The Top List of Romantic Restaurants - Los Angeles, CA
Spend precious time with your sweetheart in a romantic ambiance. by Eleonora Boreyko
For a special occasion spend precious time with your sweetheart in a romantic ambiance! Hopefully, the spectacular gastronomy of these ten top restaurants will add to your special evening's festivity.
CEZANNE 1740 Ocean Ave. Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 395-9700 Hours: (Mon-Sun) 6am 10pm. Closed 3pm-5.30pm. This elegant restaurant is nestled inside Le Merigot Hotel and Spa over-looking the ocean. The local community of Santa Monica has yet to discover this jewel while the lucky tourists have been indulging in breakfast, lunch, or dinner. At Cezanne maximum attention is in full bloom. The hostess’ piercing smile is just the beginning of the culinary journey. After a few minutes on a plush throne-shaped divan, just at the right time, the sommelier appears at the table. He is a walking encyclopedia on wine. Trust the master who, like a painter, expertly chooses his colors to flawlessly balance its consistency. The menu suggests a French school, mélange with recipes from other parts of the world. Whet your appetite with macaroni and cheese prepared with a lobster sauce. Broiled Veal Chops with Wild Mushrooms and Polenta is savory; the meat is enriched by the seasoning, not over spiced. The classic meat dishes like Moroccan Rack of Lamb are simply sensational. Do not rush to leave after dinner; enjoy the unspoiled mystery of the ocean.
Estimated cost per person $30-$55 Holiday schedule call for info.
MI PIACE 801 North San Fernando Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91502 (818) 843-1111 25 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91105 (626) 795-3131 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 591-8822 Hours: (Mon-Fri) 11 am-10 pm; (Sat) till 12:30 pm; (Sun) till 11:30 pm This cozy Italian place in Burbank remains desirable for many gourmet eaters, featuring scrumptious delights with generous portions. Mi Piace has two more locations in Pasadena and Calabasas that managed to preserve their own vibe and atmosphere. You won't be able to resist their celestial breads and pastries that are made daily at the Pasadena Baking Company. If you can, get a table on the terrace to make your dining experience more pleasant.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $25 - $35
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Open, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open
PINOT BISTRO 12969 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604 (818) 990-0500 Hours: (Mon-Fri) 11:30 am-2: 30 am; (Mon-Thur) 6 pm-10 pm; (Fri) 6 pm-10:30 pm; (Sat) 5:30 pm-10:30 pm; (Sun) 5:30 pm-9:30 pm Unlike most heavy french cooking, this intimate restaurant with comfy booths offers fluffy and palate tantalizing dishes. Pinot Bistro has become as recognized as its bigger "sister', Patina which is located on Melrose Avenue. Wondrous dishes, under the direction of world-renowned chef Joachim Splichal, are relished by elite and amongst local folks. Reservations are recommended. Bon Appétit!
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $40 - $50
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Closed, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Closed
THE HUMP 3221 Donald Douglas South Loop, Los Angeles, CA 90405 (310) 313-0977 Hours: (Mon-Fri) 12 am-2 pm; (Mon-Thur) 5:30 pm-10:30 pm; (Fri & Sat) 5:30 pm-11 pm; (Sun) 5:30 pm-10 pm By all means, The Hump just could be the best sushi restaurant in town, presenting the most reliably fresh sushi, sashimi and other Japanese delicacies "to live for." With a fireplace in the room and over looking the Santa Monica Airport runway, even with your eyes open, you might find yourself "flying." Begin by inhaling the Hibachi sashimi or the spicy yellow tail/tuna, accompanied with milky sake. The waiter will seem a bit sloppy when you observe him over pouring cold sake into the glass and onto the small dish underneath. Don't be surprised; that's the way they serve it. Every dish in the menu is a scrumptious epiphany and so worthwhile the experience! The service is better at the Sushi bar than at the tables.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $40 - $50
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Closed, Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Closed, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open
IL CIELO 9018 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (310) 276-9990 Hours: (Mon-Sat) 11:30 am-3 pm/6 pm-11 pm; (Sun) Closed This secluded charming restaurant is beyond doubt designed for special occasions. Choose a table on the patio, being surrounded by a dazzling garden in the courtyard. Il Cielo offers exceptional Northern Italian cuisine, accompanied by velvet garnety wines. The prices are high, yet spoil yourself at least once and try it anyways; it's worth it. You might see many celebrities paying their visit to this "paradise island." Service is very pleasant and reservations are strongly recommended. Buon Appetito!
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $40 - $50
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Closed, Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open
FOUR OAKS 2181 North Beverly Glen Boulevard, Bel Air, CA 90077 (310) 470-2265 Hours: (Tues-Sat) 11:30 am-2 pm; (Tues-Sun) 6 pm-10 pm; (Sun) 10:30 am-2:30 pm This romantic jewel of Bel Air in its chic setting presents traditional French cuisine. It's a wonderful getaway place to celebrate any very special occasion. Each item on the menu is truly sensational: from salads, made with newly picked produce, tender rack of lamb, cooked-to-perfection salmon, and many varieties of sweets. The high prices are justified, because the food is succulent and I encourage you to have a rendezvous at this unique "château". You'll have no need to travel to France. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $45 - $55
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Closed, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Closed
DAR MAGHREB 7651 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90046 (323) 876-7651 Hours: (Mon-Fri) 6 pm-11 pm; (Sat) till 11 pm; (Sun) till 10:30 pm In our modern time, consuming food with silverware is not only ethical, but also a great convenience. Dar Magreb doesn't provide any utensils, so be ready to use your own, "your hands." The exquisite, perfumed with unique spices, Moroccan cuisine is served in this gorgeous Middle Eastern domed palace. Once inside, look up and admire the ceiling. A colorful night is at your feet while sitting on comfortable cushions, surrounded by exotic music as well as stunning belly dancers. Dinner only and reservations preferred.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $45 - $55
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Open, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Closed, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open
INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY 128 Old Topanga Canyon Road, Topanga, CA 90290 (310) 455-1311 Hours: (Mon-Fri) 11 am-3 pm; (Mon-Sun) 6 pm-10 pm; (Sat) 10:30-3 pm; (Sun) 9:30 am-3 pm Visit this isolated bohemian bastion in the mountains of Malibu whose rural ambiance is truly inspirational. In harmony with the ambiance, one look at the menu will ignite fire works in your mouth. Upon the entrance, there is a little shop that sells "rubbish," yet useful things to make your home cozier. The vast variety of New Age gastronomy includes delicious vegetarian dishes. The personable staff with the flair of magicians will make sure the meal appears on your table promptly. Don't imbibe too much; remember the windy road of Topanga Canyon on your way back. If you are lucky, famous faces can be seen at the restaurant. Reservations preferred.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $30 - $40
Holiday Schedule: Open for all holidays
RAYMOND, THE 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105 (626) 441-3136 Hours: (Tues-Fri) 11 am-2:30 pm; (Tues-Thur) 6 pm-9:30 pm; (Sat) 11 am-2:30 pm/5:45 pm-9:30 pm; (Sun) 10 am-2:30 pm/4:30 pm-8 pm Until present time, this charming and inviting cottage was operated as the Raymond Hotel, offering its warmth to many travelers. It's like being in a bed & breakfast; only instead of breakfast you enjoy superb lunches and dinners with exceptional service. The Cal-Continental cuisine is consistently good, including traditional meat dishes like lamb, medallions of beef and many other tempting delights. In spite of Pasadena's recent trendiness, this "castle" retains its uniqueness for its regular patrons. Go for the experience of pure cuisine that holds its value.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $35 - $45
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Closed, New Years Eve-Open
JOE'S 1023 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291 (310) 399-5811 Hours: (Tues & Fri) 11:30 pm-2:30 pm; (Tues & Thur) 6 pm-10 pm; (Fri & Sat) 6 pm-11 pm; (Sun) 6 pm-10 pm; (Sat & Sun) 11 am-2:30 pm Joe's has been around for only a few years, but has already gained and successfully sustains its outstanding reputation. The restaurant was remodeled and expanded a year ago, welcoming more customers to its simple, yet modern decor. Joe Miller, the owner and creator, is proud to present the most tempting Californian cuisine, including numerous savory dishes like: raviolis of chicken, spinach & ricotta cheese with tomato compote, Parmesan and basil oil. The restaurant provides catering and organizes various events. To name one: "Paris Nights", a fundraising event that features dancing, an auction, and great food with many participating, well-known chefs from Spago, Peninsula Hotel, JiRaffe, Vida, Campanile, and Water Grill. Great place with reasonable prices.
Estimated cost per person for dinner = $40 - $50
Holiday Schedule: New Years Day-Closed, Valentines Day-Open, Easter-Open, Thanksgiving-Open, Christmas Eve-Open, Christmas Day-Open, New Years Eve-Open
Estimated cost per person for dinner is based upon one entrée, one beverage, and 20% gratuity.