Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Downtown LA (90017)
6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.4
Modern Southern-coastal cooking in a polished DTLA room with a covered, heated patio that makes outdoor dining a year-round move. The kitchen nails comfort-forward plates with seafood lift, while cocktails and music keep the vibe lively without tipping chaotic. A strong choice for lingering al fresco dinners that still feel city-sharp.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp & grits, Fried catfish, House cornbread
What makes it special: Southern-coastal comfort with a calmer downtown feel.
8.4
A rooftop Japanese room with skyline views and a staff that’s used to navigating gluten-free requests. Sushi, sashimi, and robata plates are the safe lane, and servers will steer you away from soy-based pitfalls and suggest swaps. The vibe is date-night sleek, with food that stays solid even under heavy traffic.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sashimi assortment with GF soy, Robata salmon or black cod, Crispy rice with spicy tuna (GF sauce request)
What makes it special: High-rise sushi and robata with staff trained to accommodate gluten-free diners.
#3
JOEY DTLA
8.3
A polished, high-energy Bloc anchor where families can order across a huge comfort-plus-modern menu without drama. The patio and open dining room fit strollers and bigger kid energy, and the kitchen’s range keeps picky eaters and adventurous parents both happy. Expect noise and a scene, but reliable execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Parmesan truffle fries, steak frites, sushi rolls
What makes it special: Big-tent menu in a downtown patio-driven setting.
#4
Spire 73
8.3
The tallest open-air rooftop bar in the city, built around fire pits and sweeping skyline views that make outdoor seating the whole point. Food is upscale lounge fare—better as shareables alongside cocktails than as a full dinner destination. Service keeps the pace smooth, especially during golden hour rushes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Tacos, Spire Burger, Seasonal Mezze Board
What makes it special: Open-air 73rd-floor patio with unmatched DTLA views.
8.0
A flashy downtown Mexican spot where outdoor seating and a full bar drive the experience as much as the kitchen. Expect bold, party-friendly plates meant for sharing, with cocktails doing heavy lifting for the night-out vibe. Best when you want patio energy and celebratory pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster enchiladas, Birria quesatacos, Signature mezcal margarita
What makes it special: DTLA’s nightlife-leaning Mexican happy hour with showy cocktails.
Worthy Picks
A relaxed hotel rooftop with outdoor tables that capture a softer side of DTLA, especially in early evening. The menu leans bar-forward—flatbreads, bowls, and snacks that pair easily with cocktails. It’s a dependable open-air perch for casual hangs rather than a culinary centerpiece.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rooftop Flatbread, Crispy Chicken Sliders, Seasonal Cocktail Pitcher
What makes it special: Easygoing rooftop patio built for cocktails and skyline air.