Abbey   

Hallowed ground for West Hollywood locals, The Abbey is a beacon of entertainment and social acceptance that transcends its bar and restaurant identity. Once just a coffeehouse with a Gothic theme, The Abbey has remodeled, renovated and morphed to become a focal point of West Hollywood life, by day and by night. Depending on the time, The Abbey can be a simple coffeehouse and bakery or a hot nightclub and bar scene attracting lines of patrons. Building on its coffeehouse base, owner David Cooley slowly expanded to include an outdoor bar, cabana lounge, dance floor and the decadent new Ice Bar, which features cathedral ceilings and a sultry lounge. Be sure to check out the martini offerings here, which include the Butterfinger, the Caramel Apple, the Chocolate Raspberry and the seasonally appropriate Pumpkin Pie. Even with the changes, the Gothic theme that longtimers have come to love remains intact. The transition from coffee and baked goods by day to nightly dinner and dancing can't be easy, but this place does it with aplomb. Rated "Best Restaurant of 2003" by the city of West Hollywood, the Abbey is known for catering to the late-night dining demands of the local gay community. The food is well-prepared, ranging from fun finger foods like nachos, quesadillas and burgers, to lighter chicken, pasta and vegetarian faire. Whether enjoying a late lunch with friends or gushing down a Martini at last call, the Abbey is a gay nightlife experience that epitomizes LA bar life for millions of residents and visitors.