5 Romantic Dinner Date Spots in Sherman Oaks

Sherman Oaks is one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in the San Fernando Valley — often referred to as simply “The Valley” — which stretches out northwest of the Los Angeles basin. Sherman Oaks is an affluent suburb ideally situated near the 405 and 101 freeways, which offer access to the beaches, Hollywood, downtown L.A., and points beyond.

Sherman Oaks has every conceivable suburban comfort, starting with spacious, comfortable Sherman Oaks real estate in leafy subdivisions and on winding canyon roads that snake through the hills. There’s everything to love about the Southern California lifestyle, including great malls like the Sherman Oaks Galleria, and great restaurants, gastropubs, wine bars, and brunch spots clustered along the main drag, Ventura Boulevard.

Sherman Oaks practically oozes pop culture, as it has been the setting for movies, TV shows, and music videos. Part of that vibe includes several great romantic dinner date spots, where couples can escape the hustle and bustle of the nation’s second-largest city and cozy up for a dinner in an upscale restaurant or a hip new gastropub.

The first step to getting in on the Sherman Oaks lifestyle is to check out some of the fantastic luxury homes for sale. Housing prices have somewhat leveled off and the median home price is about $1.6 million, although it remains a seller’s market. Working with an experienced professional like Jonnelle Lewin will make the process much easier to navigate. Once you’ve settled in your new home, it’s time to get out and discover the best restaurants in Sherman Oaks for romantic dinner dates.

13422 Ventura Boulevard

 

This being Los Angeles, hip eateries are constantly popping up and disappearing. Not so Mistral, which has been a popular romantic dinner date spot since 1988. Mistal is an elegant French bistro set apart by its elegant main dining room, which features dark wood walls and ceiling, and fashionable chandeliers. Equally elegant is the menu offering favorites such as crisp duck confit in orange Grand Marnier sauce and New York steak au poivre. There are many other entrees, including beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood, all made with the freshest ingredients. Mistral has a well-curated wine list and a dessert menu that includes a signature brown sugar cheesecake and a chocolate souffle. Diners can expect impeccable service to go along with the wonderful food, making it one of the most romantic dinner date spots in The Valley.

11720 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City

 

Just a few miles down Ventura Boulevard in Studio City is Firefly, which has been described as being the most romantic restaurant in L.A. That’s saying something, considering how many posh neighborhoods and eateries there are in the city. Setting Firefly apart from all the others is a main dining room with semi-private booths with dim lighting that make for a perfect romantic night out with your significant other. There’s also a swanky, enclosed patio dining area and a library lounge that’s perfect for enjoying cocktails and appetizers. Among the favorites on the upmarket menu are duck breast, Atlantic salmon, steak frites, and Hokkaido scallops. There’s an extensive wine list and a dessert menu that will cap off your perfect romantic dinner.

14633 Ventura Boulevard

 

Romantic dining out doesn’t always have to be in a formal, candle-lit dining room with fine china. It can be fun and comfortable as well as upscale, and The Sherman restaurant and bar on Ventura Boulevard certainly fits that bill. The Sherman is known for its hearty American gastropub menu as well as its unique, rustic décor that stands out in the middle of this trendy urban area. The Sherman has the feel of a modern barn with wood plank walls, rustic décor, and a high, exposed ceiling. With the full bar stretching along one wall and historical, black-and-white photos on the opposite wall, it offers a cozy atmosphere for a fun dinner date. Patrons can enjoy apps and drinks at the bar or settle into a booth or table to enjoy their dinner.

The Sherman offers salads, burgers, sandwiches, and mains such as braised short ribs, peri-peri chicken, fish and chips, steak frites, and cioppino. There’s a varied wine list, premium craft beers that include local brews, and a full offering of specialty cocktails that include classics as well as originals. The Sherman also serves brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

13335 Ventura Boulevard

 

Malama Pono Restaurant offers a new twist on romantic dining. It is a Pacific-influenced fusion restaurant featuring fresh seafood with a chef-driven menu. The menu is influenced by the flavors of Hawaii, Southeast Asia, Japan, Mexico, and, of course, California. Steamed mussels, seafood ricotta dumplings, grilled shrimp & parmesan grits, and horseradish-crusted Mahi Mahi are among the favorites on the seafood menu. Malama Pono also offers chicken, duck, and beef dishes, as well as healthy salads There are plenty of wines, craft cocktails, and craft beers to pair with any menu item. The interior is bright and casual, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing romantic dinner.

4349 Tujunga Avenue, Studio City

 

No list of romantic dinner date spots would be complete without a classic Italian eatery, and Vitello’s in nearby Studio City is the place to go for great pasta dishes and a great atmosphere in a brick building with a jazz nightclub upstairs. Diners are treated to classic Italian dishes such as marsalas, parmigianas, and piccatas, plus dishes with contemporary California twists. Vitello’s offers fresh fish as well as light and healthy fare, plus steaks, chops, salads, and soups. The best Italian wines, craft cocktails, and beer help round out every meal, and the dessert menu is highlighted by delicious gelato.

This is just a sampling of the best romantic dinner date spots in Sherman Oaks. Once you’ve decided to begin shopping for Sherman Oaks real estate, partner with Los Angeles native Jonnelle Lewin for the best results.