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Ysabel
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Ysabel
8.3
Ysabel hides behind an unassuming Fairfax entrance and opens into a multi-level courtyard lined with fireplaces and wraparound banquettes. It’s the quintessential West Hollywood date-night patio, pairing cocktails and new American plates with a design-forward space that feels made for lingering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Heirloom Tomato & Burrata, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Pan-Seared Branzino
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A hidden courtyard restaurant where fireplaces, tiers, and moody lighting do a lot of the date-night heavy lifting.
Who should go: Guests wanting a patio-centric, cocktail-driven night out.
When to visit: Golden hour into evening when the courtyard lighting feels most dramatic.
What to order: Heirloom Tomato & Burrata, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Branzino.
Insider tip: Request a courtyard table when booking; the multi-level patio is the draw here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings; nearby street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm on Fairfax and adjacent side streets.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished edge; elevated outfits fit the scene, though stylish jeans and a nice top are perfectly acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversations are doable at earlier seatings, but the courtyard buzz picks up significantly after 8pm.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins can face 45–75 minutes depending on patio demand; reservations are strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Ysabel does not traditionally operate a full lunch service; for early evening visits on weekdays, wait times are usually minimal with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options including seasonal vegetable plates and salads; vegetarian diners should have no trouble building a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited but doable; modifications may be required and staff is generally knowledgeable about what can be adjusted.
Gluten-free options: A handful of naturally gluten-free dishes and modifiable plates; the kitchen accommodates but does not have a dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the courtyard’s fireplaces, layered seating, and warm lighting create an instantly romantic atmosphere that takes pressure off the conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable. Early evenings on weekdays offer the best luck; prime-time weekends almost always require a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The vibe skews adult, the lighting is low, and the menu is geared toward date nights and groups. Suitable for teens, but not ideal for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric outdoor dining and cocktails in a design-forward setting — especially for guests who prioritize ambiance over experimental cuisine.
Skip if: You want a quiet, conversation-first meal or need extensive vegan and gluten-free accommodations; nearby spots with calmer rooms or more specialized menus may be better fits.
Ysabel
7.9
Ysabel hides behind a modest Fairfax entrance and opens into a multitier courtyard with fireplaces and mood lighting that leans more scene than quiet fine dining. Cocktails, crudos, and pastas anchor a menu that works as well for celebrations and birthdays as for stylish date nights or brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Crudo, Lemon Pasta, Strawberry Pancakes
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A multi-level courtyard restaurant where the patio is the star.
Who should go: Guests prioritizing ambiance and cocktails over hushed formality.
When to visit: Golden hour into evening for the best courtyard lighting.
What to order: Hamachi Crudo, Lemon Pasta, Strawberry Pancakes at brunch.
Insider tip: Request a courtyard table when reserving; interior seats feel secondary.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings; street parking on Fairfax and side streets is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a stylish lean; elevated outfits fit the scene-driven courtyard.
Noise level: Moderate to loud once the courtyard fills; conversations are possible but expect ambient buzz.
Weekend wait: 35–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak weather when the patio is in demand.
Weekday lunch: Lunch isn’t a major focus here; when open, waits are rare and seating is typically immediate.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, pastas, and crudos can accommodate vegetarians with ease.
Vegan options: Limited — a few share plates can be modified, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — some dishes can be prepared gluten-free, but confirm with staff due to shared prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a visually impressive, scene-forward patio with strong cocktails; conversation is possible but the buzzier atmosphere may not suit quiet, intimate first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — early evenings and late seatings offer the best shot at walk-in space, but the courtyard books up quickly on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the space is geared toward adults, cocktails, and late-night energy; older teens may fit in, but younger kids may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric outdoor dining, stylish group celebrations, and cocktail-driven nights where ambiance is as important as the food.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining, extensive dietary accommodations, or a meal where the food is the primary focus over the scene.
Ysabel
8.3
Ysabel hides behind an unmarked Fairfax entrance and opens into a multitier courtyard where most of the action happens outside under trees and twinkle lights. The menu skews toward cocktails, crudos, and pastas, so the outdoor tables feel built for long, social dinners more than hushed fine dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Heirloom Tomato & Burrata, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Hamachi Crudo
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A hidden courtyard restaurant where the multi-level outdoor patio is the main stage.
Who should go: Guests chasing cocktails, atmosphere, and people-watching.
When to visit: Golden hour into late evening for peak courtyard glow.
What to order: Heirloom Tomato & Burrata, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Hamachi Crudo.
Insider tip: Note “courtyard table preferred” in your reservation if you care most about the patio.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available most evenings (~$12–$15). Street parking on Fairfax and side streets is possible but tight after 7pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Most guests arrive in elevated outfits—think stylish tops, boots, and jackets.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on the patio. You can still hear your date but expect buzzier energy during prime hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for courtyard seating.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner-focused spot; early evening weekdays typically have minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several salads, vegetable starters, and pasta options work well.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be made vegan with modifications; ask your server.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—some crudos and mains are naturally gluten-free; gluten-free modifications available for select dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the courtyard’s lighting and layout create an intimate, stylish setting without feeling overly formal. It’s ideal for a date that balances ambiance with a lively energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, especially early on weekdays. On weekends, walk-ins often face a significant wait and courtyard tables are rarely available without booking ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The scene leans adult, cocktails-forward, and later-night. Older teens may be fine, but it’s not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric outdoor dining and stylish group hangs—few spots in the area deliver this level of courtyard ambiance and cocktail-forward energy.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, kid-friendly setting, or a menu with extensive vegan or gluten-free options.
Ysabel
8.4
Ysabel hides behind an unmarked Fairfax entrance and opens into a multi-level courtyard of candlelight, trees, and cocktails, making it one of West Hollywood’s most recognizable social dining rooms. The menu leans New American with crudos, pastas, and share plates built to support long, cocktail-heavy nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna Tartare on crispy rice, Hamachi Crudo, Brussels Sprouts with kimchi-style seasoning
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A hidden courtyard restaurant where the patio, bar, and people-watching create a built-in party.
Who should go: Cocktail-first diners who still care about nicely plated food.
When to visit: Golden hour into late night for peak courtyard energy.
What to order: Spicy Tuna Tartare, Hamachi Crudo, Brussels Sprouts.
Insider tip: Note “courtyard seating” in your reservation request if you want to be outside under the lights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on weekends; otherwise expect tight street parking on Fairfax and neighboring residential blocks—plan extra time.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; elevated outfits fit the scene, but stylish jeans and a nice top work.
Noise level: Moderate to loud depending on the hour—courtyard tables are lively but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for courtyard seating.
Weekday lunch: N/A — Ysabel does not serve weekday lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple small plates and pastas can be made vegetarian; options are solid but not extensive.
Vegan options: Limited; expect 1–2 adaptable dishes but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be prepared gluten-free; alert your server for modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its moody courtyard lighting, strong cocktails, and tucked-away entrance create an intimate, impressive setting. Go earlier in the evening if you prefer lower noise.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect a wait during peak weekend hours. Walk-ins have the best luck early evening or late night; asking for bar seating improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—the vibe is adult, cocktail-focused, and best suited for late-night groups or dates. Teens may be fine, but it’s not designed for young children.
Best For
Better for: Atmosphere-driven nights out where cocktails, music, and a gorgeous courtyard matter as much as the food.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, strict dietary accommodations, or a meal where the food—not the scene—is the main attraction.
Ysabel
8.3
Ysabel is a courtyard-focused New American restaurant where seasonal produce and house pastas meet a strong cocktail list in a split-level indoor–outdoor space. The menu leans into fresh, produce-driven plates that work as well for a celebratory brunch as for late-night date dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Vodka Rigatoni, Whole Branzino
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A leafy, multi-level patio restaurant pairing seasonal New American cooking with a high-energy bar scene.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting seasonal plates in a buzzy courtyard.
When to visit: Late weekend evenings or Saturday brunch for maximum scene.
What to order: Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Vodka Rigatoni, Whole Branzino.
Insider tip: Request patio seating by the fireplace if you want the most photogenic tables and softer lighting.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings for a fee, and street parking on Fairfax and adjacent residential blocks can be tight after 7pm. Plan extra time if relying on street parking.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish. Jeans are fine but most diners opt for elevated outfits, especially on weekends.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. Courtyard tables allow normal conversation, but the bar-adjacent sections can get louder later in the night.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation, potentially longer during peak patio seasons.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait since brunch and dinner are the main draws.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — many produce-driven small plates and pastas work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — usually 1–2 vegan-friendly dishes, though the kitchen can often modify sides and salads.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodation — several naturally gluten-free mains and the kitchen can adjust some items on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The patio lighting, leafy courtyard, and comfortable volume make it ideal for a conversational first date that still feels elevated.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect a wait on weekends. Walk-ins fare better at early dinner seatings or late-night windows. The bar area sometimes opens up quicker than the patio.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The scene skews adult, especially during dinner and late-night hours. Older teens are fine, but families with small children may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Stylish outdoor dining with polished cocktails and scene-forward weekend energy — stronger ambiance than many nearby New American spots.
Skip if: You want a quiet, low-key neighborhood meal or need extensive vegan options. Consider alternatives with calmer rooms or more specialized dietary menus.
Ysabel
8.4
Ysabel is a courtyard-focused New American restaurant where a leafy patio, strong cocktails, and polished service create a sophisticated backdrop for relationship-building lunches and long afternoon meetings. It leans social and scene-y, but earlier reservations keep the focus on conversation over laptops and flatbreads.
Must-Try Dishes:
Burrata Prosciutto, Hand Cut Rigatoni, Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A stylish, courtyard restaurant where New American plates and cocktails support deal-making as easily as celebrations.
Who should go: Teams courting clients who enjoy buzzy, design-forward restaurants.
When to visit: Early brunch or first seatings to talk before the evening scene ramps up.
What to order: Burrata starter, Hand Cut Rigatoni, Crispy Brussels Sprouts.
Insider tip: Ask for a patio table along the edge of the courtyard to avoid the loudest central tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available during peak hours (~$12–$15). Street parking on Fairfax and nearby residential blocks is possible but competitive after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish; polished jeans are fine, but most guests dress trend-forward.
Noise level: Moderate during weekday lunch, rising to loud during evenings; early lunch meetings can converse comfortably.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on patio demand.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait if you arrive before 1pm; reservations still recommended for courtyard seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — salads, pastas, and vegetable plates that work well for lunch.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — typically 1–2 menu items can be made vegan with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be prepared gluten-free; servers are used to GF requests but there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the leafy courtyard and subtly glamorous design create an inviting setting that feels special without being formal. Go earlier in the evening or at lunch if you want easier conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? At weekday lunch, often yes. For evenings and weekends, walk-ins are possible but usually entail a wait, especially for patio tables. Reservations are strongly recommended if timing matters.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — the space is adult-leaning and sceney, but older kids and teens are fine during early brunch or lunch. Evenings are less suited for young children due to noise and crowd.
Best For
Better for: Design-forward lunch meetings, courtyard ambiance, and polished cocktails that elevate mid-day business dining above nearby casual New American spots.
Skip if: You need a quiet, highly focused environment or extensive vegan options — several nearby restaurants offer calmer rooms or more specialized menus.
Ysabel
8.6
Ysabel is a courtyard-focused cocktail restaurant where sculpted trees, twinkling lights, and a serious drinks list make happy hour feel like a full-blown night out. The New American menu is strong enough to turn pre-dinner drinks into a full dinner with pastas, flatbreads, and shared plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hand Cut Rigatoni, Burrata Prosciutto, Brussels Sprouts
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A hidden courtyard restaurant where cocktails and design steal the show.
Who should go: Guests who want scene-y drinks with restaurant-level food.
When to visit: First seating or early evening to enjoy the patio before crowds.
What to order: Burrata prosciutto, hand cut rigatoni, Brussels sprouts.
Insider tip: Sit near the bar side of the courtyard for faster cocktail refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the entrance (typically $12–$15); limited metered street parking on Fairfax and residential blocks fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; elevated outfits fit the courtyard scene. Jeans are fine if paired with polished tops/shoes.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak happy hour; conversational at earlier seatings, louder once the bar fills.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes for walk-ins; the bar and patio seats fill early due to happy hour crowds.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable, as Ysabel is a dinner and evening-focused restaurant.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple appetizers, pastas, and sides can be made or already come vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 items can be made vegan; best to ask the server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free options available, including select small plates and mains; pastas are not consistently GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the courtyard lighting, cocktails, and intimate layout create a strong first-date atmosphere. Go early if you prefer easier conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — early evening walk-ins may score patio or bar-adjacent seats, but prime hours almost always require a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal — the ambience skews adult, with a cocktail-heavy crowd and limited child-friendly menu options. Teens are fine, younger kids less so.
Best For
Better for: Design-forward cocktails, ambient outdoor dining, and a polished social scene where drinks naturally turn into dinner.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, family-friendly environment, or value-focused pricing; consider a more casual New American spot instead.