For a neighborhood that's both a bit rough around the edges and positively loaded with the young and the rich, Venice really ought to have a better drinking scene. We blame the glorious scenery: Who wants to spend the night getting hammered when they know the surf will be calling in the morning? Still, there are a few good bars here, and the best of the lot may well be Larry's. Named for SoCal artist Larry Bell, a pioneer of minimalism, Larry isn't douchey, dirty, jam-packed with tech assholes or swollen with tourists. It's roomier, and a bit more civilized, than most of the bars within spitting distance of Ocean Front Walk, and it offers a full liquor menu to go along with the 26 beers on tap. The kitchen isn't always open as late as we'd like, but the lighting is divine and the bartenders are generous with their pours. And while Larry's doesn't have ocean views, the retractable glass doors are almost always open — meaning you'll definitely get a few ocean breezes. —Sarah Fenske

24 Windward Ave., Venice, 90291. (310)399-2700, larrysvenice.com.

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