Los Angeles might have one of the most famous skylines and sunsets in the world which is why we Angelenos love open air venues. Rooftops in LA are more than bars and restaurants; they’re in a category on their own — nothing beats an evening with the City of Angels in the background.
In no particular order, here are our favorite 2022 rooftops in Los Angeles and why you should check them out. From high-end eateries to loud rooftop bars, these places offer more than a gorgeous view; they’re a vital part of our very own La La Land.
1. Élephante
This gorgeous rooftop takes you to the Italian Mediterranean shores with its decor and cuisine. Located in Downtown Santa Monica, Élephante is a great place to grab a bite and a few drinks, but they also have an impressive wine list. The ambient is hyped and lively, and you’ll enjoy a fantastic ocean view with your meal. This beach house is no doubt home away from home; it certainly feels that way!
2. Broken Shaker
With venues in New York, LA, Miami and Chicago, Broken Shaker is becoming a synonym with great drinks in impressive settings. LA’s Broken Shaker and its pool deck is one of the hottest spots in Downtown LA. And they balance tropical, colorful cocktails with authentic craftsmanship for a good time guaranteed. The food is creative, too, so enjoy everything from a falafel burger to some mean fried fish tacos.
3. Openaire
This extraordinary bar and brunch hotspot is more than a rooftop; it’s a working greenhouse with the freshest air in the city. With Michelin-starred chef Josiah Citrin running the kitchen, Openaire is a paradise for foodies, especially for those looking to escape, at least for a few hours, from LA bustling streets. For a bite and a cocktail, ask for the pool menu at the bar.
https://www.thelinehotel.com/los-angeles/bars-restaurants/#openaire
4. Skybar at The Mondrian Hotel
The Skybar at Mondrian LA is luxury and party in communion. The glamourous poolside deck is slick and sexy, and the live DJ adds energy to the perfect setting for a night out at the Sunset Boulevard. Order a Skybar Lemonade with gin and cucumber slices or order a bottle of Champagne; Skybar is worth splurging a little. Besides, you know you deserve it.
https://www.sbe.com/nightlife/skybar
5. Perch
Perch’s rooftop bar has an impressive view of Downtown LA from the 15th floor, and the French-inspired cuisine makes this a world-class experience. Perch is larger than life, and it’s a must-visit for first-timers. The eclectic decor contrasts with the tall buildings behind for a scene that just screams LA. For brunch, dinner or late-night drinks, Perch is always a great choice.
6. Calabra Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Sit back and relax at the “Best outdoor hotel restaurant patio in Southern California.” That’s Calabra, and you’ll find it down in Santa Monica. The perfect weekend getaway spot is also a lovely place to spend the morning with a drink in hand. Food is excellent, including the Hamachi ceviche and LA’s best Key Lime Pie, courtesy of Vanilla Bakeshop.
https://www.properhotel.com/santa-monica/restaurants-bars/calabra/
7. Upstairs, Ace Hotel
You’ll find this exclusive restaurant on the rooftop of Ace Hotel in Downtown LA. Comfy, eclectic, but still high-end, with a very Californian feel. Upstairs is a hidden gem with impressive views in all directions. More than a restaurant bar; upstairs is an open-air home. The Ace Hotel is also home to a marvelous theater, so visit even on rainy days.
https://www.acehotel.com/losangeles/food-and-drink/upstairs/fireplace/
8. Spire73
You’ll find this high-end LA rooftop atop the Intercontinental Los Angeles Downtown. Just go to the 73rd floor and get swooned off your feet. This is one of the tallest rooftop bars in America, and it’s probably the best view of Los Angeles below. Fire pits keep you warm on the coldest nights, and palm-tree-shaped sun umbrellas provide much necessary shade during the day. Food is outstanding here, too (try the Prawn Toscana), and don’t get us started on the signature cocktails!
https://dtla.intercontinental.com/downtown-la-restaurants/
9. Catch LA
Catch needs no introduction; this is one of the most sought-after and exclusive rooftops in LA, and its award-winning Asian-inspired cuisine and fun views make eating here an authentic LA experience. Brunch or dinner, or a night out with wine and cocktails, Catch is a great alternative at any time of day. With views to West Hollywood, Catch surely has something for everyone.
https://catchrestaurants.com/catchla/
10. Terra, by Eataly
This terrace on the third floor of Eataly La is heaven for Italian food lovers. Terra is a great lunch, brunch and dinner alternative with a lovely outdoor decor, a wood-fired oven, grill specialties and nice Italian wine, but don’t expect late-night cocktails. Here it’s all about good food in great company with superb service, just what you want to spend the evening under the sunny Californian skies.
https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/los-angeles/la-terra/
11. LP Rooftop Bar
Enjoy the Sunset strip from one of the most exciting rooftops in LA. LP is also one of the largest rooftop patios in the city, and they make good use of it, offering fantastic small plates and craft cocktails for an imaginative experience. The night scene is fantastic here, but you can also spend the day on the verdant patio. This is hands down amongst the most popular bars in West Hollywood.
https://www.eplosangeles.com/lp-rooftop
12. Mama Shelter’s Rooftop
Gourmet burgers, signature cocktails, live DJ music and awesome views make Mama Shelter’s rooftop a local’s favorite. Ping-pong tables, table football and super friendly staff, makes Mama’s a great place to spend the day. With the famous Hollywood sign in the background, there’s no other place you’ll want to be on a sunny day in LA.
https://mamashelter.com/los-angeles/eat-drink/rooftop/
13. Cha Cha Chá
This Mexican terrace in the Arts District LA is more than great margaritas, the food here is authentic, and the ambiance is contagiously tropical. Carnitas, tostadas and a wide variety of tacos — this is a culinary experience and an all-out block party on the same terrace. Visit for the food, and you’ll come back for the festive ambiance! At Cha Cha Chá, you’re part of the family.