Los Angeles presents a vast and varied culinary landscape, making it an exciting destination for groups. From the casual, health-focused cafes of Venice to the upscale, glamorous restaurants of Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, there is a dining experience for every taste and budget. Signature cuisines range from fresh Californian and diverse international flavors to classic American comfort food. The dining scene is particularly active in neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, West Hollywood, and Downtown LA. For groups, especially those larger than four, securing reservations is often essential, particularly for dinner and popular brunch spots. Many venues are accustomed to accommodating larger tables, but advance planning ensures the best experience.
How we picked these
The dining recommendations in this guide are not generic suggestions. Anywayr (formerly Travelry) has aggregated insights from nine real trips previously researched for Los Angeles. We prioritized venues and neighborhoods that were most frequently mentioned by past travelers. This approach ensures that our selections reflect actual user experiences and popular choices, giving you concrete recommendations for your group's dining adventures. The higher the mention count, the more frequently a venue has been enjoyed by other Anywayr users.
Eat smart as a group
Navigating Los Angeles' dining scene with a group requires a bit of strategy to ensure a smooth experience. For tables of six or more, always consider making a reservation well in advance, especially for dinner on weekends. Many popular spots use online reservation systems, but a direct call can sometimes secure a better table or clarify group policies.
When it comes to splitting bills, it is wise to clarify a restaurant's policy upfront. Some establishments are happy to split checks by individual order or evenly, while others prefer a single payment. Using payment apps among your group can simplify this process if the restaurant cannot accommodate multiple payments.
Consider your group's interests and primary stay area when routing your dining plans. Santa Monica is a popular primary stay area and offers a high concentration of highly-rated dining options. Downtown LA and Venice also feature popular group-friendly spots. Planning meals within a chosen neighborhood minimizes travel time and allows for a more relaxed pace. For instance, a casual breakfast or lunch might be a good way to start the day before a more elaborate dinner.
Our picks
Below, you will find Anywayr's curated list of dining venues in Los Angeles, specifically chosen for their suitability for groups. Each recommendation includes details on cuisine, neighborhood, and a specific note on why it is a great choice for your group.
Booking tips for large tables
When booking for larger groups, it is always best to call the restaurant directly, even if they have an online reservation system. This allows you to discuss specific needs, such as table configuration or dietary restrictions. Be aware that some high-demand restaurants may require a deposit for large parties, especially during peak hours, or have a minimum spend. It is also common practice for a gratuity of 18-20% to be automatically added to the bill for groups of six or more. Confirm these policies when you make your reservation to avoid any surprises.