Where to Dine for Every Kind of Date in L.A.

shutterstock_668848906Photo Credit: Syda Production/Shutterstock.com

Here are our picks for the best date ideas for every occasion, including everything from an anniversary dinner to where you should dine on a morning-after date.

Perch
Perch

Photo Credit: Perch/Facebook

FIRST DATE

Perch

This downtown restaurant has some of the best views of the L.A. skyline, cozy spots to get to know one another and enough people around that you may just be able to find a new love connection if your date goes downhill.

448 Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, Website

Il Cielo
Il Cielo

Photo Credit: Il Cielo

A PROPOSAL

Il Cielo

In our opinion, the Huntington Gardens, El Matador beach and Griffith Observatory are the best places to propose in L.A., but if you’re celebrating said proposal, do so at Il Cielo, a romantic Beverly Hills institution known for its dreamy ambiance and amazing outdoor garden area dotted with fairy lights.

9018 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, Website 

Inn of the Seventh Ray
Inn of the Seventh Ray

Photo Credit: Inn of the Seventh Ray

ANNIVERARY

Inn of the Seventh Ray

You can definitely flex out for an anniversary night with some of the more expensive Los Angeles eateries (and there are a ton) but for a really special night, we recommend a slightly out-of-the-way locale in Topanga Canyon’s Inn of the Seventh Ray, where you should expect to dine riverside at a candelit table with the soft splash of a nearby waterfall to keep you company.

128 Old Topanga Canyon Rd, Topanga, CA 90290, Website 

The Little Door
The Little Door

Photo Credit: The Little Door

A ROMANTIC NIGHT OUT IN TINSELTOWN

Little Door

If you’re in the mood for romance, head to the Little Door on West 3rd. Street and request to sit in its tucked away secret garden. The colorful, romantic courtyard is the perfect spot to celebrate your amore under twinkling lights that mimic the LA skyline above you. Order a bottle of Bordeaux from the eatery’s extensive wine list and fall under the spell of its uber-private, uber-romantic atmosphere.

8164 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048, Website 
The Spare Room
The Spare Room

Photo Credit: The Hollywood Roosevelt

FUN

The Spare Room Hollywood

If you’re more of a do-er than a diner, head to the Spare Room at The Roosevelt Hotel for custom cocktails, bowling, games and, yes, food, to entertain that special someone.

7000 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, Website 

Jon & Vinny's
Jon & Vinny’s

Photo Credit: Jon & Vinny’s/Facebook

DOUBLE DATE

Jon & Vinny’s

In addition to amazing fare, Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo have mastered the art of beautiful, low-key ambiance. Grab your best pal and his/her partner and head to this cozy Italian spot to share some pizzas, wine and great conversation.

412 North Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles 90036, Website

The Rockefeller Manhattan Beach
The Rockefeller Manhattan Beach

Photo Credit: The Rockefeller/Facebook

BRUNCH DATE

The Rockefeller

On a summer day in L.A., you can’t beat The Rockefeller for a brunch date. This gastro pub is in an epic location—right by the ocean in Manhattan Beach—upscale bistro fare AND bottomless flavored Mimosas. Winning!

1209 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, Website 

Nobu Malibu
Nobu Malibu

Photo Credit: Nobu

IF YOU’RE DADDY WARBUCKS

Nobu Malibu

Typically we’d say that Urasawa, one of the most expensive restaurants in the world, would be a great option…but we’re in favor of Nobu Malibu, which has every classic Nobu item (the crispy rice is a standout), celebrities for days and a magical ocean view. Plus, if you’re able to use your clout (or wealth) to get a prime reservation on a Saturday night, well, let’s just say your date is one lucky girl or guy.

22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, Website 

Little Dom's
Little Dom’s

Photo Credit: Little Dom’s/Facebook

WHEN YOU’RE ON A BUDGET BUT WANT TO LOOK LIKE A BALLER

Little Dom’s

Every Monday night, Los Feliz bistro Little Dom’s offers a three-course meal for $15 , as well as $15 bottles of wine and $3 Pabst Blue Ribbons. Your date will never know that you didn’t flex out.

2128 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027, Website 

Alcove Cafe & Bakery
Alcove Cafe & Bakery

Photo Credit: Alcove Cafe & Bakery/Facebook

WHEN YOU NEED YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND FOR MORAL SUPPORT

Alcove Bakery & Cafe

If you just can’t leave your fur baby at home, book a day time date at this darling downtown spot, which is housed in two historic bungalows, surrounded by gardens and offers a menu of classic American fare, hand-roasted coffees and its own chocolate. And best of all—your pup is allowed to come!

1929 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027, Website 

Go Get Em Tiger
Go Get Em Tiger

Photo Credit: Go Get Em Tiger/Facebook

BEST COFFEE DATE

Go Get Em Tiger

It’s all in the name! Enjoy hopefully great conversation alongside cold brew, housemade chai or a tumeric almond macadamia latte at this Larchmont coffee house, which has been named one of the best in the country.

230 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004, Website