Death and Co opened in New York in 2006 and built a reputation as one of the most serious cocktail bars in the country. The Arts District Los Angeles location is their third, and it was designed with its own identity rather than being a replica. The main draw is the Standing Room, a subterranean lounge accessed through dark hallways where candlelit booths and physical menus that look like art zines set the tone before a drink even arrives. The cocktail menu is organized by flavor profile with sections like Light and Playful and Boozy and Honest, and the bartenders know it well enough to guide you based on what you actually want. Small plates like oysters and shrimp toast are good. Reservations are recommended on weekends.