There's something uniquely Los Angeles about watching the city sprawl beneath you, lights twinkling as you sip a perfectly crafted cocktail, with a plate of exquisite food just a fork-length away. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience where the city itself becomes a vibrant backdrop to your culinary adventure. Forget simply dining out; here, we’re talking about ascending to a different level, literally, to discover the very best rooftop bars with food LA views has to offer. These aren't just pretty patios; they're culinary destinations that truly encapsulate the magic of elevated dining in Southern California.
At a Glance: Your Rooftop Dining Checklist
- Diverse Vistas: Discover unparalleled views from downtown skyscrapers to Hollywood Hills and the Pacific coast.
- Culinary Excellence: Understand that LA's rooftops now boast serious food programs, not just bar snacks.
- Vibe for Every Mood: Find everything from lively party scenes to intimate, sophisticated retreats.
- Practical Planning: Learn essential tips for reservations, dress codes, and making the most of your visit.
- Spotlight on Specifics: Get direct recommendations and insights into standout locations across LA.
- Actionable Advice: Gain clear guidance to plan your perfect elevated dining experience immediately.
Elevating Your Dining: Why LA's Rooftops Are Different
Los Angeles's dining scene thrives on innovation and spectacle, and its rooftops are no exception. What once might have been a simple bar with a nice view has evolved into a sophisticated blend of culinary ambition, design aesthetic, and unparalleled panoramas. From bustling downtown districts to the serene coastlines, these elevated spaces redefine what it means to dine out, offering a multisensory experience that engages both palate and eye.
This evolution means you’re no longer settling for just a view. Establishments now prioritize innovative culinary programs, often helmed by renowned chefs, complementing sparkling pools, creative cocktails, and prime people-watching opportunities. Whether you're seeking a hyperseasonal ceviche in Westchester, panko-oyster hand rolls at the Original Farmers Market, or tacos and churros at a Mexico City-inspired oasis, LA's rooftops have truly raised the bar.
Decoding the LA Rooftop Landscape: What Views Await?
The sheer variety of views available from LA's rooftops is astounding, reflecting the city's vast and diverse geography. Choosing the right spot often comes down to what iconic scenery you wish to frame your meal with.
Skyscraper Panoramas: Downtown's Vertical Splendor
Downtown LA offers some of the most dramatic elevated experiences, placing you amidst a forest of steel and glass. Here, you'll find places that truly make you feel on top of the world, with sweeping vistas of landmarks like City Hall, the US Bank Tower, and the bustling Crypto.com Arena.
- Spire 73 takes the crown for height, perched on the 73rd floor of the 1,100-foot Wilshire Grand Center. It offers staggering views over LA’s skyscrapers, pairing them with snacky share plates like seared salmon and indulgent rooftop s'mores. For a more formal experience, La Boucherie steak and seafood house is just two floors down.
- Perch, a downtown staple, provides nearly 360-degree views from its 15th-floor restaurant and 16th-floor bar. Its French-inflected menu and live jazz brunch make it a clear favorite, offering baked brie and crab benedict alongside craft cocktails.
- La Lo La Rooftop on the 34th floor of the AC Hotel boasts nearly 360-degree views, perfectly situated across from Crypto.com Arena. It’s a buzzy tapas bar, ideal for pre- or post-event gatherings, with fruity cocktails and crowd-pleasing bites.
- Cara Cara at the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel, on the 15th floor, brings California-influenced cuisine from chef Suzanne Goin. Its all-day menu features sharing dishes like piri piri fried chicken and focaccia pizzas, all with the city skyline as a backdrop.
- For a multi-faceted experience, Level 8 at the Moxy / AC Hotel downtown is an entire destination. It houses Golden Hour with its carousel bar, Mother of Pearl for Champagne and raw bar, Que Barbaro for live-fire South American cooking, and the church-themed Sinners y Santos bar—all offering sweeping downtown views from the eighth floor.
Hollywood Glamour & Hills: Iconic Backdrops
For those seeking the quintessential Hollywood experience, rooftops in West Hollywood and Hollywood proper offer views that stretch from the iconic Hollywood Sign to the glittering Sunset Strip.
- The Roof at West Hollywood Edition, on the 14th floor above Sunset Boulevard, provides sparkling views of downtown, Mid-City, Beverly Hills, and the Westside. Its Baja Mexican menu, featuring Dungeness crab nachos and tacos, perfectly complements its agave spirit cocktails.
- Harriet's at 1 Hotel West Hollywood, 11 floors up, offers city views that extend to the beach on clear days. With glass walls and lush potted plants, it's a chic spot for $21 cocktails and a menu featuring sushi rolls and short ribs.
- Merois, Wolfgang Puck’s Californian Art Deco restaurant on the 11th floor of the Pendry Hotel in West Hollywood, gives glimpses of the Hollywood Hills alongside views southeast to downtown. Its menu artfully marries pan-Asian influences with California seasonality, offering a raw bar and dim sum.
- Mother Tongue, a fourth-floor restaurant and rooftop above a fitness club, specializes in globally inspired, wellness-focused dishes. From here, you get stunning views of the Hollywood Hills and the famous sign, making wellness feel truly elevated.
Coastal Breezes & Ocean Horizons: Beachside Bliss
For a refreshing change of pace, the coastal rooftops offer serene ocean views, salty air, and a relaxed, sun-kissed ambiance. These spots perfectly capture the laid-back luxury of California beach life.
- Calabra on the seventh floor of the Santa Monica Proper hotel offers one of the best direct views of Santa Monica Beach as you exit the elevator. The Mediterranean-skewing menu includes delicious dips and phyllo-baked feta, ideal for a seaside meal.
- High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin in Venice, located on the fifth floor, provides pristine panoramas of the Venice Boardwalk and beach. It's often crowded, so reserving VIP oceanfront seating is highly recommended to enjoy their full bar and frozen cocktails.
- Rooftop Lounge on the third floor of La Casa del Camino Hotel in Laguna Beach epitomizes beach-casual dining. This veranda directly overlooks Pacific Coast Highway and the Laguna Beach coastline, famous for its fresh fruit mojitos and dog-friendly policy.
- For an authentic pier-side experience, Malibu Farm Restaurant is situated high above the shore on the Malibu Pier. Chef Helene Henderson sources locally for her sustainable, seafood-rich menu, offering breathtaking ocean views that are second to none.
Beyond the Boulevard: Unique Perspectives
LA's rooftop scene extends beyond the most famous landmarks, offering distinctive views in diverse neighborhoods like Anaheim, Irvine, and Culver City.
- Top of the V in Anaheim, 12 floors up, provides sweeping views of Disneyland and California Adventure. Executive Chef Edgar Beas takes inspiration from Spain's Basque region with dishes like pulpo a la plancha, and the lights even dim for Disneyland’s fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.
- Hive & Honey on the 16th floor of the Marriott Irvine Spectrum boasts panoramic views over Irvine, Great Park, and Saddleback Mountain. Reservations are recommended for this popular bar, known for its indulgent bar food and honey-themed cocktails.
- Butterfly, a lush, sixth-floor perch atop the Shay Hotel in Culver City from José Andrés’ restaurant group, offers charming views over Culver City. Its casual menu of chips, dips, tacos, and ceviches pairs perfectly with salt-air margaritas.
- For a truly unique experience, Sora Temaki Bar at the Original Farmers Market offers a second-floor rooftop. While it overlooks a parking lot, the invigorating atmosphere above the bustling market, combined with hand-rolls featuring Wagyu and Santa Barbara uni, creates a memorable experience.
Beyond the View: Culinary Experiences on the Ascent
The modern LA rooftop is about more than just a pretty picture; it’s a fully realized dining destination. The culinary programs have stepped up significantly, offering everything from refined entrees to creative, shareable plates that stand on their own merit.
Signature Styles: From Fine Dining to Casual Bites
You'll find a remarkable range of cuisine, demonstrating that these establishments are serious about food.
- High-End Fare: At Spire 73, while primarily known for snacks, it connects to La Boucherie for a fine dining steak and seafood experience. Perch offers a French-inflected menu with upscale brunch items like crab benedict. Wolfgang Puck's Merois delivers pan-Asian influences with California seasonality, complete with a raw bar.
- Global Flavors: Cabra on the 10th floor of the Hoxton hotel delights with a Peruvian-focused menu, including empanadas and bass ceviche. Que Barbaro at Level 8 specializes in live-fire South American cooking. Top of the V draws inspiration from Spain's Basque region.
- Local & Seasonal: Many places, like Cara Cara, emphasize California-influenced cuisine. Malibu Farm Restaurant is lauded for its sustainable, locally sourced, seafood-rich menu. Lemon Grove on the sixth floor of Aster membership club focuses on vegetable-forward dishes.
- Comfort & Convenience: You'll also find excellent elevated versions of casual favorites. Lost, Issa Rae's Mexico City-inspired spot, serves delicious tacos and churros. Élephante brings Italian-Californian pastas, salads, and pizzas, while Terra atop Eataly focuses on wood-grilled meats and house-made pastas. Even at The Fifth in Anaheim, standard bar bites are elevated by the view of Disneyland fireworks.
Crafting the Cocktail & Ambiance
Beyond the food, the drink programs and overall ambiance are meticulously curated to enhance the rooftop experience.
- Creative Cocktails: Most rooftops pride themselves on innovative, often visually stunning, cocktail menus. Bar Clara offers ideal sunset drinks. Rooftop by JG serves beautifully presented cocktails. Broken Shaker brings a tropical vibe with L.A.-inspired classics. Many also offer robust lists of spirit-free drinks.
- Unique Ambiance: The settings themselves are diverse. Perch has a charming garden-like ambiance. Desert 5 Spot embraces a '70s-inspired decor complete with a mechanical bull for special events. Lost is a Mexico City-inspired oasis with astroturf and strung lights. Bar Clara features a poolside replica of Orcus's face that doubles as a firepit.
- Entertainment & Events: Live DJs are common, especially on weekends, at places like La Lo La, Hive & Honey, Bar Lis, and The Highlight Room. Perch offers live jazz brunch. Desert 5 Spot hosts karaoke and line dancing. Many venues, like Videre, frequently host reality show watch parties, turning the viewing into a communal event.
For a deeper dive into LA's diverse culinary landscape, beyond just elevated views, you'll find more exceptional experiences in Your guide to unique LA dining.
Your Practical Playbook for LA Rooftop Dining
To ensure your rooftop experience is seamless and spectacular, a little planning goes a long way. These insights will help you navigate reservations, dress codes, and the unique logistics of dining high above the city.
Timing is Everything: Booking, Sunset, and Special Events
- Reservations are Paramount: For popular spots, especially on weekends, making a reservation is almost always essential. Places like Hive & Honey, Perch, and Bar Funke (if you want the full menu) strongly recommend booking ahead. Many places will have a separate section for walk-ins, usually for the bar, but seating isn't guaranteed.
- Chasing the Sunset: Sunset is undeniably the most coveted time to visit, transforming the city below into a canvas of shifting colors. Be prepared for increased crowds and potentially longer waits during this golden hour. Booking a table around 30-45 minutes before official sunset will give you the full spectacle.
- Event Awareness: If you're heading downtown, check for events at Crypto.com Arena before visiting La Lo La Rooftop as traffic and parking can be significantly impacted. For those near Anaheim, time your visit to Top of the V or The Fifth to coincide with Disneyland’s fireworks show for an unforgettable display.
- Happy Hour Hacks: Many rooftops offer enticing happy hour deals on both drinks and bites. Broken Shaker runs one Monday through Thursday (3-6 p.m.), Lemon Grove (Wednesday-Saturday, 5-7 p.m.), Desert 5 Spot (Tuesday-Friday), Dante has a $10 Martini Hour daily, and Mozambique starts theirs daily at 3 p.m.
Dress Codes & Vibe Checks
- Know Before You Go: Some upscale rooftops maintain dress codes. Harriet's explicitly states no crowns, tiaras, or sashes, and Topside Roof Deck enforces a dress code. It's always wise to check the venue's website or call ahead to avoid any surprises. Generally, "smart casual" is a safe bet for most elevated establishments.
- Match Your Mood: Consider the vibe you're seeking. Do you want a lively party atmosphere (e.g., The Highlight Room, Skybar), a chic and sophisticated evening (e.g., Rooftop by JG, Merois), a relaxed beach-casual setting (e.g., High Rooftop Lounge, Rooftop Lounge Laguna Beach), or a cozy, intimate gathering (e.g., Cabra, Margot)? Each rooftop offers a distinct personality.
Navigating Access & Amenities
- Pool Access: Many LA rooftops feature sparkling pools. However, access policies vary. Some, like Broken Shaker and Desert 5 Spot (on Sundays), are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis for lounge chairs. Others, such as those at Cara Cara, The Roof at West Hollywood Edition, or Marco Polo Trattoria, are primarily for hotel guests. Always clarify pool access if that's a key part of your plan.
- Parking & Transit: Downtown rooftops can present parking challenges. Valet is often available but can be pricey. Public transit or rideshares are often advisable for downtown or areas with high traffic density.
- Unique Features: Keep an eye out for distinctive amenities. Bar Clara has its iconic Orcus firepit. Golden Hour at Level 8 boasts a carousel bar. Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companion.
Savvy Spending: Value vs. Splurge
LA's rooftop scene caters to various budgets, though many experiences lean towards the premium.
- Cocktail Costs: Expect cocktails to range from $18-$27 at many upscale venues, such as Spire 73 ($23-$27) and Harriet's ($21). Look for happy hour specials, like Dante's $10 Martini Hour, to enjoy craft drinks at a more accessible price point.
- Dining Deals: Some restaurants offer tasting menus or prix fixe options. Top of the V has a five-course tasting menu ($125), while Videre offers a $30 three-course prix fixe lunch on weekdays, providing a more structured and often value-driven dining experience.
- Discounts: Don't hesitate to inquire about local discounts. The Fifth in Anaheim offers a 10% discount to Disney cast members and Magic Key holders.
Quick Answers: Your LA Rooftop FAQ
Q: What's the tallest rooftop bar in LA?
A: Spire 73, located on the 73rd floor of the 1,100-foot Wilshire Grand Center, holds the distinction of being the tallest rooftop bar west of the Mississippi, offering unparalleled views over the entire L.A. basin.
Q: Are LA rooftop bars typically expensive?
A: Many LA rooftop bars are considered upscale and feature premium pricing for both food and cocktails. While you can certainly splurge, many establishments offer happy hour specials or more casual, budget-friendly bites during certain hours, providing options for different price points.
Q: Do I always need a reservation for rooftop dining?
A: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends, sunset hours, or specific dining areas, particularly at popular spots like Perch or Hive & Honey. While many venues have walk-in bar areas, seating is not guaranteed and can involve significant wait times. It's always best to check the specific venue's policy online.
Q: Can I access rooftop pools if I'm not a hotel guest?
A: Policies vary by hotel. Some rooftops, like Broken Shaker at the Freehand Hotel and Desert 5 Spot at the Tommie Hollywood (on Sundays), allow public access to their pools and lounge areas on a first-come, first-served basis. Others, however, reserve pool access exclusively for hotel guests. Always confirm with the venue directly if pool access is important to your visit.
Q: What kind of food can I expect at an LA rooftop bar?
A: The culinary offerings are incredibly diverse, moving far beyond typical bar snacks. You can find everything from sophisticated share plates (e.g., seared salmon at Spire 73), French-inflected cuisine (e.g., crab benedict at Perch), Baja Mexican (e.g., Dungeness crab nachos at The Roof at West Hollywood Edition), and Peruvian-focused menus (e.g., bass ceviche at Cabra), to wood-grilled dishes (Terra), hand rolls (Sora Temaki Bar), and sustainable seafood (Malibu Farm Restaurant). Many menus focus on creative, seasonal, and easily shareable dishes.
Your Elevated Escape Awaits
The world of rooftop bars with food LA views is a vibrant testament to the city's commitment to exceptional dining experiences that truly reach for the sky. From the dizzying heights of downtown skyscrapers to the tranquil ocean horizons and the glittering lights of Hollywood, each location offers a unique perspective and a distinctive culinary journey.
Deciding where to go next involves more than just picking a destination; it's about curating an experience. Consider the view you crave, the cuisine that excites your palate, and the ambiance that perfectly matches your mood. With a bit of planning—securing reservations, checking dress codes, and perhaps timing your visit for a magical sunset or a dazzling fireworks display—you're set for an unforgettable elevated escape. So, go ahead, look up, and let LA's incredible rooftop dining scene lift your spirits and delight your senses.