L.A.’s Best Outdoor Restaurants
One of the greatest joys of Southern California is its variety of outdoor restaurants available nearly year-round. From sunny brunches on the patio to starlit dinners under heat lamps, Los Angeles offers many al fresco dining options. Whether you’re craving ocean breezes or city skyline views, these spots deliver an unbeatable combination of atmosphere and flavor. Join us as we explore the top outdoor restaurants around town.
Elegant Outdoor Restaurants in Los Angeles
A.O.C.
Location: West Hollywood and Brentwood
A.O.C. is a beloved West 3rd Street restaurant known for its wine and small plates. When it comes to its Weho outdoor space, the courtyard patio is nothing short of enchanting. Shade from wide umbrellas keeps lunches cool, while twinkling lights and heat lamps warm up dinner service. James Beard-award-winning chef Suzanne Goin delivers at this Californian-Mediterranean spot.
Gracias Madre
Location: West Hollywood
Nestled in WeHo, Gracias Madre serves plant-based Mexican cuisine in a setting so lovely you’ll want to linger for hours. The expansive patio is framed by 80-year-old olive trees and festive string lights. By day, the patio is dappled in sunlight – perfect for savoring young coconut ceviche and jackfruit tacos. By night, a fireplace casts a warm glow as you sip organic margaritas. This spot manages to be upscale and laid-back at once, embodying the best of LA’s dining vibe.
Redbird
Location: Downtown LA
Downtown’s dining scene shines at Redbird, housed in a deconsecrated cathedral. Its open-air patio in the central courtyard strikes a balance between historic architecture and modern design. Surrounded by the cathedral’s walls and under a canopy of stars, enjoy chef Neal Fraser’s acclaimed New American menu. From cleverly crafted cocktails to the famous fried chicken and heirloom grits, every bite is divine.
Westside & Beachside Outdoor Restaurants with a View
Nobu Malibu
Location: Malibu | PCH
When it comes to iconic outdoor dining, Nobu Malibu tops the list. Set right against the shoreline, this Japanese-Peruvian restaurant offers a breathtaking panorama of the Pacific. Diners often find themselves mesmerized by the crashing waves just beyond the deck. As you relish signatures like black cod miso or rock shrimp tempura, you might overhear the surf or spot dolphins. Likewise, as a popular celebrity haunt, reservations are a must.
Elephante
Location: Santa Monica
In Santa Monica, Élephante has quickly become a go-to for those seeking a stylish rooftop scene. The decor is Tulum-inspired – think boho-chic furniture, lush plants, and a view of the ocean on the horizon. Come for a breezy lunch of wood-fired pizzas, or arrive at sunset when the whole space glows. With a spritz in hand and the ocean breeze wafting through, you’ll feel like you’re on a Mediterranean vacation.
Casa del Mar Terrace
Location: Santa Monica
For a more tranquil upscale beach dining, the Terrace at Hotel Casa del Mar is a hidden gem. Overlooking the sand, this elegant spot offers plush outdoor seating. Stop by to enjoy seafood towers or truffle pizza with a side of ocean view. Umbrellas provide shade by day, and fire pits add ambiance by night. It’s refined, relaxing, and utterly romantic, especially when the sky turns pink over the Pacific.
San Fernando Valley’s Scenic Outdoor Restaurants
Castaway
Location: Burbank
Perched on a hillside in Burbank, Castaway has been a special-occasion staple for decades. With one visit, it’s easy to see why. Castaway’s multi-level patio offers stellar, sweeping views of the Valley, Downtown, and beyond. The restaurant features chic fire pits, cabanas, and a refreshed menu that rivals the vistas. Steaks are a highlight here, as well as a diverse menu of seafood and shareable plates. A craft cocktail in hand and live music on weekends make the experience even more magical.
Casalena
Location: Woodland Hills
One of the newest additions to the Valley’s dining scene, Casalena in Woodland Hills. This events venue turned restaurant offers a dreamy outdoor setting, including an atrium and a sunken garden. The ambiance is downright stunning – think Mediterranean villa vibes. On the menu, you’ll find crowd-pleasers like spicy vodka pasta and wood-grilled branzino. It’s a place where you can dress up a bit and celebrate a special night out. Casalena brings a touch of Beverly Hills polish to the West Valley, and locals are loving it.
Saddle Peak Lodge
Location: Calabasas
Saddle Peak Lodge offers a different kind of outdoor dining – one that immerses you in nature. The restaurant is known for its historic, lodge-like setting and game meat cuisine. In addition, Saddle Peak has a charming patio deck surrounded by trees. You’ll dine to the sounds of a nearby creek and rustling leaves. It feels like a mountain retreat only minutes from suburbia. The menu even features venison, elk, and bison specialties for the adventurous. With a glass of California red in hand, you’ll appreciate the serene break from city life. It’s upscale dining in a tranquil, woodsy atmosphere!
Alfresco Outdoor Restaurants of Conejo Valley
Coin & Candor
Location: Westlake Village
Located at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village, Coin & Candor is a farm-to-table-inspired restaurant that offers an inviting outdoor patio. Overlooking a cascading waterfall on the hotel grounds, the terrace at Coin & Candor is both serene and sophisticated. Fire pits and soft lighting set a relaxed mood as you dine on Chef Jesus Medina’s creations. Enjoy California fresh cuisine with Latin touches (the Baja red snapper with adobo sauce is a must-try).
Mediterraneo
Location: Westlake Village
Mediterraneo restaurant boasts a beautiful patio overlooking its private lake and manicured gardens. Swans glide by as you enjoy Mediterranean-Californian dishes like paella, grilled octopus, or a classic osso buco. The covered patio is heated when needed, making it comfortable in the evening as well. Dinner often comes with a side of live music drifting from the adjacent Stonehaus (the Inn’s winery/cafe). It’s a slice of European charm right in Conejo Valley.
Outdoor Food Halls & Wine Gardens
A unique addition to the Conejo dining scene is the new “Neighborly” food hall in Westlake. The upscale collection of eateries even includes a tasting room and gourmet burger spot with a communal outdoor seating area. It’s perfect for families or groups who can’t settle on one cuisine. Grab a bite to eat and meet at a stylish patio dotted with string lights.
Additionally, Malibu Wines & Beer Garden (in nearby Agoura Hills) offers a casual yet chic outdoor setting to enjoy local wines, craft beer, and food truck bites while kids play lawn games. It encapsulates the easy luxury of the area – quality food and drink in a beautiful outdoor setting, where kids and pets are welcome.
Source: Rodeo Realty Blog
