The Experience
Club 42 Tequila Bar & Bites is built for the part of travel where you’ve cleared security and want to exhale with a proper drink. Think of it as a tequila-first bar with food that’s meant to keep pace—snackable, shareable, and paced for boarding calls. The vibe leans lively and social (stools, quick conversations, a bit of people-watching), making it a solid choice when you’re tired of coffee queues and want something that actually feels like Los Angeles.
What travelers tend to love here is the agave-centric lineup: margaritas that don’t taste like neon mix, pours that let you compare blanco vs. reposado, and bartenders who can steer you toward something smooth if you’re tequila-curious. Pair your drink with “bar bites” that hit the salty-crispy-spicy notes you want in an airport—easy to share, easy to finish before final boarding.
Location & Access
- Airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Los Angeles, United States
- Where to find it: Exact terminal/gate placement can shift at LAX—confirm in the LAX Shop+Dine app or terminal directories on the day of travel.
- Security: Typically positioned post-security like most LAX dining options, so plan to visit after you clear TSA.
- Seating & waits: Expect bar-style seating with some small tables. Waits spike around late afternoon and evening departures; off-peak you can often slide in quickly.
Menu Highlights
- Classic Margarita (or spicy variation): The move if you want something bright and refreshing that still tastes like real tequila. Ask for a rim option (salt/chile) if available.
- Tequila flight: Best “airport splurge” order—lets you sample across styles (blanco/repo/añejo) without committing to a full pour.
- Shareable bar bites: Look for queso-and-chips style plates, tacos, or crispy finger foods that travel well from kitchen to table. These tend to be the safest bets for speed and satisfaction.
Price context: Expect airport pricing—cocktails generally land in the “treat yourself” zone, and bites usually run in the mid range for LAX (roughly comparable to other $$ options around the terminals).
Dietary options: You’ll typically find at least one vegetarian option among the small plates (chips/salsas, queso, or veggie-forward bites). For vegan or gluten-free needs, ask staff to flag items with dairy or flour tortillas/breading. Halal options are not guaranteed—confirm before ordering meat.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not always offered at bars; check the LAX Shop+Dine app for live order-ahead availability.
- Reservations: Uncommon in-airport—assume walk-in only.
- Best times to avoid crowds: Late morning or early afternoon between banked departures. The pre-evening rush is the toughest window.
- Power outlets: Hit-or-miss at airport bars; sit near walls/columns if you need to charge, or be ready to rely on terminal outlets nearby.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Travelers who want a real cocktail, a quick unwind, or a fun “vacation starts now” toast—especially solo flyers and couples.
- Skip if: You’re on a very tight connection, need a quiet work zone, or prefer guaranteed dietary-specific menus (vegan/halal) without asking questions.