Old Faithfuls

When the line to be trendy isn’t worth the wait, try some clubs that will always make room for a few more patrons. . . .

Barney’s Beanery. Haven’t been by this venerable beer hall in a while? Well, not too much has changed (unless you’re there during the lunchtime lingerie shows). It still looks like the wild, wild West with a bit of bacon grease tossed in

but it’s great for a late-night stop. 8447 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 654-2287. 21 and over (at night, unless accompanied by a parent), no cover.

Coach & Horses. Cinderella won’t be meeting Prince Charming here any time soon; it’s too low-brow a bar for fairy-tale royalty. But when you’re looking for a no-maintenance hang, the Coach & Horses is as good a spot as any. 7617 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 876-6900. 21 and over, no cover.

Formosa. It seems implausible this one-of-kind restaurant and bar almost met a wrecking ball just a few years back. Primarily housed in an old rail car, the Formosa’s popularity is bigger than ever, and so is its size (an upstairs smoking deck was added recently). 7156 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 850-9050. 21 and over (at night), no cover.

El Compadre. When you’re looking for a flaming margarita in a deep red booth, there’s no other choice but this rock-star haven. El Compadre is more than a Mexican restaurant with mariachi music--it’s a way of life. 7408 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 874-7924. All ages, no cover.

Good Luck. Seems impossible to have a lousy time at the Good Luck, a class joint that makes you feel like you’re hitching a ride to nirvana on the back of a drunken Buddha. 1514 Hillhurst Ave., Los Feliz, (323) 666-3524. 21 and over, no cover.

Red Chariot. The passionate karaoke performances at this low-key Valley sports bar bring guests to their knees (either falling with laughter or begging for more). 14431 Burbank Blvd., Van Nuys, (818) 785-5200. 21 and over, no cover.

The Room. This back-alley bar seems to get darker each time we chance by, but the spirit of the place has evolved to an enlightened state; i.e., be nice to those who show up and they’ll surely be back. Check out DJ Alfred’s soulful Thursday night set. 1626 Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, (323) 462-7196. 21 and over, no cover.