Table of Content
Downey, California, is one of the best secrets of Los Angeles County. This beautiful city is conveniently located near Los Angeles and Long Beach and is known for its idyllic urban-suburban setting. It is one of Southern California’s most sought-after residential destinations, thanks to its accessible location, affordability, and diverse real estate options.
That’s not all. Downey, California, has all the major perks people need when looking for a place to call home – good schools, ample job opportunities, healthcare facilities, and a close-knit, thriving community.
But quality of life is measured beyond amenities we now regard as fundamental. And if you like going out after hours, then nightlife counts. And in that aspect, Downey, CA does not disappoint.
Let’s look closer at the nightlife in Downey, CA, and the exciting and delicious adventures you can enjoy in the city after dark.
DOWNEY, CA QUALITY OF LIFE
Downtown Downey, CA
Downey is located in the southeastern part of Los Angeles County. It’s 13 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) and 10 miles east of the Pacific Ocean. It’s currently home to 114,000 residents who live in 26 constituent neighborhoods across an area measuring 12.6 square miles.
The city lies close to four major terminals – Los Angeles International Airport (LAX is approximately 20 miles southwest), Long Beach Airport (LGB is about 10 miles south), John Wayne Airport (SNA) is around 30 miles southeast), and Bob Hope Airport (Burbank, BUR is about 30 miles northwest).
And with Long Beach just 8.5 miles away, Downey’s accessibility makes it a prime residential location. It offers an idyllic suburban lifestyle while still being close to the beach and the big city.
The quality of life Downey promises – and delivers – is also evident in the attractions and recreational opportunities it offers. The city is best known for its history in aerospace manufacturing and aviation and for being the birthplace of the Apollo Space Program. Because of this, the Columbia Memorial Space Center is always a popular tourist attraction,as is the Downey History Center, which teaches residents and visitors more about the area’s origins.
But beyond its storied past (including having the oldest McDonald’s branch in the world), Downey also has a vibrant present with a wide range of fun activities, events, and attractions for all ages.
Residents who like being outdoors have their choice of parks, sports fields, and walking trails. Those who prefer in-person shopping and dining will delight in the array of shopping centers, boutiques, chain restaurants, and homegrown eateries.
And for residents who want their after-hours fun, the nightlife in Downey, CA, offers enough entertainment and experiences to please nocturnal habitues. While the late night scene may not approach the frenzy as neighboring LA or Long Beach, there are still plenty of options for all to enjoy.
EXPLORING THE NIGHTLIFE IN DOWNEY, CA
The nightlife in Downey, CA, is fun and vibrant and encompasses the gamut – from bars and eateries to karaoke and bowling. Whether you like unique dinner experiences, want to find a place to have a drink with friends, or are looking for evening activities you can enjoy, there is something for everyone.
Nightclubs and bars
The first thing that usually comes to mind when discussing nightlife is the club, bar, and music scene. Everyone wants a place to unwind. If you want to find a reliable local watering hole or a place where you can socialize, have a drink, or enjoy good music, there are fun bars and music venues you can enjoy in Downey.
-
8239 2nd St., Downey, CA 90241
Open Wed-Thu 8 p.m.-2 a.m. • Sat-Fri 9 p.m.-2 a.m.
The Epic Lounge opened in 2002 and has become a favorite nightlife spot in Downey. It’s located in the heart of Downtown Downey and hosts events like DJ nights, live music, themed party events, drag shows, and more. The lounge also has a dancefloor and karaoke nights. Combine both and voila! It’s an instant karaoke dance party featuring giant screens! If you like music, drinks, dancing, and something fun for everyone, The Epic Lounge certainly lives up to its name.
-
11002 Downey Ave., Downey, CA 90241
Open Thu-Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m. • Sun brunch 12 noon-5 p.m.
Nightclubs and music venues can be fun, but if you want to enjoy drinks in a more lowkey and relaxing lounge environment, Bella Lounge is a stylish, eclectic lounge with a vintage Hollywood vibe. The glamorous interiors consist of plush velvet seating, chandeliers, and chic accents. The menu is a carefully curated selection of shareable bites like sushi, sashimi, and ceviche. However, the real star of the show is the specially crafted drinks menu and glassware and accessories that come with your cocktails. Look for occasional special events like themed drink nights or holiday specials.
-
8432 Firestone Blvd, Downey, CA 90241
Open Tue-Thu 12 noon-10;30 p.m,. • Fri 12 noon to 12 midnight • Sat 11 a.m. – 12 midnight • Sun 10 a.m.- 10 p.m.
The look is chic; the vibe, Tulum-style hot and happening; the dress code, casual elegance; and the food, to die for. The coastal-inspired Mexican menu boasts offerings that arrive at your table at the peak of flavor, the restaurant promises. Drop in for brunch, lunch, or happy hour, but dinner at DIOSA means being seen at the scene. Popular on the menu are steak nachos, octopus zaran (saffron), and enchiladas poblanas. The drinks menu is extensive including 11 kinds of margaritas, and a choice of cocktails categorized as Air, Water, Earth.
-
8860 Apollo Way Suite 304, Downey, CA 90242
Open Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m. • Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-2 a.m.
This gastro bar offers great drinks, chef-inspired food, and a comfortable vibe. Bar Louie is part of a chain, but no two bars are the same. Far from being cookie cutter, the chain allows the location to determine the vibe of the local pub. The brand was established in Chicago in 1991. Over the years, Bar Louie has become one of the hottest gastropub chains in the US, with over 70 locations coast to coast. It’s also open late, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy the company of friends till the wee hours.
-
350 Firestone Blvd.. Downey, CA 90241
Open Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-12 midnight • Thu-Sat 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.
Following the success of their Mexican cantina-inspired sports bar, which opened in Dallas in 2010, Ojos Locos is now in 28 locations across 5 states, including Downey, CA. In keeping with the literal translation of its name (crazy eyes), Ojos Locos is proud of their state-of-the-art wall-to-wall HD TVs tuned to sports programs and for popularizing the balón, a limelight-stealing beer tube or tower. Scarf down tacos and wings made from scratch. And party till the cantina closes at 2 a.m. on weekends.
The Junction Bar and Billiards
9370 Telegraph Rd., Downey, CA 90240
Open Mon 5 p.m.-2 a.m. • Tue-Sat 2 p.m.-2 a.m. • Sun 1 p.m.-2 a.m.
If you’re looking for a no-frills bar and billiards hall, the Junction is for you. The bar has 48 rotating craft beers on tap, ensuring something for everybody. There are also several pool tables available on a per-game or per-hour basis. If you want something more filling to go with your beer, pack a snack. The Junction doesn’t serve food but allows you to bring your own.
Culinary adventures after dark
If you wander at night in search for something more substantial than drinks, Downey has a few surprises up its sleeve. For something unique and delicious and whether you want the full dining experience or just late-night nibbles, here are a few fun options.
Lock & Key Social Drinkery + Kitchen
11033 Downey Ave., Downey, CA 90241
Open Mon, Wed, Thu 5 p.m.-10 p.m. • Fri-Sat 2 p.m.-midnight • Sun 2 p.m.-10 p.m. • Closed Tuesday
The Lock & Key Social Drinkery + Kitchen in Downtown Downey offers one of the best burger and steak experiences. Established in 2013, the restaurant, bar, and lounge has always been known for its 40-ounce aged tomahawk steak and delectable, juicy burgers. Other local favorites are the appetizers, honey walnut shrimp and sticky fries. Alongside their extensive menu, they also have a fully stocked bar, with many patrons opting to linger after their meal to enjoy a nightcap.
-
8860 Apollo Way, Downey, CA 90242
Open Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-midnight • Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-midnight
The Lazy Dog is another late-night option for when you get the munchies. And there’s no better way to satisfy the pangs than at Lazy Dog. Every conceivable comfort eat is on the menu like 8 different burgers including a vegetarian BBQ option, tacos and pot pies, breakfast burritos and frozen TV dinners straight out of the 1950s you can reheat at home. Founded in the Rocky Mountains, Bar Louie has made Downey its home. Aside from the food, guests enjoy the rustic social setting wedded with California charm. There’s a patio for al fresco dining, which is also a dog-friendly option if you want to bring your pooch along.
-
8860 Apollo Way Suite 104, Downey, CA 90242
Open Mon-Thu & Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. • Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m. • Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
The Olive Restobar is an upscale Mediterranean restaurant in the Promenade at Downey. It was crowned as the 2019 Small Business of the Year, and the restaurant takes pride in serving high-quality, delicious cuisine made with fresh ingredients and skillfully prepared. Some delectable favorites include filet mignon kabobs, lambchops, airline chicken piccata, and spice hummus. Alongside Mediterranean fare, the bar serves handcrafted cocktails and a diverse spirits selection that pair perfectly with your appetizer, meal, or snack. Some signature cocktails include very old fashioned, passionfruit mojito, the westside, and the penicillin. While this restaurant closes before midnight, it’s still a fun sport to come in for a late dinner and a drink at the end of the day.
-
12056 Paramount Blvd., Downey, CA 90242
Open Sun-Mon 10 a.m.-11 p.m. • Tue-Thu 10 a.m.-midnight. • Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-1 a.m.
Tempo Cantina by Jorge Cueva is a fun and modern Mexican restaurant and bar serving good food and delightful kitsch to go with it. Favorites are the birria tacos, carne asada, and Mexican with a twist like Korean tacos and surf and turf burritos. Pair your meal with flavored margaritas like the cucumber jalapeño margarita or the strawberry mango margarita. And end it with mouthwatering desserts like their famous churro cart or moist butter cake with ice cream.
-
11040 Downey Ave., Downey, CA 90241
Open Sun-Wed 9 a.m.-midnight • Thu-Sat 9 a.m.-1 a.m.
The OLA Restobar traces its roots back to 1983 on the dream of opening an authentic Mexican restaurant with exceptional quality and authenticity. While the restobar has evolved over the years, it still maintains its authentic Mexican roots while crafting a new and exciting menu, including drinks. Some crowd favorites include OLA’s famous 18-inch burrito, fish taco, and passion fruit margarita. The deep-dish carne asada pizza is also a good choice.
More options for a fun night out
Clubs, bars, and restaurants are always fun, but if you want to find activities to enjoy after dark, head to Downtown Downey for movie theaters, bowling alleys, and the occasional night market.
-
Promenade at Downey
8860 Apollo Way, Downey, CA 90242
Take a break from streaming. Nothing beats the big-screen experience at Cinemark Downey. Located at the Promenade in Downey, the cinema shows all the latest movies with a fully stocked concession stand for popcorn, drinks, and then some. After the movies, grab a late-night snack at several options in the Promenade..
-
7502 Florence Ave., Downey, CA 90240
Open Mon & Thu 4 p.m.-11:30 p.m. • Tue-Wed 4 p.m.-11 p.m. • Fri 2 p.m.-1 a.m. • Sat 9 a.m.-1 a.m. • Sun 9 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
If you haven’t been to a bowling alley in ages, you’ll be surprised at how much fun it still is. Del Rio Lanes offers glow-in-the-dark bowling, an arcade, and restaurant quality comfort classics like pizzas, burgers, chicken wings with 6 different dipping sauces, and a fully-stocked bar. The lanes are open until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday and can be booked in advance for private parties and events.
When it comes to nightlife in Downey, CA, these are just 12 places you’ll want to check out. Whether you like a quiet drink with friends, cosmic bowling, or fun karaoke and dancing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Browse upcoming events and after-hours activities here.
MAKE DOWNEY, CA YOUR HOME WITH REAL ESTATE EXPERT, MICHAEL BERDELIS
If you love the nightlife, Downey has some fun choices you can enjoy. And if you want to enjoy LA, the city is a short 25-minute drive for even more nightlife options. One thing is for sure: if you make Downey your home, you will always have options for evening entertainment.
Interested in learning more about living in Downey, CA? We can help. Our team of residential sales specialists has facilitated over 1,500 home sales in the area since 1999. Led by Realtor and broker associate Michael Berdelis, who has been the #1 agent in Downey since 2002, we can help you look at your real estate options in Downey, CA today.
Contact Michael and his team of real estate experts. Call (562) 818 6111 or send us an email today!