There is no better city in the US to dine and drink al fresco than Los Angeles. Period. With the city’s persistently and consistently lovely weather, it’s just simply no big surprise! Los Angeles might not be everyone’s cup of tea, ask any Northern Californian (I grew up in NorCal so I’m allowed to say that), but there is no denying the fact that this city excels in providing idyllic places in which to enjoy the local scenery under some sunshine or stars. So on that note, I give you the Love & Loathing LA definitive guide to the best patios and rooftops in Los Angeles:
AND DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT: The Best New Restaurants In LA
THE BEST PATIOS AND ROOFTOPS IN LA
[Elephante]
THE “HOT” OR “NEW” SPOTS
Bar Clara
Bar Clara is the latest gem to grace the rooftop of the new Hotel Perla! This space has always been a favorite of mine, and I love what they’re doing here. The drink menu is very spritz-heavy which is great for sunny LA days, and there are plenty of different options to choose from (and they’re all equally refreshing). Compared to most rooftops in DTLA, Bar Clara is pretty laid-back and casual, making it a great spot to enjoy some bites and drinks after a busy day of work.
The Terrace at the Thompson
Transport yourself to a chic Parisian patio by visiting The Terrace at the Thompson. Before heading down to the chic and sleek Bar Lis, enjoy drinks on the rooftop at the Terrace. From the round bistro tables to the shady umbrellas, this plant-covered rooftop offers sweeping city views and a French-inspired menu that pairs perfectly with the extensive rosé program. Though I love coming here with friends, this is also a solid spot for a productive yet stylish workday. Since the Terrace closes at 5:00 PM, it is best to plan a visit for lunch or early dinner apps.
Cabra
Coming at you from mastermind Chef Stephanie Izard, Cabra has quickly become one of my favorite rooftop restaurants in LA. Between the craft cocktails and the innovative yet refreshing Peruvian cuisine, Cabra has consistently left me impressed. Obviously, I’m a huge fan of Girl and the Goat, and even though the menus between these two restaurants are very different, Cabra still maintains that quality and charm that Chef Stephanie brings to all of her restaurants.
Desert 5 Spot
Hip, groovy, and transportive, Desert 5 Spot is without a doubt one of the hottest rooftops in LA right now. Inspired by the western vibes of Joshua Tree and Pioneertown, Desert 5 Spot brings a true taste of the Mojave to Los Angeles. If you are looking for something trendy, this is the place to be. In addition to being delicious, the signature cocktails are also stunning, and they each have a country twist to them. From the Achy Breaky Heart to the Mezcal-forward Ring of Fire, Desert 5 Spot needs to be at the top of your summer bucket list!
Good, Clean, Fun
Good, Clean, Fun is for sure one of my new favorite spots in DTLA! The patio out front is super inviting and fun, and the owners have truly curated such a good vibe in the heart of the city. All of the wines are all-natural and organic, and you are sure to find some amazing new favorites (I walked away with a couple of bottles that I’m obsessed with) and the food menu is so unique and innovative. The menu changes with the seasons, but I highly recommend starting your meal with some fresh oysters. They also have an awesome happy hour that is every day from 3 PM – 6 PM!
Crudo e Nudo
From the fresh crudo to the crisp, low-intervention wines, posting up on the patio at Crudo e Nudo is a must for seafood lovers. In addition to quaint little bistro tables, the patio also features some cool bar seating if you’re looking for something more casual. The menu changes daily, but some staples that you can usually order include the halibut (literally order at least two), the tuna toast, and the vegan caesar.
MELROSEPLACE
The rooftop at Melrose Place is seriously bound to be one of the most trendy spots of the summer. The menu is really seafood-heavy, so if you love everything from caviar chips and dip to lobster rolls to crudo, you’ll definitely find a few things to order. Not gonna lie – it’s definitely on the pricier side. However, the views and quality of the food do make it pretty worth it. They also have some amazing wines from Santa Ynez Valley on the menu. The “I Love You Bunches” from Stolpman is one of my favs!
Ka’teen
Ka’teen serves Yucatan cuisine on a lush and vibrant patio in the heart of Hollywood. The Balinese lanterns and and the cozy fire pits make this one of the best spots for an evening patio sesh. One of my favorite things about Ka’teen is the fact that it works for everything from romantic date nights to fun and lighthearted get-togethers with girlfriends. The patio is around 5,000 square-feet, so there is plenty of room to explore and spread out.
Bar Lis
Also located at the Thompson Hotel, Bar Lis transports you to the French Riviera with picturesque fountains, vibrant greenery, and vintage striped chairs. Whether you’re visiting during the day or in the evening, the vibes here are seriously immaculate. I am truly obsessed with the decor, and the glamorous velvet booths are for sure the most stunning spot to snag. The views are breathtaking, and the drinks are even better (the Petit Paloma is a must)!
The Roof at The West Hollywood Edition
Hands down, my new favorite “show stopper” of a spot to go for drinks and snacks. The Weho Edition is one of LA’s newest hotels, and their rooftop concept, appropriately named “The Roof”, offers some of the best views with a vibe in the whole city. Views that are on par with – if not better than – Soho House, 1 Hotel, The Pendry, and so forth. What I especially love is that there is a pretty decent amount of seating with “THE” view, and the food & cocktails are great. I’ll admit that I didn’t necessarily have high expectations, but they far exceeded them. Order the crab nachos, regret nothing.
Watch the Reel: The Roof
LA Cha Cha Chá
The obsession and buzz over Cha Cha Cha are R E A L folks. I had the pleasure, rather, the honor, of checking this DTLA hot spot out a few months ago right when it had opened, and even then it was damn near impossible to get in. I’ll be honest, while I truthfully thought it was great, no complains, I also truthfully dont totally understand what the intense buzz surrounding it is about. It’s a relatively young and hip crowd, so maybe that explains it all! That being said, obviously I say “go” if you can get in! The cocktails were awesome, tostadas crushed it, great location, great decor – all I’m saying is don’t be too devastated if you don’t get in anytime soon.
Watch the Reel: Cha Cha Chá
The Spare Room Hollywood “Somewhere Else”
The beloved…famed… fantastic and cozy bar that is The Spare Room inside the Roosevelt Hotel have traded their bowling pins, vintage decor, and dim lighting for something poolside and outdoors for a bit instead! I visited the “Somewhere Else” pop-up a few months ago and absolutely loved it – it’s a total no-brainer, especially now that LA is open and it’s almost officially summer. If you’re a real cocktail dork like me, this espcially needs to be on your hit list. If you’re really just a sucker for esthetic, also like me, put it on your list then too.
Watch the Reel: The Spare Room “Somewhere Else”
All Season Brewing
This is one of those projects you experience and want to start a slow clap for. Their work on this has proven to be outstanding, and All Season Brewing is by far LA’s coolest new brewery. They took over the old Firestone Tire shop space off of La Brea, *and left the sign*, and transformed it into this massive indoor/outdoor concept. While you sip on a beer definitely order a round of Chicas Tacos! – Conveniently located inside the brewery.
Sant’olina
The Beverly Hilton is making moves baby!! With the recent launch of their rooftop restaurant Sant’olina in partnership with h.wood Group, I think the Hilton is putting in some work to get back on peoples’ radars. And after that meal, as one of the lucky few who got to sit on that little al fresco terrace that wraps around, to Sant’olina I say “I see you!” The views from up there are incredible, and I love that the menu is more of a lighter/Mediterranean concept. Definitely order dips and without a doubt order the chicken kabobs. And as with any h.wood property, I can assure you that the cocktails are absolute fire.
Manuela Garden Bar
Manuela is easily in my top 5 favorite restaurants in LA, and their usual restaurant patio alone is absolutely STUNNING (and recently expanded due to Covid-19 wink-wink). BUT, as of a few weeks ago they launched a new concept in their Garden (“Garden Bar”), which is pretty much just a super cute and casual outdoor bar setup with unbelievable drinks and snacks. On Fridays, they do “Tropical Nights” featuring amazing Tiki-inspired drinks, but on Saturdays & Sundays, they’re open all day from 2 – 9 pm! This is one of those ones, I PROMISE you will absolutely love.
Watch the Reel: Manuela Garden Bar
Merois at the Pendry Hotel
Another absolutely STUNNING new hotel in Weho has recently opened, The Pendry, and this one comes complete with not one, but TWO, brand new Wolfgang Puck restaurants. I have had the pleasure of visiting the team’s rooftop concept called Merois, and it 10000% exceeded all expectations. The location, views, the overwhelmingly chic decor, and of course the meal, are all 10/10. It’s got a bit of that Weho attitude I won’t lie but it’s the kind you’re glad you put on your best dress for – it’s just fun.
Watch the Reel: The Pendry
Caravan Swim Club at Hotel June
Arguably my favorite restaurant opening of 2020, the Caravan Swim Club at the brand new Hotel June is a stunning, completely outdoor patio with vacation vibes that will transport you straight to Tulum, Which is exactly what all of us could use right about now. The menu itself is Californian meets Mexican flavors and they specialize in Mezcal and Tequila. When people ask me where to eat right now, this is always the first place I direct them. It’s just fun.
Nueva
Another favorite restaurant opening of 2020 has to be Nueva in Venice! Nueva has taken over the old Sunny Spot location and expanded their patio seating so it’s ideal for the current times. Besides the plethora of outdoor seating though, it has an overall colorful and vibrant design, perfect for enjoying frozen margaritas (highly recommended) and a side of chips and guac. The menu is one of the most fun and interesting menus I’ve come across in a while though, chef Vartan Abgaryan blends Mexican cuisine with Middle Eastern flavors, and by god, it works.
Watch the Reel: Nueva
Calabra at Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Calabra is one of Santa Monica’s only rooftop restaurants/bars – and quite easily the best one. That may go for the whole city of LA. The Santa Monica Proper is one of LA’s newest and most stunning hotels and quickly became a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. With transportive decor, great food & drinks – a visit is a vacation alone.
Pilot at the Hoxton DTLA
The (very chic, ultra-hip) Hoxton is one of the most recent hotels to open in DTLA and, like many other new hotels Downtown, comes equipped with an absolutely gorgeous rooftop pool/restaurant/bar. Pilot is a seafood-centric restaurant on one end of the rooftop, and a casual outdoor bar at the other, and both offer nearly 360-degree views, fantastic fare, and a transportive “Coastal Mediterannean” vibe.
Watch the Reel: Pilot at Hoxton DTLA
High Tide
An Instagram dream and the cutest outdoor oasis in DTLA, High Tide is the perfect destination for craft beer, wine, and a number of fun frozen cocktails. They also happen to have onsite glassblowing, live music, and a curated gallery space to enjoy.
Margot
If there were a “hottest” rooftop at the moment, Margot would likely claim that title. I explain a bit more in detail in a previous post of mine – The Best New Restaurants In LA – but to break it all down simply, Margot is the latest beauty to open its doors at Platform in Culver City. Located on the rooftop of the complex Margot is a huge indoor/outdoor space with a hip/modern ambiance and of course a setting worth basking in for as long as possible.
*Honorable mention: Roberta’s Pizza right downstairs from Margot! Some of the best pizza in town and I’d say 90% of the restaurant is patio seating!
[Mama Shelter]
THE FAVORITE SPOTS
Cara Cara at the Proper
Not going to lie, Cara Cara is definitely at the top of my list when it comes to favorite rooftops. I seriously never get tired of coming here, and everything from the drinks to the views are unbeatable. The hotel itself is so stunning, so coming here is always a treat. Whether you sit at the chic rooftop bar or gather around the cozy fire pit, you truly can’t go wrong with a sunset sesh at Cara Cara. I’ve actually never had a drink from here that I didn’t like, but one of my favorites is the Passionfruit Caipirinha. It is refreshing and tasty without being overly sweet, and I love the smoky aftertaste from the mezcal.
Grandmaster Recorders
If you haven’t been to Grandmaster Recorders yet, put it at the top of your summer rooftop bucket list! From the amazing views of the Hollywood sign to the Aperitivo Happy Hour that happens Sunday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM, the Grandmaster Recorders rooftop is without a doubt one of the hottest spots in Hollywood. The rooftop menu is much smaller than the main restaurant menu, but it still has some incredible dishes like the chicken parma roll, crispy potatoes, and of course, burrata with black truffle and chili oil. If you’re craving something fresh and summery, the Studio Spritz is delicious!
Bar Bohemien
This is hands down one of my top go-to places when I’m in need of a stiff (yet tasty) drink, laid-back vibes, and a charming rooftop. They blend classic drink recipes with innovative ingredients and flavors, and if you’re a fan of Mezcal, you’ll LOVE the Wild Sage cocktail. The second level bar has a cool and somewhat rustic vintage appeal, but if you’re looking to take advantage of the nice weather, the rooftop-style patio is where it’s at.
Soulmate
What is better than Mexican food on a serene patio? Soulmate is a fan-favorite in West Hollywood, and if you’re looking for a timeless patio to call home this summer, this is your spot. Whether you’re coming from brunch or dinner, everything from the drinks to the food is spot on. I highly recommend ordering the citrus salad in the summer as it is bright, refreshing, and crisp, making it the perfect thing to help you beat the heat while sipping on a mezcal marg.
Umbrella Swim Club
If you’re a fan of Melrose Umbrella (like me, BIG fan), you definitely need to check out Umbrella Swim Club in Beverly Hills. The craft cocktails all have a summer-esque vibe to them, and it is the perfect place to soak up some sun and hang poolside. The panoramic views set the scene and offer a stunning backdrop to your Sunday Funday, and there are tons of tasty seasonal dishes and sides that you can munch on while sipping something sweet.
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
Da Michele is the ultimate hidden gem, tucked away oasis in LA period, and it’s one of my personal favorite restaurants. Not only because they offer the best Neapolitan style pizza in the city (Da Michele is actually a very famous pizzeria in Naples!), but they have the most beautiful private and cozy patio. It’s the ultimate experience all the way around – perfect for literally every meal, and every occasion.
Fia
Fia is home to one of my personal favorite patios / alfresco dining options in LA. Nestled under a canopy of trees and twinkling string lights, Fia is an expansive and yet ultra-cozy and romantic space. And, equally as important – the food is absolutely to die for. This is the perfect spot for a date night under the stars or a mimosa brunch with the GF’s.
Elephante
Elephante has limited actual outdoor seating, but with their open floor plan and big sliding glass doors, I’m going to say this one still counts – especially since it’s still a favorite of mine and it basically feels outdoors. It is located in Downtown Santa Monica on the 2nd floor of a building and offers fantastic food and cocktails, as well as sweeping views of the ocean and city below. This is one of those places I would be happy visiting often – so I do!
Tower Bar
Is there anything better than drinks, people watching, and copious amounts of french fries with your girlfriends on the patio at Tower Bar? I honestly don’t think there is? It’s my favorite excuse to dress to the 9s, drink at 2 pm, and sit at one table for 3+ hours. Just taking in the views, enjoying the poolside setting, feeling like a 1940’s Hollywood starlet, and happily paying the high price for an albeit *great* meal at the beloved Sunset Tower Hotel.
DAMA
Dama, located in a trendy new part of the Arts District Downtown, is a complete and total tropical oasis tucked inside a complete and total concrete jungle. The name Dama is a Latin-inspired concept from design, decor, to cuisine and cocktails. It’s got this gorgeous vintage “Havana Nights” vibe to it that makes it PERFECT for enjoying a meal outside on their patio. The restaurant itself borders on open-air so the flow of the restaurant is made for warm weather – which thankfully, WE GOT. I could not have better things to say about this place – it feels especially perfect for date night or girls night!
Ballast Point Brewing
Located on the waterfront of Alamitos Bay in Long Beach, Ballast Point is the absolute perfect lowkey place to dine and drink Alfresco. They have arguably one of the largest outdoor decks in the county, they’re home to some of LA’s best brews, and you kinda can’t beat that gorgeous ocean view.
Los Angeles Ale Works
Located in Hawthorne, Los Angeles Ale Works occupies a massive warehouse-like space with a giant outdoor patio, perfect for sipping on their absolutely delicious beers under the twinkling lights. If you haven’t ventured out to LA Ale Works before, there’s no better time than the present. Let me repeat their beer is absolutely. delicious.
The Rose Venice
An LA/Venice/Rose Ave staple! Have you ever even dined in LA if you haven’t dined on the patio at The Rose? Clearly, it’s a must. LA loves it for a reason, and that reason is you can always count on them to knock it out of the park. Sure it’s a bit hyped and trendy, but hey – when it’s good it’s good! And that patio does the trick!
Alta Adams
Alta Adams is one of my personal favorite restaurants in LA, from cocktails, brunch, to dinner – everything I’ve ever ordered was a perfect 10 out of 10. It’s a beautiful space in fact but their cozy tucked-in patio is my personal favorite place in the house to dine.
Playa Provisions
Playa Provisions, located practically beachfront in Playa Del Rey, is one of my favorite places to enjoy the sun and salt air alongside a meal alfresco. It is open practically all day – from coffee service and breakfast in the morning, lunch and house-made ice cream in the afternoon, to dinner and late-night drinks through the evening.
Viviane
If there’s a true hidden gem in the city, it’s Viviane. Viviane is the restaurant located inside the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills and it is my absolute favorite place in the city to go when I want to sit outside, relax, and not have to worry about a huge wait or big crowds. Viviane is chic, it’s peaceful, the food is fantastic, they make the best Aperol Spritz (second to Terra at least), it’s an absolutely gorgeous and well-decorated space, and most importantly – it’s poolside. It’s like going on vacation in your own city, and it is fabulous.
Terra at Eataly
When quality food and cocktails are just as important as being able to dine outside, you can really have it all at Terra. Terra is located on the rooftop of the beloved Eataly complex in Century City, and it is a little slice of Italian-inspired heaven. Terra is part restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating options and part outdoor bar/lounge for those in search of a nice place to sit outside and sip on a Spritz. If you’re a fan of Spritz, this is the place in the city to enjoy one. Italians do it best!
Salazar
Salazar has got to be one of the coolest places in LA, in every single way. For one, Salazar’s seating is completely outdoors, and somehow they’ve made it totally work and totally desirable. It looks like a total desert oasis, or like something you’d find in Austin Texas, as us Angelenos eat it up. Besides offering the city’s best alfresco ambiance, Salazar actually makes incredible food and cocktails to boot. Their tacos are not to be messed with, and the cocktails are always creative, fun, and perfect for enjoying outdoors.
Mama Shelter
I think I might just say it. I’m pretty sure Mama Shelter is the best rooftop in Los Angeles at the moment? At least it checks all of my boxes, including “busy but fun”, “great views”, “a plethora of seating”, “optimal for photos”, “great food”. and “great drinks”. Mama Shelter… dare I say it in my most LA voice imaginable… just has a dope vibe. You’ll love it on any day of the week, and your friends visiting will thank you too.
Everson Royce Bar
If we’re looking for casual cool DTLA feels, Everson Royce Bar is all that and a bag of chips. Everson Royce Bar is actually in my top 5 favorite restaurants in LA. and it’s probably the one restaurant in the city I’ve been to the most, outside of Gjelina. For one, I am never not thinking about their famous burger, and two I am never not wanting to sit outside on the patio under those twinkling lights. ERB has a really great upbeat and fun way about them, you’ll always see big parties here thanks to their picnic table style seating, it’ll always be pretty packed, and everyone will always be having a good time!
NoMad Hotel Rooftop *closed
Well if this isn’t one of the most fabulous hotel rooftops you ever did see. The NoMad Hotel is beauty, class, and regality a-la-2019. Yet still fun and cool of course? And their rooftop one of Downtown LA’s best places to soak up the sunshine, sit poolside, and take in those gorgeous city views. It almost has an “NYC” vibe to it, but with more days of sun and fun. The Rooftop at the NoMad offers dining service as well as beverage service, so throw on your cute dress and come and do as you please!
Broken Shaker
There’s no shortage of fantastic hotel rooftops in LA, but another personal favorite of mine is the Broken Shaker located on top of the Freehand Hotel in DTLA. Broken Shaker is actually a popular bar with locations all over the states including NYC, Miami, and Chicago. Known for their fun and inventive tiki-style cocktails, Broken Shaker is a perfect place to find yourself on a warm day in LA. The area has limited seating/standing so make sure you go early or at an off time to fully appreciate it all! Oh and yes – there’s a pool for your “pretend vacation” needs.
Chulita
Chulita is a cute little “Alta California” spot right off of Rose Ave in Venice that serves seasonal Mexican food and specializes in tequila and mezcal. They have an amazing indoor/outdoor space – nearly the entire front of the restaurant opens up garage style.
The Draycott
The Draycott, a modern California-inspired Brasserie, is a stunning space filled with absolutely drool-worthy design with an absolutely stunning patio to pair. (Seriously if you’ve never seen photos of this place, get your Google out.) They’re a little ways out there in the Pacific Palisades, but what better place to be on vacation for a day?
Malibu Wines & Beer Garden
Malibu Wines has found a new home – same wines, same big outdoor space with tons of seating, same fun atmosphere, just the now added bonus of more food/beer options.
Plant Food & Wine
The important things to note about Plant Food & Wine: it’s on Abbot Kinney, it’s vegan/plant-based, and they have a totally secret enchanted garden out back. I can appreciate (just about) any type of food when it’s done well, and if all-vegan restaurants were like Plant Food & Wine, I’d probably just become vegan by accident because that is how amazing this place is. And did I mention their adorable and gorgeous little patio complete with flowers, a garden and twinkling lights?! One might say it’s the best dining patio in Venice.
Spire 73
If there’s a rooftop show stopper on this list, it’s Spire 73. It is “the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere” after all. This place isn’t going to become your local hangout, but it is going to be one of those places you consider for when your friends from out of town come to visit. It is a truly magnificent and one-of-a-kind rooftop. It’s located on the 73rd floor of the Inter Contentinal Hotel and offers unparalleled views of Downtown Los Angeles below and beyond. Like, waaaay beyond.
HARRIET’S
If you’re not getting into Soho House, who even cares when you have Harriet’s! Harriet’s attracts about the same crowd, it’s damn near the same location, it offers almost identical sweeping views from Sunset Blvd, Harriets just happens to be located within the brand new 1 Hotel. Harriets is part of The h.wood Group so expect big crowds, on-point decor, and great cocktails.
[Malibu Farms]
THE CLASSIC SPOTS
Hotel Erwin
Hotel Erwin in Venice is an absolute classic. Between the epic views and the cozy couches, this is a great spot that can be fun to visit both in the evenings and during the day. However, like with any great rooftop, catching sunset is always the best. If you get hungry, order some guacamole for the table. They don’t have a ton of food options, but all of the portions are pretty large and shareable, making it a solid spot for drinks and bites. The cocktail menu changes with the seasons, but the frozé is a summer fav for sure!
Gracias Madre
Have you really ever been to LA if you haven’t been to Gracias Madre? There is no place I’d rather be on a 72-degree day than on the patio at Gracias Madre between the hours of 3 – 6 pm. That’s Happy Hour time, and that is the best time. Get your $8 Purista Margarita on hunny, and don’t forget the nachos.
Upstairs Rooftop at the Ace Hotel
For those nights when I’m feeling a bit more casual (or not?!) and want to be able to walk up to a cool rooftop vibe, I hit the Upstairs at the Ace Hotel. It’s a hipster classic! It also happens to be home to one of my favorite cocktails of all time, “Saturn Return” (they dont have it on their menu anymore it looks like but I bet they could make it. It came with mezcal, dry sherry, lime, tart cherry liqueur, and orgeat).
Malibu Farm
If you find yourself out there in the boons of the ‘bu, make time to stop in at Malibu Farm and appreciate all of that quintessential LA beauty. The beach, the weather, the setting, the location and all. Malibu Farm is known for its incredible oceanfront location, but fortunately, they’re more than just beautiful thanks to their awesome locally sourced menu offerings and cocktail menu. This place is a favorite of many, locals and travelers alike. Call me basic, but it’s one of mine too.
Michael’s
Michael’s has been open in Santa Monica for 40 years! And to this day they still have one of the best dining patios in the entire city. Located just a short walking distance from the 3rd St Promenade, Micahel’s is the perfect place in the area to stop in for a beautiful meal under the sun or moon. This is a great spot for a date, and an even better spot to take the parents. Write that down!
EP & LP
Honesty time… I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with EP & LP. It always seems overcrowded, at peak hours I find myself generally annoyed, but when you get it at the right time… it’s magical. They really do have some of the best views in the city, and EP & LP at sunset is something everyone deserves to experience! Just, prepare yourself mentally or go early and you’ll love it. I almost promise.
Perch
Perch was hands down the most impressive place I’d been to when I first moved to LA 8-9 years ago. I remember thinking that it was the most beautiful, the most jaw-dropping place I’d ever visited, and while I’ve seen and done a lot more around town these days, Perch still holds up. It is still is one of my favorite places in the city, and I would go so far as to say it has my favorite views out of every place listed here. True story.
AOC
AOC is another one of my absolute all-time favorite restaurants in LA – as it is many others as well. My mother included. Night after night, year after year, AOC is consistently packed and still absolutely killing it. Definitely, in part, thanks to their incredible world-renown wine list, as well as their fresh, farm-driven, quintessentially California inspired cuisine. But it’s also in part thanks to the beautiful space they’ve created in which to enjoy everything – their cozy patio is one of LA’s most beloved and for good reason.
Nobu
Nobu Malibu is probably the best place to dine outside – if you can get a table. This place is hands down LA’s most famous restaurants, and being that it’s oceanfront it’s no surprise that everyone and their mother want to sit on the deck and enjoy that positively perfect view! But, sadly I am here to tell you that not everyone is able to have that moment. I am proof. Should you find yourself lucky enough, however, you’ll never forget it. I wouldn’t personally know but I’d imagine… you’d never forget it. In fact for my sake please never forget it.
Gjelina
I’ve said it time and time again, but Gjelina in Venice is still my favorite restaurant in LA! I’ll be honest I’m not sure if it’s nostalgia or what, but every time I visit I am reminded why I love it so much. For one it’s the mushroom toast. And the fact that they do weekday breakfast, but most importantly I love Gjelina because of the ambiance. And nowhere makes me quite as happy to be there than when I am on the patio at Gjelina. It’s cozy, it offers limited seating. But when you’re able to snag a seat (at 5 pm) it’s like winning the LA lottery.
The Polo Lounge (Beverly Hills Hotel)
When I need a vacation in LA I head straight for the Beverly Hills Hotel. And if I’m planning on dining outside, I am dining at the Polo Lounge on their patio! It’s old school, it’s expensive, it’s everything you’d expect at a bougie Beverly Hills establishment. But you know what, sometimes it’s just worth it. And the few times I’ve found myself at lunch here, I’ve loved every minute of it. The Beverly Hills Hotel plays a huge role in Los Angeles’s history, and it’s worth embracing every now and then.
Saddle Peak Lodge
Saddle Peak Lodge in Calabasas has been an iconic LA venue and restaurant for years. It’s described as a romantic mountain lodge and between the surrounding greenery, twinkling lights, and warm decor it really is just that. Their scenic patio is large but private and would make for a stunning date night spot.
Idle Hour
It doesn’t really get more fun, funky, and historic than Idle Hour in North Hollywood – in fact, it’s literally a landmark. It is a stunning piece of Programmatic architecture and is known for its, well, architecture, as well as their fantastic cocktails and wonderfully cozy patio. If you haven’t checked Idle Hour off your LA bucket list, might be time!
Redbird
Redbird is one of LA’s most well-respected restaurants, and not only will the food and cocktails blow you away, so will the design, decor, and space itself. It’s one of LA’s most beautiful restaurants without a doubt. The main dining room is under what I believe is a retractable roof, so the space is airy but private. A courtyard as they refer to it. But right now in addition to the Redbird Courtyard, they’ve created two more outdoor dining rooms; the Redbird Garden and the Lounge on the Vibiana Courtyard. Kinda doesn’t get more ideal than that!
Castaway
Talk about a total stunner. Castaway is located on a hilltop in Burbank and offers absolutely gorgeous scenic views, unlike anywhere else in the entire county of Los Angeles. So naturally, much of the seating in the restaurant is located outside on their beautiful patio which comes complete with fire pits and lush greenery surrounding.
La Cabaña
La Cabaña in Venice is hands down in my top 3 favorite old school Mexican restaurants in LA. And my favorite part about it – besides the chips, the margs, and the cheesy everything dishes, and the mariachi visits – is actually their patio. I could spend HOURS out there, sipping and snacking, enjoying some of the best comfort food on the planet.
[Terra at Eataly]
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