The Best Los Angeles Restaurants for First Dates

Melisse

Michelin-star dining should always be at the top of any first date list, and lucky for us we have Melisse. The Michelin two-star  restaurant from chef and owner Josiah Citrin blends contemporary French cuisine with chic styling. Revered for superb prix fixe menus that reflect the freshest ingredients of the moment, Melisse will feature a special Valentine’s Day menu featuring nine decadent courses, including Konbu-cured New Zealand Tai snapper, lobster bolognese with Perigord truffles and dry aged New York steak. A slightly smaller eight course menu will be able Valentine’s weekend, Thursday-Sunday.

Millennium Biltmore Hotel

A Downtown-centric outing deserves a stop by the Biltmore—regardless of overnight accommodations. The Gallery Bar and Cognac Room are perfect spots to pull away for some conversation over cocktails. And there will be plenty of cocktails to choose from, thanks to the Gallery Bar’s famously long list of signature martinis and Manhattans. If you’re looking for a little lovely mood music, you’re also in luck as the Gallery Bar is home to live jazz most weekends. Be sure and save a little time to explore the gorgeous hotel itself, which has hosted the world’s most famous (and glamorous) celebrities and dignitaries over its 90-year history.

Il Cielo

Heralded as one of the most romantic spots in all of Los Angeles, Il Cielo brings dreamy ambiance to Beverly Hills. The courtyard is prime seating all year round, but for Valentine’s Day it is tailor made for couples. Cozy tables for two are exclusively offered (with reservations recommended), accompanied by a special four-course meal—including a heart-shaped flourless chocolate cake dessert, draped with Belgian chocolate ganache and 24-karat gold. If you’re looking for a date location that slathers on the romance with extra class, Il Cielo is your sparkling best shot.

Malibu Family Wines

What could make for a better date than wine tasting in a gorgeous Malibu setting? Open for outdoor tastings seven days a week, Malibu Family Wines features a picture-perfect picnicking atop Mulholland, Live music is offered on the weekends from 12 to 2 p.m., and again from 3-5 p.m. On-site valet parking or complimentary shuttle service available.

Pace

This Laurel Canyon hideaway is simply one of the most romantic and approachable spots in the city, without all the pretension and formality that can ruin a first date. Pace’s rustic menu features the freshest, hand-selected ingredients for Chef Sandy Gendel’s take on Italian. A fantastic artisan pizza menu features pies that are perfect for sharing, while the extensive (and eco-friendly) wine list highlights wonderful pairings. For those looking to enjoy the best of Pace but on a more intimate scale, the restaurant offers Picnic Packs, featuring selections from three different menus. And just in time for Valentine’s Day, Pace will offer a three-course set menu on Saturday, Feb. 14—reservations suggested.