With 76 miles of sandy shoreline and architectural skyscrapers backdropped by snow-capped mountains, you can’t say that Los Angeles isn’t postcard-worthy. And while you could spend a day at the beach in Malibu or hike up to the Hollywood sign for stellar views, we think sight-seeing is best done with a cocktail in one hand and a fork in the other. From oceanfront eateries to those perched high above LA, here are our 11 favorites restaurants with a view.
OCEAN VIEW
Malibu Farm | Malibu
There’s no better ocean view in LA than that of Malibu Farm Restaurant (literally, it’s raised on pillars above the Pacific). Located on the iconic Malibu Pier, the popular farm-to-table eatery features light, coastal-inspired interiors that go hand-in-hand with remarkably fresh ingredients. Passing through for breakfast or lunch? Head to the sister cafe at the end of the pier for a delightful above-water experience.
Strand House | Manhattan Beach
There are few stretches of coastline that compare to that in Manhattan Beach, and only one restaurant that boasts the best front-row seat. Overlooking the South Bay’s most legendary pier, Strand House offers farm-fresh cuisine in an upscale ambiance, and let’s just say the views are the absolute sweetest cherry on top.
1 Pico | Santa Monica
Fresh-caught seafood, coastal California recipes, a distinctly east coast vibe — oh, and breathtaking ocean views. Set within the renowned Shutters on the Beach, 1 Pico is a coveted Santa Monica destination to indulge in seasonal, market-driven cuisine just above the sand.
Mar’sel | Palos Verdes
Sometimes you want to feel like you’ve jet-setted to the Italian coast without leaving home, right? Mar’sel at Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes fits that bill. Built onto the peninsula with totally unimpeded ocean views, the elegant restaurant features top-end California fare in an uber-romantic setting that screams Amalfi Coast.
Nobu | Malibu
Come for the panoramic ocean views, stay for the buttery sushi and A-list celeb sightings (or vice versa, depending on who you ask). The ultra-sleek Japanese restaurant rests directly on the beach in Malibu where you can savor signature dishes like their yellowtail jalapeño sashimi and miso sea bass with the gentle sound of rolling waves in the background.
CITY VIEW
La Cha Cha Chá | DTLA
Killer Mexican food? Check. Panoramic views of DTLA’s skyline? Double check. La Cha Cha Chá in the Arts District has an incredible rooftop with lush palm groves and a hip contemporary aesthetic that’s embraced by all-encompassing views of the city. Oh, and did we mention it’s helmed by Mexico City-born, LA-raised chef Alejandro Guzman? To put it lightly, the menu is out of this world.
Mama Shelter | Hollywood
If you want to watch the city come alive at night with a burger in hand, Mama Shelter is your place. With 360-degree views of Hollywood, the rooftop restaurant features a chic bohemian aesthetic complemented by delicious bar food and cocktails. Plus, you can dance into the night with live music beneath the stars.
71Above | DTLA
If you’re asking for the most objectively insane dining view in Los Angeles, this is it. Soaring 71 stories, nearly 1,000 feet above the ground, the aptly named 71Above in DTLA has vistas that stretch from the ocean to the city to the mountains, offering one of the most expansive eyelines of LA. Chef Javier Lopez’s modern American menu doesn’t hurt, either.
Merois | WeHo
You know we love a good Wolfgang Puck restaurant. Throw in a stunning view of the city and we’re sold. Located on the rooftop of The Pendry in WeHo, high above Sunset Boulevard, Merois matches delectable Asian fusion dishes with a nearly unobstructed outlook from the mountains to the ocean on a clear day.
Cabra | DTLA
If you’re looking for cosmic views but a more playful setting to enjoy them in, you’re gonna want to check out Cabra in DTLA. An essential oasis among the city skyline, the Peruvian restaurant (run by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izzard) offers an artsy ambiance with innovative flavors to match its all-embracing views atop The Hoxton.
Santa’olina | Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills has had tons of excitement recently, and we’re counting the opening of Santa’olina as part of the stir. Perched atop the iconic Beverly Hilton, the Mediterranean spot features a city view blanketed by sparkling lights come evening and mouth-watering, traditional dishes that’ll transport you right to Tel Aviv.
Were you able to snag a reservation at any of these spots? You know what to do — tag us on Instagram @smithandberg to be featured!