Introduction to Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in Los Angeles
Sometimes it’s nice to get off the street level and head higher up for some good times. And no, we’re not talking about anything silly like rock climbing or skydiving, we’re talking about having sensible risk-free good times by going to a rooftop bar or restaurant.
With a downtown skyline shaped by its tall buildings, Los Angeles has several options when it comes to hanging out above the streets and closer to the clouds. So here are five recommendations for al fresco rooftop bars and restaurants in the heart of the city.
Broken Shaker
416 W. 8th St., Los Angeles; 213-612-0021, freehandhotels.com/los-angeles/broken-shaker
When you first arrive at the ground floor entrance to this rooftop bar you’ll see a door and a sign that reads “Broken Shaker.” Don’t go in that door, instead walk next door to the entrance of the Freehand Hotel and make a quick left to the elevator. Hit the R button and the doors will open to a cool, hip patio adorned with pink umbrellas over wood tables near a wood bar.
It’s small, cozy and laid-back with a really chill atmosphere and there’s a pool that anyone can use. The pool is free to use if you’re a hotel guest; if you’re just visiting it’s $65 per person. Broken Shaker is on the 14th floor, so you get great views of downtown, but it’s also near tall buildings so you still feel like you’re in the city and not floating above it. Notable drinks include Up on the Roof, made with Casa mezcal, chambord, watermelon and lime.
Cabra
1060 S. Broadway, Los Angeles; 213-725-5858, cabralosangeles.com
This 11th floor bar and restaurant at The Hoxton Hotel hits all the points you want in a rooftop spot. It’s got the views of downtown Los Angeles, a cool vibe, there’s DJ music playing, and so on. But what really matters the most here is the food because it comes from “Top Chef” winner Stephanie Izard.
Her travels through Peru inspired a menu that includes dishes like bass and salmon ceviches, which are the most popular on the menu. Hot plates include chicken and chorizo skewers, a wood-fired skirt steak and a crispy pork shank with an aji mayo sauce. Pair any of that with the Chica Verde, which is a drink made with what the restaurant calls the avo leche that’s used in the ceviche mixed with a Peruvian agave spirit.
Cara Cara
1100 S. Broadway, Los Angeles; 213-806-1023, properhotel.com
Located on the 16th floor rooftop of the Proper Hotel, Cara Cara is a bustling and lively bar and restaurant. The open air patio is packed with tables, so expect to hear a lot of conversations going on, but there are also more tranquil areas like a fire pit lounge spot and a small pool with lounge chairs. This spot offers some great views of the Broadway corridor and a full menu that includes dishes like Dungeness Crab pasta, Hanger steaks, cocktails and a seriously good selection of whiskeys.
While it’s not a wild party spot there are DJs spinning tunes on select nights.
Perch LA
448 S. Hill St, Los Angeles; 213-802-1770, perchla.com
This French-inspired bistro and bar is one of the oldest rooftop spots in the city and remains very popular. It’s nicely decorated with trees and other greenery covered in lights, it sports cool tile floors plus fireplaces, fire pits, lounge seating along the edge for even better views and table seating.
On weekdays you’ll see a lot of afterwork crowds, with live music and DJs playing often, there’s more of a party vibe here and later in the night lines can get pretty long on the weekends, so get there early. If you’re hungry try classic dishes like the French Onion Soup or the Bouillabaisse.
Spire 73
900 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles; www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/los-angeles/laxhc/hoteldetail/dining
Located on the roof of a 1,100-foot skyscraper in downtown Los Angeles as part of the Intercontinental Hotel, Spire 73 bills itself as the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, but it feels more like you’re in the exosphere when you look down at the city from this insanely high 73rd floor lounge.
So if you’re afraid of heights it may get a little scary, but if you’re not you’ll be able to see all the way to the ocean, as well as Century City, Hollywood, most of Los Angeles and you may even spot some aliens chilling in outer space.
The vibe is relaxed with a mix of tourists and locals. They make great cocktails like the Eclipse Martini and the vodka infused and fruit forward Cloud Nine. The menu includes entrees like filet mignon and the Spire Burger. Since it’s so high it gets pretty windy, so make sure to ask for a blanket, which are provided for guests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Los Angeles offers a variety of rooftop bars and restaurants that provide a unique and exciting experience. From the laid-back atmosphere of Broken Shaker to the breathtaking views of Spire 73, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a night out with friends, these rooftop spots are sure to impress.
FAQs
Q: What are the best rooftop bars in Los Angeles?
A: Some of the best rooftop bars in Los Angeles include Broken Shaker, Cabra, Cara Cara, Perch LA, and Spire 73.
Q: What is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere?
A: Spire 73, located on the 73rd floor of the Intercontinental Hotel, is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere.
Q: What type of cuisine can I expect to find at these rooftop bars and restaurants?
A: The cuisine at these rooftop bars and restaurants varies, but you can expect to find everything from French-inspired bistro food to Peruvian-inspired dishes.
Q: Are these rooftop bars and restaurants expensive?
A: Prices vary depending on the location and type of establishment, but you can expect to pay around $10-$20 for a drink and $20-$50 for a meal.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation?
A: It’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially on weekends or during peak hours, as these rooftop bars and restaurants can get quite busy.
