Special Occasion Restaurants

Since opening in 1956, La Scala has been popular with locals and entertainment industry types alike, with its comfortable red booths and drawings of Hollywood figures lining the walls. Traditional Italian fare is complimented by an exceptional wine list supplied by Owner Jean Leon’s personal vineyard, Chateau Leon, in Spain. The restaurant is revered for its Chopped Salad, but other menu highlights include the Steamed Mussles served in a broth of garlic, white wine, and tomato sauce, and the Tiramisu served with fresh whipped cream and berries. The quality of ingredients has never faltered in the restaurant’s long history, and …

Dining at Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is an opulent experience. Dishes feature the highest quality ingredients, cooked to perfection, and served in generous portions. Start off with their creamy lobster bisque and then try the “Chef’s Cut” New York Strip. The ambiance is full of high energy with an undertone of elegance, with dark wood and subdued lighting throughout the dining room. Live entertainment and an extensive wine list add the final changes to an already exquisite dining experience. For a night of elegant dining in a luxurious setting, try Mastro’s Steakhouse.

One of Brentwood’s premier Italian restaurants, Osteria Latini offers an expertly executed and eclectic array of Northern Italian cuisine. Head chef and owner Paolo Pasio brings his extensive knowledge from years as a restaurateur to this, his grandest achievement. The bistro-style of the restaurant, with it’s pine walls and dark wood floors, sets an intimate setting perfect for a quiet dinner with the family, or a romantic dinner with that special someone. A wide range of daily specials such as the Suckling Pig, Homemade black and white linguini with Lanostinos, and Osso buco with saffron risotto assures that regular diners …

Sor Tino in Brentwood is a casual Italian hotspot that serves variations of traditional Florintine cuisine, in the form of Chef Agostino Sciandri’s signature homemade pastas, risottos, and brick oven pizzas. The ochre-colored dining room features a wood-burning oven turns out thin-crusted pizzas, while entrees from the open kitchen such as sea bass with tomatoes and rosemary-grilled chicken, provide substantial fare for guests looking for a hearty meal. Guests rave about the Gnocchi, Lobster Ravioli, and Parpadelle with Wild Boar Ragu. For a taste of good Norther Italy cuisine in the heart of Brentwood, Sor Tino is a fine option.

This Italian restaurant may seem like just any old option from the vast choices in Los Angeles, but this venue is known more their diversions that involve food rather than the food itself. Every once in a while on a special date Piccolo will have patrons enjoy a five course meal that is based off the wines they choose. It is a very random, mysterious game that is just right for the adventurous eater. For those seeking ambiance and serenity the restaurant’s location with a great view towards the horizon will do just fine. Inside one can enjoy elegant dining …

Since 1979, Michael's has presented modern American cuisine with a French influence. The decor is light and airy, with a spacious, uncluttered dining room featuring modern art from an array of great contemporary artists. The lush, serene patio garden allows guests a chance to enjoy the Southern California weather while dining. An extensive wine list includes more than eight hundred labels from California, France, Italy, and wine growing regions from across the globe. The secluded garden, landscaped with a variety of trees, exotic flowers, and flowing fountains, creates an ambience ideal for a garden party, a relaxing meal, or romantic …

With nearly every new restaurant offering some sort of fusion cuisine today, Sam’s by the Beach rises above the rest and delivers fresh, smart food in an intimate neighborhood setting just off Pacific Coast Highway. The seasonal menu includes traditional California basics that seem familiar until the taste reveals unique Mediterranean details. The unassuming outside belies the quiet romance waiting inside. Dedicated staff members cater to your every dining need, implementing a special menu if requested and treating each patron as a regular. Visit this surprising getaway to relearn all your old favorites.

For sharp and flavorful Asian dishes that render a taste of the east, Pearl Dragon can offer something special for everyone. The sleek, dramatic decor and chic bar scene draw a stylish crowd to this industry hangout, which offers the only full bar in Pacific Palisades. The Pearl Dragon's elegant yet laid back atmosphere, with potted bamboo and gleaming wood tables, is well suited for crowds coming for the lobster specialty dishes, sushi and Pan-Asian entrees. This elegant and modern décor enhances the fine dining atmosphere, and when paired with Pearl Dragon’s entrees and appetizers, a little taste of the …

Nico's is a contemporary American bistro with subtle French and Italian inspiration. Covered in art deco posters and straw-colored walls, this chic and cozy hot spot serves up a wide array of entrees from Dungeness crab cakes to New York Strip. The intimate décor complete with candle light and the upscale ambience makes Nico’s a fine choice for a romantic evening on the town with that special someone. The upstairs cocktail lounge is a wonderful place to kick back and enjoy a drink while waiting for a reservation, should guests arrive early, or just a place to unwind after a …

For delectable fusion cuisine, blending flavors of the Pacific Rim, Provence, and Tuscany, travel no further than Restaurant Christine. Chef and Owner Christine Brown created an eclectic menu that is both unique and flavorful, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and French influences to offer a wide variety of tastes. Located in Torrance near the foot of Rolling Hills, Restaurant Christine feels like a cozy Mediterranean villa, and provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal with friends and family or perhaps celebrate a special occasion. A reasonably priced wine list, friendly service, and excellent fare make Restaurant Christine an experience worth repeating.

With an amazing 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles county as well as a history that dates back to 1926, The Sky Room atop the Breakers Hotel is a timeless Los Angeles landmark. Classic Art Deco décor transports diners to the Supper Club era of the 1920's and 30's, when dining out was synonymous with elegance and style. The menu offers French infused California cuisine with elegantly presented dishes that include Maine lobster and Colorado rack of lamb along with an inspired collection of wine that compliments Chef Juan Carlos's menu. Fine china, linens, and crystal hark …

Engine Co. No. 28 is an American restaurant reminiscent of the classic grills of San Francisco and New York with its mahogany booths, granite bar, and Ella Fitzgerald music in the background. This Los Angeles landmark is set in a beautifully restored 1912 Los Angeles firehouse. Inspired by traditional firehouse cooking, Engine Co.’s menu features a wide variety of timeless American fare. Dishes are inventive, delicious, and full of fresh ingredients. Step back in time as you dine at this authentic firehouse still complete with its original fire pole and brick walls.

The Orange County Mining Co. is located in the hills, boasts a panoramic view of Orange County. In the tradition of the mining days of Silverado Canyon, the restaurant is patterned after the steak houses and saloons frequented by the prospectors of old. The Orange County mining Co. sits upon the old silver mine sites of the canyon. Relics displayed within the restaurant's interior are genuine artifacts of the mining era. The kitchen serves hearty American fare such as steaks, grilled chicken, and seafood. The full bar refreshes guests thirsts with traditional cocktails as well as bottled and draught beer …

Located in the heart of downtown Fullerton, The Cellar is located in the basement of downtown Fullerton’s historic three-story Villa del Sol, the setting is reminiscent of the Old Europe. With a heavy-beamed ceiling, stone walls, and crystal chandeliers, the restaurant promises an intimate and romantic setting. The Old-World charm extends to the French-inspired menu, with courses such as lobster bisque and Norwegian smoked salmon. The exquisite fine dining experience is crowned by the Cellar's award-winning wine collection featuring an extensive selection of over 1400 wines.

Once surrounded by an enormous orange grove, this landmark jewel was built as a family home in 1909. The Victorian decor exhibits extravagance and splendor; with warm tones accented by soft lighting and tapestries exude elegance. The atmosphere is only outdone by the kitchen’s French-influenced Northern Italian fare. The menu is peppered with fame and glamour, with playfully-named dishes such as Sophia Loren Caviar and Cartier Calamari. With 12 private rooms, the White House is ideally suited for private parties and groups; while the elegant ambiance makes the White House an excellent destination for any special occasion, large or small.

The First Cabin, located in the Balboa Bay Club and Resort, perfectly captures the essence of the Newport Harbor with its panoramic bay views. The menu offers classic Californian cuisine, with dishes such as creamy lobster bisque and beef tenderloin. Complimented by a wide selection of more than 600 wines, including vintages from around the world, The First Cabin received praise for its wine collection with awards from both Wine Spectator and the Distinguished Restaurants of North America. Chef Josef Lageder uses only the freshest ingredients the season has to offer for the menu, and even offers a special wellness …

The Golden Truffle is a unique bistro known for its innovative fusion menu, which includes a mixture of Asian, French, Spanish, and Caribbean-influenced dishes from Chef Alan Greeley. The menu changes daily with whatever the freshest ingredients available are, but favorite items include Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad and Rosemary Roasted Spring Lamb Loin with Vegetable Soufflé and Mushroom Meat Juices. With such a wide array of dishes to choose from, The Golden Truffle keeps its clientele curious. An extensive and award winning wine list featuring French and Californian selections to compliment the exciting menu.

Located on Alamitos Bay, McKenna’s is scenic and serene as diners overlook the peaceful Pacific while delighting in fresh seafood and succulent prime steaks. Although it resides in the midst of bustling Los Angeles, the tranquil eatery allows guests to experience the al fresco ambiance of sailing lofts as the fresh breezes roll in from the picturesque horizon cooling the grand deck. Lighting up the stage five nights a week, eclectic vocal, guitar, and jazz add smooth harmonic vibes to the relaxed atmosphere, entertaining patrons as they choose from a diverse menu with dishes such as the delicious Hawaiian Ahi …

Gemell’s Restaurant has been serving the citizens of Dana Point fine French cuisine for over a decade. Owner and Executive Chef Byron Gemmell is one of Orange Counties culinary elite, and his namesake restaurant reflects his depth of experience and knowledge with the dishes the serves that keep guests returning time and again. Patrons rave about the Lobster Bisque, Lamb, and Chocolate Soufflé, but with a full lunch menu, and Sunday Brunch as well, the dinner menu is not the only star in Gemell’s sky. The cozy dining room is the perfect venue for a meal with that special someone, …

A premier full service dinner house since 1965, The Rusty Pelican is a Newport Beach landmark. The charming waterfront cottage features fresh seafood prepared in innovative ways, with dishes like "The Flagship”, a fresh brandy-herb marinated piece of mahi mahi dusted with cajun spices and Kentucky bourbon sauce. Serving lunch Monday through Saturday, a Sunday brunch, and the ever-popular weekday Happy Hour, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the upstairs lounge, The Rusty Pelican is a great place to take in the sights of the harbor. The warm and inviting atmosphere, with its skylights and cathedral ceilings, and waterfront …