Love, San Fernando Valley Style
Discover five romantic places in the Valley
One of the largest regions in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley has endless options for those in a romantic mood. From a hidden garden to cozy fireplaces and "the most romantic runway in the world," read on for five romantic places in the Valley.
The Front Yard - The Garland
Founded by actress Beverly Garland in 1972, The Garland (4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood 91602) received a $20-million revamp in 2015 that preserved its California vintage vibe along with a newfound 21st century chic. The hotel's restaurant, The Front Yard showcases L.A.'s diverse food culture in a warm and inviting setting with a gorgeous patio. Enjoy a nightcap by the fireplace at Reverse Happy Hour, or snuggle with your bae and catch a classic movie by the pool.
SuihoEn: The Japanese Garden
Find your moment of zen as you stroll through SuihoEn (“Garden of Water and Fragrance”), an authentic 6.5-acre Japanese garden modelled after classic “stroll gardens” built for Japanese Feudal lords. Located on the grounds of the Tillman Water Reclamation Plant (6100 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys 91406), this beautiful hidden gem was created by Dr. Koichi Kawana to provide beauty, relaxation, inspiration and a better understanding of Japanese culture using reclaimed water. Dr. Kawana designed more than a dozen major Japanese gardens in the United States, including the botanical gardens at LACMA.
In today's fast-paced, modern world, it's important to slow down every now and then. For visitors and locals alike, there are green spaces throughout Los Angeles that offer a break from the urban frenzy. From acres of flowers to historic Japanese gardens and lush hidden gems, read on and discover the best gardens in L.A.
Van Nuys Airport
The history of Van Nuys Airport (VNY) has all the elements of a blockbuster film—action, adventure, war, world records, movie stars, mystery, and suspense. One of the all-time romantic movies, Casablanca filmed a key scene at VNY back when it was known as “the most romantic runway in the world.” Whether you book an aerial tour or watch the planes while dining at 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant, romance is in the air at Van Nuys Airport.
Tujunga Village
Located near Ventura Boulevard and seemingly a world away, Tujunga Village is nestled between the Colfax Meadows neighborhood and Woodbridge Park. A block-long stretch of Tujunga Avenue between Moorpark and Woodbridge is the heart of the Village, a charming street of mom-and-pop shops that recalls a simpler time. Enjoy the small town vibe and explore boutiques and gourmet offerings that will please even the pickiest palate. Locals start the day at the popular Aroma Coffee, then browse shops like Verona by Jeni B., Hoity Toity and the Village Gourmet. In the evening, enjoy live jazz or comedy while dining on contemporary Italian cuisine at Feinstein's at Vitello's.
Firefly
A pioneer of the upscale Valley restaurant scene, Firefly (11720 Ventura Blvd., Studio City) opened in 2002 and its patio is still considered among the best in Los Angeles. Inside, you’ll find a long bar and cozy “library” lounge. The patio is the dining room set against a green hillside, complete with a few cabanas that are perfect for a romantic date. Flickering fireplaces, iron light fixtures, and back bar add to the alluring ambience. A retractable roof exposes the sky for brunch and dinner. The seasonal California “wine country” menu from chef Perry Pollaci (Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen”) showcases grilled meat, fresh fish, pasta, risotto, and market vegetables. On Monday nights, enjoy live jazz with a fine glass of French or California wine.
Los Angeles has no shortage of restaurants for al fresco dining—from hotels to rooftops, oceanfront and urban sidewalk cafes. Here are 11 ground-floor restaurants, from cozy to casual chic and fine dining, with very special - and mostly hidden - open-air patios.
Love, Los Angeles Style
Los Angeles is known as the entertainment capital of the world, but the romances that happen in the City of Angels aren't just movie magic - they're very real indeed. Discover romantic places in neighborhoods across L.A. that can inspire the love of a lifetime.