My Favourite LA Restaurants: Where Great Food Meets Beautiful Decor
During my time in LA, I had the chance to visit some incredible restaurants that were not only delicious but absolutely stunning inside too. Because let’s face it, I’m always on the lookout for places that serve great food and have beautiful interiors that make you want to stay a little longer. Here are my top spots from this trip – perfect for a casual brunch, a cozy dinner, or a special night out.
1. Laurel Hardware
I love how Laurel Hardware manages to feel like a hidden oasis in the city. You walk through this rustic hardware store facade and suddenly you’re in a gorgeous garden space filled with plants and twinkling lights. The food is as fresh as the decor – think seasonal, local ingredients with a laid-back Californian vibe. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a chilled dinner with friends or just sitting back and enjoying a quiet evening with cocktails.
2. Cecconi’s West Hollywood
I have a soft spot for Italian food, and Cecconi’s is one of those go-to places when you want something a little fancy but still relaxed. Their pasta is so comforting, and the decor just adds to the whole experience – marble floors, velvet seats, and that art-deco vibe. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend hours chatting over a long lunch or a late-night dinner.
3. Merois
This was such a treat. Merois is up on the roof of the Pendry West Hollywood, and the view alone makes it worth visiting – you can see the entire city spread out below you. Inside, it’s super chic and modern, and the food... let’s just say Asian-fusion done this well is hard to beat. Perfect for a special occasion or when you want to feel a little bit fancy.
4. Calabra
If you’re after coastal views and a relaxed vibe, Calabra in Santa Monica is where you need to be. I loved the Mediterranean-inspired menu (the mezze is a must) and the rooftop setting made it feel like a proper escape. There’s something about sitting outdoors with a cool drink, watching the sunset, that just makes you want to slow down and savour the moment.
5. Dan Tana’s
This one’s a bit of a classic – walking into Dan Tana’s feels like stepping back in time, with its retro decor and cozy atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’re in the mood for old-school Italian comfort food. The chicken parm is legendary, but honestly, it’s the kind of place where everything feels like a warm hug. Sometimes, you just need that kind of meal.
6. UOVO
If you know me, you know I can’t resist a good pasta dish, and UOVO is where it’s at. They make all their pasta by hand, and it shows – each dish is simple, fresh, and full of flavour. The vibe is super casual, but in a way that lets you focus on the food. It’s perfect for a quick bite or a low-key dinner when all you want is a comforting bowl of pasta.
7. Sirena
Sirena is one of those places you stumble across and instantly fall in love with. It’s small and intimate, with soft lighting and a menu full of beautifully plated seafood. I ended up there for a quiet evening, and it was just one of those meals that felt special without even trying. Definitely one to save for a date night or when you want a slower pace.
These are just a few of the places I loved during my time in LA, where the food is amazing and the decor makes you want to linger a little longer. If you’re ever in town, I hope you get the chance to check them out – and let me know which one ends up being your favourite!