Friday, April 29, 2016

Dining Alfresco

Here at Radio SFV, we are absolutely loving this warm weather. There seems to be a theme going on—last week, we listed off the best outdoor movie spots in the SFV and surrounding areas. This week, we want to talk about dining alfresco: outdoor dining! The San Fernando Valley has hidden gems everywhere. Our job is to uncover them and encourage you to do the same.

Check out our list of hidden patio restaurants in the SFV! 
  1. The Stand in Encino. Established in 2003, The Stand has been offering some classic American food “done right!” With the combination of comfort food of early century diners and satisfying prices, The Stand is a perfect place for alfresco dining in an urban country closed off patio! 
  2. Firefly in Studio City. Firefly: the restaurant without a sign. The dining is outside and the bar is an area that is essentially designed like a home library with comfy sofas! The side cabanas on the patio are semi-private and sit two to four! With a fireplace anchoring the center, it’s the perfect evening getaway or a night out with friends! 
  3. River Rock Lounge Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City. This legendary hotel boasts its lounge, which is a full service restaurant perfect for dinner or drinks! The outdoor seating is by the pond where John Wayne is said to have taught his son how to fish. (LA is full of history—why not check out a restaurant that is rich in history as well? Sounds pretty cool to me!). 
  4. The Six in Studio City. Set in the Coldwater Curve, this enclosed patio backs up to the hillside with a modern, rustic feel. This place is known for its banana cream pie, and I can definitely see why! You have to try it! 
  5. Ca Del Sole in Toluca Lake. This Italian mainstay is just down the street from Universal Studios. The patio is walled with trees, twinkling lights, and cabanas. It’s perfect for a date night, special occasion, or private party! I love how much of a little getaway this restaurant feels like! 
  6. Saddle Peak Lodge in Calabasas. This classic institution sits in the Santa Monica Mountains at the canyon edge of Calabasas. It’s known for unique meat dishes, but brunch and happy hour are becoming more popular as well! This restaurant hosts a terrace patio that will make you feel like you’re on a mountain top vacation miles away. You have to check this place out if you want a woodsy feel to your alfresco dining! 
  7.  The Villa in Woodland Hills. With a new chef and menu, and a complete remodel, The Villa is a place you have to visit if you’re in the valley! This Italian/Californian eatery has a patio that will remind you of a small villa.