Indulge in Romance: A Valentine’s Day escape at The Restaurant at Bel-Air
While Los Angeles continues to heal and recover from the devastating wildfires, the spirit of resilience shines brighter than ever. Supporting local businesses, especially those embodying the city’s vibrant heart, is crucial for its revitalization. This valentine’s Day, let’s embrace the prospect to celebrate love in all its forms while contributing to Los Angeles’ comeback.
“On behalf of the 540,000 Angelenos working in tourism, we welcome you to visit our City of Angels,” declares the Discover LA tourism site. ”The majority of LA’s landmarks, attractions, restaurants, and hotels are open and safely welcoming guests.”
This Valentine’s Day, let’s go beyond the commercial clichés and focus on what truly matters: cherishing those we love. Whether it’s a romantic partner, a dear friend, or even our loyal companions, a shared meal is a gorgeous way to express our affection. The Restaurant at Bel-Air offers a haven for romance, allowing you to create unforgettable memories with the ones you adore.
Picture this: swans gracefully gliding across the hotel’s serene water features, tables nestled beneath a canopy of vibrant greenery, and a delectable spread of culinary delights awaiting you. Nestled within the luxurious Bel-Air Hotel, The Restaurant at Bel-Air is a true escape, a place where romance blooms naturally. For a more casual yet equally enchanting Valentine’s date,consider The Living Room,the recently revamped lounge exuding cozy elegance. Imagine sinking into plush armchairs by a flickering fireplace, surrounded by the exquisite décor inspired by the estate’s lush gardens, buzzing with the energy of life.
Executive Sous Chef Gel Zara and Chef Garcia weave a symphony of flavors, merging modern California cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. Their dishes are a celebration of seasonal, local ingredients, each bite a testament to their culinary artistry. Among the highlights, the Crispy Skin Loup de Mer with fingerling potatoes, braised leeks, and a decadent black truffle sauce tantalizes the palate. The Bluefin Tuna Crudo, with its vibrant freshness paired with avocado, radishes, and ponzu, is a refreshingly simple delight. And for a truly indulgent experience, savor the wood-grilled Colorado Lamb Chops, adorned with a colorful cauliflower purée and saffron-poached sultanas.
the Living Room offers a more intimate setting, perfect for sharing small plates and fine wines. A caviar service and a martini and champagne cart add an extra touch of whimsy and luxury to your evening. Whether you’re indulging in Afternoon tea or seeking a romantic evening by the fire, The Living Room provides an ambiance that effortlessly blends elegance and comfort.
And, of course, no dessert experience at The Restaurant at Bel-Air would be complete without the artistry of French chocolate master, Chef Christophe Rull. His creations are not just sweets, they are works of culinary art, each bite a testament to his meticulous technique and passion. Be sure to ask for the complimentary takeaway box of chocolates to savor the sweet memories long after your meal.
Valentine’s Day 2025: The Restaurant will be offering a four-course prix-fixe Valentine’s Day dinner ($350 per person + optional wine pairings at $100 & $200). Reservations are highly recommended and can be made via https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/therestaurantatbelair.
Where to Savor Romance: Top LA Restaurants for Valentine’s Day 2025
Looking for the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles? forget the predictable dinner-and-a-movie routine.This year, immerse yourselves in an unforgettable culinary adventure at one of these remarkable restaurants.
sushi Note: An Omakase Experience Like No Othre
For an intimate and truly mesmerizing dining experience, Sushi Note in Beverly Hills is your destination. Only twelve lucky diners can share this intimate haven, each enjoying a front-row seat to a sushi symphony orchestrated by the masterfully skilled head sushi chef, Earl Aquilar.Over twenty beautifully presented courses unfold like a theatrical performance, each bite a delicate dance of textures and flavors.
Think melt-in-your-mouth, two-week dry-aged Ora King salmon, rich and buttery, practically melting on your tongue. Picture creamy scallop tartare bursting with briny sweetness, and savor the symphony of flavors in the house-cured saba. But the true magic lies in the unexpected. Don’t just limit yourself to sake; the wine pairing is a revelation, especially for those who appreciate the finer things. Wine connoisseurs will be blown away by pours like the Irancy ‘Veaupessiot’ from the Burgundy region, each sip perfectly complementing the delicate nuances of the fish.It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey for the senses.
valentine’s Day 2025: While the holiday itself is fully booked, reservations are still available before and after Valentine’s Day.
Providence: A Seafood Extravaganza awaits
Providence in Los Angeles isn’t just another seafood restaurant; it’s a two-Michelin-starred institution celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Since Chef Michael Cimarusti opened its doors in 2005, it’s consistently ranked among the finest restaurants in the city, if not the country. His commitment to sustainability shines through in the impeccably sourced seafood, further reinforced by the on-site rooftop garden and beehives.
His perfectly paced tasting menus are a symphony of flavors, each course showcasing seafood at its most refined.Expect delicate crudos,buttery,perfectly poached lobster,and every imaginable delight in between. But don’t overlook their award-winning cocktails! They’re just as inventive and showstopping as the food.
“From someone who has dined at hundreds of fine dining restaurants, take it from me—Providence delivers the kind of meal you find yourself thinking about for a lifetime, wondering if it was actually *that* good—or if you just dreamt it,”
Valentine’s Day 2025: Celebrate with a multi-course Valentine’s Day tasting menu ($637.50 per person) with the option of a classic wine pairing or a premium wine pairing add on.
The Inn at the Seventh Ray: A Storybook Escape in Topanga
Nestled in a lush canyon, The Inn at the Seventh Ray in Topanga is the ultimate romantic escape. Twinkling lights, creekside seating, and candlelit tables under the trees set the stage for a magical evening. After a temporary closure due to recent fires,the Inn has gracefully reopened,ready to reignite its enchanting ambiance.
Indulge in organic, seasonal delicacies like the grass-fed filet mignon, lobster risotto, and their signature vegan chocolate mousse. Sip from a Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” menu while basking under the stars, crafting a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day story with your loved one.
Valentine’s 2025: February 13 - 16, the Inn serves up a 5-course set menu.
The culinary scene in Los Angeles is resilient, a fact especially evident in the wake of devastating wildfires. Despite the loss of beloved eateries, the city’s food community has come together to support both those impacted and the continued celebration of culinary delights. Restaurants are rebuilding, offering aid to those in need, and inspiring hope amidst adversity.
One of the most beloved destinations, Nobu Malibu, reopened its doors with its signature ambiance and iconic menu. “Whether you’re cozying up at the sushi bar or scoring a coveted oceanfront table,it’s all about the effortless luxury and laid-back romance that makes Nobu Malibu,well… iconic,” reads the restaurant’s statement. Reservations for Valentine’s Day have already been filled, but other dates remain open, inviting patrons to savor the restaurant’s renowned offerings against the backdrop of the Pacific.
Beyond individual restaurants, collective efforts are emerging, demonstrating the deep-seated generosity within LA’s culinary scene. World Central Kitchen, led by Chef José Andrés, has played a pivotal role, providing meals for those affected. Their dedication resonates deeply with their mission, offering sustenance and a sense of hope during challenging times. Similarly,the LA Wildfire Community Meal Campaign brings together local restaurants to distribute meals purchased by community members. It’s a beautiful testament to collaborative spirit, bridging the gap between those in need and those passionate about offering comfort through culinary sustenance.
Sadly, the Palisades Fire resulted in significant damage, including the loss of the beloved Cholada Thai, known for its blue beach shack setting and classic Thai cuisine as 1999. Owner Nikorn Sriwichailumpan is diligently rebuilding with a GoFundMe campaign, seeking to revitalize a culinary landmark that holds cherished memories for many. These initiatives provide tangible ways individuals can contribute, ensuring a future where beloved eateries can recover, rebuild, and continue enriching Los Angeles’ culinary landscape.
Restaurants Care, another vital organization, offers crucial financial assistance to those in the hospitality industry who’ve faced hardships due to the fires. Grants are providing critical support to those struggling with everyday expenses, easing the burden on individuals grappling with unexpected circumstances.
The culinary heart of Los angeles beats on, fueled by the unwavering commitment to community, resilience, and shared experiences. The fires serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses, contributing to relief efforts, and appreciating the profound role that food plays in bringing us together, especially in times of need.
Community Rallies Around Beloved Los Angeles Eateries After Fiery Losses
The vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles’ culinary scene has been deeply affected by recent wildfires, leaving behind a trail of devastation and countless stories of resilience.
In Altadena, The Little Red Hen Coffee Shop, a neighborhood institution as 1972, is a poignant example of this struggle.This Black-owned breakfast haven, cherished for its generations-old recipes of shrimp and grits, fluffy biscuits, fried eggs, and more, found itself facing a devastating fire. “Now, after suffering fire damage, the family is rallying to rebuild,” a community spokesperson shared.
similarly, Vittorio’s Restaurant in Palisades, a beloved mainstay for over 40 years, found itself grappling with the aftermath of the blaze. Known for its hearty Italian classics served in a welcoming, Nonna-inspired atmosphere, Vittorio’s is dedicated to supporting its long-standing staff and embarking on the arduous journey of rebuilding.
