Outdoor Dining in Los Angeles

Bigger is better. At least that seems to be the prevailing theme at this sprawling WeHo hot spot that has one of the most spectacular outdoor patios in L.A. (In fact, patio is too small of a word. Perhaps "plaza" is more suitable.) Stop by during the weekly happy hour from 5pm-7pm for more affordable bites and drinks.

Hello, gorgeous. This sparkly newcomer inside the Four Seasons is all about beautifully presented modern Italian food in an equally appealing setting. The leafy, outdoor patio--with its cascading fountain, sculptural heat lamps and loungey vibe--will no doubt be a favorite for summer.

This stunning new restaurant and lounge on the corner of Sunset + Gower is certainly heating things up. Sure, the multi-room interior is beautiful, but the lush, open-air patio with its tropical foliage, twinkling tuquoise glass tile and trickling fountain provide the perfect warm-weather playground.

This longtime rock star haven (everyone from Aerosmith to U2 has called it their home away from home) might be literal steps away from the Sunset Strip, but the outdoor restaurant tucked within its tranquil landscape will make you feel as though you've just slipped away to some off-the-grid tropical paradise.

Its name means "fire" in Spanish, but this breezy Mexican/Pan-Latin restaurant keeps things cool with its expansive waterfront views that look out onto downtown Long Beach, the Queen Mary and boats floating by under the bridge. Try the Sunday brunch when live music and dancing are also on the menu.

Whether sitting inside the amber-hued main dining room or out on the poolside patio next to the fire pit, guests are always treated to gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean at this OC hangout.

Still haven't figured out a reason to get over to Riverside? Well, this festive Mexican restaurant located at the historic (and charming) Mission Inn is just the ticket. The food is tasty, the shaded outdoor courtyard is fun and relaxing and the margaritas are plentiful.

Sure, this place can be a real hassle (parking fees and sweaty crowds are par for the course on weekends), but where else in Malibu can you plop yourself on an Adirondack to chill out, grub down, drink up and be merry right on the sand??

This sprawling space at the W Hotel Westwood is truly just like your own backyard. If your backyard had designer furniture, swanky cabanas, a heated pool lined with hi-tech chaise lounges, and servers bringing you all the yummy Cali-inspired food and creative cocktails that you can handle.

Eastsiders might not have ocean views, but who cares when you've got a tiled patio floor dotted with pale market umbrellas, fountains, wicker chairs and night-time heaters surrounded by dozens of blooming roses and one gigantic glowing glass rose sculpture? Did we mention the Cal-Med cuisine is among the best in town?

Walk past the little wooden door and you'll find what is quite possibly the most romantic restaurant in L.A. The famous outdoor courtyard is like an enchanted garden covered with bougainvillea hanging from the ceiling, ferns, trees and fountains lining the walls, a glowing backlit bar and candles flickering atop white linen-covered tables. The French-Med menu is just as impressive with organic, local and seasonal dishes.

Blink and you might miss it. Hidden down a narrow alleyway in Little Tokyo (look for the paper lanterns and string lights), this restaurant-bar lures visitors to its outdoor patio with Asian small plates and sushi, specialty drinks, DJs, live music and a 13-foot projection screen that plays the big game.