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Thunderbolt Review
Walking into Thunderbolt feels like finding a friendly neighborhood secret — a cocktail bar that blends Southern warmth with serious drinkcraft in the heart of Los Angeles. Tucked where Historic Filipinotown, Echo Park, and DTLA meet, Thunderbolt strikes a balance between laid-back comfort and thoughtful hospitality, the kind of place you picture becoming your local regular. (thunderboltla.com)
The room itself is approachable and unpretentious, designed for conversation rather than spectacle. Staff greet you with easy smiles and an obvious pride in what they do — from the bartender who knows your taste before you finish the sentence to the server who can walk you through a food-and-cocktail pairing with confidence. That warmth is intentional; the team explicitly states they want guests to feel welcome, and the atmosphere reflects that inclusive mission. The bar is ADA accessible and even posts a cheeky but clear “mind your manners” note on the door, a small detail that underscores their commitment to a respectful, community-minded vibe. (thunderboltla.com)
If you’re going for cocktails, Thunderbolt is where creativity meets consistency. The staff describe themselves as some of the city’s best drink makers, and the beverage program emphasizes technology and innovation to make cocktails more sustainable and reliably delicious. The backbar is particularly memorable — a proud display of Madeira bottles gives the space a distinctive identity and signals a depth of knowledge that sets Thunderbolt apart from many neighborhood spots. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic riff or an experimental sip, the drinks feel thoughtfully composed and well-executed. (thunderboltla.com)
The kitchen leans Southern in the best ways. Simple, soulful plates — notably, their biscuit offerings — read as comfort food with attention to technique. The menu pairs naturally with the cocktail list, making it easy to linger over a shared plate and a round of drinks. Seating is first-come, first-served, which reinforces the casual, drop-in energy; for larger groups there are arrangements for parties, so it works equally well for a spontaneous evening or a small celebration. (thunderboltla.com)
Thunderbolt also doubles as a thoughtful bottle shop and wine-minded destination. They run a bottle shop with its own hours and promote a wine club, indicating a broader devotion to bottles beyond just on-premise pours. For anyone who wants to take a piece of the bar’s character home — or to discover something new from their curated list — that’s a welcome plus. Practical details are straightforward: you’ll find them at 1263 W Temple St in Los Angeles, with consistent evening hours and weekend extensions, plus specific bottle shop times for those looking to pop in midday. (thunderboltla.com)
Overall, Thunderbolt reads like a modern neighborhood bar with old-fashioned hospitality. It’s a place built to be returned to: smart drinks, comforting food, and staff who clearly love what they do. If you live nearby or are exploring this corner of LA, pop in for a cocktail, try a biscuit, and stay for the friendly service — you might leave already planning your next visit. (thunderboltla.com)
Photos of Thunderbolt
Address of Thunderbolt
1263 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States
Phone Number of Thunderbolt
(213) 372-5099
Website of Thunderbolt
Weekday working hours of Thunderbolt
Monday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Saturday: 8:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Sunday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM
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