City Guide

Los Angeles is gearing up for an incredible Garba season in 2024, and like Holi, you don’t want to miss out on the fun! Dandiya raas and Garba nights are the highlights of Navratri, and like all the other times we can’t wait to step out of the house in the loudest pair of kediyu-chorno, pick up those dandiya sticks, and dance the night away.

Here’s a list of four exciting Garba events in LA for 2024, complete with location and time details to make sure you’re in the right place at the right time.

1. Raas Ramzat & Kesariyo Rang 2024 by Ramleelo

Date: September 27th & September 28th, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM onwards (till 2 AM PST)
Location: Anaheim Marriott
700 W Convention Way, Anaheim, CA, 90802

Official website

This is going to be one of the largest Garba events in Southern California and well organized with food stalls, VIP experiences and kids under 5 FREE. You need to check this one out.

2. Killol in Los Angeles – KINJAL DAVE LIVE 2024

Date: Sunday, September 8th 2024
Time: 6:00 PM onwards
Location: Fairplex Pomona Hall 4  
1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona, CA

Official website

Kinjal Dave is the gold standard when it comes to Garba performances and straight nails it. Kinjal, renowned for her dynamic Garba performances, is set to light up the stage with her infectious energy and melodious voice. Experience the vibrant colors, traditional rhythms, and exhilarating dance moves that will transport you straight to the heart of Gujarat.

3. Navratri 2024: Radiant Rhythms

Date: September 13 & 14th, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM onwards (till 2 AM PST)
Location: Shrinathji Haveil of Southern California
1882 McGaw Avenue Irvine, CA 92614

Official website

Prepare to dance the night away and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of India. Whether you’re an experienced Garba enthusiast or a newcomer, their event promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on the only Garba that goes past midnight!

4. 2024 Raas Garba – Hemant Mehta & Group

Date: September 28th, 2024
Time: 8:30pm-Midnight
Location: University High School
4771 Campus Drive Irvine, CA 92612

Official website

Get ready to groove to the beats of Hemant Mehta & Group as they take the stage to make this event unforgettable night – proceeds benefit DIYA Charity. Dance for a good cause.

5. Garba night w/ Bhoomi Trivedi

Date: September 13th, 2024
Time: 7pm onwards
Location: Anaheim Marriott
700 West Convention Way, Anaheim, CA 92802

Official website

Best Garba in Los Angeles: Wrap Up

Remember to check the event details, including ticket prices, hours and dress code, before attending any of the listed Garba events. Get your dandiya sticks ready and let’s celebrate Navratri in style LA! ‘Tis the season.

Los Angeles, known for its glitz and glamour, is also home to some hidden natural gems that will leave you awestruck. Among these are the mesmerizing wildflower blooms that come alive with vibrant colors, offering picturesque pockets of super blooms – DDLJ style . Here’s a list of the best places to find wildflower blooms near L.A. for 2024.

1. Chino Hills State Park

These picturesque, green undulating hills are adorned with pockets of vibrant colors, creating a striking contrast against the clear blue skies. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking vistas and close-ups of these delicate super blooms. However, it’s important to note that certain trails are closed and caution should be exercised due to the presence of rattlesnakes. Plan ahead.

2. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Located within close proximity to Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a convenient escape into nature. During the spring season, the mountains and canyons of the area come alive with a vibrant display of wildflowers. Explore trails like the Backbone Trail or Solstice Canyon, where you’ll encounter native blooms such as poppies, lupines, and California sunflowers. Revel in the beauty of these blossoms while enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

3. Poppy Reserve and the Antelope Valley

Known for its spectacular displays of California poppies, this reserve boasts rolling hills and meadows that transform into a sea of vibrant orange during the springtime. To witness this beauty, you’ll have to embark on an exploration along the eight miles of trails this year. Poppies generally bloom during cooler temperatures, particularly in late afternoons. However, you’ll also discover an abundance of other blossoms like red maids and forget-me-nots, basking in the sunlight.

4. Charmlee Wilderness Park, Malibu

Tucked away in the scenic coastal city of Malibu, Charmlee Wilderness Park is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. While it may be smaller in scale compared to other locations, it offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. During the spring season, the park showcases a stunning display of vibrant poppies, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a peaceful hike along the trails, taking in the picturesque scenery and embracing the tranquility of this enchanting oasis.

5. Palos Verdes Cherry Blossom @ South Coast Botanical Garden

Located in the heart of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the South Coast Botanic Garden offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of poppy fields within a curated setting. While not a natural poppy reserve, the garden features a designated California Native Plant Area, which showcases various native species, including poppies. Stroll through the well-maintained pathways and marvel at the vibrant blooms, while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of this urban oasis.

6. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park

Known for its striking rock formations, Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park is also home to occasional bursts of poppies during the spring season. This unique combination of rugged geological features and delicate wildflowers creates a surreal landscape that’s worth exploring. Take a leisurely hike through the park’s trails, where you’ll encounter breathtaking vistas and the occasional surprise of vibrant poppies, adding a splash of color to this geological wonderland.

7. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the expansive state park in California, is renowned for its astonishing array of scenery. When weather conditions are favorable, the arid landscape comes alive with scattered bursts of vibrant wildflowers, including the delightful hot pink blossoms of the Beavertail Cactus that embellish the trails. Even during the driest seasons, you can still witness the beautiful bloom of flowers on the Palo Verde and Desert Willow trees. Be sure to visit the park’s website for updates.

8. Joshua Tree National Park

Situated a few hours southeast of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for its unique desert landscape and iconic Joshua trees. However, during the spring months, the park undergoes a stunning transformation as colorful wildflowers burst into bloom. Keep an eye out for desert primroses, Mojave asters, and lupines that paint the arid desert with hues of purple, yellow, and pink. Take a hike along the park’s trails, such as Hidden Valley or Barker Dam, to immerse yourself in this remarkable floral spectacle.

9. Descanso Gardens Cherry Blossoms

For those seeking a more curated floral experience, Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge is a delightful oasis. This 150-acre botanical garden offers a variety of themed gardens, including the popular California Natives Garden. Stroll through the paths lined with native plants and discover a plethora of wildflowers that bloom throughout the year. From California poppies to purple sage and hummingbird sage, Descanso Gardens provides a serene escape where you can appreciate the beauty of native wildflowers.

10. Flower Fields in Carlsbad, CA

The OG of wildflower blossoms in California, imagine stepping into this incredible 50-acre natural sanctuary and being surrounded by a breathtaking explosion of colors from the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers. You’ll have the opportunity to leisurely stroll through rows of these stunning flowers while enjoying magnificent views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Oh, and don’t forget to lose yourself in the enchanting Sweat Pea Maze for a little adventure! Take your time exploring the historic Poinsettia display and the beautiful orchids too.

These awe-inspiring displays of flowers transform the rolling hills of Carlsbad Ranch into vibrant showcases for about seven weeks, starting from March and lasting until early May. To make sure you don’t miss out, it’s best to book your visit in advance.

Los Angeles, the city of stars and stellar eats, has a vibrant Indian culinary scene that’s begging to be explored. Get ready to discover gems with this expansive list as we dive into some of the quirkiest and most delicious Indian restaurants LA has to offer. From Downtown to Culver City, we’ve scoured the streets to bring you a mouthwatering guide to the best Indian joints in town. Buckle up. Here’s the best Indian restaurants in the Los Angeles area.

1. Baar Baar

📍 705 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Baar Baar has just made its grand entrance into the LA scene in May 2023, hot on the heels of its New York success! Chef Sujan Sarkar is the mastermind behind this Indian culinary extravaganza, and he’s cooking up a storm in Southern California.

Nestled just a hop, skip, and a jump away from L.A. Live, Baar Baar is here to spice up your life with a culinary journey across India. And hold onto your taste buds because they’re serving up Bollywood-inspired drinks that put a fun spin on the classics.

Now, let’s talk highlights! The mushroom pepper fry is stealing the show, featuring sunchokes, smoked almonds, and ramps – a flavor explosion like no other. But wait, there’s more! The chutney set, avocado pachadi, and homemade crisps are standing out and demanding their moment in the spotlight.

2. Badmaash

📍 108 W 2nd St #104, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Second stop on our flavor fiesta is Badmaash, and let me tell you, this place is anything but ordinary. Tucked away in downtown LA, Badmaash has mastered the art of blending traditional Indian dishes with a modern, hipster flair. It’s where your grandma’s recipes meet the cool kid in town. Grab a seat, dive into the Chicken Tikka Poutine, and let the spice party begin!

3. Electric Karma

📍 8222 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Funky, low-lit Indian haunt showing Bollywood movies, with a familiar menu & an open-air courtyard. Shockingly good eats await you at Electric Karma in Beverly Grove. This spot has got the vibe, the spice, and the everything-nice you’d want from an Indian joint. With a menu that dances between the classics and contemporary twists, Electric Karma is like the Bollywood dance number of LA’s Indian food scene. Pro tip: Try the Lamb Vindaloo – it’s a flavor explosion!

4. Mayura Indian Restaurant

📍 10406 Venice Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

Craving a bit of Southern comfort? Head over to Mayura Indian Restaurant in Culver City. This place is a South Indian food haven, serving up dosas and biryanis that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. It’s like a culinary vacation to the heart of India’s flavors, minus the jet lag. Get ready to spice up your life, Southern style!

5. Spice Affair

📍 50 N La Cienega Blvd #120, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

If you’re in the mood for a bit of spice with a side of elegance, Spice Affair in Beverly Hills is the place to be. Picture this: a menu that’s a symphony of traditional and contemporary flavors, served up in a chic setting. It’s where Indian cuisine puts on its fancy pants and waltzes into your heart. For a taste of the high life, order the Butter Chicken – it’s Bollywood royalty on a plate!

6. Samosa House

📍 11510 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066

Calling all veggie lovers! Samosa House, with its locations in Culver City and Santa Monica, is your go-to spot for vegetarian and vegan Indian delights. The menu is a celebration of plant-based goodness, showcasing the diverse and flavorful world of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a dedicated herbivore or just dabbling in veggie vibes, Samosa House has a treat for you.

7. Pijja Palace

📍 2711 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Picture this: dosa onion rings taking a dip in mango chutney, malai rigatoni throwing a vodka-sauce-like party, and green chutney pijja (that’s Hindi for “pizza”) stealing the show. In a city where dining is an art form, Pijja Palace has mastered the canvas, creating a masterpiece that’s as much about the experience as it is about the food. Pro Tip: Book your reservations 3 months in advance. Yes, this place is that popular.

8. Bhookhe

📍 18633 Pioneer Blvd, Artesia, CA 90701

Dive into the vibrant world of Rajasthani delights at this exciting newcomer in Little India! It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a flavor carnival that’s been creating waves with rare northwestern treasures like bajra ri roti (millet flatbread) . The star of the show? The dizzying maharaja thali – a royal feast featuring a multitude of components. Imagine tiny bati balls begging to be dunked into ghee or dal (lentil stew). It’s a thali experience like no other, fit for a king or queen Game of Thrones style.

9. Apey Kade

📍 19662 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana, CA 91356

Step into the flavorful world of Apey Kade, where the magic of Sri Lankan cuisine unfolds under the sun! This place as your gateway to Sri Lanka’s culinary heart, offering a detailed bird’s eye view of the country’s staple dishes. From the whimsical string hoppers (think rice flour noodle discs that are practically edible art) to the travel-friendly lamprais (a banana leaf packet of joy containing rice, meat, sambal, and curried veggies), Apey Kade has got it all.

10. Bombay Frankie Company

📍 6000 Sepulveda Blvd Suite 1601, Culver City, CA 90230

What started as a gas station legend dishing out Mumbai’s favorite street food, frankies, this spot is all about a variety of frankies— Mumbai-style wraps stuffed with things like chicken tikka and salmon masala. The restaurant also does an assortment of naan tacos and frankie bowls, but nothing hits harder like their trademark frankie.

11. Rajdhani

📍 18525 Pioneer Blvd 2nd floor, Artesia, CA 90701

Rajdhani beckons you to a journey through the vibrant platters of Gujarati cuisine, stealing the spotlight with its veggie-centric delights. Located inside the Little Artesia stretch, this a go-to spot when you’re in the mood for Gujarati goodness. You get a front-row seat to the ever-changing thali extravaganza, loaded with daal, chapati, okra stew, and more. And here’s the fun part – they’ve got options for everyone, whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or rolling with the Jain crew (allium-free, baby!)

12. Al-Noor Restaurant

📍 15112 S Inglewood Ave, Lawndale, CA 90260

Since 1998, this fully halal Pakistani restaurant down in Lawndale has offered the all-around best desi cuisine in the South Bay. This place serves up hard-to-find Pakistani dishes like Nihari, a spicy, indulgent braised beef stew that’s basically a flavor fiesta with ginger and a jalapeño kick. And And then there’s Haleem, the hearty mash-up of chicken, wheat, barley, lentils, herbs, and spices. Worth the drive for the hard-to-find gems you won’t get anywhere in LA.

13. Arth Bar & Kitchen

📍 9531 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

Arth, the vibrant newcomer in Culver, is rewriting the rules of South Asian dining in LA! You’ll find classics with a twist like Pav bhaji sliders and chicken tikka kebabs to chicken wings taking a dip in an Old Monk marinade. For cocktails, try the jal-jeera mojito – A popular cumin-based north Indian drink meets chili-infused white rum and a touch of peach liqueur.

14. Tara’s Himalayan Cuisine

📍 10855 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90034

Get ready for a taste adventure at Tara Gurung Black’s Westside restaurant! Tara whips up delicious dishes straight from her homeland, Nepal, and you’re in for a treat. Kick things off with the absolute must-try steamed momos, bursting with flavorful fillings like mutton, chicken, or veggies.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Brace yourself for the ultimate comfort food experience with Tara’s khasi ko masu. Picture this: slow-cooked bone-in goat meat, bathed in a luscious fresh tomato sauce. Oh, and if you’re eager for more, Tara’s got you covered with a second spot in Brentwood. Double the fun, double the yum!

15. Annapurna Cuisine

📍 10200 Venice Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232

Annapurna in Culver City is bringing the Southern Indian flavor fiesta! Get ready for a rollercoaster of deliciousness with dosa, uttapam, idli, and a whole lot more. But guess what? The real MVP here is the mouthwatering pav bhaji – it’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!

And here’s the cool part – if you’re on team “no onion and garlic,” Annapurna’s got your back with plenty of options that still pack a punch. So, whether you’re diving into the dosa dance or savoring the pav bhaji party, this spot’s Southern Indian delights will have you doing the happy foodie dance!

Wrapping up the Best South Asian Restaurants in LA

There you have it, fellow food adventurers – our spicy guide to the best Indian restaurants in Los Angeles. From the hipster vibes at Badmaash to the Southern comfort at Mayura, LA’s Indian culinary scene is a carnival of flavors waiting to be explored. So, the next time you’re hankering for some spice in your life, ditch the ordinary and head to these fantastic eateries. Los Angeles may be the city of angels, but when it comes to Indian food, it’s the city of flavor fireworks! Get out there and let your taste buds dance – your culinary adventure awaits!

Finding a good drink in LA is easy; a great one is a bit harder to find. From bespoke libations made with market-fresh ingredients to the revival of the classic cocktail worthy of Don Draper, cocktail bars in L.A. are making undeniably incredible drinks. Whether you’re drinking in Culver City, DTLA or Santa Monica, there are exceptional spots to consume all across town. In no particular order, here are 20 of the best cocktail bars in LA to raise a glass.

Bonus: Drink recommendations added per location

1. The Spare Room

http://www.spareroomhollywood.com | 1700 Lamy Ln, Monroe

Inspired by an old-fashioned gaming parlor and lounge, the Spare Room at Hollywood’s Roosevelt Hotel is a great place to visit with a crowd. The ambiance is laid back and festive, and all cocktails go for $16.

Drink to try: Highway to Bell – Aperol, Red Bull. Yellow Chartreuse, lemon, black pepper and sparkling wine.

2. Big Bar

https://www.alcovecafe.com/bigbar | 1927 Hillhurst Ave

Alcove Café’s new undertaking, this craft cocktail bar, is big on natural ingredients, homemade syrups and weird concoctions. With indoor and outdoor seating, this very fancy big bar is dim-lit and inviting. There’s a happy hour every evening, Monday to Friday.

Drink to try: Peace Tree Tea – Reposado tequila, dry gin, amaro, pine needle tea, porcini mushroom tincture.

3. The Normandie Club

https://www.thenormandieclub.com | 3612 W 6th St

Visit Koreatown to find this trendy craft cocktail bar in the Hotel Normandie. Classic and modern drinks come together with splendid presentations and attentive, personal service. This bar is community-driven and has a huge local fan base.

Drink to try: Bamboo Julep – Amontillado Sherry, vermouth, orange and angostura bitters.

4. Genever

https://www.geneverla.com | 3123 Beverly Blvd

At the heart of Filipinotown, this chic lounge is comfy but shines with a unique grandeur. Intimate and luxurious, Genever is already a classic. This is a women-owned and operated bar, and you can tell. Everything is perfect!

Drink to try: Star Me Kitten – Floraison gin, spiced red wine cordial, citrus, tonic, lavender bitters.

5. The Roger Room

http://www.therogerroom.com | 370 N La Cienega Blvd

You’ll find this retro-temple with a circus flair at La Cienega Boulevard, where nothing is what it seems; it’s better! Fun and unpretentious, the ambiance here is relaxed, but the cocktails are seriously good.

Drink to try: Everybody Loves Rose – Amass Gin, rosemary honey, kumquat liqueur, lemon and orange.

6. Broken Shaker

https://www.brokenshaker.com | 416 W 8th St

The mixologist team on this rooftop pool deck is la crème de la crème. These are some of the most creative bar professionals in the industry and elevate the bar’s cocktails menu to unforeseen heights.

Drink to try: Seaweed Papi – Roku gin, iichiko, kombu-infused Martini Bianco and yuzu bitters.

7. Death & Co.

https://www.deathandcompany.com/dcdtla | 818 East 3rd Street

There’s nothing grim about this obscure bar. The cocktails here are impressive but wait until you try the food! The authentic Death & Co. opened in NY a few years ago, but their LA bar is just as thrilling.

Drink to try: Tiger’s Jaw – El Tesoro Reposado Tequila, Linie Aquavit, garam masala, mango and lime.

8. Bar Flores

https://www.barflores.com/

1542 Sunset Blvd

Bright and lively, Bar Flores’ patio is friendly and very Angeleno. A gem on Sunset Boulevard, this is your go-to bar for a margarita, one of the finest in LA, but there’s much more than Tequila drinks here.

Drink to try: Flores Old Fashioned – Knob Creek Rye, Flores’s house mole, bitters, orange oils.

9. Tonga Hut

http://tongahut.com/index.html | 12808 Victory Blvd.

254 N. Palm Canyon Dr

With locations in North Hollywood and Palm Springs, the Tonga Hut is a tribute to the colorful tiki cocktails of the 50s. Creativity is non-stop here, and the tropical decor is perfect for special occasions.

Drink to try: Nui Nui – Amber rum, orange juice, cinnamon and Don’s spice.

10. Tiki Ti

http://tiki-ti.com | 4427 W Sunset Blvd

Feel your feet buried in the warm sand on a beach somewhere. That’s the energy in Tiki Ti, one of LA’s most authentic Tiki bars. Opened in 1961, this bar is still going strong.

Drink to try: “151” Rum Swizzle – 151 rum, passion fruit, lime cinnamon and dark Jamaican rum.

11. Harvard & Stone

http://harvardandstone.com | 5221 Hollywood Blvd

This neighborhood bar in Thai Town, LA, offers an original cocktail menu every night. Weekends are all about live music and a burlesque show. Upscale and slick, Harvard & Stone is a unique experience.

Drink to try: Big Black Mirror – Avion Tequila, gin, chili pepper, Sichuan peppercorn, saffron and lime.

12. Thunderbolt

https://www.thunderboltla.com | 1263 W Temple St

Between Filipinotown and Echo Park, the American south inspires this handsome bar with a stylish, minimalistic decor that contrasts significantly with the colorful food coming from the small kitchen. The cocktails here are in a category of their own.

Drink to try: Liquid Picnic – London Dry Gin, citron, tomato, rosemary and black pepper.

13. Accomplice

https://www.littlefattyla.com/accomplice | 3811 Grand View Blvd

You’ll find Accomplice in Mar Vista neighborhood and complements the Chinese restaurant Little Fatty with colorful drinks of Asian inspiration. There’s a great selection of Japanese whiskey here as well!

Drink to try: Pulp Friction – Tequila, passion fruit, ancho, habanero, cinnamon, agave and lime.

14. The Abbey

https://www.theabbeyweho.com | 692 N Robertson Blvd

One of LA’s most famous gay-friendly cocktail bars is also a fantastic restaurant. You’ll find The Abbey at West Hollywood and often features exotic male dancers. Of course, you’re here for the drinks.

Drink to try: Peach Mojito – Bacardi Peach, lime, mint, syrup and sugar cane.

15. Employees Only

https://www.employeesonlyla.com | 7953 Santa Monica Blvd

The New York classic has taken West Hollywood by storm with great food and award-winning cocktails. With a high-end feel but a young crowd, Employees Only is more than your after-office dive bar. It’s a culinary adventure.

Drink to try: Amelia – Tito’s vodka, St. Germain, blackberries, lemon and mint.

16. Here and Now

300 S Santa Fe Ave

This beautiful, dim-lit bar in Santa Fe Avenue is stylish and has a timeless decor reminiscent of the speakeasy golden era. The cocktails are as modern and artsy as the bar itself!

Drink to try: Late at Night – East India Solera Sherry, Amontillado, chamomile soda and walnut.

17. The Dresden Restaurant & Lounge

https://www.thedresden.com | 1760 N. Vermont Ave

The family-owned bar and restaurant has been around since 1954 and offers a classic, long-tablecloth fine-dining experience and a show. Some cocktail recipes have remained unchanged since the 60s! The food’s incredible, too.

Drink to try: The Dresden’s Blood & Sand – Rum, house tropical mix and citrus.

18. The Varnish

https://www.thevarnishbar.com | 118 E 6th St

With one of the sexiest music shows in town supporting a new generation of local artists, the Varnish is an exciting experience. One of The Varnish’s highlights is the “Bartender’s Choice” that lets you enjoy a custom drink made just for you.

Drink to try: Bourbon Blunder – Bourbon, ginger, pineapple, lime and soda.

19. The Raymond 1886

http://www.theraymond.com | 1250 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena

Pasadena’s favorite craft cocktail bar, this historical bar, is named after the old Raymond Hotel, which shut down during the Great Depression. American cuisine and beautiful drinks guarantee a wonderful time.

Drink to try: Fall For Me – Bacardi 8, Camus Elegance, maple pear syrup and hot water.

20. The Mermaid

https://www.themermaidla.com | 428 E 2nd St

This fun, neighborhood diver bar at Little Tokyo is all about tropical flavors. Tiki drinks and other colorful libations match the exotic decor, and the service is top notch. The mermaid has weekly events, so don’t be a stranger.

Drink to try: Jolly Roger – Tequila Blanco, hibiscus syrup, lime, grapefruit.

Los Angeles might have one of the most famous skylines and sunsets in the world which is why we Angelenos love open air venues. Rooftops in LA are more than bars and restaurants; they’re in a category on their own — nothing beats an evening with the City of Angels in the background.

In no particular order, here are our favorite 2022 rooftops in Los Angeles and why you should check them out. From high-end eateries to loud rooftop bars, these places offer more than a gorgeous view; they’re a vital part of our very own La La Land.

1. Élephante

This gorgeous rooftop takes you to the Italian Mediterranean shores with its decor and cuisine. Located in Downtown Santa Monica, Élephante is a great place to grab a bite and a few drinks, but they also have an impressive wine list. The ambient is hyped and lively, and you’ll enjoy a fantastic ocean view with your meal. This beach house is no doubt home away from home; it certainly feels that way!

https://www.elephantela.com/

2. Broken Shaker

With venues in New York, LA, Miami and Chicago, Broken Shaker is becoming a synonym with great drinks in impressive settings. LA’s Broken Shaker and its pool deck is one of the hottest spots in Downtown LA. And they balance tropical, colorful cocktails with authentic craftsmanship for a good time guaranteed. The food is creative, too, so enjoy everything from a falafel burger to some mean fried fish tacos.

https://www.brokenshaker.com/

3. Openaire

This extraordinary bar and brunch hotspot is more than a rooftop; it’s a working greenhouse with the freshest air in the city. With Michelin-starred chef Josiah Citrin running the kitchen, Openaire is a paradise for foodies, especially for those looking to escape, at least for a few hours, from LA bustling streets. For a bite and a cocktail, ask for the pool menu at the bar.

https://www.thelinehotel.com/los-angeles/bars-restaurants/#openaire

4. Skybar at The Mondrian Hotel

The Skybar at Mondrian LA is luxury and party in communion. The glamourous poolside deck is slick and sexy, and the live DJ adds energy to the perfect setting for a night out at the Sunset Boulevard. Order a Skybar Lemonade with gin and cucumber slices or order a bottle of Champagne; Skybar is worth splurging a little. Besides, you know you deserve it.

https://www.sbe.com/nightlife/skybar

5. Perch

Perch’s rooftop bar has an impressive view of Downtown LA from the 15th floor, and the French-inspired cuisine makes this a world-class experience. Perch is larger than life, and it’s a must-visit for first-timers. The eclectic decor contrasts with the tall buildings behind for a scene that just screams LA. For brunch, dinner or late-night drinks, Perch is always a great choice.

https://www.perchla.com/

6. Calabra Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Sit back and relax at the “Best outdoor hotel restaurant patio in Southern California.” That’s Calabra, and you’ll find it down in Santa Monica. The perfect weekend getaway spot is also a lovely place to spend the morning with a drink in hand. Food is excellent, including the Hamachi ceviche and LA’s best Key Lime Pie, courtesy of Vanilla Bakeshop.

https://www.properhotel.com/santa-monica/restaurants-bars/calabra/

7. Upstairs, Ace Hotel

You’ll find this exclusive restaurant on the rooftop of Ace Hotel in Downtown LA. Comfy, eclectic, but still high-end, with a very Californian feel. Upstairs is a hidden gem with impressive views in all directions. More than a restaurant bar; upstairs is an open-air home. The Ace Hotel is also home to a marvelous theater, so visit even on rainy days.

https://www.acehotel.com/losangeles/food-and-drink/upstairs/fireplace/

8. Spire73

You’ll find this high-end LA rooftop atop the Intercontinental Los Angeles Downtown. Just go to the 73rd floor and get swooned off your feet. This is one of the tallest rooftop bars in America, and it’s probably the best view of Los Angeles below. Fire pits keep you warm on the coldest nights, and palm-tree-shaped sun umbrellas provide much necessary shade during the day. Food is outstanding here, too (try the Prawn Toscana), and don’t get us started on the signature cocktails!

https://dtla.intercontinental.com/downtown-la-restaurants/

9. Catch LA

Catch needs no introduction; this is one of the most sought-after and exclusive rooftops in LA, and its award-winning Asian-inspired cuisine and fun views make eating here an authentic LA experience. Brunch or dinner, or a night out with wine and cocktails, Catch is a great alternative at any time of day. With views to West Hollywood, Catch surely has something for everyone.

https://catchrestaurants.com/catchla/

10. Terra, by Eataly

This terrace on the third floor of Eataly La is heaven for Italian food lovers. Terra is a great lunch, brunch and dinner alternative with a lovely outdoor decor, a wood-fired oven, grill specialties and nice Italian wine, but don’t expect late-night cocktails. Here it’s all about good food in great company with superb service, just what you want to spend the evening under the sunny Californian skies.

https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/los-angeles/la-terra/

11. LP Rooftop Bar

Enjoy the Sunset strip from one of the most exciting rooftops in LA. LP is also one of the largest rooftop patios in the city, and they make good use of it, offering fantastic small plates and craft cocktails for an imaginative experience. The night scene is fantastic here, but you can also spend the day on the verdant patio. This is hands down amongst the most popular bars in West Hollywood.

https://www.eplosangeles.com/lp-rooftop

12. Mama Shelter’s Rooftop

Gourmet burgers, signature cocktails, live DJ music and awesome views make Mama Shelter’s rooftop a local’s favorite. Ping-pong tables, table football and super friendly staff, makes Mama’s a great place to spend the day. With the famous Hollywood sign in the background, there’s no other place you’ll want to be on a sunny day in LA.

https://mamashelter.com/los-angeles/eat-drink/rooftop/

13. Cha Cha Chá

This Mexican terrace in the Arts District LA is more than great margaritas, the food here is authentic, and the ambiance is contagiously tropical. Carnitas, tostadas and a wide variety of tacos — this is a culinary experience and an all-out block party on the same terrace. Visit for the food, and you’ll come back for the festive ambiance! At Cha Cha Chá, you’re part of the family.

https://chachacha.la/