The best restaurants for outdoor dining in L.A.

What is it? One of L.A.’s most quintessential seen-and-be-seen restaurants, complete with a stunning oceanfront location so close to the beach that you’ll overhear children playing on the sand.

Why we love it: Nobu Malibu is one of those places that’s so stunning, you may just hear yourself muttering, “Is this real life?” Whether you’re looking to gawk at celebrities or just want to celebrate a special occasion, the current location on PCH offers excellent views of the water during the day—and a moody, somehow even better atmosphere at night. The pricey fusion-style Japanese cuisine may no longer be cutting-edge, but in our experience it’s still quite delicious and extremely consistent, from signatures like the yellowtail jalapeño sashimi and miso black cod to newer seasonal dishes. Beyond food and ambience, top-notch service and plenty of well-lit nooks and crannies for snagging the perfect selfie make the hassle of booking a table here worth it. 

Time Out tip: Reservations are only available over the phone—310-317-9140—up to 30 days in advance, and the phone lines open at 10am.

Address: 22706 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Opening hours: Mon–Thu noon–10pm; Fri, Sat noon–11pm; Sun noon–10pm

What is it? An indoor-outdoor restaurant in Burbank with sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Why we love it: Castaway’s gem of a patio is hardly a secret. In fact, it’s been one of the San Fernando Valley’s special-occasion go-tos for decades. But the old-fashioned restaurant that native Angelenos might have gone to before prom now sports a whole new taste and look: Today’s Castaway boasts a revamped food menu and sleeker, more modern décor, while its stellar, sweeping views of the Valley, Downtown and beyond still remain as gorgeous as ever. Steaks, whole roast fish, impressive charcuterie boards and luscious pastas are now the norm, and make for perfect snacky fare, full dinner or bottomless brunch on that spacious patio with one of L.A.’s most romantic views. During brunch, it’s also one of the places in town where you can find bottomless mimosas in flavors like lavender activated charcoal and pineapple jalapeño. 

Time Out tip: The restaurant is particularly popular for major holidays like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Easter—so if you’re trying to avoid the crowds, I recommend booking a table far away from those dates. 

Address: 1250 E Harvard Rd, Burbank, CA 91501

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11am–9pm; Fri, Sat 11am–10pm; Sun 11am–9pm

What is it? A pair of restaurants—one full-service, one slightly more casual—bookending the famous Malibu Pier.

Why we love it: Waterfront? This spot’s water-on. While the grab-and-go Malibu Farm café (located at the end of the pier) remains closed as of writing due to the recent wildfires, you can still visit the full-service Malibu Farm restaurant closer to the entrance. The restaurant is walk-in only for breakfast and lunch, but you can make reservations for dinner, with slots starting at 4:30pm. Take in the ocean views from the patio while enjoying classic, straightforward fare like fish tacos, lobster mac and cheese and nachos (which can also be made meat-free). I can’t say the food at Malibu Farm is all that great, but it’s decent. Paired with the view, however, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy the smell of the ocean breeze—and who could be mad at that?

Time Out tip: If you’re in the mood for something lighter or only stopping by for a quick snack, the restaurant also offers a full smoothie and juice menu.

Address: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Opening hours: Restaurant: Daily 9am–7pm; Café: Temporarily closed

What is it? A Tulum-like, all-day terrace restaurant and bar serving seasonal California Italian cuisine and breezy cocktails.

Why we love it: Vibes: the only word that comes to mind after the elevator ride up to Élephante. Located upstairs from the Laemmle Theater, Élephante boasts one of Santa Monica’s best indoor-outdoor spaces, with resort-like interior design that feels ripped from the pages of Conde Nast Traveler. Inside, chic modern wood furniture and a selection of cacti and lush houseplants set the stage for a stunning view of the ocean from the aptly-named Sunset Room. Meet friends during the day for brunch and lunch, then bring a date at night for low-lit romance. Our go-to is the whipped eggplant dip with puffy house-made flatbread, but there’s also excellent pizza, pasta and a sunny weekend brunch with the likes of soft polenta with eggs, crab and sweet corn.

Time Out tip: Don’t come here exclusively for the food—you’ll likely be disappointed.

Address: 1332 2nd St Rooftop, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 10am–midnight; Fri, Sat 9am–1am; Sun 9am–midnight

What is it: A Mexican restaurant in Los Feliz that offers stellar cocktails alongside a list of rare mezcals and tequilas, some of which you can’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Why we love it: Mírate wows us with its dreamy open-air dining room and excellent seating options—from well-appointed tables and low-slung armchairs to stools at the glittering bar. The towering tree overhead gives the space an enchanted forest-like feel, and the various nooks and crannies add a dimension of coziness for pairs and even groups of four. The Baja-inspired menu of tasty tacos and other drinking snacks offer the same cutting-edge blend of global ingredients and Mexican culinary traditions that has made the now-closed 90210 original, Mírame, popular across the city. Stop by on the weekends for a standout brunch that includes horchata-soaked French toast and housemade tepache, a pre-Hispanic fermented beverage made with pineapple.

Time Out tip: If you’re not a fan of tequila and mezcal, opt for the La Sonodora, a gin-based clarified milk punch.

Address: 1712 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–11pm, Fri 5pm–midnight, Sat 11am–midnight, Sun 11am–11pm

What is it? An impeccably designed French restaurant that’s taken over the old Dominick’s space on Beverly Boulevard.

Why we love it: True to its name, Amour conjures visions of romance with a candle-lit dining room, cozy lounge seating by the fireplace and a brick-lined, checker floored courtyard. During daylight hours, the sunshine makes the immaculately decorated patio feel straight out of a storybook. Step into the little library on your way back from the restroom and leave your loved one a message in a book—it’s not only allowed, it’s encouraged. The traditional French bistro fare runs on the pricier side, but the dreamy setting, first-rate service and excellent cooking make Amour an ultra-dreamy dining destination fit for date nights, anniversaries, birthdays and of course, Valentine’s Day. The kitchen’s precise saucework translates into straightforward, well-executed entrées, a standout steak tartare and French classics like onion soup, escargot and frog legs.

Time Out tip: If you’re booking ahead, ask for the fireside table. It’s one of the best pairs of seats in the house.

Address: 8715 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90048

Opening hours: Tue, Wed 5:30–9:30pm; Thu 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–10:30pm; Sun 11:30am–2:30pm, 5–9:30pm

What is it? A mostly outdoor hotel restaurant at the Tommie Hollywood with a menu designed by award-winning local chef Wes Avila.

Why we love it: Situated on a buzzy block in Hollywood, Ka’teen channels sceney Tulum resorts with a reed tunnel entrance, a lush outdoor dining room and Avila’s expansive, Yucatan-inspired menu. Here, the founder of the award-winning Guerrilla Tacos (RIP) offers plenty of crowd-pleasing small plates, though larger format dishes like the lamb neck barbacoa and pescado zarandeado (grilled whole fish) easily steal the spotlight at Ka’Teen. I also like the corn esquites, queso fundido and potato taquitos. The beautifully designed space is perfect for a dressy girls’ night, a stylish date night and, well, any night for the typical area crowd. 

Time Out tip: On Tuesdays, Ka’teen hosts Taqueria Tuesdays, which nods to Avila’s culinary beginnings at Guerrilla Tacos with $19 taco sets filled with the likes of wild boar, slow-braised pork belly, and sweet potatoes with braised leeks.

Address: 6516 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 6–10pm; Fri 6–11:30pm; Sat 5:30–11:30pm; Sun 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–10pm

What is it? A 10th-floor Downtown rooftop restaurant courtesy of Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard.

Why we love it: While the view from the Hoxton’s rooftop space isn’t as impressive as nearby Cara Cara, the memorable food at Cabra more than makes up for it. Like the Girl & the Goat in the Arts District, this is an imported concept that originally opened in Chicago. The Peruvian-inspired small plates translate beautifully here thanks to Izard’s usual sharp, playful takes on classic dishes like striped bass ceviche and lomo saltado. From appetizers to dessert, there’s something memorable and delicious for everyone to love at Cabra, including a pair of vegetarian entrées, including grilled maitake mushrooms with chili crunch persimmon and sungold tomato salad. I particularly liked the quinoa and beet salad’s cornucopia of bright flavors and textures, while caramel-covered picarones—sweet potato doughnuts topped with puffed rice—stood out on the dessert front. 

Time Out tip: Most of the time, you can skip the pricey valet and find metered parking along Broadway or on nearby Main Street.

Address: 1060 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm; Sun 5–10pm

What is it? A modern American restaurant in Studio City that’s one of the city’s most romantic restaurants.

Why we love it: Firefly’s heated patio may be the closest thing to a modern-day secret garden in L.A., walls of tangled ivy included. Decorated in candles and twinkling lights, it’s the main reason to pay a visit to Firefly, which serves straightforward, crowd-pleasing New American fare that includes mushroom pappardelle, miso glazed cod and shrimp spaghetti. As for appetizers, the menu contains all the usual suspects: meatballs, burrata, a little gem salad, crudo and a tuna tartare. In other words, don’t expect any surprises here—though I will say that the food is generally well-executed. For dessert, I like the sticky toffee cake and white chocolate creme brulée.

Time Out tip: Firefly is extremely popular, so I recommend making reservations—or at least managing your expectations as a walk-in.

Address: 11720 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 5pm–midnight; Thu 5pm–1am; Fri, Sat 5pm–2am; Sun 4:30–11pm

What is it? An enormous events-venue-turned-restaurant in Woodland Hills.

Why we love it: With multiple dining rooms, an atrium and a sunken garden, Casaléna has quickly become one of the San Fernando Valley’s go-to spots for date nights, big group dinners and other dining occasions, big or small. The ambiguously Mediterranean menu might offer little in the way of surprise, save for the fact it’s extremely well-executed, from the delicious spicy vodka pasta to the airy slices of bread accompanying the whipped eggplant dip. There’s Wagyu meatballs, pizza, pasta, steak and chicken parm: What’s not to love? In truth, however, the tasty food and cocktails are only half the equation here—you’re visiting, of course, for the downright stunning ambience.

Time Out tip: On weekdays from 11:30am to 3pm, Casaléna offers an excellent three-course lunch prix-fixe deal for just $36 per person—just note that everyone in the party must participate.

Address: 22160 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11:30am–midnight, Fri 11:30am–2am, Sat 10am–2am, Sun 10am–midnight

What is it? A longtime plant-based Mexican eatery on Melrose Avenue. 

Why we love it: Gracias Madre is home to one of our favorite patios in all of L.A. County, and the food’s half-decent as well. Despite the glittering neighborhood and even more scene-y weekend clientele, Gracias Madre’s beautiful patio manages to create a lively atmosphere that’s welcoming to all—a feat you can chalk up to the courtyard’s 80-year-old olive trees, colorful umbrellas in the afternoon and a fireplace and heat lamps on cooler winter evenings. To start, dip into a bowl of guacamole paired with one of the bar’s phenomenal cocktails, and order one of our favorite entrées from Gracias Madre: the potato pimiento flautas.

Time Out tip: The happy hour here is seriously killer. Available from 3 to 6pm on weekdays, you’ll find steeply discounted margaritas, beer and wine and a $10 “Happy Madre” meal that includes a jackfruit slider, fries and a beer.

Address: 8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11am–9pm; Fri, Sat 11am–10pm; Sun 11am–9pm

What is it? A dreamy hotel restaurant at the border of Thai Town and Los Feliz.

Why we love it: With a stunning reflective pool, olive and palm trees and an open-air skylight, Cara will transport you far, far away from the chaos of Thai Town, located just a few minutes’ walk around the corner. Come nightfall, the space’s mood lighting transforms Cara’s coastal Mediterranean design from merely breezy to downright romantic. Book a reservation to snag a seat by the pool and order from a crowd-pleasing, straightforward menu, including a tasty prosciutto and burrata starter paired with grilled sourdough from Santa Monica’s Jyan Isaac Bread. Walk-ins are likely to end up in the front patio and bar area, where Wednesday salsa dancing and weekend DJs liven the space up for an impromptu date night. Throw in the solid food and cocktails, and it’s no wonder Cara has become a shoo-in for anniversary dinners and other special occasions.

Time Out tip: Head here on Wednesday nights for salsa dancing and Sunday afternoons for live jazz.

Address: 1730 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 8am–10pm; Fri, Sat 8am–10:30pm; Sun 8am–10pm

What is it? The Beverly Hills Hotel’s historic on-site restaurant, which has hosted countless stars over the years. 

Why we love it: The food is generally overpriced and mediocre, but you can’t deny the Old Hollywood appeal of the pastel pink patio at the Polo Lounge, where vibrant pink bougainvillea and cozy cabanas—once reserved for Golden Age stars trying to stay away from the cameras—still translate into one of the most beautiful outdoor dining spots in the city. During the day, the Polo Lounge mostly hosts monied locals and the power lunch set, but even if you’re not a talent agent trying to woo an A-list client, you’ll probably find a meal at the Polo Lounge pretty glamorous anyway. The impeccably trained staff is extremely knowledgeable on all the celebrities that have dined there (both living and dead). As for what to order, I recommend focusing on the starters and soups—the protein entrées are mostly disappointing, but you can’t go wrong with the classic steak tartare or any of the pastas. Unless you like mushy, slightly wet salad, skip the McCarthy salad. 

Time Out tip: In the evenings, order the Polo Lounge’s signature chocolate soufflé (or one of the rotating seasonal flavors) for one of the city’s most iconic desserts.

Address: 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Opening hours: Daily 7am–11pm

What is it? An upscale Middle Eastern concept in Hollywood from Top Chef Middle East winner Charbel Hayek.

Why we love it: Located in the sprawling former Le Jardin space, Laya is a fully outdoor restaurant best known for its minimalist-meets-Tulum design, which comes complete with a fire pit and two bars perfect for catching a drink before or after a nearby show. The Eastern Mediterranean-leaning menu includes a section of straightforward kebabs and larger entrées with plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians. Among Laya’s smaller appetizers, I enjoyed the Australian Wagyu kibbeh nayeh and freshly made pitas paired with olives, balls of goat cheese and za’atar spice in olive oil. For dessert, I recommend the knafeh, which pairs sweet cheese and phyllo dough with a fragrant simple syrup, or opt for the showier rose soft-serve topped with a delightful cloud of pink cotton candy.

Time Out tip: If you prioritize food over ambience, head to Hayek’s other restaurant, Ladyhawk, in West Hollywood.

Address: 1430 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Opening hours: Tue, Wed 6pm–midnight; Thu–Sat 6pm–1am

What is it? A casual Korean takeaway concept inside a charming bungalow complex at the edge of Chinatown.

Why we love it: Five years ago, Rustic Canyon alum Jihee Kim built a devoted online fanbase for her seasonally driven banchan pickups during lockdown. Now, Perilla LA has opened a permanent storefront on the border of Echo Park and Chinatown, where in-the-know diners have already begun flocking for Kim’s delicious, vegetable-forward Korean side dishes and made-to-order lunch plates. Delicate gyeran mari (rolled eggs), ong choy yuba muchim (water spinach and tofu skin salad) and tomato kimchi offer subtle, heady pleasures for your next summer picnic, but you can also enjoy your lunch on the few patio tables outside or in the Alpine Street complex’s outdoor dining area, which borders a vegetable and herb garden and calls to mind a friend’s backyard more than anything else.

Time Out tip: Build yourself a picnic with pastries from nearby Bakers Bench and a drink or two from Heavy Water Coffee.

Address: 1027 Alpine St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Opening hours: Mon 11am–3pm, Wed–Sun 11am–4:30pm

What is it? The Hammer’s farm-to-table museum restaurant conceived by Alice Waters—the trailblazing chef behind Berkeley’s legendary Chez Panisse. 

Why we love it: Chef David Tanis utilizes the same farm-to-table approach pioneered by Alice Waters, Lulu’s co-creator. Though we love Lulu for the elegant daytime prix-fixe offering and equally delicious dinner menu, the space itself is compelling enough to stop in for a relaxing meal on the Westside. Above, Jorge Pardo’s striking indoor-outdoor orange lanterns (now part of the Hammer’s permanent collection) hanging in the trees and inside the semi-enclosed dining room light up after dark, which gives the entire restaurant a dreamy feel in the evenings. By day, the courtyard feels a bit more casual, but the ever-changing bill of fare determined by the farmers’ market makes for an excellent lunch destination for catching up with friends or family.

Time Out tip: The chocolate pavé with chantilly cream is one of the constants on Lulu’s ever-changing menu—and it’s an absolute must for chocolate lovers. 

Address: 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 11:30am–8:30pm; Sun 11:30am–6pm

What is it? A relaxed indoor-outdoor cocktail bar in Downtown L.A.’s Arts District serving some of the city’s tastiest, most reasonably priced cocktails. 

Why we love it: Approaching the imposing orange door to E.R.B. (Everson Royce Bar, technically speaking), it’s hard to know what to expect behind it. The concrete exterior of the Arts District haunt seems intentionally non-descript, but behind it hides one of the city’s best burgers, affordable drinks and a surprisingly spacious patio that’s great for large groups and warmer evenings. No matter which experience you choose, you’ll be ordering some of L.A.’s best cocktails. They come inspired by Los Angeles and seasonal produce—we recommend the long-time favorite Yo LA Tengo, which comes packed with mezcal, grapefruit, Aperol, ginger and lime, or the You’ll Rhubarb the Day, which involves, you guessed it, rhubarb—and the food follows suit.

Time Out tip: Order the single cheeseburger—it’s on our list of the best burgers in Los Angeles. 

Address: 1936 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 4–10pm; Fri, Sat 4pm–2am

What is it? A breezy all-day café and market along Santa Monica’s Montana Avenue.

Why we love it: If you’re on the Westside, stop by for a cappuccino or a relaxed meal at Sogno Toscano, where high-quality Italian imports combine with a charming string-lit patio for one of the best sandwich experiences we’ve had all year. Made with airy focaccia slices from Culver City’s Bianca Bakery, they come stuffed with the finest prosciutto, mortadella and salami—and though pricey ($25 and up), each handheld can easily feed two. The wine selection and family-style charcuterie plates, naturally, are also excellent, as are the veggie-forward appetizers drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil. For a bit of decadence, order the Deliziosa (aged pecorino, 24-month-aged prosciutto and black truffle sauce).

Time Out tip: Sogno Toscano also has a second outpost at Grove, though that location doesn’t have outdoor seating.

Address: 1512 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Opening hours: Daily 9am–10pm

What is it? A destination-worthy Frogtown eatery from the team behind Cha Cha Chá.

Why we love it: While the industrial-chic dining room is already home to a see-and-be-seen locals’ crowd, it’s the heated outdoor patio that truly sets Loreto and its daytime counterpart, Mariscos Za Za Zá, apart both before and after dark. Dine on head chef Paco Moran’s elevated mariscos, made with fresh catch almost exclusively sourced from Baja and ingredients pulled from the global pantry. Marvel in the decadence of the tostada a la Joaquin (made with fatty tuna, avocado and a creamy sauce) or opt for Loreto’s stripped-down, ultra-fiery red shrimp aguachile. In truth, there’s more than one way to cut a fine meal here: The large-format zarandeados, the array of nuanced botanas (bar snacks) and the various raw seafood configurations all ensure you’ll find your own path to postprandial bliss. During the day, I recommend the ceviche-topped spin on Tijuana-style tostilocos and Una Costra Por Favor, an open-faced taco that combines two types of cheese, shrimp and avocado for one seriously decadent bite.

Time Out tip: For a week every quarter, Loreto hosts a weeklong seasonal omakase menu full of one-off specials. Follow the restaurant on Instagram to find out when the next one is happening.

Address: 1991 Blake Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Opening hours: Loreto: Mon–Wed 5–9pm; Thu 5–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm; Sun 5–9pm; Mariscos Za Za Zá: Thu–Sun noon–3:30pm

What is it? A French-Moroccan wine bar in Lincoln Heights known for its major cool-kid vibes.

Why we love it: The gorgeous outdoor patio is lined with plenty of foliage and mood lighting, there’s an excellent sound system inside and the interior design is nothing short of immaculate. Even if the cuisine were bad (which it isn’t), you’d still probably find Zizou packed to the gills every weekend with see-and-be-seen types sipping on Aperol spritzes and natural wine. If you come here without a reservation on a weekend evening, expect to stand or at least wait around for a table. Fortunately for those of us who care about what we eat, not just who we’re sitting next to, straightforward dishes like steak frites and almond-apricot tagine are delicious enough to satisfy anyone’s craving for Middle Eastern cuisine.

Time Out tip: Come early or book ahead if you want to maximize your chances of getting a table on their back patio.

Address: 2425 Daly St, Los Angeles, CA 90031

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 5–11pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–3pm, 5pm–midnight; Sun 11:30am–3pm, 5–11pm

What is it? A fourth-floor rooftop restaurant inside a luxury fitness club that serves globally inspired wellness cuisine. 

Why we love it: This Hollywood rooftop restaurant provides a more refined, elevated version of the L.A. dining genre popularized by Café Gratitude. Perched atop a luxury fitness club, Mother Tongue features a glittering dining room perfect for date night, an equally striking outdoor patio and the requisite seen-and-be-seen Hollywood clientele. Though the vegan-friendly menu integrates “functional ingredients” thought to confer health benefits, the eclectic dishes stand on their own in terms of quality and flavor, from the shiitake mushroom larb to the rossejat de fideos, a pricey seafood vermicelli skillet meant to serve two. You can also stop by Mother Tongue during weekend brunch (11am–3pm) for a $39 prix-fixe menu and bottomless rosé; in fact, I think it’s one of the best options in the city. When the weather’s warm, the striking outdoor patio is the perfect place to kick back with a watermelon sage mimosa or two. There’s also a newer Bloody Mary and michelada program that features seasoning blends by chef Michael Mina’s wife, Diane. 

Time Out tip: Mother Tongue has one of the best happy hours in town. From Wednesday to Sunday, 4 to 6pm, you’ll find $5 portions of the restaurant’s signature dips along with globally inspired dishes like chicken tikka masala skewers and Jarlsberg cheese sliders. Take note this menu is only offered at the bar.  

Address: 960 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Opening hours: Daily 11am–9pm

What is it? The larger, far prettier outpost of a popular West Adams all-day café and restaurant. 

Why we love it: Highly Likely Highland Park offers something a little something for everyone, plus a beautiful patio filled with olive trees, greenery and an outdoor bar. As with the original location, it’s a neighborhood coffee shop with delicious grain bowls, salads and other all-day brunch fare, plus a fully loaded espresso, tea, beer and natural wine bar. During the day, the U-shaped indoor bar is a haven for local remote workers (just know there are no laptops allowed after 5pm). The most popular takeout items are the schnitzel, the gigante beans in yuzu broth and the matcha latte—do what you will with this information. Unlike the original Highly Likely, however, the Highland Park location stays open until 10pm, when the space transforms into a mood-lit dinner spot perfect for casual date nights and get-togethers. After dark, snack on tasty dishes like koji chicken schnitzel, crispy brown rice salad and harissa meatballs. 

Time Out tip: Unlike a lot of other all-day spots, Highly Likely accepts reservations for weekend brunch—so you can skip the long wait for a table by planning ahead.

Address: 5526 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042

Opening hours: Daily 8am–10pm 

What is it? A Virgil Village wine bar and bottle shop that has one of our favorite patios in the city.

Why we love it: Take one step inside, and you’ll understand why this charming bungalow is the perfect haven for dates and hangouts. Plus, there’s the list of small-producer and organic wines, which offer a compelling introduction to the now-ubiquitous world of pet-nat. The ever-changing food menu features up-and-coming chef residencies, which add a bit of flair to every drinking experience; depending on which evening you stop in, you’ll find anything from wood-fired pizzas to African-inspired seasonal cuisine. Some nights, especially in warmer weather, the converted Craftsman-style house is a full-on scene, but the egalitarian ethos and approachable wines keep conversation flowing and vibes generally still quite good.

Time Out tip: Stop by during happy hour (weekdays 3–6pm, weekends 3–5pm) for $8 draft beers, $12 glasses of wine or non-alcoholic options, plus 20 percent off all snacks and bottles in the shop.

Address: 751 N Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 3–10pm; Fri, Sat 3–11pm; Sun 3–10pm

What is it? A third-story Asian-inspired hot spot concept in West Hollywood that originated in NYC.

Why we love it: The space and views are gorgeous, and the food is better than it needs to be. Catch LA is a definite place to see and be seen, but the restaurant’s pricey, globally inspired menu of seafood, sushi and show-stopping desserts delivers a consistent, crowd-pleasing experience that hits the mark every single time. This Melrose rooftop destination features breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills and an open-air retractable roof that makes the restaurant a little cozier on colder nights. The floral-lined entryway might be among the most Instagrammed spots in West Hollywood, but that’s all part of the fun at Catch LA, whose glitzy ambience, crowd-pleasing fusion cuisine and excellent service combine for a nightlife-oriented dinner where every diner feels like a star.

Time Out tip: You can’t go wrong with any of the desserts, but my two favorites are the Hit Me, which consists of a smash-worthy chocolate ice cream cake, and the Carnival, a mini Ferris wheel of ricotta doughnuts.

Address: 8715 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 6–10pm; Fri 5:30–10:30pm; Sat 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–10:30pm; Sun 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–10pm

What is it? A beautiful, vaguely French bistro in West Hollywood.

Why we love it: Taking over the old Ago space on Melrose, this glittering indoor-outdoor eatery from the Boujis Group (who also run nearby Olivetta) draws design and culinary inspiration from the French Riviera—and most of the restaurant’s seating options are outdoors. The extensive, largely traditional menu aims to please with steaks and plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, but there’s a handful of standout items concentrated in the seafood, caviar and appetizer sections. On my visit, I enjoyed the hamachi carpaccio and caviar gougeres. If you’re feeling particularly spendy, indulge in the well-made cocktails and desserts—especially the delicious pistachio soft-serve. While it’s unlikely that Chez Mia will impress the average epicure, the restaurant fits right in with the area’s see-and-be-seen dining scene—and still makes for a lovely, though fairly pricey, night out in West Hollywood.

Time Out tip: The warm fougasse bread with salted Normandy butter is an absolute must-order (especially if you’re trying to bring down your check average).

Address: 8478 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5–11:30pm; Fri, Sat 5pm–12:30am

What is it? The Hollywood location of Superba, a local bakery and café chain known for its artisanal breads and crowd-pleasing daytime menu.

Why we love it: The outdoor courtyard here is huge and absolutely gorgeous. While Superba is far from a hidden gem—the restaurant’s popular among Netflix and other office employees for weekday lunch—it’s still worth braving the heavy lunchtime crowds for the charming citrus trees and yellow-and-white striped umbrellas. As with the original Venice location, everything’s delicious, well-made and fairly reasonably priced. The straightforward food menu includes avocado toast, salads, sandwiches, grain bowls and pastas, plus a cinnamon roll only available during weekend brunch. During dinner, Superba Hollywood also adds a few extra dishes like steak au poivre, crispy calamari, fish and chips. There’s also a fried chicken dinner set for two, which includes Texas toast, green bean salad and two housemade dipping sauces. 

Time Out tip: Make reservations for weekend brunch if you can.

Address: 6530 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 11am–10pm, Sat 9am–10pm, Sun 9am–10pm

What is it? The Eastside outpost of a Mediterranean upscale-casual chain best known for its shareable Israeli-inspired small plates, happy hour discounts and a 90-minute open bar ($32 or $37).

Why we love it: Lined with huge trees, several types of plants and wrought-iron fencing, Bacari Silver Lake’s patio invokes a more romantic, grown-up Rainforest Café without the overpriced, humdrum food and scores of gleeful children running around. Most Bacari outposts have charming patio setups—I also like West Third and Sherman Oaks for outdoor dining—but the Silver Lake location has the best one, by far. Dinner dishes like mejadra, shawarma tacos and fried chicken sliders complement the relatively affordable $17 cocktails, which include mimosas, bellinis and Bloody Marys during brunch. 

Time Out tip: Bacari Silver Lake offers valet if you’d rather not circle the neighboring streets for parking. 

Address: 3626 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 5–11pm; Thu 5pm–12:30am; Fri 5pm–1am; Sat 10:30am–2:30pm, 4pm–1am; Sun 10:30am–2:30pm, 4–11pm

What is it? A Cal-Italian restaurant in Santa Monica. 

Why we love it: The hidden patio at Fia is one of Santa Monica’s best date night spots, with string lights, trees overhead and a generally secluded feel that wouldn’t feel out of place in Topanga Canyon or the far, hillier side of Silver Lake. The food here isn’t half bad either, with delicious handmade pastas, wood-fired meat and seafood and excellent starters and happy hour bites. While the menu has changed significantly from the restaurant’s peak popularity, you can still find some seriously tasty spicy beet-cured salmon cones and a solid chicken parm. During weekend brunch, the restaurant also serves a $67 prix-fixe menu that includes bottomless drinks (mimosas, margaritas or rosé) with a two-hour time limit. 

Time Out tip: There’s $15 valet in front of the restaurant, but you can usually find metered parking along Wilshire or on nearby side streets.

Address: 2454 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5–10pm; Sat, Sun 10:30am–2:30pm, 5–10pm

What is it? The original location of Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s award-winning Mediterranean-inspired small plates concept. 

Why we love it: The French countryside meets Napa at A.O.C.’s Beverly Grove location, where the outdoor patio channels the best of both worlds. The restaurant and wine bar on West 3rd Street isn’t entirely outside, but the indoor dining room spills out onto a gorgeous open-air space, where a small balcony peeks out over diners and foliage creeps up the restaurant’s walls. Wide umbrellas shade visitors on sunny days, and heat lamps warm people up at night—though the wine does a good job of that, too. Chef Suzanne Goin’s vibrant small plates and shareable (read: date night-worthy) dishes only make for an even more picturesque meal. You can’t go wrong with the signature bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with parmesan and Spanish fried chicken with farm-fresh romesco, but Goin also rotates in newer dishes to reflect the farmers’ market, which keeps the menu fresh even for long-time regulars.

Time Out tip: Order a glass of wine. A.O.C. has one of the best bottle lists in the city, which translates into a by-the-glass selection that’s far better than average.

Address: 8700 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5:30–9pm; Fri 5:30–10pm; Sat 10am–2:30pm, 5–10pm; Sun 10am–2:30pm, 5–9pm ​

What is it? A foccacia-style pizzeria in the Arts District with a disco-themed cocktail bar next door and an expansive, string-lit brick patio. 

Why we love it: De La Nonna makes some of the city’s best pizza and boasts one of the nicest patios in the Arts District. Potted plants, climbing vines and shrubs lining the perimeter transform the outdoor dining area into a verdant urban escape, particularly in warmer weather. Originally a quarantine era pop-up founded by veterans of Tartine, Felix and Chicago’s Boka Group, the restaurant offers natural wine, raw seafood and personal-sized focaccia pies that are seasonal, delicious and—most importantly—relatively affordable. There’s even a gluten-free pie and a handful of vegan options. Founded at a time when everyone needed a seat at an outdoor table, De La Nonna holds most of its space for walk-ins, though it also accepts limited reservations. 

Time Out tip: From Tuesday to Thursday, De La Nonna offers a $75 package deal for two known as the Nonna Pack. In my opinion, it’s the perfect not-too-expensive weeknight dinner date. Each Nonna Pack comes with two of the restaurant’s signature personal-sized focaccia pizzas, a Caesar salad and an entire bottle of wine. Since most of the restaurant’s bottles are priced above $40, this midweek package is a steal if you and your dining partner are the type of folks who usually polish off a bottle of wine anyway.

Address: 710 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Opening hours: Tue–Thu noon–10pm; Fri, Sat noon–11pm; Sun noon–6pm

What is it? A Wolfgang Puck and L.A. classic known for its power lunches and celeb sightings, as well as a fine dining institution still serving haute bites that will please a crowd for any special occasion.

Why we love it: A retractable roof, two outdoor fireplaces, olive trees and white tablecloths make the Spago patio one of the most coveted fine-dining places to dine in all of L.A. Plus, 43 years after opening, the kitchen is still tinkering here and there to keep things feeling fresh. The bar area’s newly renovated, with a livened–up the cocktail menu that includes non-alcoholic options and drinks inspired by the last three decades and the future. The smoked salmon pizza, spicy tuna cones and the Austrian-American chef’s famous wienerschnitzel still hit like it’s 1982, but what really distinguishes Spago is its approach to service—the likes of which you’d be hard-pressed to find outside of tasting menus these days.

Time Out tip: If it’s your first visit you can order Spago’s iconic tasting menu for the classics, but if you’re a repeat guest, the most fun you can have is off-roading with the fleeting and hyper-seasonal specials, especially when it comes to dessert.

Address: 176 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–10:30pm; Sun 5–10pm