Rooftop Dining in L.A.

Four men eating at the lounge of Takami Sushi & Robata

Takami Sushi & Robata

We love a good rooftop restaurant and since we live in Los Angeles, we feel like we have an obligation to our friends in less-than-fantastic climates to eat outdoors as often as possible. When dining al fresco also has a nice view, the experience becomes that much more special. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of some favorite places to eat al fresco on rooftops around L.A.'s Westside and Downtown.

  • Sant'olina. The Beverly Hilton Hotel serves Mediterranean cuisine from the bright minds of Chefs Michael Teich and Burt Bakman at the Sant'olina. Catch views of the surrounding neighborhood during happy hour and watch dusk roll in as you make yummy sounds.

  • Élephante. Above Santa Monica's Laemmle Theater is an amazing restaurant. It's the most beautifully casual and chic spot to bring a date. Views of the ocean accompany outstanding food, and on an evening with a light breeze, you can almost smell the satisfying ambiance.

  • Catch LA. West Hollywood has pan-Asian cuisine covered here. This is a popular place to see and be seen with views of not only the patrons, but also of the Hollywood Hills.

  • Terra. Eataly's rooftop restaurant is a great place for fresh Italian fare after a day of shopping at Westfield Century City. They grill over open fire and have a lovely wine and cocktail list.

  • Cara Cara. Perched atop the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel is this great rooftop bar with tables of diners taking in the skyline view. Chef Suzanne Goin has prepared a seasonal menu and somm Caroline Styne has pairings for you.

  • Merois. Chef Wolfgang Puck's sophisticated dishes are served on top of the Pendry West Hollywood. You'll have panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline to accompany your delicious main or sushi.

  • The Rooftop by JG. Views of Beverly Hills and Hollywood are here to greet you along with signature cocktails and the contemporary American and Japanese works of Chef Jean-George Vongerichten.

  • Margot. Located at Platform in Culver City, this little gem features coastal mediterranean cuisine, regional wines and craft cocktails, and an elegant dining experience.

  • Perch. We love a good skyline view from within the skyline! That's what makes Perch special and the French food is also wonderful. The restaurant and rooftop terrace are on two different floors on top of 448 S. Hill Street in Downtown near Pershing Square.

  • Takami. Takami Sushi & Robata is an elegant rooftop setting for Japanese sushi & grilled entrees, with panoramic views of Downtown from within Downtown. Not exactly al fresco, but the whole glass wall opens up and besides, we just can't get enough of the Takami Edamame.

All of these spots require reservations, so we caution you to not just walk in. Bon appétit!

Cecilie Korst///