There’s no actual alfresco season in L.A. – which is odd, considering this is a city where outdoor dining is technically possible year-round – yet it’s chock-full of alfresco-style eateries. From the spots just footsteps away from the crashing waves of the Pacific to the rooftop bars that afford a view of the sparkling city lights, there are a plethora of restaurants and bars with outdoor seating to get lost in the greenery (or scenery) that surrounds a dining table.

While most Woodland Hills residents know by now that meals can be enjoyed outside, whether it’s at a coffee shop, taco truck, or fine dining establishment, there are still plenty of destination-worthy scenic spots to check out, if only for the atmosphere they exude. The following picks represent our choices for the best restaurants and bars with outdoor seating around town.

Casalena, located at 22160 Ventura Boulevard, is nothing short of an enchanting experience where each encounter adds a unique dimension, unveiling a kaleidoscope of creative spirit scattered throughout the wondrous landscape. In short, Casalena stands as a testament to the owner’s ability to create a captivating world of light, infusing it with purpose, warmth and hospitality – a realm where you can find solace, wonder, and a sense of belonging while indulging in the multifaceted nature of the eatery’s captivating menu. From unique appetizers like Whipped Eggplant, Burrata, Blistered Snap Peas and Squash Blossoms to prime cuts of lamb and steak, you will experience an alfresco dining foray second to none at Casalena.

Leo & Lily, located at 22420 Ventura Boulevard, fuses European and Mediterranean flavors to create healthy, unique, and delicious dishes in a casual and inviting environment. This one-of-a-kind culinary establishment boasts a menu inspired by the idea of simple and honest cooking – the development of a unique dining experience for all guests using fresh and sustainable ingredients to take you on a culinary journey like no other. From classic recipes to new-age kitchen adventures, each dish reflects a passion for high-quality food presented in a simple yet pleasing manner. Outdoor seating is available on L&L’s large patio.

Toasted Barrel, located at 21110 Oxnard Street, is an outdoor café with a bar offering hand-crafted cocktails, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and bourbon flights prepared by staff like acclaimed chef Thomas Ciszak. Sip your favorite bourbon, imbibe a hand-crafted and thoughtfully created cocktail, cool down with local craft beers, and enjoy a Maple Glazed Toasted Cheese Sandwich while taking in the city’s views. Ciszak is widely respected for his conception and work at Blue Morel Restaurant in Morristown, New Jersey and Flatiron Tapas Bar in Boston, Massachusetts. In collaboration with many local artists, craftsmen, and artisans, he has created a space to enjoy, gather, and socialize in Woodland Hills.  

Il Fornaio, located at 6320 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Suite #1640, strives to provide guests with the most authentic Italian experience outside of the Mediterranean country itself. The restaurant’s Woodland Hills location offers elegant dining spaces along with varied specialized menus and services to match its authentic, award-winning Italian cuisine; the experienced staff works closely with all guests to create a memorable visit. If alfresco Italian dining is at the top of your list for your next outing, Il Fornaio will fit the bill.

Xoc Tequila Grill, located at 6316 North Topanga Canyon Boulevard #1110, has been called the best Mexican restaurant in Woodland Hills since its inception, with well-curated Mexican menu items served by attentive staff that make the eatery one of the most popular choices for locals and visitors alike. Dining at Xoc Tequila Grill is guaranteed to be a fun time, whether you’re on a date, with family or friends – a unique dining experience is always waiting in the wings, at any time of day. Situated in the heart of an amazing community, this Woodland Hills restaurant was designed with cool, stylish interior elements and an extra-cozy and clean space to provide a beautiful overall ambiance on every visit.

Taisho, located at 14016 Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, represents a refreshingly new dining scene on the boulevard’s Restaurant Row, where premium, fresh ingredients anchor a mouthwatering menu of Robata Skewers, Sashimi, Sushi and more. Meanwhile, cocktails share in the limelight with an incredible selection running the gamut from inventive concoctions and Japanese sake to whiskey, California wines and craft beer – all of which complement the contemporary, bustling vibe of Taisho’s dining room, bar, and two outdoor patios. 

For many Woodland Hills residents, alfresco dining has long been the preferred way to eat, between the fresh air, warm weather, and world-class people-watching. Indeed, dining outdoors is the quintessential L.A. experience, and thanks to our mild winters – along with some strategically positioned heat lamps – eating under the sun (or stars) is a year-round luxury.