Top 10 Best Poolside Restaurants in Los Angeles

La Lo La Rooftop is Downtown LA's spirited addition to the poolside scene, embracing a party-forward energy that doesn't take itself too seriously. While the ratings suggest it's still finding its footing, the Latin-influenced bar menu and DJ-fueled pool parties have carved out a niche for groups looking to turn up without the velvet rope drama of more established spots. Their tropical cocktails lean sweet and strong—perfect for dancing rather than sipping contemplatively. Best for younger crowds and bachelorette parties who prioritize vibes over Michelin stars, especially during their themed weekend events that pack the deck.

The Front Yard brings neighborhood charm to North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District with a resort-style pool and menu that covers all the California classics without trying too hard. Their burgers have developed a serious following among Valley locals who appreciate the quality-to-price ratio and the fact that you can actually get a table without advance planning. The vibe is refreshingly casual and genuinely family-friendly—kids splash while parents enjoy craft beers and the restaurant's famous truffle fries. It's the anti-scene scene, perfect for locals who want the poolside experience without the Downtown or Westside attitude adjustment.

71Above technically isn't poolside, but this 71st-floor stunner deserves mention for redefining sky-high dining in Downtown LA with views that make you forget about water features entirely. The contemporary American cuisine leans luxurious—think wagyu beef and Maine lobster—while floor-to-ceiling windows showcase a 360-degree panorama that includes distant ocean glimpses on clear days. This is special occasion territory: proposals, milestone birthdays, and impressing out-of-town visitors who need to understand LA's vertical ambitions. Reserve the chef's table for an unforgettable splurge, or hit the lounge for cocktails if the restaurant prices make your eyes water as much as the views do.

FIG Restaurant at the Fairmont Miramar brings farm-to-table sophistication to Santa Monica's poolside dining scene with a commitment to local, seasonal ingredients that goes beyond trendy buzzwords. Chef's daily changing menu might feature Santa Barbara spot prawns or Chino Farms vegetables, but the grilled octopus has remained a consistent star that keeps regulars coming back. The courtyard pool setting offers a more refined, adult atmosphere—think business lunches and anniversary dinners rather than party scene. It's one of the few poolside spots where the cuisine legitimately competes with the setting, making it worth the higher price point for serious food lovers.

La Ola is Beverly Hills' best-kept secret, a boutique poolside bar that feels more like a private residence than a restaurant. With only 33 reviews, this intimate spot flies under the radar while delivering craft cocktails and light bites in an exclusive setting that screams old Hollywood glamour. The mojitos here are mixed with fresh mint from their herb garden, and the intimate pool deck means you're never fighting for attention or ambiance. Perfect for romantic escapes or those who prefer their poolside dining with a side of privacy rather than Instagram crowds.

Sugar Palm Santa Monica captures that elusive Santa Monica beach club energy with a rooftop pool deck that feels like a mini vacation from reality. This spot transforms from daytime chill zone to nightlife destination, with DJs spinning and frozen cocktails flowing as the ocean breeze rolls in. Their frozen rosé situation is not to be missed—perfectly slushy and dangerously drinkable while you're soaking up the last rays of California sunshine. Best for groups of friends in their 20s and 30s looking to make a day (and night) of it, though the scene can get clubby after dark if that's your vibe.

Videre sits atop the Kimpton Everly Hotel, offering a sleek Mid-Wilshire escape where the pool glimmers alongside globally-inspired small plates. The space feels decidedly modern and cosmopolitan, with fire pits that keep the party going well after sunset and a menu that hops from Korean-style tacos to Mediterranean spreads. Order their signature Everly cocktail—a refreshing blend that's become something of a neighborhood secret—and settle in for people-watching that rivals the skyline views. It's ideal for young professionals and date nights, especially if you snag one of the poolside fire pit tables on a balmy evening.

Caravan Cantina brings laid-back beach vibes to Hotel June's West LA outpost, serving modern Mexican fare that's several notches above your typical pool bar. Their fish tacos are legendary among LAX-area locals—perfectly grilled with chipotle crema and pickled onions that cut through the California heat. The atmosphere skews casual and family-friendly during the day, then shifts to a more spirited crowd once happy hour hits and the DJ starts spinning. It's refreshingly unpretentious for LA, making it perfect for travelers who want that poolside experience without the velvet rope attitude.

The Rooftop Beverly Hills epitomizes West Coast luxury with its heated pool deck and panoramic views stretching from the Hollywood Hills to Century City. This see-and-be-seen destination serves elevated California cuisine alongside craft cocktails that justify the scenery, with their signature rosé flowing as freely as the compliments on your swimsuit. Best suited for special occasions and those willing to splurge for the Beverly Hills experience, it attracts a well-heeled crowd of hotel guests and locals who've mastered the art of the leisurely lunch. Book a cabana on weekends if you want the full VIP treatment—it's worth every penny for the privacy and prime positioning.

Perched atop the hip Proper Hotel in DTLA, Cara Cara delivers Mediterranean-inspired California cuisine with a side of skyline magic. The rooftop pool scene here is pure LA—locals lounge on daybeds while sipping mezcal margaritas and nibbling on their famous wood-fired pizzas that emerge blistered and perfect from the kitchen. It's the ideal spot for groups of friends looking to day-drink with style, or couples seeking a sunset session that transitions seamlessly from golden hour to night. The dual pool and restaurant setup means you can literally swim, dine, and repeat without ever leaving the rooftop.