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Category: Romantic Restaurants

  • On the Search for Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles? Here are my Top 5

    On the Search for Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles? Here are my Top 5

    With so many options, choosing a romantic restaurant in Los Angeles can feel overwhelming, so here are five favorites that reliably set the mood for a date night or proposal dinner, each with a little about the atmosphere and what makes it special.

    There are so many romantic restaurants in Los Angeles, making it can be challenging to know where to go. So, here are five excellent romantic restaurants in Los Angeles: République, Perch, The Little Door, Il Cielo, & Mélisse. Each of these romantic restaurants will create a dreamy date and might be the perfect spot to propose.

    1. République

    Located in Los Angeles, République is a delicious French-inspired restaurant. République is in a restored 1920s building with high ceilings and ornate architecture. The dining area is spacious and masterfully combines its history and a modern style.

    As soon as you enter République, you’re met with a bustling and warm atmosphere that draws you in. The staff are amazing at République, and have outstanding knowledge and are able to answer any questions you might have. You can tell the true passion their staff has by their willingness to help, their attentiveness, and their ability to guide you through the menu.

    The food served at République is phenomenal and puts a modern twist on traditional French dishes. They serve a wide variety of food and have perfected everything! Their offerings range from delicious pastries and breads to savory entrees and scrumptious desserts. With each dish it is clear the dedication that has gone into making it unique and tasty. Whether you are having brunch, lunch, or dinner at République, you will be treated to a culinary adventure that has roots in French cuisine.

    If you are looking for a warm and classy dining experience, République is the perfect restaurant for you. Even better, République has great options for brunch, lunch, and dinner, so you can head here for day-time date as well as a romantic evening out.

    Find out more here.

    2. Perch

    Your Surroundings & The Atmosphere at Perch

    Perch is nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Unlike most restaurants, Perch has a rooftop location with spectacular panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Its views are stunning during the day as well as at night and can definitely make for a memorable romantic dinner with your partner.

    Perch offers French-inspired cuisine in a charming setting. At night there are twinkling lights, which in combination with inviting and cozy seating arrangements, and an open terrace, adds the romantic atmosphere.

    The Food at Perch

    The gorgeous location of Perch is not its only strength; its menu is delicious. Perch’s menu is French inspired and ranges from tasty appetizers to mouthwatering main courses and (my favorite) yummy desserts. All of their dishes are carefully prepared and made with high-quality ingredients that only adds to experience.

    The Experience at Perch

    Eating at Perch lends itself to more than just a meal but rather an experience. The food is delicious, but its breathtaking views of the city, provide an unforgettable dining experience. Trust me, you don’t get those views just anywhere in Los Angeles. Perch is a must-visit destination. Perch belongs on your bucket-list if you want a memorable and romantic dining experience. This is true regardless of wether you live in Los Angeles or are just visiting.

    Find out more here.

    3. The Little Door

    The Little Door can be considered a hidden gem or a little oasis. It is tucked into a cute courtyard in Los Angeles, creating a romantic Mediterranean atmosphere. The gorgeous garden setting with candlelight and delicious French Moroccan cuisine, lends itself to a dreamy romantic dining experience.

    Your Surroundings & The Atmosphere at The Little Door

    If you are looking for a romantic and intimate date night, this is the perfect restaurant for you. As soon as you enter The Little Door, you are greeted with a stunning courtyard. The courtyard is filled with gorgeous greenery and vines and am ambience set with soft candlelight. Plus, you are secluded and no longer exposed to the chaotic Los Angeles city. The courtyard is complemented by Moroccan-inspired arches, cozy alcoves, and beautiful sophisticated furnishings, that only builds on the romantic vibe that’s been established.

    The Food at The Little Door

    Now, beyond the external atmosphere, the food at The Little Door is delicious and pulls from French and Moroccan cuisine. Their plates range from mezze platters to savory tagines, grilled seafood, and succulent lamb dishes. Every dish is filled with fresh ingredients and aromatic flavors.

    The Little Door’s Strengths

    The Little Door’s strength lies in its ability to transport you into a different world for a few hours, filled with romance and delicious food. The dining experience at The Little Door is unforgettable, regardless of if you are seated indoors or outdoors on their courtyard. It truly is a haven for anybody wanting a romantic hideaway where ambience, hospitality and delicious food intersect beautifully. The Little Door has mastered this, making it a gem in Los Angeles

    Find out more here.

    4. Il Cielo

    Il Cielo is a delectable Italian restaurant hidden in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. This restaurant is a truly gorgeous setting for a romantic date.

    Your Surroundings & The Atmosphere at Il Cielo

    The entrance to Il Cielo is stunning with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and fairy lights, setting the stage for your romantic evening. The outdoor patio is breathtaking, decorated with fairy lights and an ornate chandelier in the center. As my sister would tell you “It looks like it is dangling from the sky.”

    The Food at Il Cielo

    Beyond its magical setting, Il Cielo serves exquisite Italian cuisine. Their menu showcases traditional Italian recipes ranging from flavorful risottos, wood-fired-pizzas, to delicious meat or seafood entrees. Every meal is carefully crafted and perfected, no matter what you choose you won’t be disappointed.

    The staff at Il Cielo are attentive and happy to answer any and every question, enhancing your dining experience.

    Il Cielo’s Strengths

    Regardless of if you are seated in the romantic outdoor patio surrounded by the allure of a starlit sky or inside the cozy and elegant dining area adorned with Italian-inspired decor, you can expect an unforgettable dining experience at Il Cielo. It’s a destination where the ambiance, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality harmonize perfectly, creating an picturesque oasis if you are seeking delectable Italian food and a romantic escape in Los Angeles.

    Find out more here.

    5. Mélisse

    Mélisse is housed inside Citrin. It is an esteemed restaurant in Los Angeles, serving French-inspired cuisine. And has earned two Michelin-stars and the 18-servings course is carefully crafted to ensure satisfaction.

    If you are searching for a sophisticated, elegant date night with exquisite food, this is the restaurant for you! The ambience inside Mélisse exudes elegance and luxury. The interior is modern and has soft lighting setting the tone for a romantic evening out.

    The Food at Mélisse

    One of Mélisse’s distinguishing features is its commitment to delivering a high-end culinary experience. All the ingredients are sourced from the highest-quality farmers and suppliers in California. Its menu reflects a contemporary twist on traditional French cuisine, showcasing innovative dishes with an artistic, visually appealing aesthetic. All the food, from intricate appetizers to perfected main courses to creative desserts, will take you on a delicious culinary adventure.

    The Dining Experience at Mélisse

    Beyond the impeccable cuisine, Mélisse offers an unparalleled level of service. The attentive and knowledgeable staff, guided by a commitment to hospitality, provide an exemplary dining experience. The staff’s passion for fine dining and dedication to creating memorable moments for guests elevates the overall dining journey.

    Mélisse caters to couples seeking an upscale and refined dining experience. If you are looking for the perfect, high-end restaurant for a special occasional or romantic date night, Mélisse is perfect for you.

    Find out more here.

    To Conclude

    These are five of the most romantic restaurants in Los Angeles. They all offer various cuisines and atmospheres, ensuring a magical dining experience that will leave you and your partner with cherished memories and a happy stomach!

    If you are looking for the best romantic restaurants in Pasadena rather than Los Angeles? Here are 5 of the best restaurants in Pasadena!

  • Planning a Romantic Date? Here are five of the Best Restaurants in Pasadena

    Planning a Romantic Date? Here are five of the Best Restaurants in Pasadena

    Pasadena is full of great restaurants, so to make it easier here are five of the best for a romantic date night, each chosen for its atmosphere, food and the kind of cozy, intimate mood that makes an evening for two feel special.

    Looking for a romantic date night spot in Pasadena, California?

    Pasadena is full of delicious restaurants. This can make it challenging to choose which one to go to for your romantic date night. Here are five of the best restaurants in Pasadena that would be perfect for you and your partner!

    The restaurants are listed in no particular order, they are absolutely phenomenal and will give you an amazing dining experience.

    1. The Raymond 1886
    2. The Arbour
    3. The Union
    4. Celestino Ristorante
    5. The Parkway Grill

    The first restaurant in Pasadena is The Raymond 1886

    The Raymond 1886 is located on Fair Oaks in Pasadena and has nailed the cozy, intimate vibe. The Raymond 1886 is known for its delicious New American cuisine and top-notch cocktails. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed yet special evening. The Raymond 1886 blends history, charm, and culinary excellence in the heart of Pasadena, California.

    Located in a historic craftsman bungalow, The Raymond 1886 exudes an inviting and cozy atmosphere. A warm ambience greets you upon entering the restaurant. The dim lighting, rustic decor, and comfortable seating arrangements create an intimate setting, perfect for a romantic date night.

    Additionally, The Raymond 1886 offers an array of delectable New American cuisine crafted with care and precision. Their carefully curated selection of handcrafted cocktails complements their dishes perfectly. This adds a touch of creativity and sophistication to your dining experience.

    Regardless of if you are sitting indoors in their cozy dining room, or enjoying their outdoor patio, the Raymond is a restaurant where delectable cuisine meets historic charm. This makes it a great choice for couples seeking an unforgettable and romantic evening out.

    Find out more here!

    Up Second on the Best Restaurant in Pasadena List is The Arbour

    The Arbour is a renowned restaurant nestled in the heart of Pasadena, California. It is known for their exquisite dining experience, culinary artistry, and dedication to seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine. The Arbour is situated in a charming Craftsman-style house on Raymond Avenue. This restaurant offers guests an inviting and elegant space to eat delicious contemporary American cuisine. They also focus on locally sourced ingredients.

    The restaurant’s interior incorporates elements of nature that complement the farm-to-table concept. However, what truly stands out is the enchanting patio area adorned with twinkling lights and lush greenery. This provides an idyllic setting for a romantic evening under the stars.

    The Arbour’s commitment to using locally sourced seasonal ingredients defines its culinary philosophy. The Arbour’s dedication to ecofriendly practices makes it unique. The menu showcases a creative array of dishes crafted with fresh local produce, ensuring a flavorful and sustainable dining experience.

    One of The Arbour’s strengths is its staff. They are incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. All staff are inviting and happy to guide guests through the menu, providing impeccable service.

    The Arbour is a restaurant where the farm-fresh flavors, inviting atmosphere, and impeccable service come together. Overall, creating an enchanting experience, making it a perfect choice for a romantic date night in Pasadena.

    Find out more here!

    Third on the Best Restaurants in Pasadena is Union

    The Union, situated in Pasadena, California, is a perfect combination of rustic charm and sustainable dining. From the moment you enter the Union, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Their ambience will let your date night be both relaxing and a high-quality, elegant dining experience. This will allow your date night to be both relaxed while maintaining a high-quality, elegant dining experience.

    Like The Arbour, The Union is dedicated to crafting dishes that use locally sourced seasonal produce. The Union’s menu is frequently updated with seasonal offerings, so you could never get bored. Their dishes are thoughtfully concocted and showcase the high quality of their locally sourced ingredients.

    As a restaurant, the Union prioritizes sustainable practices. This includes where they source their food and extending to ecofriendly practices to reduce waste. If this is something you care about in your personal life, this is a great dining choice!

    Another strength of the Union is their staff. All their staff are incredibly knowledgeable and easy to approach. They provide useful insights into the menu and care about your experience. This means over your lovely date night; you will have top-notch service that only elevates your evening.

    If you are looking for a restaurant with a cozy and elegant feel, Union might be perfect place for you. With their dedication to high-quality locally sourced ingredients and an inviting atmosphere, Union lends itself to a spectacular dining experience. And even better, they are mindful of sustainability efforts. Your date night at the Union will be nothing short of memorable.

    Find out more here!

    A fourth date night spot is Celestino Ristorante

    If you (like me) love Italian food, this one is for you. Celestino Ristorante offers an inviting ambiance paired with delicious, authentic Italian food. This is the perfect date spot for a romantic dinner.

    Celestino Ristorante is in Pasadena, California and is well-known for its true-to-Italy Italian cuisine. This restuarant has a welcoming elegant ambience that masters both sophistication and charm.

    Upon entering Celestino Ristorante, you are met with stellar staff and intentional interior design, envoking the essence of a traditional Italian trattoria.

    So, what makes Celestino Ristorante stand out in comparison to other Italian restaurants in Pasadena? Well, it is truly their dedication to their food and ensuring it is full of authentic Italian flavors. Celestino Ristorante’s menu is dutifully planned out showcase an array of traditional Italian dishes. The menu has offerings ranging from handmade pasta dishes to scrumptious risottos to seafood entrees.

    Celestino Ristorante is dedicated to staying true to Italian cuisine, so they import high-quality ingredients from Italy whenever possible. This guarantees that their food reminds you off the Italian countryside. In every dish, you can tell the chef’s dedication to stay true to the essence of authentic Italian cuisine.

    As I mentioned earlier, the staff at Celestino Ristorante are phenomenal. They are incredibly knowledgeable and attentive. They happily guide customers through the menu, providing insight, ensuring that each and every guest has the best experience possible. You will leave the restaurant with a smile on your face.

    The atmosphere at Celestino Ristorante is what makes it the perfect spot for a romantic date night. There is both interior and outdoor seating at Celestino Ristorante. So, depending on the weather, you can enjoy the cozy interior or a peaceful, relaxing night outdoors on their patio.

    Celestino Ristorante is perfect if you are looking for authentic Italian cuisine and a romantic date night.

    Find out more here!

    And the last dinner date spot is The Parkway Grill

    If you are looking for a fancy, high-end dining experience, the Parkway Grill might be the perfect spot for you. Their menu is full of delicious contemporary American cuisine elevated by their outdoor seating and occasional live music.

    The interior of The Parkway Grill masterfully combines classic and modern design elements. Overall, creating a warm, inviting ambiance, setting the tone for a romantic evening. The ambient lighting only furthers this feeling.

    The Parkway Grill has an expansive menu that allows for an array of contemporary American cuisine options. You will never be bored or unable to find something delicious. Their menu blends innovative creations with traditional offerings. Whether it is an appetizer, an entrée, or a dessert, all these options have rich flavors. These are guaranteed to make your mouth water.

    In-line with the other restaurants on this list, The Parkway Grill, has perfect its dining experience. Their exceptional staff are attentive without being overbearing, allowing you and your partner to enjoy your date night. At The Parkway Grill you will neither be bombarded by staff nor left waiting.

    The Parkway Grill has a beautiful outdoor patio that provides a gorgeous, serene dining experience. Additionally, occasionally, there is live music, which creates an even more romantic atmosphere.

    If you are planning the perfect romantic evening for you and your partner, the Parkway Grill is a fantastic option. With its gorgeous interior design, the restaurant provides a sophisticated environment while remaining relaxing and enjoyable. Regardless of if you dine indoors or outdoors, you can expect a wonderful date night in Pasadena with exceptional food. And if you time it right, you might even get some live music!

    Find out more here!

    So to Conclude

    These are five of the best restauratnts in Pasadena, perfect for a date night. Each with a different mood and cuisine. Regardless of if you want a cozy restaurant or a more upscale dining experience, there should be a restaurant on this list for you. In my opinion, the ambience is an important criteria in determining the best restaurants in Pasadena.

    If you are looking for romantic restaurants in Los Angeles, here are 5 of the most romantic!

  • Thinking about Taking Your Engagement Photos in Old Town Pasadena? Here’s why it’s an amazing choice

    Thinking about Taking Your Engagement Photos in Old Town Pasadena? Here’s why it’s an amazing choice

    Old Town Pasadena is an excellent engagement photo location because its brick-lined alleys, historic storefronts and warm string lights give you a charming, romantic city backdrop with character on every block, perfect for playful, intimate photos.

    So, you just got engaged (CONGRATS by the way) and now you want some gorgeous photographs to encapsulate your relationship. Or perhaps you are not engaged but want some photographs to celebrate your relationship or perhaps it is your anniversary and you want to celebrate it with a photography session. Well, Old Pasadena is a wonderful options with beautiful buildings and a old-movie ambiance, perfect for your session (maybe there is even a restaurant with sentimental value to you and your partner).

    old town pasadena during sunset

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    Old Town Pasadena History

    The original Old Town Pasadena dates back to the late 19th century and early 20th century. When Pasadena was initially expanding, growing, and flourishing so did downtown Pasadena, now known as Old Town. Between the 1930s and 1960’s Old Town Pasadena went through a stint of neglect and began to deteriorate. In 1983, it was declared a historic district. Since then, Old Pasadena has been revamped: buildings were repainted and new investors transformed the struggling Old Pasadena, into a new and improved beautiful destination. Currently, Old Town is home to restaurants, cafes, nightlife, shops, hotels, bars, movie theaters, and a shopping mall.

    photograph of the trio apartment complex in old town pas

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    Pricing and Permits:

    A permit is not required for photography sessions in the majority of Old Pasadena.

    beautiful historic architecture in old town pasadena

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    old pasadena during sunset

    Elili Brown Photography LLC

    Photo Opportunities

    Old Town Pasadena has a rustic feel with gorgeous buildings.

    It’s time for a little history lesson. So, when Old Town was reconstructed by city designers, they wanted it to reflect the style present between 1925 and 1940. As a result the color palate and building design of Old Town Pas is representative of that time period. So, in your engagement photos, you can expect this to give your photographs an old-film aesthetic that I love.

    Old Pas is home to numerous restaurants that have warm, intimate ambiances with outdoor seating, perfect for engagement sessions. While this Old Town is stunning, it does get busy around sunset, so a sunrise engagement session is optimal.

    If you do a sunrise engagement session, there are numerous cafes with delicious coffee and pastries that you can treat yourself to.

    And if you do a sunset engagement session, there is no shortage of scrumptious dinner options.

    Or if you want a midday engagement session, you can go on a stroll and enjoy quieter streets, catch a movie, and get some lunch.

    Either way, you get to enjoy beautiful Old Town Pasadena and support local businesses.

    Old Town Pasadena Restaurant Recommendations

    • Nine and Nine Thai Kitchen: delicious Thai food located Playhouse Village in Old Town. Keep in mind, they are closed on Tuesdays, but open from 10:30 am – 9:00 pm every other day.
    • Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery: a restaurant and cheesery. After all who does not love cheese. Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery serves American food and excellent cheese.
    • Il Fornaio: An authentic Italian restaurant dedicated to transporting you to Italy for an evening.
    • Arroyo Chop House: If you are looking for a traditional steakhouse in Pasadena, look no further.
    • Café Santorini: Scrumptious Mediterranean food, wine, and cocktails located in Old Town Pasadena.
    • Bone Kettle: Authentic family recipes of yummy Southeast Asian food. If you are interested in going here, it is important to note they require reservations.
    • Boiling Point Concept: specializes in Taiwanese hot soup, offering customizable hot soups with various flavors, and high-quality meat.
    • Dos Besos: Authentic Spanish cuisine in Old Pasadena. The menu consists of tapas, larger plates, paella, and Spanish wines.
    • Jumak: Named after an East Asian market, Jumak is delicious Northeast Asian cuisine.
    • Me + Crepe: A yummy Chinese restaurant located in Old Town serving traditional Jianbing, a savory crepe.
    • Mi Piace: One of the oldest restaurants in Old Town Pasadena. Mi Piace serves delicious Italian food.
    • Paper Rice: Reinvented Vietnamese food, including Gỏi Cuốn (spring rolls), bowls, and Bánh Mì.

    If you are looking for five incredible, romantic restaurants in Los Angeles, read this blog post! Or if you want my top five best restaurants in all of Pasadena look at this post!

    Cafe Recommendations in Old Town Pasadena

    • Home Brewed Bar: A cold brew tea and coffee house. They brew their teas and coffees using the toddy method, which means they are significantly less acidic than standard brewing.
    • Bearology Pasadena: A boba shop located in Old Town that utilizes real fruit and loose-leaf teas.
    • Boba ChaCha: A traditional Taiwanese boba tea house with teas, coffees, and juice drinks.
    • Savvvy’s Coffee: A family-owned café with assorted espresso, lattes, and pastries. They have food options ranging from a quick bite to charcuterie boards.
    • Chado Team Room Pasadena: At Chado’s you will never run out of tea options and variety. They serve over 200 types of tea, sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
    • Coffee & Plants: The first fully plant-based coffee shop in Los Angeles. They have gone so far as to partner with the National Forest Foundation to plant a tree for every hundred cups sold.
    • Copa Vida: They have a variety of food options and perfectly brewed coffee and tea.

    Dessert Recommendations in Old Town

    • Delight Pastry: Just looking at their pastries makes my mouth water. They have pastries ranging from a Chocolate and Orange Croissant to Eclairs.
    • Wanderlust Creamery: The best vegan ice cream I have ever had. Wanderlust has unique flavors that are in honor of childhood memories and trips.
    • Hello Gelato: A small parlor with delicious gelato made with natural ingredients.
    • I Like Pie: Beautiful, handcrafted pies. If you have a sweet tooth, I Like Pie has both sweet and savory pies that will fix any craving you are having.
    • Mignon Chocolate: Sophisticated, delicious, crafted chocolate. Mignon has been in business since 1935, so they know what they are doing. Who does not love chocolate.

    Old Town Pasadena Shopping Recommendations

    • All Love Collections: Facial spa with a focus on being environmentally friendly and using natural products.
    • April Blooms Boutique: Local Pasadena boutique with women’s clothing for everyone. If you are looking for an a dress, accessories or a stunning top for your upcoming photography session or an event, this is a fantastic starting point.
    • Commune Records: This is a record store in Old Town that sells both used and new vinyl records. They have music ranging from jazz to hip hop.
    • Homage: your new favorite place to gift shop. Homage has a carefully selected array of crafted goods, including handmade jewelry.
    • IPIC Theaters: A dine-in boutique movie theater with a wide selection of movies.
    • Norton Simon Museum: A gorgeous art museum with an array of exhibits and various educational options.
    • One Colorado: A mall in Old Town Pasadena that is home to an assortment of shops and entertainment.