The Lighthouse Cafe

The Lighthouse is a legendary live music venue with bar and restaurant on the Hermosa Pier Plaza. This place was world famous way before the movie.. and is known as a legendary jazz club. The musical acts they have are actually very diverse and there is something for everyone.. often having multiple bands and acts on per day. The patio is awesome but it fills up fast so be sure to get there early or book a table in advance. They have really good food with all the traditional favorites. The Lighthouse has always been about the music, and they continue the Hermosa Beach tradition of live bands, great food and drinks and awesome staff and service. We love this place and will be back again really soon!

This was my first time here and it was great! They have a patio out front and seating inside on both sides of the stage which is in the middle of store. The bar runs almost the length of the place with the restrooms and kitchen at the back. When you enter you see the front end of the bar running along the left side of the store and the stage on the right side. They have a good sound system and great lighting too. I had their burger (1/3 lb) and it was juicy and flavorful (and they use iceberg lettuce). They have a FULL BAR (cocktails, wine, beer, soda). The staff are fast, friendly and professional. Mia was my server and was fantastic! There is NO parking in front (it's a pedestrian zone), but there is parking in back. There is handicap ♿️ parking spots and the place is handicap ♿️ accessible. The hallway to the restrooms is narrow and not much maneuverability. So get there early enough for parking. Their menu is small, but it looks like they have something for just about everyone. ;) This was my 2nd time here and it was just as good as the 1st time! ;)

Such an iconic location to enjoy music from all genres. I really enjoy coming on Monday night jazz jam sessions. The music, food, and vibe is second to none. When you walk through these doors, you step back onto history. Love the artichoke btw!

cute little restaurant, we had to pay $10 each to get in (bc there’s a live band and it’s sunday) which i knocked a star off for but other than that the band was very cool and the food was really good! we got the chorizo nachos and lighthouse fries. also cool that the restaurant was featured in la la land.

I stopped by on my afternoon walk and date with myself. Decided to stay and watch the bands. The first one was a blues band and the second was a reggae one man band. Both were entertaining. I ordered the watermelon drink with tequila. I wished it had more watermelon in it. I also had the Mac and cheese.. not very cheesy.. and the sour dough bread with honey butter. The honey butter tasted a little organic and goat cheesy. I wasn't a fan but it was nice a crunchy. Overall the experience was nice. The waiters were very friendly and kind. I felt a little sad tonight. I met a friend there a couple years ago, and I miss that night. Wish I could go back and change things haha.

What a fun time!! It is a 21 and up place and we came on a Wednesday night when they do live music! So lively and fun!! Everyone was dancing and the performers were great, food was INCREDIBLE I got the cod tacos and I highly recommend!! Service was fast and friendly and you just walk in and get a table, no need to wait for a table or for a server, they come right to you wherever you sit

Had a great time. Great music, good food, and next to the beach. I definitely recommend it. Pancakes are huge!

Came here for Sunday jazz brunch. The drinks and food were very good but the atmosphere was fantastic. The jazz band (Griffin Woodard Quartet) that was playing was fantastic and the nods to "La La Land" (which had scenes filmed there) were great. We would definitely return.

After partying on this strip, I can't believe I never took a look into The Lighthouse club! I came on a Monday around 6:30pm to catch happy hour, and it was pretty dead till about 7:45pm, when the band started playing. AMAZING BAND!! The music hit your soul! For happy hour, I'd recommend sticking to ordering one of the two cocktails for $10. Not really the food. Ordered a shrimp cocktail with 4 shrimps for $12. ‍ The best priced item on the menu are the rosemary bar nuts! lol $6 for a pretty big bowl. We ordered the cool cat cocktail, the lighthouse margarita, watermelon smash (I think lol), and the funny valentine. All bomb!

"The Lighthouse Cafe: From Iconic to... Invisible Service" The Lighthouse Cafe gets two stars, and let me be clear--those are purely for the venue and live music. The space is as charming as ever, and the bands still bring the vibes. But the service? What service? It's like the staff collectively decided to ghost the customers. Back in the day (aka before the pandemic), The Lighthouse was the spot. The service was top-tier, the drinks were crafted to perfection, and the whole experience felt iconic. Now? It's a shadow of its former self. My old fashioned was more like a maple syrup sugar bomb than a balanced cocktail. I could feel my teeth ache just looking at it. Don't get me wrong--the venue still has so much potential, and the live music is worth a visit. But if they don't step it up behind the bar and on the floor, it won't matter how great the band is. Here's hoping The Lighthouse finds its way back to the light. Until then, I'll enjoy the music--somewhere else.

This is a lovely location with great jazz and super friendly staff, but the food (as far as brunch is concerned) leaves a whole lot to be desired. I have little patience for a place that requires easy fixes for simple problems but doesn't seem to care enough to improve things. For example, buy another coffee maker for crying out loud. And maybe offer tea, too? As for the pancake, try tossing a few nuts on it. This place has so much potential but can't seem to care enough to take advantage. Why?

We came on a Sunday and were charged a cover per person $20 which was fine but when we got in were told that we can take any seat that didn't have a reservation sign and literally all of the tables had a sign that showed reservation. Why charge people $20 at the door to not be able to sit anywhere?! We wanted to order food and watch the band and we're more than happy to pay but it's stupid to charge people $20 knowing that they have nowhere to sit. I really wish they were more upfront and open about no available seating prior to charging people $20 at the door. Don't come if you don't ask before paying the cover charge if you can't visibly see available seating. Bartenders were nice. Period

What a beautiful little visit to The Lighthouse Cafe! I feel like a criminal for waiting as long as I did to come down to this venue. I am a jazz enthusiast! I have ventured to so many venues throughout the city in search of great jazz music. I never venture farther than LAX for good music, but I took the plunge and headed down to Hermosa beach to see how the lighthouse did its thing. Pro tip: Arrive early. I arrived at 9pm (jazz starts at 8pm on Mondays) I was lucky enough to snag a table after awkwardly standing around for a bit, but I was totally stealthy in my approach. For next time, I'll arrive earlier and snag one of the coveted seats at the bar; those were in perfect view of the band. The music was insane. Loved it, more on the acidy side of jazz, totally experimental. I enjoyed it. The crowd was lively, diverse, and responsive. Even saw a few couples up and dancing. Perfect venue to do so. For drinks, I started off with the Voodoo Down. Tequila, lemon, eggwhite and pepper (my guess is sichuan) on top. Lightly spicy, a little sweet and totally up my alley. Not sure the name of my next drink (bought for me), but it was pineapple-y and delicious. I came a little too late for food, but I definitely want to try next time I'm back. Great time at the Lighthouse cafe! I don't find myself on this side of town too often, but I definitely love a good excuse to head back.

The Sunday brunch menu is definitely on the light side, only 4 items to choose from, quality is... Well ..bar food... The vibe is good thought , the whole jazz , La La Land film feel pretty much keep up those La La Land enthusist coming.. service is not bad either...

Went on Dec 29 on a cool foggy day for jazz brunch. I had wanted to try this place out and it didn't disappoint. They have a limited food menu and full bar service. I had the breakfast burrito which was aight, girlfriend had a breakfast plate. Beers were cold, jazz was pleasant (Jay Smith Group; trio with Hammond organ) and it was fun to see this west coast jazz landmark and LaLa Land set piece.

Though we missed the live music, it was a treat to dine here after our beach bike cruise. Definitely had the jazzy vibe, and was a pleasure to sit on the pier patio and take in the weekend crowd. Service was friendly and quick, and each dish we ordered hit the spot. Plenty of appetizers and sharing main dishes was the route we chose, so we could savor all the menu had to offer. Coming back for jazz club night life as well as the spicy tomato soup.

I've been to Lighthouse many times, and every time I order a margarita, it's been okay. But last time, I went on a Sunday night, and the cute bartender made an exceptionally good margarita. I can honestly say it was the best margarita in town! Make sure you ask for the cute bartender, and don't forget to tip her well!

Great day for music, food, and drinks! The bartenders are nice and ready to pour. Live music and lots of fun on a sunshine day on Pier Ave in Hermosa Beach. Check out their website for times of their live events.

Secret Agent Entertainment, booked the cover band, Blondie vs Madonna at the Lighthouse Cafe for 02/01/2025. The band started at 4pm for a 3 hour performance.. By 4:30pm the cafe was packed with fans and music enthusiasts. This group did not disappoint. If you want a stress free venue with great entertainment, Lighthouse Cafe is your choice. I met customers that have come here, for more than 20 years. They continue to come for the Great food, and great talent, but they also come to meet family and friends. If you are age 21 or older, looking for a fun group to share an afternoon of music and camaraderie, the lighthouses Cafe is your venue. I have never been disappointed by the staff or management. Come see why they are so popular.

Kat was amazing bartender got our drinks out swiftly and neatly thank you love the jazz part itself was great and the host man did a great job with his dad jokes

Located in Hermosa Beach, we came here for a friend's birthday for lunch on Sunday. There's a bunch of shops and restaurants on the strip that makes it fun to walk around. Pretty neat place with cool vibes. Clean on the inside. Jazz music was on the louder end so a little harder to have conversations but they're good so it was enjoyable. The waitress was attentive and the food came within 10 minutes. Got the burrito which was amazing, had the fried cheese on the top and the chorizo with jalapeños on the inside was a nice touch. Also got the pancakes which was super fluffy and filling and the fruit was fresh. Also got the vodka coffee but it was what you kind of expect. Overall, loved the place and would definitely come back!

I love going to the lighthouse in Hermosa Beach, especially on Mondays and Tuesdays!!Monday night is Jacque Leisure and his wonderful jazz band, and Tuesday is Andy and Renee, who sing a variety of songs that everyone will recognize. .. Those are my two favorite nights to be there. I love both of their music. Also, the food is good at the lighthouse and the staff are friendly. I love sitting on the stools right in front of the band, to get the absolute best view. I highly recommend going there on Monday and Tuesday nights!

I would never think that I would be writing a complimentary review for the food at a music venue but here I go: The California Cobb Salad was THE BOMB!!! The ingredients were all high quality and so fresh! And my husband said that his cheeseburger and onion rings were really good. We came to see our friend's band but I would return just for the food.

Strong drinks and a fun little place by the beach. They had live music and the people playing that night were really good and energetic. They took requests and played as many things as they could and even brought up some other people from the crowd. The people there were really getting into it and dancing even though it wasnt super packed.

It was ok i want to dance and have fun . Onenstage was a sax phone. Was kinda hot the serve was good. But iwas

Another AMAZING Monday Night Jazz at the Legendary Lighthouse Cafe in Hermosa Beach with Jacques Lesure and the New Lighthouse All Stars!!! You can't find this quality of Jazz on a regular basis anywhere else in town than at the Lighthouse Cafe on Monday nights from 8 to 11!!! https://share.icloud.com/photos/0823mlmGiv6hSB0C57dMvmEUw

Live music still has a home in Hermosa. Loved Jazz night! I need to get to 85 characters.........

We came here for the Monday night jazz session and the band that performed was impeccable!! The atmosphere was great and the other patrons were nice. They also have decent bar food and drinks. The bar is located next to Hermosa Beach, so there's a lot to do around here.

I've been here more times than I can count. Today, was a bad experience though. The food I ordered was not made correctly. When I questioned the waiter lady, she had an attitude. I was upset about it. The vibe here was ok, usually is. The staff is mostly friendly, just a downer day possibly.

Quick stop for a beer and snack. Nia took good care of us. Beers were tasty and broccolini app was perfect on a warm day by the beach.

Parking: there's a parking lot, but beach parking is tough. Uber if possible. Atmosphere: they filmed a scene of Lala Land here; the pier with Ryan Gosling is right around the corner (sans the pole lights). It's not too recognizable from the movie, but you do get a sense of history from this place when you walk in. There was live music that night and the vibes were excellent. Service: bar staff was quick, efficient, and friendly. Overall, it was a fun time and definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

What's not to love about the Lighthouse? Live music, dancing, sports on tv, great happy hour, and friendly staff. If I'm in town I'll always go there!

We immensely enjoyed jazz brunch on Sunday. The menu is brief, but everything is amazingly curated. The hash browns with the fry-up are the best I've ever had my whole life. Even the toast was amazing. The breakfast burrito had frico cheese on the outside. Come listen to jazz and have a delicious brunch!

Was sitting across the promenade and heard the sweet sound of jazz oozing from this relaxed beach bar. Cruised on over and walked into a bunch of Jazz players Doing there thing. Bookmarked and will be back. Hope to make it to Jazz Sunday sometime.

The Lighthouse Cafe is one of those Los Angeles area icons who have weathered the storm. Starting in '49 just about every top musician from the past two generations have played there. Our visit was just to chill and grab a drink and some appetizers. Luckily we found seating as it is on a first-come basic but there are some table outside. Service was quick and professional and the food was tasty while hitting the spot. The portions are not small so we have enough to take with us for another meal. If you're in the Hermosa Beach area you can't beat the environment, you will love the history. Also, there are plenty of TV's screening various sport events. The music was good - the two piece band was kinda '80's rock & roll and entertaining. Oh, there is a small dance floor area in front of the band and it was active. They do have a happy hour and the full menu is mid-range.

A fun iconic place featured in Lala Land if you're into movie locations. Fun to see local live bands and a throwback with some great history. A little something for everybody with jazz on subdays, salsa dancing, good ole rock n roll bands too. Definitely fun to people watch too. It does seem to cater more to an older crowd but late night, the younger set comes here because there's usually not a cover charge. Food here is decent but it's not the main draw. Parking is metered.

Usually, I love this place especially on Monday nights. It was the first place I'd ever gone to see live jazz and now come pretty often. The vibes here have changed dramatically since it's blown up on tiktok, there's even a COVER CHARGE. Insane.

Salsa/Bachata Nights are fun on Tuesday. I am not sure what the cover is. Sometimes it's $5. Sometimes it's $10. Service is a bit slow. Ambiance is casual bar. Parking is hard to find. Goodluck with free parking. There is a public lot at 1301 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 at $2.00/ hr until 8 pm. $2.50/hr 8 pm - 2 am.

Sat outside enjoying my beer watching the bouncer charge some people $10 to get in and others had a secret handshake and got in for free! I wish I knew that handshake. Other than that love the lighthouse and the bartenders are great! Might come back!

Love this spot. Went here for a breakfast and also been here during the night for some drinks and fun! Cool place and nice people and of course, a couple of steps away from Hermosa Beach.

Our experience could have been better. My husband and I were here for our honeymoon because we are huge La La Land fans. No one was around for a bit to give direction, but eventually a server yelled at us from across the room as she was walking to sit wherever. Service was pretty rough. After sitting for 20 minutes, eventually we were greeted and could order some drinks. Our server brought our drinks another 15 minutes later and didn't check in again until we got her attention awhile later to order another drink. Our drinks were okay. I ordered the Cool Kat which was good, followed by the Hermosa Punch which tasted like exact same drink. The music made up for them! Lol. Loved the lively atmosphere that Retrofit created. Would love to try again and hopefully have better service.

Great time! Great Food and cocktails. We thoroughly enjoyed the Eagles Boys of Summer Event.

Wow! Just saw a band called. "Like Zeppelin" They were amazing!! I hope they play again there soon! Will go back again.

Not sure when they changed their policy... I've been coming here for the live music for many years...WITH MY DOG. Last night (Friday), I was greeted by a very unfriendly and curt doorman who said only service dogs were allowed "especially on the patio!" I understand inside the establishment. But the outdoor patio?? Maybe don't come on a Friday night if you expect friendly service. I've never had an issue with the lighthouse prior. It sucks that 1 person and 1 situation can ruin it for a long time customer. Won't be coming back anytime soon.

One of the many local Southbay bars on Pier Ave close to beach. You get a cool breeze and during the day, an amazing view of the strand and beautiful Hermosa Beach, hence the name. The Lighthouse is small and quaint place with good bar food and drinks. At night and weekend evenings there is live entertainment with a medley of familiar songs and upbeat music. Service is great with waitresses and staff coming around periodically and they do check ID's at night for entrance. The bar area is small and loud with live music so expect to be shouting your orders and to friends at times inside by the bar area. This place is not as crowded as some of the other bars on Pier Ave and they have outdoor high tops for a more quieter area with heaters.

Great food, great music! Nice bar by the beach vibe. Very diverse clientele. I had the fish tacos and they were amazing! Their drinks are a bit pricey for the amount you get. They had a live Jamaican musician the night I went and he was really good! People of all ages were dancing next to the stage! The parking lot is run by meters with a 3 hour time limit.

Haven't been here in 15 years and Michael the bartender made me feel cool at home. Anything needed he was there also while getting others their drinks. So having said that this bar is the best thing going on the Hermosa Strip!!!!! Plus the band was killing. Mike needed a raise or must be put in charge of the bar, bc he was FLAWLESS. Even made sure I had a nice cold water with ice !!!!!!!!!!! 20 STARS!!!

We went there for drinks and appetizers. The artichoke, and the sourdough appetizers were bland. The drinks were sub par. We ordered cosmopolitans and they were horrible. Had to send them back. The waitress was also subpar. The place wasn't very busy and we had to chase her down to take an order, re-order, etc. if not for the nice outdoor table, it would have received a one star. Mostly due to the lackluster service.

I have been going to The lighthouse cafe for brunch and great jazz music for 2 years now. The service is great and everyone is friendly. Plus it's steps from the beach. Great energy. Nice people. It's not dog friendly even with a patio but that's ok. You go for the Jazz and the food.

Just as vibrant as seen in the Movie LA LA Land. The live Music performances here are great.

Live music!!! I had heard about The Lighthouse and thought it was gone. Friday evening, wandering Hermosa looking for a spot to eat and drink - The Lighthouse! I heard music, saw outdoor seating and wandered in. What a fun spot! The two guys performing were really good. After a drink, I decided to stick around and eat. And? Good food! Overall, I'm thrilled to have found The Lighthouse...thinking about returning again this weekend. Live music, good food & drink, great vibe! Friendly service too! 4.95 stars

I travel here once a month, from Bakersfield for the jazz brunch. The staff is always warm and welcoming and the food is on point. The menu is limited, but I like that! The air is crisp near the large windows and the music is exquisite. Be sure to check out The Jay Smith Group when they are in town!

It is obvious that this place either has no concept of catering to the crowd or simply doesn't really give a flying leap. Who would play country music in between sets of a reggae band playing. I appreciate the fact that they still support live music but MANAGEMENT..read the crowd. Bruh!‍‍

The band playing was good and so was the ambience. Outdoor tables are kind of close to each other and the beer selection could be bigger.

Great entertainment. The music brings everyone together. The bartenders are very friendly. The happy hour is spot on.

Amazing vibes & movie like setting.. you'll love it here It's definitely the newest hermosa beach hot spot!

Light house never fails. Music is on point. Staff is amazing 10/10 Light house never disappoints I'll keep coming here every chance I get.