Los Angeles is one of the finest destinations for romantic dining in California. Whether you’re looking for a rooftop view across the Hollywood Hills or a hidden gem for sumptuous seclusion, the iconic city is full of opportunity.
As professional matchmakers with exclusive services in Los Angeles, we’ve got the insider knowledge and experience to source the finest locales for restaurant romance. We’ve compiled this list of the best romantic restaurants in Los Angeles with something for everyone, from first dates to milestone anniversaries.
The Most Romantic Restaurants in Hollywood
Hollywood is the epitome of glamour with all the sparkle of the city of stars. West Hollywood, in particular, is one of Los Angeles’ trendiest areas and a great place for romantic dates with its varied and high-energy nightlife, including a thriving gay scene:
The Tower Bar and Restaurant, Sunset Boulevard
Discerning daters will find a romantic haven in this glamorous locale. Cozy seating next to walnut-paneled fireplaces offers intimate privacy for an exquisite evening of romance. For a more casual atmosphere, head to the chic terrace complete with a swimming pool and sweeping views of LA. Reservations are a must here.
The Little Door, West Hollywood
The Little Door is an enchanting gem that is one of the most romantic restaurants in West Hollywood, with a farm-to-table menu offering fresh ingredients and high-quality eats. The elegant courtyard with its rustic Mediterranean vibe will transport you and your date to a romantic paradise. You must reserve to have a chance to dine here.
Catch LA, Santa Monica Blvd
A lively meld of dining and nightlife, Catch LA is a seafood spot everyone wants to be seen at. Magical views of the Hollywood Hills stretch out before you from the 340-seat retractable roof terrace. The chic vibe is befitting of its Design District location, making this a great spot to take someone you’re trying to impress.
The Most Romantic Restaurants in Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown LA has plenty to offer for romance and fun:
Maccheronie Republic, Grand Central Market
Handmade pasta crafted from the finest local ingredients has made this charming Italian joint a favorite among locals for years. The prettily tiled walls inside and intimate open-air tables outside add to a classic trattoria feel that will help true romance blossom.
Joey DTLA, Flower St.
Find an inner-city oasis at Joey DTLA, where an interior willow tree in the dining room makes for an incredible date night setting. With a theater kitchen and a custom wine wall, you’ll have a fantastic atmosphere while you enjoy the vibrant American cuisine.
LA Cha Cha Chá, Downtown Arts District
Transport yourselves on a vacation to Mexico City without leaving Downtown Los Angeles at LA Cha Cha Chá. This lively eatery is a sunny paradise with a palm and cacti-lined patio that will bring infectious sunshine to a date. Talk the night away with seafood and tequila in one of the city’s coolest joints.
The Most Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles With a View
When you’re on a dinner date, a beautiful view makes it all the more special. These are the best restaurants in Los Angeles for romantic dinners with dazzling sights:
L.P Rooftop, West Hollywood
With one of the most expansive views in West Hollywood, the L.P. Rooftop restaurant is a stunning spot. Watch the sunset as it should be seen, with the restaurant’s spectacular view across the Sunset Strip. The trendy ambience and Southeast Asian fusion cuisine make it an ideal location for a relaxed first date.
Perch, Pershing Square
This bistro rises high above downtown LA with its 15th-floor lounge offering a dreamy view of the city skyline. Nightly jazz music will soundtrack your date while boudoir paintings, pretty plants, and twinkling lights create an alluring ambience. Sample the wonderful wine list and enjoy a magical date at one of the most romantic rooftop restaurants in Los Angeles.
71Above, Downtown Financial District
71Above is one of the top romantic restaurants in Los Angeles, a perfect spot for celebrating special occasions with its spectacular 360º views. Contemporary cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Javier Lopez provides a vibrant American menu that’s just delectable. Book far in advance to get one of the coveted window seats, or opt for the Chef’s Table where you’ll get a front-row seat on a bespoke five-course menu.
The Most Romantic Candlelight Dinner Spots in Los Angeles
Il Celio, Beverly Hills
Il Celio is an unmissable landmark for romantic dining in LA. Utterly enchanting, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale as you dine under an inky sky filled with stars. Opt for the Private Romantic Dining option if you really want to show your date a special evening as you’re shown to a completely private room with its own staff and a seven-course tasting menu. You’ll need to book in advance to get the best seats at this award-winning restaurant.
Little Beast, Eagle Rock
Little Beast has been named as one of the best date spots in Los Angeles, and it’s easy to see why. The cozy bistro is run by a husband-and-wife team who only add to the delightful charm of the place. Feast on the modern American menu in a magical candle-lit setting on the plant-adorned front porch or on the intimate indoor banquette seats.
Firefly, Ventura Boulevard
Make your way to the ivy-draped walls of the secret garden found at Firefly, a fine-dining restaurant that really delivers on its excellent American cuisine. The heated patio is festooned with twinkling lights overlooking tables topped with flickering candles: the scene is set for an exquisite date night.
The Most Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles at Christmas
Christmas brings with it a particularly special air of romance that restaurants in LA let you take full advantage of, whether you celebrate the holiday or not. These dining options are perfect if you’re looking for some magical festive feasting:
The Tasting Kitchen, Venice
This Abbot Kidney restaurant serves sensational charcuterie boards and boasts a constantly updated seasonal menu. You’ll find an excellent American Christmas menu here with the romantic setting of the tree-lined heated outdoor area making it all the more special.
Lawry’s The Prime Rib, Beverly Hills
This is the go-to spot for a Christmas in LA, a steak house of gloriously grand style. The exceptional service and traditional decor make the space feel all the more luxurious, providing a superb spot for special celebrations. If you’re after some festive fun, you can sometimes catch a dinner-theater performance of A Christmas Carol that will turn your romantic dinner into an event.
Dear John’s, Culver City
Pretend as though you and your lover have escaped a fierce December blizzard in this cozy joint where the lights are always dimmed. Old-school cocktails and a classic American menu from award-winning chef Hans Röckenwagner provide a quality dining experience that will give you treasured holiday memories to last.
Share Romantic Dinners in Los Angeles With Someone Special
All the romantic restaurants in Los Angeles are only as special as the person you share them with. At Maclynn, we can help you find the perfect partner with our award-winning matchmaking services.
We employ psychologically-backed profiling methods to get the core of who you are, so we can better match you to the right person. With an exclusive global network of exceptional singles, we are specialists in creating lasting relationships for discerning daters.
To find out more about our bespoke matchmaking services in LA, get in touch with our team today. It could be the start of your journey to a soulmate.
