’s 32 is famous for attracting all ages looking for a cool and casual time.

Alongside the various dive bars, nightclubs and strip clubs there are in Van Nuys, you’ll also find some of the best eateries and diners. There are literally dozens of celebrated food trucks offering everything from fish tacos and burritos to Mediterranean grilled sandwiches and many are open late. Crave Café is directly where Van Nuys meets Ventura Blvd. and is a groovy spot to meet locals and have a late night meal 24 hours a day. Mel’s also, with its eclectic 1960’s setting, is open late and a favorite place to have a great milkshake and catch some oldies.- Pablo Belloso Sanchez