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Banter Bar

4.5 (67 reviews)
Open 11:00 am - 2:00 AM (Next day)

Banter Bar Photos

BANTER BAR ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Juke Box
Divey
Casual
Good for groups

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Recommended Reviews - Banter Bar

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Reviews With Photos

Miguel R.

My friend Conrad likes to play pool. I like to explore different places. So we comprise and go to new bars (and other joints) that have pool tables. That is how we ended up here, and I am grateful for the experience. Before he and I went to Banter bar, he and I went to another bar. We were told that we could play pool, for Wednesday nights in Culver City belonged to pool players that belonged to leagues. I asked the person who gave me this information where we could go that was near, after he visibly consulted his thoughts, he offered Banter Bar. So off we went trusting the direction of this stranger, with a pool stick in hand. Conrad and I found street parking, right across the bar, but as we approached a sign informed us that the bar has parking in the rear. As soon as I entered I knew that this bar had personality, a personality that I wanted to be around in. We entered and immedetiary we were greeted by a snack bar. Please do not imagine a Sizzler salad bar with snacks, but imagine about 12 bags of different snacks-- like Peanut M&Ms, Wasabi Peanuts (that I avoided), Salt and Vinegar Peanuts (that I indulged in) and a plastic pumpkin filled with fun sized candies, like Hershey and Mr. GoodBar. There were also trays full of chips, pretzels and other assorted goodies, including popcorn, of course. I shared with Conrad how I felt about the spread; how I had never seen something like this, and how the selection was varied, and how smart it was to have such a selection for those enjoying beer and cocktails. I think I gushed a bit. Then I felt the gaze of another bar-goer. I turned to him, and I asked why are you smiling? I assumed that he was amused, at my loud positivity, but, I quickly found out that he was being delighted by it. For you see, he was the person responsible for the snacks. His name was Jimmy Snacks. I asked him why do you do this? And he said because I can. I am assuming part of his reality, but I hope when I retire, I find a bar or place that can be a home that I contribute to with splendor and joy. I am also glad that my sincere reaction communicated to Jimmy Snacks sincere appreciation, not like I just saw the snacks and thought free! The bar had two pool tables and it also had a lot of regulars. As Conrad and I sat and enjoyed bowls of snacks, we got to see regulars play pool. There was a culture already in place, revolving around he tables, that we did not belong too. If we wanted to play pool we would have to wait awhile. Conrad did not want too. Most bars with pool tables have regulars that kind-of understand the steps of securing a pool table with more ease than a non-regular. To get a pool table, Conrad and I will go earlier next time, in that manner we slide in before the bustle happens. The night we went on was Karaoke night. The melodies did not define the night. The bar was spacious enough for different pockets of fun to happen. The Kaaoke was a special fixture of the night, not the dominating one. So non-karaoke fans can go and do their own things, while the warblers can fill their heart desires. For instance, one guy sang a song that I did not recognize- it was slow and soulful. He sang it well, and I enjoyed it because he did good, not because the song was a Taylor-level hit. It was also nice to hear good singers, and not just singers who butcher a hymn for fun. One of the things that I appreciated immensely about this bar, is that it did not just have sports on their tv's. On this particular night they had an episode of Modern Family, a show that I have consumed and loved! I felt like the bar got me. Sure, it had the other regular things showing on television but it also had something showing for the rest of us. The bar had plenty of liquor, and a lot to make it feel like a place with good vibes. including a neon hot-pink sign that read Good Vibes. The sign had a pink heart as well, not instead of the dot above the I but as a standalone figure in the sign. I appreciated that in sum the bar has a little something for everyone, and it feels like a spot to grab drinks and relax because you do not have to fear bar brawls or fights. I also saw someone sitting in a couch that was well into her Golden Years. If she belongs in this bar, then anyone belongs in the bar. Why? She has earned the wisdom to chose what is great and what is not.

Debra H.

Truly a hidden gem ! Emily makes THE BEST espresso martinis in town!! Absolutely delicious Plus the service is unforgettable. I initially ordered the peach margarita but it wasn't quite frozen enough yet (although still delicious), and they let me know that and gave me a sample to ask if I was okay with the consistency or if I wanted to wait 10 minutes until it froze more. This was so hospitable and considerate! Most bars would just give you what they have but not Banter! The ambience here is warm and inviting. It's also so much fun watching the amazing band Kiki and The Biscuits perform! Kiki also hosts karaoke here on Wednesdays and Sundays and she always puts on an incredible show! Her voice is epic!!! If you want great drinks and great times, pop into this cozy West LA gem

Sadel S.

A fun local bar with Karaoke on Weds nights. They have reasonably priced drinks, strong pour, pool tables, and a digital juke box. Some "regulars" get annoyed if you change the music to something current and of a different genre, but oh well, it's there for everyone! Haha. My FAVORITE part of Banter on Weds or sometimes Thursday nights is the pop-up food tent in the back! PizzaKen is SO good and often has specials that are related to Puerto Rican or Brazilian faves. It's great to have a local spot with good drinks and great food!

Tequila shots
Ashley H.

I came in at 1:30am on a Sunday night because I was drawn by the Karaoke I was hearing. I tried to put my name down on the list but unfortunately it was all full. Luckily, they had a "juke box" which was all digitalized and cost 2 credits per song. $5 for 15 credit. Thankfully there was credit on the machine and I was able to have my own karaoke session and was the last to leave. I promised the closing guy if I could finish my favorite song "U don't have to call" that I would give him a review. Thank you for not verbally kicking us out and just pacing around, Sir! I had a very memorable, spontaneous night. Lastly, bring quarters to play pool. It's 1 quarter per play.

She fake as fuck!!
Sukie K.

It's my first time at this bar when I first walked in everybody was hanging out, the bartender was very nice It was a male, and then they switched bartenders and a female bartender walked in, and she has not greeted me not once she has not made any eye contact with me, but she's talking to everyone else And sometimes that can make you feel uncomfortable When it's your first time somewhere and you cannot have a job like this if you're that kind of person you need to be open-minded and friendly and she seems to be a little shady. Just my opinion other than that it's a nice place. I will come back here again, but just not for her service

Mina M.

Came here on a Saturday to celebrate my husband's birthday and our group had a great time. The owner (I think her name is Emily) makes delicious cocktails. I came ahead of time to drop off a cake and they were happy to accommodate. There's a lovely patron offering free snacks at the bar. There was a live band that we really liked too. Ample seating and pool table kept the group happy for hours.

Menu
Zach H.

Great place in Culver City to water your hole or play pool. Drinks are a little pricey for a dive bar but hey inflation is real. Don't forget to tip your bartender. House rules as far as pool goes you keep playing til you lose. Underground rules.

Alejandro M.

Bartenders define a bar. I believe that the best in Culver City is Em. She is personal. Everyone matters to her. Wiskey sour easy..... or whatever you can request willing. Behind me too pool tables for those that love the game. It has been multiple visits to see the consistency of service. This is why.... Emily is the Queen of Culver City.

J.D. W.

This place is a hidden gem!! Went there on a whim and heard great music, great drinks, and such a great mix of people....young n old. Their servers are so warm n friendly. Great Service!! This is now my favorite bar!! Plus they have Pool tables and do Karioke twice a week. Loving it!!

Steeler Football!!

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3 months ago

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5 days ago

Melania rocks! Great bar, great vibe. Dad night was a success. We will be back!!!!!!!!

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2 months ago

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7 months ago

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7 months ago

If you love Karaoke please go somewhere else horrible service which includes unwelcoming ambience and customer service.

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2 years ago

The drinks are strong and the price is just right. GO STEELERS!!! Would love to do karaoke again.

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1 year ago

Nice bartender and drinks reasonable priced. Went on Karaoke night but not much happening.

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2 years ago

Amazing bar filled with amazing fun people! highly recommend!! Had a great night bar hopping and will most definitely be back!

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3 years ago

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Ask the Community - Banter Bar

Is there live music?

we will have a live band here on 5/26 at 9pm

Are regular dogs allowed?

Yes. Very welcoming and chill environment.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

Review Highlights - Banter Bar

If you want to sign up for Karaoke before you get there just email your name & song request to singkikikaraoke@gmail.

Mentioned in 9 reviews

Read more highlights

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