The appeal of restaurants that offer jaw-dropping views of the panorama outside their doors, just past nearby hills or below their cloud-kissing apexes – the latter of which is embodied through dining spots like Top of the World inside Las Vegas’ Stratosphere hotel – is somewhat self-evident; after all, where else can you dress to the nines, slip into your favorite booth seat, cozy up to that special someone and enjoy a meal while gawking at vistas so much more interesting than your average parking lot?
Indeed, it gets no better than dining with a view, and we’ve rounded up five of our favorite spots in Woodland Hills where you can experience this in impeccable L.A. style.
The Oaks at Lakeside, located at 16817 Ventura Boulevard in Encino, boasts one of the most beautiful settings in all of California, what with a gorgeous, serene lake just off the property filled with families of ducks and geese. Today, the restaurant includes the original nine-room de la Ossa Adobe, the two-story limestone Garnier building, a blacksmith shop, a natural spring and pond – fascinatingly enough, in 1949, the 4.7-acre site was designated a California State Park. The Oaks at Lakeside has had many names and many owners, for a while being called the Pearl Bar Lounge, the Atlantis Sports Bar and, more recently, the Lakeside Restaurant and Lounge, opened in 2013 by the Mc Abian and Sayadeh families – but the current establishment enjoys its beautiful location, salutes its storied past and carries on a tradition of more than 150 years of welcoming visitors.
Inn of the Seventh Ray, located at 128 Old Topanga Canyon Road in Topanga, has found its way onto multiple Woodland Hills Magazine lists showcasing the most impressive of establishments, and for good reason: This charming little spot has been named Los Angeles’ Most Romantic Restaurant, allowing patrons to dine by candlelight under the stars and amidst grand old sycamores, waterfalls along winding brick pathways and other awe-inspiring elements that never fail to amaze. Offering an environment unlike any other in the L.A. area, Inn of the Seventh Ray boasts a chef who is constantly reimagining what great food should taste like, prepared with the greatest of care and creativity, so you can be assured of only the best ingredients: Meats and fishes that are slow-cooked in reverse-osmosis water, chicken and beef that are raised naturally and grass-fed and seafood that’s wild or line-caught. Dining creekside at the Inn with the cradle of the Santa Monica Mountains – next to Topanga Creek – at the base is nothing short of an enchanting experience.
Coin and Candor, located at 2 Dole Drive in Westlake Village, is a casual California brasserie featuring wood-fired dishes and locally-sourced ingredients, all prepared by Jesus Medina, head chef who hails from Acuna, Mexico and who boasts an impressive roster of experience that embodies an acute understanding of the Spanish culture and cuisine. Inspired by entrepreneur David Murdock’s life story, Coin and Candor pays homage to humble beginnings and an early rise to success, with the menu of this charming eatery offering breakfast, brunch, all-day dining and dessert. The restaurant is open daily from 6:30 am to 11 pm.
Woodland Hills Country Club, situated at 21150 Dumetz Road, is nestled in the beautiful, rolling oak-covered foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains in the west San Fernando Valley, thus offering a gorgeous backdrop for dining at the clubhouse, itself presenting members a gourmet culinary option in a relaxed atmosphere. Serving delicious creations six days a week that parallel the finest restaurants in Los Angeles in every which way, the clubhouse becomes even more enthralling during holidays and special events, where its culinary experts have the opportunity to provide delectable dining options like elaborate meals, themed family dinners, seasonable winemaker dinners and summer BBQ parties. There’s also a diverse wine, beer and spirits list so you can enjoy a drink while overlooking the scenic golf course.
Porta Via Calabasas, with locations in Calabasas, Pacific Palisades and Beverly Hills, is defined as a neighborhood California bistro and bar, serving the best seasonal organic ingredients that are prepared “simply.” Boasting a menu that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, Porta Via Calabasas exudes a world-class feel with gorgeous, breathtaking views that complement a rich history; the Beverly Hills location, in particular, occupies 4,000 square-feet of space, including tables inside and out, a full bar/event area and a sidewalk patio that is frequently packed with Hollywood legends who relax into the welcoming ambiance created by proprietor Peter Garland and staff.
Nothing quite tops off a great meal better than a spectacular view, as there’s just something about the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean or the twinkling city lights that sets the perfect tone for a light lunch or evening out. The aforementioned Woodland Hills restaurants are worth looking into, even if it’s only to soak in the smile-inducing vistas.
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