The Top Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles Which Take the Regular Dining Experience to the Next Level

Romance is abundant just about everywhere in the dining scene of Los Angeles. From luxury candlelit dinners to peaceful oceanside retreats, the city’s romantic dining experiences will leave memories to last a lifetime.

While it can be nice to splurge on a romantic date, you can always have a great experience even at a local chain like BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse and The Cheesecake Factory. With GiftYas like these, you can create your own personalized gift and have it delivered in seconds through text or email. 

Best Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply taking the time for a nice date experience, you won’t be disappointed when you choose one of these restaurants to suit your taste. 

1. Cara Restaurant 

Settle into the Mood and Enjoy a Fantastic Meal & Atmosphere

📍 1730 N Western Ave | Los Angeles | carahotel.com 

This trendy hotel restaurant is located in Los Feliz, and it’s minutes away from Thai Town. Its open-air skylight and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired interior design will transport you away from the hustle and bustle of this area. At night, the mood lighting in the space will transform the atmosphere into a romantic oasis.

The menu of the Cara restaurant features a variety of simple and crowd-pleasing dishes, such as the burrata and prosciutto starter with grilled sourdough and a choice of other local ingredients from Jyan Isaac Bread. If you want to enjoy a meal poolside, make a reservation before the walk-ins arrive. The food and drinks at Cara are both excellent, and it’s no wonder this establishment has become a popular choice for special occasions.

“I had a fantastic dining experience at Cara. The atmosphere was welcoming and the staff was incredibly attentive, making the entire visit enjoyable. The cocktails were beautiful and delicious. Whether you are a fan of classic drinks or more adventurous mixes, there is something for everyone. The bartender clearly knows what he is doing! Combined with the exquisite menu, this place is a must-visit. Highly recommended for a fun evening with friends or a special date.” - Yelp Review

2. Amour

Exceptional Service & French Cuisine

📍 8715 Beverly Blvd | West Hollywood | amourweho.love

Located on Beverly Boulevard, Amour is a French restaurant that tookakes over the former Dominick’s space. The interior design of this establishment is impeccable, andwhich features a large dining room with a fireplace and a lounge seating area that’s designed to feel like you’re in a romantic retreat. The restaurant also has a small library that's ideal for guests to leave a message for their loved ones.

Although the cuisine is more expensive, the ambiance, first-class service, and exceptional cooking make Amour a romantic destination that's perfect for anniversaries, dates, and even Valentine's Day celebrations. The kitchen' precise techniques are used in creating exceptional dishes, such as their signature steak tartare, which is served with a side of onion soup.

“Miss such a lovely venue and the food was fantastic. Service was on the top-notch although it's pricey I think it's well worth it. The way the place looks is just a perfect little date spot.” - Yelp Review

3. The Penthouse at the Huntley Hotel

Magnificent Ocean Views with Great New American Mmenu Ooptions to Match

📍 1111 2nd St | Santa Monica | penthouserestaurant.com

The Penthouse at the Huntley is located on the 18th floor of Santa Monica's tallest building, and it offers a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and the Promenade. Its white interior and crystal chandeliers are also a highlight of this location.

The New American menu at this Santa Monica establishment is well-executed and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Although it can get expensive after dark, this is a great option for couples or groups of friends looking for a romantic evening. The restaurant's location and the ocean views are most definitely a highlight of its appeal!

“I had a great experience at The Penthouse. My husband made reservations for 12 for my birthday brunch and service was exceptional. Once my entire party was present, we were seated. Our waitress was attentive and made sure we were all good. Food and drinks were great! And the views are stunning.” - Yelp Review

4. Little Beast

Elegance & Wood Fired Cuisines

📍 1496 Colorado Blvd | Los Angeles | littlebeastrestaurant.com

Located in Eagle Rock, Little Beast is a romantic restaurant that offers a variety of comfort food and beverages. It was founded by Deborah and Sean Lowenthal, who have been married for over 20 years. The restaurant is now operated by Paul and Monique King, who also own Cindy’s, a neighboring establishment.

The original owners of the restaurant, who had a beautiful Craftsman-style home, brought lots of timeless elegance to the place. The new owners have kept the menu up-to-date with new dishes such as pan-roasted ocean trout and beef stroganoff. The warm and sunny atmosphere created by the restaurant's wood-fired heaters will keep you feeling toasty even during the winter season.

“Finally got here to celebrate my birthday with my husband. We sat inside and it is a cozy old house with lots of fun art on the walls. Our server helped with the choices. We shared the hummus, Brussels sprout, the short rib and the bread pudding. Everything was delicious, service was great and can't wait to come back again!” - Yelp Review

5. 71Above

Trendy Spot with Cool Cocktail Creations

📍 633 W 5th St 71st floor | Los Angeles | 71above.com

This restaurant, which is known for its exceptional food and drink creations, is the highest restaurant west of the Mississippi River and offers a spectacular view of the Los Angeles basin and surrounding mountains. For a three-course tasting menu, the chef creates a variety of unique dishes that change regularly. Some of the new additions to this menu include the Crispy Octopus and the Grilled Ribeye. For a more casual dining experience, try the bar and order a la carte dishes. Then, enjoy craft cocktail creations inspired by LA neighborhoods!

“Food was perfect, service was friendly and attentive, and the ambiance was also perfect. I highly recommend this place.” - Yelp Review

6. Inn of the Seventh Ray

Enjoy a Scenic Atmosphere & Quality Ingredients

📍 128 Old Topanga Canyon Road | Topanga | innoftheseventhray.com

The Inn of the Seventh Ray was founded in the 1970s by Dr. Ralph Yaney and his wife, Lucile. It's located in Topanga Canyon, near Topanga Creek, and is a popular choice for weddings. The beautiful setting and the abundance of natural light make it an ideal location for any occasion, which features a fairytale patio and a large fireplace. During the cooler months, the seats by the fireplace are a must-have.

The Yaneys have been advocates of vegetarian and vegan cuisine, and the restaurant serves their guests meals that are made without artificial additives or chemicals. The wine list features a variety of Biodynamic and organic selections.

The dinner menu features various options, such as the 8-hour Black Vinegar braised short rib, pan-seared salmon, and the Gnocchetti Pasta with sunflower pesto. The restaurant also offers a lavish Sunday Brunch buffet, where complimentary Champagne is provided.

“This is by far the most Romantic & Magical Restaurant I have ever eaten at....the Ambiance is breathtaking & the food & service is divine! I love this beautiful Inn....purely like a being in a fairytale dream” - Yelp Review

7. Nobu Malibu

Beautiful Ocean Views & Signature Sushi Dishes

📍 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy | Malibu | noburestaurants.com

The original location of this establishment was in the Country Mart in the heart of California's beautiful beach town of Malibu. This new location of Nobu Malibu offers a beautiful view of the ocean and is known for its refined Japanese cuisine. Guests can enjoy the restaurant's signature dishes and take in the ocean views with their drinks.

Some of the signature dishes that the restaurant's fans have come to expect from the renowned chef include the Yellowtail Sashimi and the Tiradito. Other items that are included in the restaurant's various tasting menus include the multi-course omakase and la carte versions of its sushi and nigiri dishes.

“The food is always the best part of coming here but the service, view and drinks are top notch also! Always enjoy trying something different each visit but also have my faves. If in socal visiting or living here it's a must try when you have the time as reservations are highly recommended.” - Yelp Review

8. Cicada 

Romantic Evening with Lots of Entertainment

📍 617 S Olive St | Los Angeles | cicadarestaurant.com

The Cicada Los Angeles restaurant is located inside the Art Deco Oviatt building, and it offers a glimpse into Hollywood's golden days. With its glittering chandeliers and golden ceilings, this establishment is a must-visit for any style or glamour enthusiast.

The Cicada Los Angeles is where the past meets the present. With live bands, a crowd ready for fun, and an authentic Hollywood feel, this establishment is the ideal choice for a romantic dinner or an evening out with friends.

“Great entertainment. The food is worth going back for any day. Good service Great entertainment. always a great time” - Yelp Review

9. The Lobster

Plan a Romantic Date with Exquisite Views & Delectable Seafood Cuisines

📍 1602 Ocean Ave | Santa Monica | thelobster.com

The original location of The Lobster was first opened in 1923, and the restaurant's current iteration, which is located on the Santa Monica Pier's upper level, has been a popular spot for hosting multiple marriage proposals each day. Those who are planning on proposing should book one of the restaurant's window tables with romantic 180-degree views of the pier and the city.

Executive chef Govind Armstrong has created a new menu that features a variety of seasonal dishes. For those who are craving the signature California and Maine spiny lobsters, the chef has created a special seafood dish that includes six different kinds of shrimp and a half Maine lobster. Other dishes include a variety of pasta dishes and seafood dishes such such as the Black Chitarra Pasta, wild Dungeness crab gumbo, grilled day boat scallops, and more.

“Every time i go here I love the food and view and the servers. It's absolutely wonderful! The lobster is the star and the seafood! A must and a great splurge!” - Yelp Review

10. Yamashiro

Enjoy a Meal Amongst Stunning Architecture and True Magic

📍 1999 N Sycamore Ave | Los Angeles | yamashirohollywood.com

When it was first established in 1914 as a private residence, Yamashiro was able to provide guests with a romantic and magical setting high above Hollywood Boulevard. This restaurant features stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and city views, and it is a popular choice for weddings and other special events. This property, which used to be called the Mountain Palace, has also been featured in numerous movies.

Executive chef Vallerie Castillo Archer is the first woman to serve as the head chef of this restaurant. She specializes in the restaurant's signature dishes, such as the Cowboy Steak, which features a bone-in ribeye that has been seasoned with garlic and shoyu. Other dishes include the Small Sushi Boat for two, as well as the Sushi Pizza.

“This place was so amazing. It was well worth all the money we spent service was fantastic. Food was incredible views were amazing. Would definitely go back there again.” - Yelp Review

11. Firefly

A Cozy Experience With a Carefully Curated Menu

📍 11720 Ventura Blvd | Studio City | fireflystudiocity.com

The walls of this L.A. establishment are made up of tangled ivy, and it's the closest thing to a secret garden you'll find in the city! Studio City's Firefly serves modern American cuisine inside a cozy setting. Its outdoor patio is lit up with candles and lights, and its bar area has a library-like feel.

The food is carefully crafted, and it includes a variety of dishes such as veal, pork, and beef meatballs, as well as a choice of miso glazed cod. Anyone with a sweet tooth will enjoy the “Le Petit Gateau” a wondrous chocolate cake with candied cherries and a white chocolate creme brulee to top it off. 

“This is an amazing restaurant with a great ambiance, great staff and food, our waitress Rachel and manager Erik, made our night very special. Thank you Firefly team!!” - Yelp Review

Have the night of your life with your partner when you spend a night out in LA’s dining scene, and don’t forget to check out GiftYa for a wide variety of local restaurants and chains!