Things are heating up in L.A., and there's no better way to celebrate the season than with the city's best bites. While we're lucky enough to enjoy sunshine year-round, summer is still the perfect excuse to rediscover one of our favorite pastimes: dining out. From rooftop views and breezy patios to longtime favorites and exciting new openings, we've gathered a list of restaurants we're uncovering this summer.
Bar di Bello
When you can't have a Euro Summer, Bar di Bello is your best bet for a culinary escape to Italy. Brought to you by a legendary dining team including Alex Wilmot, Mike Moonves, Michael Kassar and Kristin Olszewski, this Silver Lake spot brings a taste of Milan to the city. Balancing an impressive wine and beverage program as well as Italian classics, Bar di Bello is perfect for the summer lovers in search for an intimate and delicious night out.
Bar di Bello, 3300 Sunset Blvd., Ste. 110, L.A., 90026
CasaDami
This summer we take a trip down south, well, south of L.A. that is. Located in the center of the O.C. is Newport Beach's CasaDami. Last March, the café opened its doors serving European favorites with a coastal cuisine approach. Just in time for summer, CasaDami has upped their bar program offering seasonal favorites such as Aperol Spritz 3.0, Heirloom Tomato White Negroni and the Summer Walk, a refreshing patio-ready cocktail.
CasaDami, 2210 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 92663
Casa Madera
A Team Uncover L.A. favorite, Casa Madera offers a flavorful and festive night out! As we escape Europe, we head to Mexico at this Mayan Riviera-inspired restaurant. One reason to check out this spot is the panoramic views of L.A. and retreat-like decor, transporting guests to Tulum. While the drinks are a standout, the menu highlights include the spicy Salmon Crudo, Wagyu NY Strip, street corn and of course, tacos.
Casa Madera, 8440 Sunset Blvd., WeHo, 90069
Calabra Rooftop
Now, what's a summer dining list without a rooftop? This summer calls for a trip to the westside for both a staycation and meal. Santa Monica's Proper Hotel is known for its beautiful architecture and wellness facilities. It also houses the city's only rooftop pool deck which includes the Calabra Rooftop. Overlooking the Pacific and serving seasonal bevs and bites, the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant is a summer standout destination. Two of the spot's seasonal offerings include a "Proper Hour" and Dinner, with a curated menu.
Calabra Rooftop, Proper Hotel, 700 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 90401
Gladstones
While we're already on the 405, we can make our way to Malibu's Gladstones. Steps away from the beach, guests can enjoy sunsets, seafood and more. Plus, in honor of America turning 250, there is a new happy hour menu including $10 food specials, $10 cocktails and $17.67 food-and-drink combos.
Gladstones, 17300 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, 90272
KA'TEEN
Your Summer Taco Tuesday plans are set. KA'TEEN has a new offering specifically for your Tuesday nights. Chef Wes Avila of Guerrilla Tacos is bringing his signature tacos to the Hollywood restaurant. Guests can enjoy Chef's signature tacos alongside $14 margaritas. The menu offers an artful take on ancient Yucatán culinary traditions, inspired by Alta California.
KA'TEEN, 6516 Selma Ave., L.A., 90028
Lemon Grove
Cheers to another rooftop! This time, we're taking things to Hollywood at The Aster's Lemon Grove. Another Uncover L.A. fave, The Lemon Grove is the spot for summer drinks and views. Helmed by Executive Chef Daniel Pfeifer-Kotz (formerly of Beauty & Essex), the rooftop restaurant offers both a brunch, dinner and golden hour menu on select dates. Our go-to is stopping by on a week night and grabbing some of their top cocktails like The Aster Spritz, Cactus Flower and a few zero-proof options.
Lemon Grove, The Aster, 1717 Vine St., Fl 6, L.A., 90028
The Northwind Experience
It's giving main character energy! Step aboard The Northwind Experience, a beautifully restored 1930s yacht in Marina del Rey that's turning dinner into a cinematic waterfront escape. As the only publicly accessible upscale dining destination on the water, you'll enjoy seasonal sea-to-table dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and sweeping harbor views that feel straight out of a movie. Whether you're planning a sunset date night, weekend brunch, or celebrating something special, this one-of-a-kind experience deserves a spot on your summer dining bucket list.
The Northwind Experience, 4445 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, 90292
Saint & Second
Fresh flavors have officially arrived at Saint & Second. The restaurant's biggest seasonal menu refresh in years celebrates the freshest ingredients of the season with vibrant dishes like the Charred Watermelon & Arugula Salad, the Edamame Falafel Burger and Spicy Tuna Waffle Cones. Using charred, grilled and torch-fired techniques, the chef-driven menu transforms familiar flavors into something fresh and unexpected. Whether you're stopping in for lunch or lingering over dinner, it's a delicious addition to your summer dining bucket list.
Saint & Second Belmont Shore, 828 2nd St., Long Beach, 90803
SushiSamba
For a true L.A. summer night out, Sushi Samba checks all the boxes. The West Hollywood rooftop combines bold global flavors, a stunning open-air setting, and a lively atmosphere that transitions seamlessly from sunset cocktails to dinner under the stars. With a menu inspired by Japan, Brazil, and Peru, plus sweeping views and live performances throughout the evening, it's the perfect spot to soak up everything that makes L.A. dining iconic.
SushiSamba, 639 North La Peer Dr., WeHo, 90069
Tomat
The Westchester hotspot is bringing even more energy to its newly refreshed rooftop with weekly events, stunning views, and a menu made for long summer evenings. Grab a drink, catch a game, test your trivia skills, or settle in for sunset bites like steak frites, a half-pound burger, and shareable snacks while watching planes glide over LAX.
Tomat, 6261 West 87th St, L.A., 90045
Viva La Mamma
For the perfect Italian night out, Viva La Mamma is bringing the energy. This Vienna-born hotspot is opening its first U.S. location in West Hollywood with a menu full of handmade pastas, 72-hour fermented Neapolitan pizzas, and bold dishes like the Truffle Love Pasta and Lobster Pizza. Complete with a rooftop patio, lively atmosphere, and cocktails made for sipping, Viva La Mamma captures the fun, social side of Italian dining that makes it a must-try this summer.
Viva La Mamma, 8022 West 3rd St., L.A., 90048
