Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis framed by mountains, valleys, and a vast coastline, offers an unparalleled backdrop for dining. When you combine this natural grandeur with the city's innovative culinary scene, you discover a treasure trove of the best rooftop restaurants in LA with a view. These aren't just places to eat; they're elevated experiences where every bite comes with a breathtaking panorama, turning a simple meal into an unforgettable event.
At a Glance: Elevated Dining in LA
- Diverse Views: From iconic Hollywood Hills and shimmering Downtown skylines to serene ocean sunsets and expansive valley vistas, LA's rooftops cater to every visual preference.
- Vibe for Every Mood: Whether you seek a lively party atmosphere, an intimate date night, a casual happy hour, or a family-friendly brunch, there’s a rooftop spot perfectly tailored.
- Culinary Variety: Expect everything from modern Mexican and Peruvian-inflected dishes to wood-fired Italian, classic American fare, and exquisite fine dining.
- Strategic Planning is Key: Reservations, especially for outdoor tables or sunset timings, are often essential. Consider "Golden Hour" specials for both value and prime views.
- Beyond the Plate: Many rooftops offer more than just food – think pools, DJ sets, live music, and unique bar programs focused on craft cocktails.
- Neighborhood Nuances: Each district offers a distinct flavor and view, guiding your choice based on location and desired ambiance.
Why LA's Rooftops are a Must-Experience
Los Angeles has perfected the art of dining with a backdrop. The year-round mild weather and diverse topography mean that nearly any direction you turn, there’s a captivating vista waiting to be admired. This isn't just about pretty scenery; it's about how that scenery enhances your entire dining journey. Imagine savoring a perfectly crafted cocktail as the sun dips below the Pacific horizon, or enjoying a gourmet meal while the city lights twinkle below like a scattered galaxy. These moments create a deeper connection to the city itself, making your meal more than just sustenance—it becomes part of your LA story. For those looking for more comprehensive inspiration on culinary adventures, you can Find unique LA dining experiences across the city.
Choosing the right rooftop involves more than just picking a restaurant; it’s about selecting an experience. Do you want to feel the ocean breeze, be immersed in the energetic pulse of Downtown, or gaze upon the iconic Hollywood Sign? Your answer will guide you to the perfect elevated escape.
Mastering the Views: A Geographic Guide to LA's Best Rooftops
LA’s size means that "a view" can mean wildly different things depending on your location. Here's how to navigate the city's top rooftop restaurants based on the iconic vistas they offer.
Downtown LA: The Shimmering Cityscape
Downtown LA (DTLA) rooftops offer an intoxicating blend of towering skyscrapers, historic architecture, and the distant promise of the San Gabriel Mountains. These spots often exude a sophisticated, energetic vibe, perfect for those who thrive amidst the urban hum.
- Iconic Landmarks & Panoramic Sweeps: For breathtaking, wide-ranging views, Sendero on the 24th floor of the Ritz-Carlton is a standout, providing spectacular Downtown skyline panoramas alongside Argentine steaks at Leña or South American seafood at Corteza. Nearby, Intercontinental Rooftop offers sweeping vistas for upscale dining. For a classic, vibrant experience with French-inspired dishes and twinkling lights, Perch remains a DTLA staple.
- Whimsical Sunsets & Carousel Bars: Golden Hour on Level 8 offers one of the best sunset views in town, complete with a gorgeous carousel bar and a playful ambiance across from the LA Convention Center. It's a prime spot for captivating "magic hour" moments.
- Boutique Hotel Charm with a View: The Hoxton Hotel hosts Cabra, Chef Stephanie Izard’s Peruvian-inflected rooftop, offering delicious small plates and a highly-rated pisco sour with dynamic city views. Just a few blocks away, Cara Cara atop the Proper Hotel offers a vibrant scene with a pool and Chef Suzanne Goin's seasonal fare, all set against striking Downtown views in a Kelly Wearstler-designed space. The Ace Hotel also features a chic rooftop bar with panoramic DTLA views, ideal for trendy relaxation.
- Unique Vantage Points: San Laurel, Chef José Andrés’s restaurant, provides a distinct perspective, looking out towards the San Gabriel Mountains and the architectural marvel of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. For a truly unconventional experience, Lost Rooftop is perched atop an office building, offering small plates from an Airstream trailer and a drink menu rich in mezcal and tequila – just remember to arrive early.
- Gourmet High Above: La Boucherie elevates rooftop dining at the Intercontinental with gourmet charcuterie, steak frites, and fine cocktails against the stunning DTLA backdrop. Similarly, The View at The Hilton promises panoramic vistas with exquisite dishes.
- Lush Escapes: The NoMad Rooftop presents a serene oasis with lush greenery, elegant fire pits, and artfully crafted cocktails, offering breathtaking views of Downtown LA.
Hollywood & West Hollywood: Glamour, Hills, and City Lights
These areas offer quintessential LA views, often featuring the iconic Hollywood Sign, the rolling hills, and the glittering expanse of the city below. The vibe here often leans trendy, chic, and sometimes a bit exclusive.
- Iconic Hollywood Backdrops: The Highlight Room atop the Dream Hollywood hotel is a trendy 10th-floor party space with full restaurant service, DJs, a pool, and bottle service, all framed by clear-cut Hollywood views. For a more intimate, member-only club feel (open to the public for dining), Lemon Grove on The Aster's rooftop provides classic Hollywood vistas alongside matcha duck carnitas tacos and lemon pasta.
- Unique Urban Perspectives: Grandmaster Recorders, located on the third floor of a historic former recording studio, offers a lower but captivating vantage point of city lights and neon signs, paired with easy Italian bar bites.
- Relaxed Hillside Views: In West Hollywood, Videre atop the Kimpton Hotel provides a relaxed, poolside rooftop experience with lovely city and hills views, serving thoughtful cocktails and shareable plates all day. O Bar (Hotel Wilshire) is a hidden gem offering stunning views with curated seasonal dishes.
- Panoramic Sweeps: E.P. & L.P. captivates with panoramic city skyline and sunset views, offering Asian-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere. The Panorama Room boasts enchanting 360-degree views of the city skyline, sunsets, and shimmering city lights from Hollywood.
- Chic & Contemporary: The Terrace at The Edition offers a chic rooftop experience with sweeping city views and culinary delights from fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Roof on Wilshire also presents a vibrant scene with city skyline views, craft cocktails, and cozy fire pits.
Coastal LA: Ocean Breezes & Sunset Spectacles
For those craving the scent of the sea and the magic of a Pacific sunset, LA’s coastal rooftops deliver. These spots range from casual beach vibes to upscale oceanfront dining, all with incredible views of the water.
- Santa Monica's Ocean Charm: Elephante in Santa Monica offers ocean views without you having to get sand in your shoes. With strategically placed heat lamps and a cool ocean breeze, it provides an Italian-leaning Californian menu in a chic setting. A notable newcomer is Din Tai Fung Santa Monica on the top floor of Santa Monica Place, featuring multiple patios, a full bar, and its famous dumplings with impressive ocean vistas. The Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica also offers a chic rooftop bar with breathtaking ocean and sunset views.
- Venice Beach's Bohemian Sunsets: The Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin in Venice Beach provides quintessential views of Venice Beach and the Pacific Ocean, especially stunning at sunset, making it a lively spot for cocktails and bites.
- Harbor & Craft Brews: Further south, Ballast Point Brewing Long Beach offers stunning harbor views along with an extensive tap menu of craft beers and a diverse food menu, perfect for a relaxed waterfront experience at the southern tip of LA County.
- Coastal Retreats: The Bungalow is a vibrant coastal retreat with stunning ocean views and breathtaking sunsets, perfect for enjoying coastal cuisine and craft cocktails.
Valley & Beyond: Expansive Panoramas
Sometimes, getting a bit outside the immediate city sprawl offers a different kind of grandeur – vast valley views, distant mountains, and a sense of open space.
- San Fernando Valley Grandeur: Castaway in Burbank, following a multi-million dollar renovation, offers truly expansive San Fernando Valley views. Guests are strongly advised to reserve an outdoor table to fully appreciate the scenery, perhaps during their "Golden Hour" happy hour.
- Beverly Hills Charm: Bar Funke in Beverly Hills provides a charming view of palm trees, office buildings, and hillside homes from its deck. It's a spot for curated wines, cocktails, and a light al fresco menu, with the full Funke menu available earlier in the week.
- Griffith Park's Serenity: For a more relaxed, natural setting, the Observatory Café within Griffith Park offers stunning city views in a delightful and casual atmosphere.
The Art of the Rooftop Experience: Your Practical Playbook
Choosing the best rooftop restaurant in LA with a view isn't just about the location; it's about curating your entire visit. Here's how to ensure an exceptional experience.
Choosing Your Vibe and View
Before you even look at a menu, consider the atmosphere and specific view you're after:
- The Romantic Sunset Seeker: Look for spots facing west, like Elephante (Santa Monica), Hotel Erwin (Venice Beach), or Golden Hour (Downtown), which are renowned for their sunset spectacles.
- The Urban Explorer: If the pulse of the city is your draw, Sendero or Perch in Downtown offer dynamic cityscape views that come alive after dark.
- The Party Aficionado: The Highlight Room is your go-to for a high-energy pool party, complete with DJs and bottle service. Skybar also offers an electric, vibrant ambiance.
- The Casual Connoisseur: For a more laid-back yet stylish experience, Bar Bohemien in Culver City or Ballast Point in Long Beach provide great drinks and food with more relaxed views.
- The Culinary Adventurer: Spots like Cabra (Peruvian) or LA Cha Cha Chá (modern Mexican) offer distinctive menus alongside their views, making the food as much a draw as the scenery.
Reservation Strategy: Don't Wing It!
For almost all top rooftop restaurants, especially those with coveted outdoor seating or prime sunset views, reservations are non-negotiable.
- Book Early: For weekend evenings or special occasions, book weeks in advance.
- Specify Outdoor Seating: When making a reservation, clearly request an outdoor table or a table with a view if that’s a priority. Be aware that these might be subject to availability.
- "Golden Hour" Advantage: Many places, like Castaway, offer happy hour specials during the late afternoon. This is an excellent way to experience the view and ambiance at a slightly lower price point, often catching the sunset transition.
Dress Code Considerations
LA rooftops vary widely in their expected attire. A quick check of their website or a call ahead can save you an awkward moment.
- Casual Chic: Many spots (e.g., Bar Bohemien, Mama Shelter) are relaxed but still stylish. Think nice jeans, fashionable tops, and smart casual footwear.
- Upscale Trendy: For places like Highlight Room, Sendero, or Perch, dress to impress. Jackets for men, stylish dresses or smart separates for women are common.
- Poolside Glam: If a rooftop has a pool (e.g., Highlight Room, Cara Cara), swimwear might be acceptable during the day, but evenings often require a more sophisticated look.
Beyond Dinner: Brunch, Drinks, and Light Bites
Not all rooftop experiences have to be a full dinner. Consider these alternatives:
- Weekend Brunch: Many rooftops, like LA Cha Cha Chá and Videre, offer excellent weekend brunch menus, providing a bright, daytime perspective on their views.
- Cocktail Hour: Simply enjoying a drink as the sun sets can be just as memorable as a full meal. Places like The Broken Shaker or Skybar are renowned for their exceptional drink programs.
- Light Bites: If you're not ready for a full meal, many rooftops offer shareable plates, appetizers, or inventive bar bites. Grandmaster Recorders and Lost Rooftop are great examples of this.
Quick Answers: Your Rooftop Dining FAQs
What's the best rooftop for a truly iconic Hollywood Sign view?
The Highlight Room at the Dream Hollywood Hotel provides clear-cut, direct views of the Hollywood Sign and the surrounding hills, especially from its 10th-floor perch. Lemon Grove on The Aster rooftop also offers quintessential Hollywood views.
Which rooftop offers the most dramatic Downtown LA skyline view for a special occasion?
Sendero on the 24th floor of the Ritz-Carlton offers spectacular, sprawling views of the Downtown skyline, making it ideal for a memorable, upscale evening. La Boucherie and the Intercontinental Rooftop also fit this bill.
Are there any good rooftop restaurants for a casual happy hour with a view?
Absolutely. Castaway in Burbank has a popular "Golden Hour" happy hour with expansive valley views. Bar Bohemien in Culver City is a relaxed spot for drinks and inventive cocktails during the "magic hour." Grandmaster Recorders also offers easy Italian bar bites and drinks with a unique city lights view.
I want an ocean view but don't want to get sand in my shoes. Where should I go?
Elephante in Santa Monica is your perfect pick. It offers stunning ocean views and breezes without being directly on the sand, providing a sophisticated Italian-leaning Californian dining experience. Din Tai Fung Santa Monica also boasts multiple patios with ocean views.
Which rooftop has a unique feature beyond just the view?
Golden Hour in Downtown stands out with its gorgeous carousel bar, adding a whimsical touch to the sunset experience. The Highlight Room has a pool and regular DJ sets for a vibrant party atmosphere. Lost Rooftop serves small plates from an Airstream trailer.
Do I need reservations for all rooftop restaurants in LA?
While some more casual spots might accommodate walk-ins, it is highly recommended to make reservations for nearly all rooftop restaurants, especially if you desire a specific table (e.g., outdoor, with a prime view) or are dining during peak hours (evenings, weekends, sunset). For the most popular venues, booking weeks in advance is wise.
Your Elevated Dining Adventure Awaits
Los Angeles offers an extraordinary collection of rooftop restaurants, each providing a distinct blend of culinary excellence, captivating ambiance, and, of course, unparalleled views. From the bustling Downtown skyline to the serene Pacific coastline, the iconic Hollywood Hills to the expansive San Fernando Valley, your perfect elevated dining experience is waiting.
To make the most of your visit, begin by identifying the kind of view and atmosphere that calls to you most. Consider whether it's an intimate date night, a celebratory gathering, or a casual escape you're planning. Then, cross-reference with the suggested spots, keeping in mind the practical tips for reservations, dress code, and ideal timing. Embrace the unique opportunity to see and taste Los Angeles from a new perspective, where every meal truly becomes a one-of-a-kind adventure.