What You're Eating: Best Al Fresco Dining in Los Angeles
As the summer season rolls into Los Angeles, it is time to get outdoors to enjoy an evening dining in the open air. Discover these great al fresco dining spots in and around Los Angeles for the perfect date night, girls night, or family celebration.
RivaBella
9201 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 278-2060
www.innovativedining.com
RivaBella features a sprawling 8,000 square foot dining space that offers some of the best al fresco dining in Los Angeles. Perfect for both a sunlit afternoon or a beautifully lit, romantic evening, RivaBella also boasts a fireplace, sweeping curtained terraces, and dramatic candlelit tables. Try their Mushroom Risotto, it can't be beat.
AOC
8700 W 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(310) 859-9859
www.aocwinebar.com
At AOC, you'll think you've been transported to the Italian countryside as you sit outdoors at their completely enclosed patio area surrounding a stunning brick hearth. Chef Suzanne Goin and sommelier Caroline Styne have worked together to create an amazing menu including house made sausages (with madeira, kale-chestnut stuffing & dates), a Farmer's Plate (with summer vegetables, muhammara, chickpea purée, burrata & grilled toast), and a wide variety of small plates, salads, and offerings from their wood oven. For summer, AOC is offering seasonal offerings including grilled peaces with ricotta & pistachio aillade as well as string beans with burrata, speck, hazelnuts and slivered plums. In addition, while dining al fresco, enjoy a wood-oven roasted main lobster which comes with cornbread pudding and gremolata butter.
Cuvée
145 N Robertson Blvd
Los Angeles, CA
(310) 271-4333
www.mycuvee.com
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Cuvée on Robertson Blvd. is a perfect destination for al fresco dining. With healthy options made from fresh ingredients, the restaurant offers a great selection that will leave you satisfied. The restaurant is constantly offering new and different fare depending on the season as well. And, if tasty and delicious food isn't enough, you can enjoy a glass or bottle of wine from their wide selection. The restaurant has indoor seating, but the best seats are outside where you'll enjoy your food on the patio.
Cliff's Edge
3626 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(323) 666-6116
www.cliffsedgecafe.com
The huge, ancient tree that fills the outdoor patio space at Cliff's Edge brings with it abundant greenery and a unique connection to nature that permeates throughout Cliff's Edge's Silver Lake establishment. The rustic yet sophisticated ambiance is matched by its beautifully crafted seasonal menu serving up local, fresh produce that highlights both a simple and yet strikingly delicious fare. The extensive wine list and innovative cocktails round out the perfect evening under the stars.
EP&LP
603 N La Cienega Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 855-9955
www.eplosangeles.com
Situated at the corner of La Cienega Blvd. and Melrose Ave., this swanky spot offers two spots. EP is the restaurant, while LP is the incredible rooftop bar. LP serves delicious Asian inspired bites, including items like their Pacific Oysters, Lou's Dogg, as well as their premium kosher beef hot dog, tofu fries, a gola curry shrimp, pork stewers and more.
Little Next Door
8142 West 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 951-1010
www.littlenextdoor.com
The adorable French restaurant (located adjacent to sister property The Little Door), Little Next Door might be the closest thing to a Parisian bistro this side of the Atlantic. Specialty sandwiches, salads, egg dishes, organic breads, and pastries, coupled with a great selection of international wines, offer something for everyone. Try their wine & dine midweek specials for half off every glass of wine!
Wilshire Restaurant
2454 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90403-5823
(310) 586-1707
www.wilshirerestaurant.com
Recently named the best restaurant in Santa Monica by Discover Los Angeles, Wilshire Restaurant features local, organic, seasonal ingredients with both American and International influences in a style they have dubbed "New Urban Cuisine." Their patio is consistently beautiful, but an especially amazing feast for the eyes in the evening as the lit up trees, hanging lamps, candles, and fire pits create a spectacular glow.
