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