"Outdoor Dining in LA: Top Restaurants with Patios"
Los Angeles, with its renowned food scene and balmy Mediterranean climate, is a goldmine for dining with a view. If you're craving a meal al fresco, you're in luck. This bustling city offers a myriad of restaurants with outdoor seating, ranging from beachfront tavernas to mountaintop oases. Let's dive into some of the best spots to enjoy your next meal under the sun or stars.
Los Angeles' diverse neighborhoods each boast their own culinary identities, and they're not shy about showing them off. From the coastal breezes of Santa Monica to the urban attitudes of Downtown, there's a dining experience waiting for you. So, whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, let's explore the best outdoor dining options in the City of Angels.
The Coast and Beaches
There's something undeniably appealing about dining with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. From Malibu to Redondo Beach, LA's coastal communities offer some of the city's most scenic outdoor dining options.
For a slice of La Côte d'Azur, head to Malibu Farm at the historic Malibu Pier. Perched above the ocean, this farm-to-table eatery serves up California cuisine with a French twist. A meal here is not just delicious, but also a visual feast with stunning ocean views.
Santa Monica: Ocean to Mountains
Santa Monica, with its beachfront location and Abbott Kinney's vibrant restaurants, is a hub for outdoor dining. Start your day with brunch at The Lobster, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and bay views from their expansive patio. As the sun sets, head to Thewynn, a new American restaurant that pairs innovative dishes with sweeping ocean and mountain views.
For a more casual affair, grab a burrito and a beer at Taco Stand, which offers communal tables and umbrellas perfect for people-watching. And don't miss the chance to dine on the sand at Beachside Restaurant & Bar, located on the Santa Monica Pier.
Manhattan Beach & Redondo Beach: Mediterranean-Inspired Fare
South of Santa Monica, Manhattan and Redondo Beach offer a string of restaurants with Mediterranean influences and oceanfront views. The Strand House in Manhattan Beach combines small plates with an ideal patio, while Continental Pool Café in Redondo Beach serves up California coastal cuisine with a side of Pacific Ocean vistas.
For beachcombers, The Reel Inn in Marina del Rey offers rustic, harborside seafood with an expansive outdoor patio. It's the perfect spot to relax after a day on the water.
Urban Oases
Not all memorable outdoor dining experiences happen by the coast. Many of LA's neighborhoods have their own unique urban oases that offer a change of pace from the city's fast-lane lifestyle.
In DTLA, check out Seven Grand, a speakeasy-style whiskey bar with a lush, twinkly-lit patio. For a breath of fresh air in the heart of Hollywood, hike up to the Griffith Observatory. The nearby Trails Cafe offers healthy, organic eats with views of the Hollywood sign and the city skyline.
Los Feliz & Eastside: Hidden Gems
Los Feliz and East LA are home to hidden gems with charming outdoor seating areas. Alcove Cafe & Bakery's patio is adorned with twinkly lights and lush greenery, making it the perfect spot for a cozy brunch or dinner. Further east, The Morrison in Atwater Village offers a beautiful, verdant courtyard alongside Southern-inspired plates.
For a taste of Latin America, head to Central America and Sabanero for Argentinian dishes and a lively patio in Boyle Heights. And if you find yourself in Silver Lake, be sure to visit L & E Oyster Bar for New England-inspired seafood and a convivial outdoor space.
Culver City & Westside: Casual Eats
Culver City and the Westside offer plenty of casual eateries with outdoor seating. Century City Mall Food Hall is home to an array of international cuisines, with a spacious outdoor dining area. For classic fast-casual fare, head to The Park at Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade, where pathname pubs and eateries line the walkway.
End your meal with a stroll and gelato at Gelata in Venice, offering house-made flavors and beautifully shaded outdoor seating. And if you're craving pizza, Pizana in West LA serves up New York-style pies with a side of uh-mazing rooftop views.
With this comprehensive guide, you're ready to eat your way through LA's vibrant outdoor dining scene. So, go on – savor the flavors, soak up the sun, and don't forget to tag us in your foodie shots. We can't wait to see where your appetite takes you next.