10 PLACES TO WET YOUR WHISTLE.

Byline: - Larry Lipson Restaurant Critic

There's no shortage of bars and cocktail lounges in the downtown area for thirsty imbibers visiting Los Angeles for the Democratic National Convention.

Here are 10 of the best, listed not by merit, but alphabetically:

1. Bona Vista Lounge, Westin Bonaventure Hotel: (404 S. Figueroa St., 213-624-1000, Ext. 4550) Here's one of those few remaining revolving bars left from the '70s, and it affords patrons a 360-degree view of the city from the 34th floor. It also pours certain drinks in souvenir glasses that include one shaped like the hotel and another shaped like the state of California.

2. Engine Co. No 28: (644 S. Figueroa St., 213-624-6996) An intriguing structure, this bar and restaurant was once an actual fire station. And it's a rendezvous of note at lunch, dinner and especially with the after-work office crowd. A good selection of microbrews and tap beers and addictive spicy fries aid its popularity.

3. Gallery Bar, Biltmore Hotel: (506 S. Grand Ave., 213-624-1011) It's a fave of locals for its regal furnishings, two-story high, renaissance-detailed ceiling - and because it has pool tables and television screens around for sports enthusiasts. And oh yes, there are some nifty appetizers here along with a serious collection of ultra-premium cognacs.

4. Karaoke Fantasy: (333 S. Alameda St., No. 216, 213-620-1030) There's always someone in the group who fancies himself or herself as another Sinatra or Streisand. Here's one of downtown's most popular karaoke bars for hams and friends who can utilize either the public karaoke bar or the private karaoke rooms.

5. La Golondrina Cafe, 17 Olvera St., [phone]. Across from Union Station in the quaint Mexican marketplace, the mariachis entertain on Friday from 6:30-9:30 p.m. in the patio of this building, originally the Pelanconi House, erected around 1855. Sip from a pitcher of margarita, nibble Mexican appetizers and you'll feel like you're actually in Mexico.

6. Little J's: (1119 S. Olive Ave., 213-748-3646) It's a hip joint but enforces strictly business attire. There's a free dinner buffet, but J's is only open during the convention on Friday (5 p.m. to 3 a.m.) and Saturday (9 p.m. to 4 a.m.). Enjoy the DJ music.

7. McCormick & Schmick's: (633 W. Fifth St., 213-629-1929) In downtown's largest restaurant, the bar has its hugely popular weeknight happy hours from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to midnight, also straight through from 3:30 to midnight on Friday. There's a large patio for smokers and happy hour food for as low as $1.95.

8. Nick & Stef's Steakhouse: (330 S. Hope St., 213-680-0330) Not so much a meat market as in the colloquial meaning, but a dining place where actual sides of beef hang in full view behind glass while they dry-age. The entire space is is artfully designed as a sophisticated, big-city environment, and there's an attractive action bar.

9. Pacific Dining Car: (1310 W. 6th St., 213-483-6000) This is L.A.'s power and money elite meeting place, especially at breakfast time. Famous for its Bloody Marys. The bar has all the top premium spirit labels, and there's a deep wine cellar too.

10. Traxx, Union Station: (800 N. Alameda St., 213-625-1999) The bar at this excellent restaurant is small and separate, but very attractive if you like a true art deco look. And there is the constant stream of travelers and commuters, making it a great place for people watching. Incidentally, visitors can take the Blue Line train near the Convention Center, transfer to the Red Line and hey, presto, they're in Union Station.