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Top picks in Sawtelle

Date and dinner spots

You want a dinner spot that sets the right tone for a date without feeling like you are settling for a generic atmosphere.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
Il Moro Restaurant image 1
Il Moro Restaurant image 2
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Italian restaurant

Outdoor patio with waterfall and lush greenery creates a tranquil and elegant atmosphere. Indoor space features rotating local art that adds character. Setting suits romantic occasions and quiet dinners with a warm, inviting vibe.

Cozy ambience sets the mood for first dates and anniversaries. It works well for intimate dinners and special occasions.

Ambience suits dates, birthdays, and work dinners with a perfect vibe. Multiple dinners feature yummy entrees and appetizers that never disappoint.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, especially the risotto."

"The food here is amazing, truly unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Parking validation is available for customers who dine at the restaurant.

3

The average meal costs around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

02
Cafe Belen image 1

Bright, clean space with cozy indoor and outdoor seating creates a peaceful, friendly atmosphere. Cuban and upbeat music adds lively energy without overwhelming the setting. The place feels inviting and unassuming, with a cute patio featuring neon signs and greenery that stands out.

Sunny-side-up eggs and fluffy buttermilk pancakes with berries create a cozy meal. Chicken sausage adds a savory touch, making it a solid spot for a casual date.

Dinner offers filet mignon, Ribeye, and Chicken Piccata among other entrees. Open daily until 9:00 PM, it serves affordable meals on the Westside.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast food here was amazing and delicious."

"The owner's love and care make this a great spot for dates."

"The ribeye was super good, tender, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking outside.

2

The cafe offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

3

Prices for drinks range from $5 to $10, entrees from $15 to $25.

03
Nanbankan image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Intimate yakitori restaurant with open kitchen counter seating and traditional Japanese decor creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Small space fills quickly, offering an upscale yet vibrant dining experience where watching chefs grill skewers adds to the energy.

Offers an exciting atmosphere ideal for date nights. Serves authentic Japanese food that adds a special touch to the evening.

Dinner includes a complete set with miso soup, several meats, pickled vegetables, and ice cream. The menu features a variety of skewers, which are the most popular items. Reservations are recommended for early dinner seating.

People are saying

"I thought the yakitori here was the best I'd ever had."

"The skewers here are a must-try for Date Spots."

"The dinner spots here are all about perfectly grilled yakitori skewers."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to dine at this popular yakitori restaurant.

2

Expect to wait if you don't have a reservation, especially on weekends.

3

Bring your vaccination card as it's required for entry.

04
Sushi Enya Sawtelle image 1
Sushi restaurant

Modern, cozy space with stunning Japanese decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Friendly chefs behind the counter add to the traditional vibe without being showy. Sushi presentation is aesthetic and fresh, with large portions and unique rolls that stand out.

Dinner suits both family and date night settings well. It works for a first date or a fun night with friends.

Dinner offers a family-friendly atmosphere and suits date nights well. The experience includes memorable meals like those enjoyed on Valentine's Day.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi in LA here."

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The food here is always so fresh and delicious for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted sushi plates and drinks before 6:30 pm.

3

Parking is available at The Block plaza with validation from the restaurant.

05
KAIF image 1
Restaurant

Indoor space combines New Orleans style dining with an open-air cozy terrace featuring a fireplace and heaters. Loud, live DJ sets create a boho with luxe vibe that energizes the atmosphere. Signature cocktails and top-notch hookah complement the meticulously designed interior and spacious seating.

Lively vibe and DJ sets create a great atmosphere for date nights. The spot suits both intimate dates and group catch-ups with its energetic atmosphere.

Stylish, cozy, and vibrant atmosphere suits both chill dinners and celebrations. Heated patio lets you enjoy late night meals comfortably.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, thanks to the excellent care."

"It's a cozy spot for dinner with a warm, vibrant atmosphere."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious, especially the cheesecake."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to visit KAIF.

2

The new brunch menu is available on Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm.

3

Expect loud music after 8 pm when the DJ starts playing.

06
Sun Nong Dan Sawtelle 선농단 image 1

Korean restaurant offers large covered patio and bright, clean interior with packed seating that creates a lively, welcoming energy. Atmosphere feels like dining at a Korean friend's home, with a friendly, comfortable vibe despite some noise. The space blends Seoul and K-town styles, making it feel authentic and vibrant.

Servers like Ken, DK, and Matt provide friendly, attentive service that keeps the experience smooth. Couples often pick their food before sitting, with dishes like Yang Ji Sulung Tang and Won Gi Tang offering satisfying options for dates.

Food arrives surprisingly fast even during busy dinner rushes. Staff like Ken, Eric, and Matthew provide kind and helpful service. The spot suits late-night dinners and casual hangs with friends or colleagues.

People are saying

"The soup here is rich, flavorful, and soul-satisfying."

"I had an amazing meal with chill vibes."

"These authentic Korean Date Spots serve delicious, healthy soups and galbi jjim."

Good to know

1

Sun Nong Dan Sawtelle opens 24/7.

2

Expect a wait on popular evenings.

3

They have a daily promotion from 6:30 am to 10:30 am offering four soups for $11.

07
dan modern chinese - sawtelle image 1

Chinese restaurant offers casual dining with a relaxed atmosphere and neat, understated decor. It draws a crowd seeking fresh, high-quality dumplings and a menu leaning toward vegetarian options. The vibe stays chill and polished, fitting for a laid-back meal without long waits.

This strip offers a mix of spots suited for a casual meal or a night out. It works well for both date night and hanging out with friends.

Food arrives very fast even during the dinner rush. Friendly service adds to the experience. Dinner for two to take out costs around $75.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; I ate 15 in one sitting."

"Our server Zander was super sweet and gave the best food recommendations."

"The server Zander made our dinner spots so sweet and recommended the best food."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging with zero available spots nearby.

2

Prices range from $30-$50 per person.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially after 6pm.

08
Tigawok Mini Bowls - Sawtelle image 1

Small space with limited seating creates a busy, lively atmosphere where standing tables dominate. Fast-casual setup includes robot woks delivering authentic Chinese flavors with a cafeteria-style service. Self-serve stations and condiment options add to the practical, no-frills dining experience.

Warm and inviting atmosphere suits casual lunch or relaxed dinner dates. Tigawok Mini Bowls offer a quick, tasty option for a date night or family time.

Warm and inviting atmosphere suits casual dinners. Food serves as quick, filling meals with portions enough to pack extra lunches. Tables fill up fast during dinner due to high demand.

People are saying

"The Chinese food, especially the orange peel chicken, is a delicious balance of tart and crunch."

"The food at these dinner spots tastes like grandma's cooking."

"The food quality here is outstanding, I loved it."

Good to know

1

Dishes cost around $4 each, making them very affordable.

2

The restaurant offers great portion sizes for the price.

3

There is free parking available in the garage.

09
Cafe 50's Diner - West LA image 1

Retro-themed diner with 50's decor, neon lights, and a jukebox creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Cozy and kitschy vibe welcomes families, offering toys and balloons for kids. Open 24 hours, it blends classic diner energy with playful vintage touches.

Milkshakes and a nostalgic vibe set the mood for a date that feels like a movie. Songs play that burrow into your heart, making it a spot for anniversaries or casual date nights.

A complete nostalgic theme as a soda fountain-dinner shapes the dinner experience here. Dinner offerings match expectations with a solid Route 66 vibe and classic diner food.

People are saying

"The staff made me feel like I was coming home for a home-cooked meal."

"It's like stepping back in time with all the retro decor."

"I thought the dinner food here was great, especially the chicken fried steak."

Good to know

1

Cafe 50's Diner is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.

2

Reservations are available to avoid waiting during busy hours.

3

The diner accepts cash only for payment, no credit cards.

10
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles image 1

Outdoor seating expands the space with a cozy, relaxing vibe that contrasts the intimate, buzzing interior. The atmosphere hums with the sound of slurping noodles and chopsticks, reflecting a serious ramen focus. Seating is limited indoors but spacious outside, creating a dynamic energy between the two areas.

Options include ramen with noodles on the side and a Salmon Rice Bowl for a different taste. Both offer satisfying choices for a shared meal.

Dinner draws crowds Thursday to Saturday, causing waits up to an hour. Meals satisfy with solid flavors, making it a reliable spot for evening eats.

People are saying

"The Tsukemen broth is rich, deeply umami, and has a thick, grainy texture."

"The broth here is velvety, collagen-laced, and brimming with umami."

"You have to try their tsukemen; it's one of the best."

Good to know

1

During busy hours, especially dinner time from Thursday to Saturday, there can be up to an hour-long wait.

2

On Monday evening, there was no line at Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles.

3

Seating is limited and the restaurant is very popular.

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Sawtelle, Los Angeles

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