From the mountains to the sea, and the city in between, there’s no denying that Los Angeles makes it easy to shout your love from the rooftops. Here are some of the most romantic views in all of Los Angeles.
High Rooftop Lounge – Venice — LAIDBACK WHIMSY
It’s the little touches at Hotel Erwin’s High Rooftop Lounge where the playfully stylish ambiance comes through in unexpected ways. The patio is divided into small semi-private alcoves that open up to the view of the ocean and Venice boardwalk, although exposure to the elements is never a worry thanks to their complimentary cozy blankets and heat lamps. The menu is small yet varied with a selection of international cuisine. The lamb sliders with feta, pickled shallots and harissa aioli are a must. Thankfully High Rooftop Lounge has hopped on the stylish cocktail bandwagon, once again letting their personality shine through with unique drinks such as the Playtime, with gin and tangerine thyme gastrique, and The Girl Next Door, with rye and cointreau apricot puree.
Griffith Observatory – Los Feliz – PICNIC WITH AN ICON
What could be more romantic than a picnic at one of our city’s most recognizable landmarks? Practically all of Los Angeles can be seen from the iconic Griffith Observatory and it is one of the best vantage points to admire the Hollywood sign. Make things hassle free by picking up a theatre picnic box from nearby Alcove Bakery, which has an array of delicious options, from wine and cheese to country style, or have them build you a custom bag. A leisurely hike through beautiful Griffith Park makes this day time date an instant classic.
The Restaurant at The Getty Center – Brentwood – ARTISTIC ELEGANCE
The expansive modern architecture of The Getty Center is only matched by undoubtedly one of the best views in all of LA County. Before dining, stroll through the exhibitions and admire the gardens. On a clear day from the cactus garden, it’s possible to see from the San Gabriel Mountains to Downtown to Catalina Island. At The Restaurant, request a table by the window for tranquil views of the sun setting behind the Santa Monica Mountains. The high ceilinged dining room and quietly attentive staff create an atmosphere of understated elegance. It’s impossible to go wrong with extremely tender grilled octopus or the lamb chops in a cherry reduction. Indeed, the exquisite dishes are served in such a way that they could be displayed within the museum itself and the nearly exclusively Californian wine list appears to be as carefully curated as the priceless collections nearby.
Upstairs @ Ace Hotel – Downtown WORLDLY STYLE
Transport to another land at Ace Hotel’s Upstairs, whose trendy bohemian feel is heavily influenced by Morocco and Spain. Live edge tables, leather wrapped chairs, fireplaces attract a diversely chic clientele to sip distinctive cocktails on this rooftop oasis. The rooftop bar boasts almost 360° views of downtown, but it gets truly spectacular as the sun sets and turns everything golden. A small but carefully contrived Mediterranean menu is perfect for brunch or a light dinner, and the ricotta toast with onion and walnut jam alone is worth a repeat visit. The real draw here, however, is the exquisitely designed cocktails, inspired by the head mixologist’s favorite chefs and their fresh salads. The Kentucky Mai Tai stood out for its unique blend of bourbon, mezcal, citrus, and bitters. After sipping your way through the cocktail list, Ace Hotel’s stylishly appointed rooms make it easy to extend a romantic evening. If so inclined, the hotel even provides complimentary use of their custom Martin guitars to serenade your sweetie.