Hey Everyone,

With Valentine’s Day literally days away, I’ve found myself daydreaming about some of the most swoon-worthy date spots in L.A. I don’t know about you, but I am more than ready for some time for two, overlooking the ocean with a cocktail in hand. I mean, I think it’s safe to say that one of the best things about V-day is the excuse to set aside all responsibilities, book a reservation, and indulge in allll the things on the menu—hopefully with a sunset view!

The best part about Los Angeles is that it spans such a large area that your opportunities are literally almost endless. Escape just a little bit outside its borders and you’ll feel like you’re in an entirely new place… Complete with entirely new dinner selections. That said, head further down the page for my date night recs, including spots I’ve enjoyed on the regular, spots that have been recommended to me, and others on my list that I’m dying to try. Enjoy!

Nobu, Malibu

Right on Pacific Coast Highway, there is no shortage of sunset views at this spot. Of course, there are several Nobu locations (all of which I would recommend), but this one really takes the cake when it comes to setting. Bottom line? Two things are musts when dining here: a reservation and an outdoor table. If you want even more info on things to do while you’re in Malibu, click here.

Commissary at The Line LA

This rooftop restaurant and greenhouse is just as magical as it sounds. It’s located upstairs in The Line Hotel, and it’s the perfect place to order food on the healthier side, as they mostly offer vegetable and fruit focused dishes. But don’t worry, they also offer a few heartier options like steak and ribs if you are in the mood to indulge.

Commissary via EATATPOT

The Little Door

Not only does this spot in West Hollywood have a quaint name, but the decadent French menu will make your mouth water and the décor of this hidden Mediterranean paradise will not fail to impress, either. Think the coziest indoor courtyard, with sprouting greenery everywhere, and candlelit tables…

République

This spot is a must whether you’re visiting L.A. or you’re a local. The atmosphere is cozy, rustic, and interesting, and the menu is to. die. for. You’ll find everything from oysters and charcuterie, to fresh fish and pasta that you won’t be able to put down. Their dishes are also served family style, so they’re perfect for sharing with your date and getting a taste of everything.

Photo via République

Little Beast

Little Beast is nestled into a craftsman bungalow built in 1911, right in the middle of Eagle Rock. It’s owned by a husband and wife team, so it’s pretty much automatically a place of charm and romance. The space is complete with low lighting, a marble topped bar, and bulb lights, while the menu offers everything from charred flat iron steak to roasted butternut squash risotto.

Perch

Rooftops seem to be a theme here, and here is another one to add to the list! There’s nothing like sipping drinks over the skyline of downtown L.A., and this French bistro and bar also offers live music and an alluring aesthetic. Share Champs and apps with your date in the open air and cozy up next to one of their fire pits.

Malibu Wine Safari

While not a restaurant per se, Malibu’s wine safaris are perfect if you want to get a little adventurous while sipping wine this V-day! You can tour their ranch with a guide in an open-air vehicle, see quite the array of animals including zebras, camels, and giraffes, and taste local wines all along the way. Their website says it best: “WINE SAFARI. Need we say more?” You can check out my own Wine Safari experience here.

Cliff’s Edge

This hidden gem is located in the hip and creative neighborhood of Silver Lake, just five miles from downtown L.A. The atmosphere is complete with all things romantic, from twinkling lights, to fire pits, and even an outdoor canopy of trees hanging over the patio dining room. Plus, it offers a super enticing menu with options like roasted Japanese sweet potato, oysters, and ricotta gnocchi with cilantro lime crema.

Firefly

Located in Studio City, Firefly is an equally mysterious and romantic dinner spot. You can sip wine by the fire, dine on a full menu of modern American dishes, and take in the surroundings complete with walls and walls of tangled ivy, or retire to the “library” where drinks are served, along with a shortened menu.

Spire 73

Sitting atop a skyscraper in downtown L.A., Spire 73 is a truly luxurious open-air bar overlooking Los Angeles from 73 stories high. The views are clearly enough of a draw on their own, but this spot also offers some of the best cocktails and bites around. We even took Team GM up the elevator to this spot for the holidays, and it will be hard to beat next year, that’s for sure!


What romantic date spots would you add to this list?

Cheers!

xx

GM

Photos: @graymalinpersonal, @republiquela on Instagram