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Valley Inn Restaurant and Martini Bar
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Valley Inn Restaurant and Martini Bar
7.9
Since 1947, this Valley landmark has served classic American steakhouse fare in pin-cushion leather booths under dark wood paneling. The 1800s-era English bar and celebrity photos create nostalgic Old Hollywood atmosphere, while dishes like country fried chicken and prime rib maintain traditions spanning seven decades.
Must-Try Dishes:
Famous Garlic Cheese Bread, Country Fried Chicken, Prime Rib French Dip
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: 78-year Valley institution where Cary Grant once dined, now serving fourth generation
Who should go: Families celebrating grandma's birthday or nostalgia-seekers wanting Old Hollywood
When to visit: Dinner for full traditional experience, bar anytime for martinis
What to order: Garlic cheese bread, fried chicken, prime rib, classic martini
Insider tip: Request John Wooden Room for private parties up to 40 guests
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant, street parking available on Ventura Blvd
Dress code: Business casual to dressy - collared shirts recommended, no shorts
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - leather booths dampen sound, easy conversation
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - side salads, baked potato, sautéed vegetables available
Vegan options: Very limited - custom veggie plate upon request, traditional menu
Gluten-free options: Some options - prime rib, grilled fish without breading, communicate with server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for second or third dates when you want to impress - the Old Hollywood atmosphere and dim lighting create romance, but the traditional steakhouse vibe skews older so better if you both appreciate classic dining
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6:30pm) usually fine, but Friday/Saturday evenings strongly recommend reservations - bar seating available walk-in if dining room full
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (10+) and special occasions - quiet atmosphere means very young children may struggle, but families celebrating milestones are welcomed and common, especially Sunday dinners
How does it compare to other Valley steakhouses? More nostalgic and less flashy than modern steakhouses - choose Valley Inn for history and tradition over trendy cuts or scene, prices 20-30% lower than high-end competitors
Can I just grab drinks at the bar? Absolutely - the 1800s English bar is perfect for solo martinis or pre-dinner cocktails, full menu available at bar, regulars post up here nightly
Best For
Better for: Multi-generational celebrations, nostalgic dining experiences, classic American steakhouse done right without pretension, reasonable prices for quality prime rib and traditional preparations
Skip if: You want modern cuisine or Instagram-worthy plating, need extensive vegetarian/vegan options, prefer loud energetic scenes, looking for cutting-edge culinary innovation
Valley Inn Restaurant and Martini Bar
7.9
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Date Night Magic
Comfort Food Classics
Step into 1947 at this San Fernando Valley landmark featuring an antique bar from the 1800s and classic American steakhouse fare. Dark wood, leather booths, and white tablecloths create nostalgic elegance, while generous portions of prime rib and comfort classics keep locals returning for decades.
Must-Try Dishes:
Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Country Fried Chicken, Garlic Cheese Bread
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Valley landmark since 1947 with custom 1800s bar and old-school elegance
Who should go: Traditionalists seeking classic American steakhouse with nostalgic atmosphere
When to visit: Dinner Tuesday through Saturday for full bar and dining experience
What to order: Prime rib, chicken Milanese, grilled salmon with cucumber dill
Insider tip: The custom-crafted antique bar from the 1800s is the restaurant's centerpiece
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot on-site with ample spaces - rare convenience for Sherman Oaks dinner spot
Dress code: Business casual recommended - locals dress up for the old-school vibe, jeans feel out of place
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - leather booths and carpeting absorb sound, easy conversation throughout
Weekend wait: 30-45 min Friday/Saturday without reservation, book ahead for prime time
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - pasta primavera and salads available but this is a meat-focused menu
Vegan options: Very limited - side salads and vegetables only, not the right choice for vegans
Gluten-free options: Possible - grilled proteins and vegetables work, but inform server about cross-contamination
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - romantic lighting, comfortable booths for conversation, and the historic bar gives you something to talk about. Not so fancy it's intimidating, but polished enough to impress.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch yes, weekday dinner likely. Friday/Saturday dinner risky - regulars book their favorite booths weeks ahead. Call ahead or accept a bar seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes but better for tweens and teens - the formal atmosphere and slower service suit older kids who can appreciate the experience. Not a high chair and crayons kind of place.
Best For
Better for: Choose Valley Inn for authentic old-school steakhouse nostalgia, generous portions at fair prices, and that rare San Fernando Valley combination of quality food with neighborhood loyalty spanning generations
Skip if: You want modern cuisine, creative presentations, or trendy vibes - this is deliberately stuck in 1947 and proud of it. Also skip if you need vegetarian-forward options or fast service.
Valley Inn Restaurant and Martini Bar
8.4
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Hidden Gems Heaven
Since 1947, this Valley landmark serves traditional American steakhouse fare in an old-Hollywood atmosphere complete with a custom-crafted 1800s bar. The dark wood booths, white tablecloths, and retro charm transport diners to another era while delivering consistently excellent comfort food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Rib, Chicken Milanese, Filet Mignon
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: 78-year Valley institution with authentic old-school glamour and an antique bar from the 1800s
Who should go: Nostalgia seekers, date nights, special occasions
When to visit: Dinner service Tuesday-Sunday for full atmosphere
What to order: Prime rib, garlic cheese bread, country fried chicken
Insider tip: The bar attracts a surprisingly young crowd enjoying craft cocktails in historic surroundings