Sun Chasing in LA: 5 Outdoor Lunch Spots

While the rest of the U.S. huddles around a blazing fire — hot cocoa in hand, red-cheeked and freezing; we Angelenos are experiencing a heat wave. With mid-day temperatures reaching into the mid 80’s, we thought it would be appropriate to embrace the warmth and give you a range of places to enjoy the sun while grabbing lunch.

Photo Courtesy of Eater LA

RedBird – DTLA
At chef Neal Fraiser’s Cathedral turned modern American cuisine hotspot, the atmosphere is as essential as the food itself. Redbird’s retractable atrium keeps it airy while it’s warm furnishings maintain an approachable coziness. With a staff consisting of a sommelier, master Barmen, and an Iron Chef (Fraiser) this place is a perfect spot for a warm day’s luncheon.
Lunch Menu $7-$28
Chow Down: Roasted Chicken
Drink Up: The Russian Spring

Photo Courtesy of LA Times

A.O.C. Wine Bar – WEHO
When escaping for a long lunch — you know, the kind that involves lifting your spirits by drinking some spirits– A.O.C. Wine Bar is the destination for you. Co-Owners Suzanne Goin (a James Beard Foundation favorite) and Caroline Styne’s (a critically acclaimed sommelier) Italian-influenced menu filled with light delicacies and exquisite wines, which pair perfectly with their open air garden style seating area.
Lunch Menu $5-$25
Chow Down: Turkey Focaccia Sandwich
Drink Up: Your Choice of Their Constantly Improving Wine Menu

Photo Courtesy of WTFrenchie

Bäco Mercat – DTLA
If you’re in the mood for a delicious curbside patio lunch, you can’t go wrong with Boca Mercat. Their Mediterranean menu centers around their bäco flatbread, which offers itself as a canvas for delicious creations including sandwiches and pizzas topped with delicious, responsibly sourced ingredients.
Lunch Menu $7-$25
Chow Down: The Original Sandwich
Drink UP: Under The Volcano

Photo Courtesy of Eater LA

The Rose Cafe – Venice
With its energetic country aesthetic, The Rose Cafe has earned its staple status in the Venice community. The beloved American eatery has an eclectic menu which includes choices ranging from pizzas, sandwiches and snacks to pasta, farmers market favorites and all day breakfast. It’s our pick for a chill lunch with friends.
Lunch Menu $5-$24
Chow Down: Smoked Bacon Ramen
Drink Up: The Rose Cup

Photo Courtesy of Nate Williams

Pedalers Fork / 10 Speed Coffee – Calabasas
If you’re still in need of coffee on your lunch break, resist the monotony of Starbucks and head to Pedalers Fork and 10-Speed Coffee. This bicycle friendly restaurant-slash-coffee house combo boasts a shady, tree-lined deck overlooking a creek. The Pedalers Fork kitchen whips up everything from Pacific Stone Crab cakes to Mediterranean burgers while 10 Speed Coffee offers amazing morning pastries.
Lunch Menu $5-$25
Chow Down: Braised Short Rib Grilled Cheese
Drink Up: Kickstand (10 Speed) or Calbasitto (Pedalers Fork)   

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