LA: 6 Picture-Perfect Patios for Al Fresco Dining

With temperatures rising and later sunsets on the horizon, check out these gorgeous al fresco dining spots.

Michael’s

Santa Monica staple Michael’s always knows how to attract a crowd. Now whether that’s because of the space’s beautifully manicured garden seating, the extensive wine selection or diverse art collection is a toss up—but why not enjoy it all? Dining outdoors at Michael’s is tranquility at its best, with tall shrubbery deflecting the hustle of the neighborhood, setting the mood for an intimate evening.
1147 Third Street, Santa Monica; (310) 451-0843

A.O.C.

Courtyard seating is coveted at A.O.C., where a reservation goes a long way, particularly for brunch. The entire restaurant has a great indoor-outdoor atmosphere, though the spacious patio is ideal for groups. The chic design elements and overall layout evoke a sense of dining in-home, separating A.O.C.’s aesthetic from neighboring hot spots.
8700 West Third Street, Los Angeles; (310) 859-9859

Cavatina

Fine dining and fine accommodations go hand in hand. Look no further than Sunset Marquis’ Cavatina, which is home to one of the best patios off Sunset Boulevard. Whether power lunching or lounging, you’re sure to find Hollywood elite at Cavatina. Of course a restaurant doesn’t remain legendary for this long based soley on atmosphere. Lucky for us, the goods are backed up by James Beard award winning chef Michael Schlow in the kitchen.
1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, (310) 358-3759

Wood & Vine

One of the best patios in Hollywood can be found at Wood & Vine, located in the historic Taft Building along Vine Street. An unassuming location for airy outdoor dining, but that’s exactly what awaits beyond the industrial-chic, vintage-inspired interior. A communal fire pit is prime seating on cool L.A. nights, but the outdoor space is truly favored all year round. Regulars will talk your ear off about menu standouts like the chicken & waffles and butterscotch pot du crème, so be sure and bring your appetite when sitting down for a meal at Wood & Vine.
6280 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, (323) 334-3360

Nobu Malibu

Hands down, quintessential coastal dining. Sure, Nobu West Hollywood may be within closer proximity to many (and depending on the day and time, easier to reserve a table), but if you’re looking for up close and personal sea views, than Nobu Malibu is worth the trip up the Pacific Coast Highway. Impeccable presentation makes the perfect accompaniment to this level of outdoor enjoyment, and luckily Nobu always delivers with the freshest, most-inventive Japanese cuisine.
22706 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, (310) 317-9140

mar’sel

A bit further south down the Pacific Coast Highway nestled in the Palos Verdes peninsula is the hidden gem of mar’sel, a play on the Spanish word for “sea” and the French word for “salt.” And with stunning ocean views, it’s easy to see how such a prime restaurant location got its name. Chef de Cuisine Charles Olalia changes up the California cuisine menu seasonally, ensuring new and inventive dining experience for each visit to the Terranea resort. Particularly popular when it comes to patio dining is the Sunday brunch, which features a delicious three-course tasting menu option among a host of additional entrees. Mimosas with an amazing view, anyone?
100 Terrana Way, Rancho Palos Verdes; (310) 265-2836