0 Followers
Perch LA
Master Critic Reviews (11 Lists)
Perch LA
8.6
A French-inspired rooftop bistro that pairs skyline drama with approachable brasserie staples. The kitchen leans classic—steak frites, mussels, roast chicken—executed reliably at high volume, while the real draw is the terrace energy and panoramic DTLA views. Come for golden-hour cocktails and stay for a lively, view-forward dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, Moules frites, Duck confit
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Rooftop French bistro dining with one of DTLA’s best views.
Who should go: View chasers and after-work diners.
When to visit: Sunset into late evening for peak mood.
What to order: Steak frites, mussels, a seasonal cocktail.
Insider tip: Request an outer-rail table when booking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available in the building’s garage and is the most reliable option; street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; polished jeans are fine but most guests opt for elevated outfits due to the rooftop setting.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at dinner, but terrace tables get louder as the night progresses.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for terrace seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal or no wait; rooftop traffic is lighter midday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options—several salads, appetizers, and pasta dishes can accommodate vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes contain butter or cream; expect 1–2 workable items with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the rooftop views, golden-hour lighting, and brasserie comfort food create an easy, romantic setting without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, but expect a wait. Walk-ins are possible at the bar and interior tables, while terrace spots almost always require patience or a well-timed early arrival.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—families are not uncommon earlier in the evening, but the rooftop scene skews adult and gets lively later. Best for teens rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Skyline views, date-night ambience, large-group celebrations, and a lively French-leaning rooftop experience at a more accessible price point than high-end DTLA counterparts.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining, highly traditional French technique, or need extensive vegan options—other Downtown spots will serve those needs better.
Perch LA
8.7
On a rooftop above Pershing Square, Perch’s French-leaning menu hides some very serious fry work behind the skyline views. Truffle cheese fries and late-night truffle poutine-style fries turn this date-night destination into one of downtown’s most decadent places to eat potatoes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Perch Truffle Cheese Fries, Truffle Poutine Fries, Kids Chicken Strips with Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: French-inspired rooftop where truffle fries meet sweeping city views.
Who should go: Date nights, out-of-town guests, and special-occasion groups.
When to visit: Golden hour into dinner for sunset and city lights.
What to order: Perch truffle cheese fries, steak frites, a classic cocktail.
Insider tip: Book outdoor tables and pair fries with late-night drinks to avoid full dinner spend.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available in the building’s garage and is the most reliable option; street parking around Pershing Square is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—people tend to wear elevated outfits for rooftop photos and date nights; jeans are fine if paired with nicer tops or jackets.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially outdoors; you can hold a conversation at most tables, but weekend nights bring a louder social buzz.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for outdoor tables with skyline views.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; rooftop traffic is lighter and more relaxed during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including fries, salads, cheese plates, and select entrees; easy to build a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—fries can be ordered without cheese, and a few sides/salads work with modifications, but dedicated vegan mains are scarce.
Gluten-free options: Multiple marked options including fries and certain entrees; kitchen is accommodating but does not guarantee cross-contamination control.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—rooftop views, cocktails, and shareable fries create an easy conversation backdrop. It’s ideal for making a strong first impression without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect long waits on weekends. Walk-ins should aim for early evenings or late nights; bar seating is your best no-reservation fallback.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—the rooftop, late-night crowd, and cocktail-forward atmosphere skew adult. Older teens may be fine, but families with young kids may prefer alternatives.
Best For
Better for: Rooftop ambiance, truffle-forward fries, and special-occasion energy—few downtown spots combine skyline views with this level of vibe and comfort food indulgence.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, strict dietary accommodations, or fast casual pricing; the experience here leans social, scenic, and spendy.
Perch LA
8.6
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Brunch Bliss Spots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Rooftop Views Revelry
Perch is a long-running French-leaning rooftop where brunch is as much about skyline views as croque madames and steak frites. The food is solid rather than boundary-pushing, but the combination of live energy, classic brunch dishes, and panoramic DTLA scenery keeps it in heavy rotation for celebratory daytime meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites with brunch eggs, Brioche French toast, Croque madame
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Rooftop brunch institution pairing classic French-leaning plates with sweeping DTLA views.
Who should go: Groups celebrating birthdays, visitors, and view-obsessed brunch lovers.
When to visit: Late-morning weekend reservations for daylight views without full evening crowds.
What to order: Steak frites with eggs, brioche French toast, croque madame.
Insider tip: Budget extra time for the elevator and host stand; getting to the rooftop can take longer than expected.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking is available in the Pershing Square–adjacent garage; valet is typically offered during peak brunch hours. Street parking is limited and competitive by 10 a.m. on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished edge—most guests lean dressy for photos. Jeans are fine if paired with a nicer top or jacket.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation is doable at smaller tables, but the rooftop buzz, music, and celebratory groups raise volume during peak brunch.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes if you arrive without a reservation, especially during golden hour.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait; rooftop seating often available with little delay.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—avocado toast, salads, French toast, and several egg dishes work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—modifications can create vegan-friendly plates (e.g., salads without cheese, sides of fruit), but there’s no dedicated vegan entrée.
Gluten-free options: Several options can be made gluten-free (omelets, salads, protein-focused plates). Bread-heavy brunch items are not easily substituted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want an impressive, view-driven setting with ambience; less ideal if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate conversation, as the rooftop tends to be lively.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect a wait on weekends. Early arrivals (before 10 a.m.) have the best chance of snagging a walk-in table.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids and teens; younger children may find the loud rooftop environment and long elevator queues challenging.
Best For
Better for: Celebratory brunches, skyline views, and classic French-leaning staples in a high-energy rooftop setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet morning, cutting-edge cuisine, or fast in-and-out service—the rooftop logistics and crowd energy aren’t optimized for speed or serenity.
Perch LA
8.8
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Brunch Bliss Spots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Rooftop Views Revelry
Perch is a long-running French-leaning rooftop where brunch is as much about skyline views as croque madames and steak frites. The food is solid rather than boundary-pushing, but the combination of live-ish daytime energy, classic plates, and panoramic DTLA scenery keeps it in heavy rotation for celebratory brunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croque madame, Steak frites with eggs, Brioche French toast
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: French-accented rooftop institution pairing classic brunch dishes with sweeping DTLA views.
Who should go: Groups celebrating birthdays, visitors, and view-focused brunch lovers.
When to visit: Weekend late mornings with reservations for daylight skyline views.
What to order: Croque madame, steak and eggs frites, brioche French toast.
Insider tip: Book the earliest brunch slot for easier elevator queues and softer lighting for photos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Use the Pershing Square Garage directly across the street; expect ~$9–$12 for daytime hours. Valet is occasionally offered during peak brunch weekends. Street parking is limited and highly competitive.
Dress code: Smart casual with a dressy lean — brunch outfits, sundresses, button-downs, and polished sneakers all fit the rooftop vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially outdoors; conversation is doable but expect background music and crowd energy.
Weekend wait: Not applicable for brunch, but rooftop evenings typically experience 45–60 minutes without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: For brunch-adjacent daytime visits, weekdays have minimal waits; you can often walk in before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several egg dishes, salads, and French toast options work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — you’ll find 1–2 plant-forward dishes, but most brunch items rely heavily on eggs, butter, or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — certain proteins and salads are naturally GF; however, cross-contact is possible due to the kitchen setup.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the rooftop setting, skyline views, and polished brunch vibes make it memorable without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weekdays or very early on weekends, but weekend brunch almost always requires reservations to avoid long elevator lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — children are welcome, but the rooftop environment skews adult, celebratory, and occasionally loud. Best for older kids rather than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Scenic brunches, birthday celebrations, and out-of-town guests who want a DTLA skyline moment.
Skip if: You want quiet, quick, or experimental brunch — opt for a neighborhood café or chef-driven spot instead.
Perch LA
8.8
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Rooftop Views Revelry
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Birthday & Celebration Central
Perch tops a historic building above Pershing Square with glowing fire pits, skyline views, and live music nights that feel tailor-made for anniversaries and first dates. The French-leaning bistro menu and cocktails are secondary to the setting, but still deliver a polished night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites, French Onion Soup, Charcuterie and Cheese Board
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Rooftop French-inspired dining with sweeping DTLA skyline views and live music.
Who should go: Romantic pairs prioritizing atmosphere and city views over experimentation.
When to visit: Book just before sunset, then linger through the evening.
What to order: Steak frites, French onion soup, shared charcuterie board.
Insider tip: Reserve indoors but ask to start with drinks on the terrace for sunset.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is offered in the building’s garage and is the most reliable option; nearby street parking is scarce and competitive, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; most guests opt for elevated outfits suitable for rooftop photos and special occasions.
Noise level: Moderate to loud—live music and rooftop chatter add energy, but you can still carry a date-night conversation with slight effort.
Weekend wait: Expect potential delays of 30–60 minutes even with a reservation; walk-ins can wait significantly longer.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service here; early weekday evenings generally have shorter waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several French-leaning vegetable dishes and pastas are available.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes contain butter or cheese, but a couple of items can be modified.
Gluten-free options: Yes—select entrées and starters can be prepared gluten-free with advance notice.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its skyline views, fireplaces, and romantic lighting create effortless ambiance that helps first dates feel memorable and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible but unpredictable. The bar and lounge areas allow walk-ins, but you may wait 45–90 minutes on busy nights; arrive early for the best chance.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—this is a rooftop, cocktail-forward, late-evening environment best suited for adults and celebrations rather than families with young children.
Best For
Better for: Atmosphere-driven nights out where views, live music, and rooftop romance matter more than culinary exploration.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, cutting-edge cuisine, or have strict dietary constraints that require broad menu flexibility.
Perch LA
8.6
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Rooftop Views Revelry
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Live Music Showtime
Perch is a French-inspired rooftop bistro perched above Pershing Square, best known for its sweeping downtown skyline views, fire pits, and live music nights. Diners come here as much for the atmosphere as the food, making it a classic choice for birthdays, engagements, and visiting out-of-towners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, French onion soup, Charcuterie and cheese board
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Skyline views, fire pits, and a French-leaning menu built for celebrations.
Who should go: Groups and couples prioritizing views and atmosphere for big nights.
When to visit: Time reservations for sunset, then linger through live music sets.
What to order: Steak frites, French onion soup, shared charcuterie or dessert.
Insider tip: Book indoor dining but request to start with drinks on the terrace if weather allows.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available in the building’s attached garage (generally $12–$20 depending on event nights). Street parking around Pershing Square is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a lean toward dressy. Most guests wear elevated outfits for photos and celebrations; jeans are fine if paired with polished tops or jackets.
Noise level: Moderate to loud, especially during live music hours. Expect energetic chatter and music but still enough clarity for group conversations.
Weekend wait: High demand — even with a reservation expect a short check-in queue and potential 10–20 minute delay. Without a reservation, waits can stretch to 45–90 minutes for terrace seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally smooth — often seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — salads, soups, and several mains and starters can be made or ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a few salads and vegetable plates can be adapted, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — several proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions for sauces and sides.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a memorable setting — the rooftop views and ambience create easy conversation starters. It’s less ideal for very quiet or intimate first dates given the lively atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect a wait during peak dinner hours. The bar and terrace operate with more flexibility, so arriving early (before 6pm) improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Partially — older kids and teens will enjoy the views, but the space is designed for adults, with evening crowds, cocktails, and live music. Best for families earlier in the evening or at lunch.
Best For
Better for: Skyline views, celebratory energy, and photo-worthy moments — ideal for birthdays, visitors, and big nights out.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, experimental fine dining, or a menu-first experience; places like Orsa & Winston or Camphor suit those needs better.
Perch LA
8.6
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Rooftop Views Revelry
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Live Music Showtime
Perch is a French-inspired rooftop bistro perched atop the historic Pershing Square Building, with two floors of indoor-outdoor dining and lounge space overlooking the downtown skyline. Since opening in 2011, it’s become a go-to for sunset dinners, special-occasion cocktails, and brunch with live music, where the view and atmosphere are as big a draw as the classic bistro plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, Croque Madame (brunch)
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Skyline-facing French bistro and lounge spanning two rooftop levels with live music.
Who should go: Groups and couples planning scenic, celebratory downtown nights.
When to visit: Book golden hour into evening to catch sunset then city lights.
What to order: French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, Croque Madame at brunch.
Insider tip: Reserve a dining table first, then move upstairs to the 16th-floor lounge for post-dinner drinks by the fire pits.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available at the Pershing Square Building entrance and runs around $12–$20 depending on time; nearby structures on Hill and Olive offer paid parking. Street parking is scarce after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual with a slight dressy lean. Jeans are fine if paired with a nicer top; many guests dress up for photos and celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate to loud. Live music and rooftop bar energy mean you can hold a conversation at dinner tables, but upstairs lounge areas get lively after sunset.
Weekend wait: High demand. Without a reservation, expect 45–75 minutes, especially for prime sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait; often seated immediately outside peak holidays or major events downtown.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — French onion soup (request vegetarian version if available), salads, cheese boards, and a few pasta or brunch options.
Vegan options: Limited — typically salads and a few modify-to-vegan dishes; best to call ahead for the most up-to-date options.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — some mains and salads can be prepared gluten-free, but pastries, croque dishes, and many brunch items are not. Inform your server early.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the views, fire pits, and ambiance create an impressive setting. Just note the noise level can rise later in the evening, so earlier seatings offer better conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but timing is everything. Early evenings on weekdays are your best shot; weekend sunset hours almost always require a reservation. The upstairs lounge, however, is typically first-come-first-served if you’re flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Partially. Brunch hours are more suitable for families; later evenings skew adult with louder music, cocktails, and tighter spaces. No kids’ menu and limited stroller room.
Best For
Better for: Best for sweeping skyline views, celebratory nights out, and stylish rooftop energy that mixes French bistro dining with lounge culture.
Skip if: Skip if you want a quiet, conversation-first dinner or if you prefer chef-driven menus over atmosphere-driven experiences. Those seeking fully vegan or gluten-free menus may prefer alternatives.
Perch LA
8.6
Vibes:
Rooftop Views Revelry
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Birthday & Celebration Central
Live Music Showtime
Perch is a French-inspired rooftop bistro and lounge perched atop the historic Pershing Square Building, with multi-level terraces looking out over the downtown skyline. Since opening in 2011, it’s become one of DTLA’s signature outdoor dining spots for sunset dinners, cocktails, and brunch where the view and live music matter as much as the menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
French onion soup, Steak frites, Charcuterie and cheese board
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Multi-level rooftop terraces with classic French-leaning menus and skyline views.
Who should go: Groups and couples planning celebratory downtown nights with views.
When to visit: Golden hour into evening for sunset, lights, and music.
What to order: French onion soup, steak frites, signature cocktails.
Insider tip: Request terrace seating when reserving; arrive early for easier elevator access.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Garage parking in the Pershing Square structure is the most reliable; valet is sometimes offered during peak nights. Street parking is limited and difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are acceptable but most guests opt for elevated outfits, especially at night.
Noise level: Moderate to loud, especially on terrace levels with live music; conversation is possible but expect some raised-voice moments during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, particularly around sunset.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal or no wait, with easier access to terrace seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, French onion soup, sides, and a few mains can accommodate vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—expect 1–2 naturally vegan dishes and the ability to modify some sides.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several items can be prepared gluten-free; staff is accustomed to navigating substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—sunset views, live music, and a lively rooftop setting create instant atmosphere. Just note that it can be loud, so choose an earlier reservation if you prefer easier conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—walk-ins are accepted, but waits can be long during golden hour or weekends. The lounge area is sometimes easier to access for drinks and light bites.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally suited for adults and older teens due to rooftop layouts, crowds, and late-night energy. Not ideal for small children or strollers.
Best For
Better for: Unmatched skyline views and a multi-level outdoor layout that feels celebratory without being overly formal.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, strictly vegan options, or easy parking—consider alternatives with calmer dining rooms or more robust dietary accommodations.
Perch LA
8.8
Perch is a French-inspired rooftop restaurant and bar overlooking the Historic Core, known for skyline views, steak frites, and a late-night crowd that blends diners and cocktail seekers. It’s one of downtown’s go-to spots when you want a full dinner that can roll into drinks and music well past typical restaurant hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, Filet mignon au poivre, Chilean seabass with risotto
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Skyline-facing rooftop where French bistro plates meet cocktails and DJs.
Who should go: Groups or dates wanting dinner that becomes a night out.
When to visit: Weekend late evenings for peak views and energy.
What to order: Steak frites, filet mignon, a round of signature cocktails.
Insider tip: Arrive before sunset to secure terrace seating without long waits.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the building’s entrance (typically $12–$15). Street parking is scarce after 6pm and nearby garages fill quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Dressy casual is safest—stylish tops, jackets, and heeled boots fit in. Jeans are acceptable but should lean polished.
Noise level: Loud during peak late-night hours due to DJs and rooftop bar energy; conversation is manageable in earlier dinner windows.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for outdoor terrace seating.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Perch is primarily a dinner and late-night destination, but early evening weekdays typically have minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, mushroom-based plates, and a few French vegetable preparations are available.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for modifications; some salads and sides can be adapted but there is no dedicated vegan section.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—several proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions but there is no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic skyline views, a lively atmosphere, and strong cocktails make it a memorable spot, though it can get loud later in the night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—walk-ins are accepted, but waits can be long on weekends. Arriving before sunset or choosing indoor seating improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—Perch leans toward adult nightlife, especially after 8pm. Early dinner hours may work for older teens, but it’s not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Unmatched rooftop views, a seamless dinner-to-night-out flow, and a social, celebratory atmosphere that few Downtown spots can replicate.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, strictly vegan options, or quick in-and-out service—this is a destination best enjoyed when you have time and want a scene.
Perch LA
8.8
Perch is a French-inspired rooftop restaurant and bar towering above Pershing Square, pairing skyline views with a deep happy hour menu of small plates, wine, and cocktails. From 4–6pm on weekdays, both the 15th-floor dining room and rooftop patios fill with downtown office workers, date nights, and visitors chasing discounted drinks and shareable bites before sunset.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ahi Tuna Tartare Crisp, Brioche Beef Slider, Linguica Parker House Roll
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Rooftop French-leaning small plates and cocktails with sweeping DTLA views and a robust weekday happy hour.
Who should go: Anyone wanting skyline views with discounted drinks and bites
When to visit: Weekdays 4–6pm to catch golden hour happy hour
What to order: Ahi Tuna Tartare Crisp, Brioche Beef Sliders, Wild Mushroom Arancini
Insider tip: Head up right at 4pm to snag rail seating before the after-work crowd arrives.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the building garage (typically $12–$15). Limited metered street parking around Pershing Square fills quickly after 4pm, and most nearby surface lots run $8–$20 depending on time of day.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Jeans are fine if paired with nicer shoes/tops, but most guests wear elevated evening outfits due to the rooftop setting.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. You can generally hold a conversation indoors, but the rooftop gets louder during sunset and happy hour rush.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for rooftop seating.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; the main crowds come later for happy hour and dinner.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including mushroom arancini, salads, and cheese-forward small plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; expect 1–2 vegetable-based plates that can be modified, though the menu leans buttery and French.
Gluten-free options: A handful of items can be made gluten-free on request, but confirm with staff since some fried items share oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—sunset views, cozy corners, and a buzzy but romantic atmosphere make it ideal for a first date that feels elevated without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes during happy hour if you arrive right at 4pm. After 5pm, expect a wait for prime rooftop spots; bar seating usually opens up faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The space skews adult, especially during happy hour and evening service. Older teens may be fine, but it's not designed for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Skyline views, romantic happy hour dates, and a more polished rooftop vibe compared to casual DTLA rooftops.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, need extensive vegan options, or prefer budget-friendly drinks without the scene.
Perch LA
8.6
Perch is a French-American rooftop restaurant overlooking Pershing Square, known for skyline views, live music, and a steak-heavy bistro menu. With steak frites, ribeye, and filet mignon alongside cocktails and a lively terrace, it works as a classic downtown date-night steak spot with strong atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites, Filet Mignon au Poivre, Ribeye with Sauce au Poivre
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A French-leaning rooftop bistro where steaks share the spotlight with sweeping DTLA views, fire pits, and nightly music.
Who should go: Couples wanting skyline views with classic steakhouse comforts.
When to visit: Book sunset or early evening for golden-hour views and music.
What to order: Steak frites, filet mignon au poivre, truffle cheese fries.
Insider tip: Note rooftop seating and special occasions in your reservation, then arrive early to improve chances of a terrace table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available in the building’s garage (typically $12–$15); nearby lots run $8–$20. Street parking is scarce and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—dates often wear elevated outfits for photos and the rooftop setting. Jeans are fine if paired with polished tops or jackets.
Noise level: Moderate to loud. Indoor dining is conversational early; terrace areas get louder with music and crowds after 7pm.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for terrace seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait, though rooftop elevator queues can add 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including salads, truffle fries, roasted vegetables, and some pasta or grain bowls depending on seasonal menus.
Vegan options: Limited. A couple of sides and salads can be adapted, but mains are sparse—best to clarify with your server.
Gluten-free options: Many proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff can modify select items, but cross-contact is possible due to the busy kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—skyline views, cocktails, and live music create instant atmosphere. It works especially well for dates who appreciate energy and scenic rooftop settings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes. Walk-ins are accepted, but waits can be long during peak hours. The bar and lounge areas offer a better chance for unreserved seating, especially pre-sunset.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. Early seatings are manageable for older kids or teens, but the rooftop setting, music volume, and late-night crowd skew adult-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Rooftop skyline views, date-night ambiance, and a lively vibe that feels celebratory even on weekdays.
Skip if: You want a quiet, traditional steakhouse experience or strongly prioritize vegan/vegetarian menus.