The city of Los Angeles is full of great places for a romantic night out. From the fancy rooftop bars of downtown and Hollywood to the bustling beauty of Studio City, to the quiet suburban retreats of Pasadena — Angelenos are spoiled for choice. How do you know where to take your Valentine?
Fortunately for you, we’ve put together a short list of restaurants we recommend you take your Valentine this Friday. (keep in mind this list is not comprehensive, but merely our picks; hopefully they inspire you to find the perfect place to dine with your significant other).
1. Perch (Downtown LA)
In the heart of downtown Los Angeles is the aptly named Perch, a French-inspired rooftop bistro. The views alone will put you in a whimsical, romantic mood, but the classic French dishes with a twist are sure to keep you coming back from more. Explore both levels of this eatery — the dining room with outdoor patio and the rooftop bar that only serves drinks. Whether you make Perch your primary dinner destination, or just pre/post-dinner drinks, the unobstructed views of Los Angeles will be nothing short of breathtaking.
2. Eveleigh (West Hollywood)
Eveleigh chooses to let the food do the talking with great taste and selection. This establishment sources ingredients with sustainable and free-range origins, and offers multiple places for your food journey — an enchanting front garden, rustic reclaimed bar, or garden patio amidst the twinkle of La La Land. Their pre-fixe Valentine’s Day menu includes oysters in a pink champagne mignonette sauce, roasted eggplant dip, and a choice of pasta and main dishes, respectively. Last but not least, diners can indulge in flourless chocolate cake, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and champagne.
3. Firefly (Studio City)
Firefly is likely the kind of restaurant people think of when they imagine an L.A. establishment. This place exudes class and intimacy, offering a sensational outdoor patio and a cozy indoor library lounge. An accommodating atmosphere pervades their Valentine’s Day offerings, which are available February 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th! Highlights of the pre-fixe menu include the lobster bisque, pappardelle pasta, and mignardise (for two; an assortment of delectable treats for dessert).
4. Bistro 45 (Pasadena)
Off the beaten path in Pasadena is Bistro 45, a sophisticated, yet comfortable approach to fine dining. The regal exterior is accompanied by a quaint, classy interior and a diverse menu to satisfy a variety of tastes. Bistro 45 is known for an abundant organic menu that includes classic French fare such as bouillabaisse and pan-roasted fish du jour as well as traditional steak and pork chop. You and your date are sure to appreciate the quiet, peaceful setting this restaurant has to offer — perfect for scintillating conversation and a glass of wine.
5. St. Anne’s (North Hollywood Arts District)
Located in the up-and-coming North Hollywood Arts District is a newcomer to the LA dining landscape: St. Anne’s Restaurant & Bar. This quaint spot offers American classics with Southern twists and a Latin spice. Their menu is punctuated by numerous shareable dishes, including bacon truffle mac & cheese, braised short rib & sun-dried tomato tortellini, and pork belly sushi to boot. Be sure to review the Sweetheart Special they have for Valentine’s Day, which includes 2 drunk in love cocktails, dessert, and live music, too. If you and your boo are in the mood for a more casual night out, St. Anne’s is the perfect place for you.
6. Tam O’Shanter (Atwater Village)
Tam O’Shanter brings a level of charm and comfort that might just tickle your fancy this Valentine’s Day. Located in the community of Atwater Village, this establishment exudes an attractive old-world atmosphere and has been serving British pub food in Los Angeles for nearly 100 years. Feast on fish & chips or chicken pot pie, and pair it with one of the many English beers or crafted cocktails available. They also offer 200 tasty scotches, on their Great Wall of Scotch. Select one to sip or expand your horizons with a sampler! If warmth and hospitality are your priorities this VDay, choose Tam O’Shanter for your dining adventure.
7. Santuari Restaurant (Toluca Lake)
Santuari is one of the most visually stunning places on our list, living up to its billing as LA’s most Transporting Restaurant by Food & Wine. This restaurant provides a fresh take on California cuisine with Mediterranean accents. Combining rich colors with exquisite food, Santuari is a dining experience unlike any other! Similar to other restaurants on this list, Santuari is presenting an exclusive 4-course tasting menu for Valentine’s Day. Notable items include oysters on the half shell, lamb tartar, grilled swordfish, and beet red velvet cake.
Contributor, designer & admin for JohnHart Gazette.
