The 15 Best Poolside Bars And Restaurants In Los Angeles
The sun is shining and summer is here ... which means it's time for outdoor dining and poolside lounging. If you're looking to catch a tan while grabbing a bite, Los Angeles is home to plenty of poolside patios. From hotel rooftops with breathtaking city views to cozy and quaint eateries that are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there's no reason to dine inside during a sunny day in LA. Even if you don't plan on taking a dip, just sitting and sipping next to a pool puts you in the perfect summer mindset.
Whether you're in the mood for chicken tacos and margaritas, or classic Italian cuisine and a glass of vino, no craving goes uncovered. Get ready to enjoy some top-notch food with an outdoor ambiance to match — here's a breakdown of the best poolside bars and restaurants in LA.
Cabra
Located on the roof of The Hoxton hotel, Cabra is a Peruvian restaurant by Chef Stephanie Izard. The pool sits at the center of the rooftop, and there are sweeping city views that are stunning at sunset. In addition to standard tables, Cabra also has comfy couches and a spacious bar where you can sit. The plates are designed to be shared, so it's best to order an array of dishes for the table rather than your own singular entree.
Start with the hot chorizo and queso dip, served with a savory flatbread and some crispy taro chips. If you're a fan of seafood, the tuna tots are a must-order, as is the traditional bass ceviche. From salmon to chorizo, the skewers always manage to hit the spot, but the crispy pork shank is the ultimate entree. The crisp skin sits on top of a silky smooth layer of fat that keeps the tender meat extra juicy. Finally, finish your meal with the miso butterscotch budino, you won't regret it.
La Casita
Located at the historic Hotel Figueroa, La Casita is a seasonal restaurant specializing in Baja-inspired drinks and dishes. Though hotel guests and visitors are able to enjoy La Casita's menu while lounging by the pool, the two-story Mediterranean villa provides an ideal setting for a more traditional dining experience. Quench your thirst with the La Toxica cocktail, a tropical blend of coconut, pineapple, rum, and tequila. Prefer something less sweet? The Jaguar is a unique concoction you won't want to miss.
The short rib nachos are filling and great for sharing, while the pink mole chicken wings are the perfect combo of spicy and savory. But don't forget the oysters, the star of the menu. They're almost too pretty to eat, but once you have one, you'll want a dozen more. The Mexican fruit platter is a light yet sweet dessert that cures your craving without being overly rich.
Broken Shaker
Take in some of the city's best views in Downtown LA's Broken Shaker. This rooftop bar and pool is located on top of the Freehand Los Angeles. The decor and drinks follow a tropical theme perfect for summer days under the sun. In addition to the creative cocktails, Broken Shaker also has a solid food menu that features some universally-beloved bites. Snack with chips, guac, and salsa or go all out and order a full spread of the crispy fried fish tacos.
Though you can't go wrong with any of the cocktails, Broken Shaker is the kind of bar where you should branch out and try something new. For example, the Gorilla Grip is a spice-forward cocktail made from banana, ginger, cacao cream, tequila, mezcal, and a black peppercorn tincture. You can also enjoy discounted food items and drinks during Happy Hour, Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Canopy Club
A Culver City favorite that sits on top of The Shay hotel, the Canopy Club is a unique, stylish restaurant that doubles as a poolside lounge. If you're not a guest of the hotel, you can reserve lounge chairs and cabanas via resort pass, but everyone is welcome to indulge in Canopy's Clubs cocktails and bites inside the restaurant. Canopy Club is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so patrons are able to pop in at all hours of the day.
Beat the heat with a glass of orange wine or a banana mai tai while you take in the charming rooftop views. For food, consider sharing the tuna crispy rice, bluefin tuna crudo, and crunchy avocado tacos with the table. The crispy fish taco is a can't-miss for seafood lovers, while vegetarians will adore the grilled kaleidoscope carrots. Cure your sweet tooth with an order of the moist olive oil cake, topped with raspberries and fresh cheese.
Sugar Palm
Sugar Palm at The Viceroy Santa Monica is the perfect place to enjoy a zesty margarita and some coastal cuisine. The outdoor dining area is a blend of contemporary and tropical, resulting in a beachy, romantic ambiance. The dishes at Sugar Palm are all served family style, and since using fresh produce is a priority, its menu tends to change with the seasons. The current summer menu features options like the fig and radicchio salad, salmon risotto, and spinach bucatini.
Pair any of these dishes with one of the seasonal craft cocktails, like the peach-forward Tropical Twist, for an added treat. The wine list is also up-to-par, even if nothing says summer like an ice-cold beer by the pool. Though the menu is relatively small, each dish is built on the notion that quality is more important than quantity. Be sure to order some crispy Brussels sprouts on the side, and don't forget to finish things off with a bit of seasonal sorbet.
Calabra
Looking for bohemian vibes by the beach? Calabra at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel is an ideal place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and some Mediterranean bites poolside. The rooftop restaurant and pool is surrounded by rattan furniture and lush plants, making Calabra one of the most beautiful restaurants on the Westside. The dips are a major hit as a must-have appetizer. Opt for the yuzu hummus, which is served alongside some fresh za'atar pita bread. The avocado dip is another local favorite.
Other menu highlights include the lamb sliders, pan-seared salmon with lemon orzo, and the classic chicken souvlaki. Cool off with watermelon and feta salad while sipping on the Mambo Italiano or a glass of sparkling vino. If you're dining with a larger group, consider ordering the $220 Wagyu tomahawk, coated in a rich and decadent Turkish coffee rub. End the evening with a chocolate semifreddo and an espresso martini, all while you watch the sun setting over Santa Monica.
CIRCA 55
Between the charming striped furniture and lush, plant-filled patio, CIRCA 55 at The Beverly Hilton is one of the best places to dine poolside. Visit during any time of the day for an Old Hollywood-inspired meal in the heart of Beverly Hills. Since the Beverly Hilton has been around since 1961, expect to sit in some of the same seats as Hollywood's most elite players. If you visit during breakfast, build your own omelet and refresh with a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Lunch, however, is the best time to catch some rays while you dine and drink. The Circa ceviche has a subtle kick, while the prosciutto and melon is a classic Italian favorite. That said, the lobster sandwich is a zesty can't-miss entree that seafood lovers will adore. Dine under the stars at dinner and indulge in the octopus ligure with Salt Spring mussels and fingerling potatoes.
The Cabana Cafe at The Beverly Hills Hotel
Located at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, The Cabana Cafe is one of the most stylish and chic places to enjoy a summer day by the pool. The pink and green patio chairs match the hotel's color scheme perfectly, and if you're in need of a celebratory brunch spot, The Cabana Cafe should be at the top of your list. The signature juices are healthy and fresh, and you can't go wrong with the Green Envy.
The eggs benedict is a breakfast classic, and though the candied ham is a decadent delight, you can replace it with smoked salmon or avocado. Need some dishes that are great for sharing? The Cabana Club's flatbreads are all delicious, but the summer black truffle flatbread is well worth the splurge. For a truly luxe poolside lunch, order the lobster and caviar roll, along with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, and enjoy a true taste of the high life.
Cara Restaurant
Cara Restaurant has one of the most ethereal and breathtaking poolside patios in all of LA. Whether you choose to dine at night or during the day, Cara Restaurant at the Cara Hotel will steal your heart with its 100-year-old olive trees and candle-lit tables. Stop by for weekend brunch and cool off with a glass of freshly squeezed OJ along with an egg white omelet or avocado toast. Prefer the lunch side of brunch? Order the lemon pasta that is topped with a 24-month aged Parmesan cheese.
For dinner, start your meal with Youcatecan ceviche and spicy salmon carpaccio before moving on to the little gem salad. When it comes to entrees, the branzino is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser, but the 40 oz. Tomahawk is perfect for sharing between two guests. The black truffle pappardelle is a vegetarian-friendly pasta dish that everyone will love, and you'll definitely want to order a side of caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Marco Polo
Looking to enjoy a quiet and cozy poolside meal in Silver Lake? Marco Polo serves classic Italian cuisine on a transportive and chic patio at the Silver Lake Pool & Inn. The menu is inspired by the food of Milan, but the locally-sourced ingredients showcase the beauty of California's produce. Embark on the ultimate al fresco dining experience when you sit under a striped umbrella by the pool. Though an Aperol spritz will surely call your name, the Limoncello spritz is a more unique take that has a bubbly texture and fresh flavor.
The tuna-stuffed peppers and charred broccolini are both grade-A appetizers, but the baked clams with Calabrian salsa have a savory kick that you won't want to miss. You can also keep things simple yet satisfying with the cucumber and avocado salad. The cacio e pepe is a classic pasta dish that always impresses, but the roasted bass with salsa verde is light, fresh, and perfectly balanced.
Tropicana
Live like the stars by diving into Tropicana at The Hollywood Roosevelt. This historic hotel has hosted everyone from Errol Flynn to Marilyn Monroe, and today the '60s-style Tropicana pool maintains a timeless vibe. The restaurant opens at 11:00 a.m. and closes late in the evening, allowing you to stop in all day long. Though the lounge chairs are only available to hotel guests, you can still catch some sun from the comfort of your nearby table.
The frozen cocktails change daily, but if you're hoping to beat the heat, are a great option no matter what. Need a little boost? Sip on the espresso martini while waiting for your food. The chef's burger is topped with thick-cut bacon, a fried egg, and a green goddess dressing, giving a unique edge without straying too far from the classic recipe that everyone loves. Cure your sweet tooth with the orange panna cotta flan or the nostalgic Oreo cake.
Umbrella Swim Club
From the same group that created Melrose Umbrella Co., Umbrella Swim Club is a poolside lounge that sits on the rooftop of the Sixty Beverly Hills hotel. The city views can be seen from every part of the rooftop, and even if you don't plan on taking a swim, the cocktails are well worth a visit. The food and drinks come from the hotel's on-site restaurant Ella, and the rooftop has its own menu for guests to browse.
Kick off your pool day with light bites like the tuna tartar, chips and guac, and fresh veggies and hummus. For something more filling, order the chilled lobster roll or smoked turkey sandwich. You can also share a sweet and spicy pepperoni pizza with your table or indulge in a spread of veggie, chicken, and steak tacos. Quench your thirst with a classic margarita or a glass of Sauvignon Blanc as you mix and mingle on the panoramic rooftop.
Upstairs at Ace Hotel
Head to Upstairs at Ace Hotel for an epic sunset view, high above the city. This hip bar and pool provide an ideal vibe for a Saturday afternoon out and about on the town. While the modern ambiance is enough to make you pop in for a drink, the quality of the cocktail will make you stay. Transport yourself to a tropical paradise when you sip the Banano cocktail made with rum, coconut, cold brew, ginger, banana, and a dash of cinnamon. There's also a couple of tasty zero-proof cocktails on the menu, ensuring that every preference is properly addressed.
Happy hour takes place Tuesday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., featuring $5 beers, $6 wine, and $10 bartender's choice cocktails. You can also enjoy $3 chips and salsa if you need something to nibble on, however, if you need something more substantial, head downstairs to the hotel's LOAM restaurant.
Caravan Swim Club
Enjoy Baja-inspired bites and drinks when you visit Hotel June's Caravan Swim Club. The terrace makes you feel as though you're dining in Tulum, and the views are an added bonus. Wine lovers will appreciate the biodynamic offerings, but the signature cocktails are too good to pass up. The spicy Fire & Desire is balanced by vibrant flavors of passion fruit. However, if you're a fan of mezcal, order the $45 mezcal flight and try a few different brands of this smoky spirit.
The seafood dishes should not be passed up, and if you're looking for a light yet bright starter, opt for the hamachi crudo. The poké tostadas and charred prawns are also local favorites, and you can't go wrong with their buttery grilled oysters. Need some vegetarian options? The squash blossom quesadilla is a unique yet tasty entree, as are the cauliflower nachos. If you haven't tried grilled nopales, definitely opt for the cactus salad.
FIG
FIG is one of the best places for brunch near the beach in Santa Monica. Located at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, FIG is ideal for brunch, dinner, and everything in between. Expect classic American cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant always uses farm-fresh ingredients when possible, and several items change with the seasons. Grab a table outside and soak up some sun while you sip on a crisp cucumber margarita.
Start your meal on a fancy foot with Kaluga caviar, fresh oysters, and a classic bread basket. You can even enjoy Champagne and Kaluga by the pool. If you're in the mood for pasta, order the Cacio e Pepe or splurge on the Maine lobster rigatoni. That said, the slow-cooked half duck is served alongside a truffle-braised endive salad that pairs perfectly with the tender duck. The short ribs are filling but flavorful, and the wood-fired pizzas are also worth exploring.