Dining out(side) has never tasted better.
If there’s one thing locals and visitors can agree on when it comes to Los Angeles, it’s the favorable sunny weather—ideal for alfresco dining. The city’s culinary scene offers a multitude of cuisines at spots ranging from fast casual to fine dining, from breezy beachside patios to rooftop lounges with city views. Need some recommendations? Our guide has something for everyone.
Note: Though hours and formats are updated regularly, they can change without notice; best to confirm at venue websites.
40 Love
Reminiscent of a classic American country club, the elevated neighborhood sports bar welcomes guests to come cheer on their favorite team or grab a bite with friend in its expanded seating areas. Starting at the front outdoor garden patio, find seats down the side alley and back parking lot with additional tables, umbrellas and sky lights. There are also newly installed flat-screen TVs and sound systems, as well as updated food and beverage menus. M-Th 4 p.m.-midnight, F-Su 4 p.m.-2 a.m. 829 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.855.7221.
Delilah
The charming West Hollywood modern supper club takes it outdoors to a new alfresco dining space! Decorated with a bright pink flower wall, hedges, hanging twinkle lights, plush sofas and fun mural, the cozy setting makes it easy to forget that it’s technically in a parking lot! Th-Sa 6-10 p.m. 7696 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, 323.745.0600.
The Front Yard
Now this is the patio of our dreams. Located at The Garland hotel, this Tuscan-style space emanates a warm, inviting ambiance and offers modern, seasonal California fare. There’s additional seating in the newly expanded area for better social distancing as the Front Yard’s health protocols are in full effect and outlined on its website. 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, 818.255.7290.
Gracias Madre
Sit back and relax on these cushioned seats or in the breezy courtyard space at the chic Gracias Madre. Boasting traditional, plant-based Mexican fare by executive chef Mario Alberto, the eatery offers weekend brunch, dinner and now lunch. Wet your whistle with the restaurant’s expansive beverage program featuring cocktails, mezcals, tequilas and other libations—try the signature Purista margarita! Open daily 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; weekend brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323.978.2170.
Harriet’s
Now this is dinner with a view! Located at the 1 Hotel in West Hollywood, the elegant rooftop lounge easily transitions from day to night—brunch then craft cocktails, anyone? For dinner, guests can enjoy Mediterranean chicken skewers, mahi mahi fish tacos, the H burger and the balsamic-grilled-vegetable platter. From noon to 4 p.m., brunchers can order dishes including yogurt parfait, grilled chicken wrap, a smoked salmon plate and the Cali breakfast sandwich. W-F 5 p.m.-close, Sa-Su noon-10 p.m. 8490 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424.281.1860.
Las Palmas
Take in those amazing sunset views at the Tulum-inspired pop-up at the Melrose Rooftop Theatre space adjoining the L.P. rooftop. Enjoy signature dishes such as ceviche and lobster quesadilla with bespoke summer cocktails. Call for reservations for parties of four to six. Note: Bookings have a two-hour limit, and there’s a $25 fee for no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours of the reservation. Entry is via E.P. & L.P. Open daily 6 p.m.-midnight. 603 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.855.9955.
Le Jardin
Let Paris come to you at the Culver Hotel’s Parisian-inspired outdoor garden restaurant and bar. Open for brunch and dinner, Le Jardin offers elevated dishes, an extensive list of signature cocktails and lively performances by the hotel’s favorite musicians. Brunch: Sa-Su 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Aperitif hour or dinner: Th-Su 4:30-10 p.m. 9400 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 310.558.9400.
L.P. Rooftop
Contemporary Asian fusion E.P. & L.P. invites patrons up to to its L.P. rooftop bar, redesigned as safe alfresco dining option. From an expansive 5,500-square-foot rooftop, guests take in some of the best views in the city while enjoying small plates and elevated bar bites such as shrimp ‘toast’ada, corn cheese croquettes, and lemongrass and black pepper wings. M-F 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Sa-Su noon to 2 a.m. 603 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.855.9955.
Manuela
Industrial farmhouse meets greenhouse. The American heritage eatery invites diners in for brunch, lunch and dinner six days a week to newly expanded patio. The menu includes classics such as its cream biscuits with country ham and soft-shell crab, and additions including the Gulf pink-shrimp bruschetta and barbecued king prawns. Reservation only. Tu-F 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sa-Su 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 907 E. 3rd St., downtown, 323.849.0480.
Nobu Malibu
With its tantalizing sushi and seats right next to the ocean, it’s no wonder A-list celebrities frequent the beachside hot spot. This acclaimed fine-dining establishment, helmed by “Iron Chef” veteran Nobu Matsuhisa, offers Japanese delicacies—best experienced on chef Nobu’s omakase tasting menus—as well as California-inspired fare. Reservations required. M-Th noon-10 p.m., F noon-11 p.m., Sa 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Su 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140.
Rossoblu
In the mood for handmade pastas and Italian wines (that would be me, all the time)? Indulge in chef Steve Samson’s Bolognese-inspired menu on Rossoblu’s private outdoor piazza. On the menu, there’s housemade salumi, soulful pastas, market produce, and wood-grilled fish and meats. Bring out your inner sommelier with a glass (or two) from the wine list featuring unique Italian and Californian varietals. Salute! W-Su 9-5 p.m. 1124 San Julian St., downtown, 213.749.1099.
Strings of Life
Early birds looking for a new breakfast spot? Hop over to the new modern Aussie-inspired indoor/outdoor café and artisanal coffee concept. Combining fresh, California ingredients with Australian staples such as Vegemite and Yarra Valley caviar, chef Koludrovic reinvents the traditional Aussie café menu for the SoCal palate with dishes including the Everything Bagel crispy potato cake. Open daily 7 a.m.-4 p.m. 8535 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood.
Terra at Eataly
Located at Westfield Century City, Eataly’s rooftop restaurant and lounge—named for “earth” in Italian—features a wood-burning Italian grill and stunning panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills. Whether you go for lunch or dinner, don’t forget to pair your meal with one of the botanical cocktails (check out the bar above!), premium Italian wines or additional libations. Check website for hours. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 213.310.8008.
The Waterfront Venice
The beloved beachside destination invites you to sit back, relax and dine on its stylish patio. Beverage director Dave Purcell offers a list of low-ABV cocktails inspired by beachy vibes; they pair perfectly with the laid-back seasonal California fare by executive chef Jared Dowling. Social distancing protocols are in full effect and outlined on its website. W-F 4-10 p.m., Sa-Su noon-10 p.m. 205 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, 424.309.5333.
Photo credits: 40 Love by Elizabeth Daniels. Harriet’s by Wonho Frank Lee. Las Palmas, L.P. Rooftop, Strings of Life by David Higgs. Le Jardin by A-Z Creative Group. Manuela (2) by Sim Canetty-Clarke. Nobu by Henry Hargreaves. Terra courtesy Eataly Los Angeles. All other images are courtesy of the venues.
