First Draft Taproom & Kitchen

"This place is a rip off, $13.15 for a tiny glass of beer 2/3 full - I dread to think how much it would be if you filled a whole pitcher. The UI is terrible too, a bunch of numbers with no explanation of what they mean (there was def no 13 on there). And if you want your staff to get a living wage, increase your prices and pay them properly - don't just sneakily add 20% on the bill at checkout, which you're expecting in addition to a tip. No wonder it was empty."

"Good place to spend time with friends. The staff was friendly welcoming."

"In the heart of downtown LA, where the pulse of urban life meets the embrace of craft brews and delectable bites, lies the First Draft Taproom and Kitchen. This establishment offers a portal to a realm where libations flow freely (almost literally), and flavorful bites and small plates are a QR code scan away. Upon stepping into the taproom, one's senses are immediately seduced by the essence of conviviality. On every wall, there's a sight to behold that will leave you entranced, from a massive TV displaying a live game to the random art and sports memorabilia, to the keg room/ fridge, there's something to see in every corner. The 'pour yourself' taps that adorn the wall leading out to the patio area, a playground of local and regional beers that begs us to embrace the role of brewmaster and server. Up on the second floor, you find yourself in a bird's nest area—a more intimate refuge for those seeking both solitude and camaraderie that has a amazing bird's eye view of the taproom. For the competitive souls, an assortment of board games awaits. There's also a photo booth for your enjoyment. The beer selections range from sour's to IPAs, to seltzer and wine options. There were also at least a few non-alcoholic options. A popular section was the small row of taps immediately outside, otherwise knows as the Golden Road Patio Beers. As far as tapas go, we decided on a few small plates for the table that everyone shared. The Neo pizza, a taproom rendition of the classic Margherita, was as good as it sounds. The fresh greens and ripe red tomato provided both texture and freshness that cut through the zesty sauce and savory cheese. Of all the items we ordered, the zucchini sticks seemed to disappear the quickest. They were piping hot and crunchy, and were a nice option over fries and a tasty compliment to the pizza. There was a vegan among the group so the vegan salad was a must. It was piled high with olives, jalapenos, mushrooms, a plant based crumble, and vegan ranch. The vegan salad was such a hit that we ordered two, and they were devoured within minutes. Overall, our visit to the First Draft Taproom and Kitchen was an amazing one. Nestled a few blocks from the staples center and the Pico train station stop, it would be the perfect pregame stop. Between the many TVs and 'pour yourself' tap options, you'd be doing a disservice not visiting and at least having a drink. Then you'll likely take a look a the tapas menu and go from there. The servers are welcoming and don't encroach on your space, especially if you're in a large party. Stop in before a game, you won't regret it."