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Guide to South LA

Date and dinner spots

A dinner date that feels intimate enough for conversation but doesn't require a stiff, formal setting.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated May 2026
01
Fig's Corner image 1
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Hot pot restaurant

Industrial style with neon lights and fun decor creates a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Spacious seating with big tables and booths accommodates groups easily. Affordable prices and generous portions make it popular among students and families.

Lively atmosphere suits groups and family dinners well. Service runs on a single staff member handling both serving and hosting during busy dinner times.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the hot pot, is super comforting and packed with meat."

"The hot pot here is a feast for the eyes and taste buds."

"I loved the fresh, flavorful hot pot dinner spots here."

Good to know

1

They currently offer a buy one get one free deal on drinks.

2

The price of $17.99 for a full personal hot pot is very reasonable.

3

The portions are huge and perfect for sharing.

02
Fuegos LA image 1
Restaurant

Eclectic decor and ambient lighting create a warm, laid-back vibe that feels both cozy and unique. The space blends a romantic, old-fashioned style with a lively atmosphere where people enjoy coffee, Argentinian food, and wine. It attracts those looking for a hidden gem with a welcoming, community-focused energy.

Offers exquisite Argentinian fare and unique flavors that make for a memorable date night. Walking distance access adds convenience for couples looking to enjoy a relaxed evening with good drinks.

Dinner options include curated meals at the wine bar and frozen empanadas for quick bites. Walking access makes it easy to reach for an evening meal.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas here were the best I've ever had."

"The food and vibes here are top-notch for dinner."

"It's a great spot for a date with exquisite Argentinian fare."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available, but specific times are not mentioned.

2

Weekend grill sessions are offered, but details on timing are unclear.

3

Dishes range from $20 and up, especially with wine or beer.

03
L.A. CRAZY CRAB image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with big TVs showing various sports and a full bar featuring Micheladas and margaritas. Atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly with a vibrant vibe boosted by a DJ playing throwbacks. Seafood boils stand out with fresh, succulent shrimp and spicy sauces.

Couples often celebrate special occasions here, like birthdays and anniversaries. The staff is friendly, adding to the welcoming atmosphere for dates.

Dinner feels like eating at a relative's home with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Service stands out as attentive and nice, making the evening comfortable.

People are saying

"This seafood boil was the best I've ever had."

"This seafood boil is on another level, truly unforgettable."

"The seafood dinner spots here are perfectly seasoned and served hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 beers from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

2

A 3-liter beer tower is available for $16 during happy hour.

3

Expect no wait times during happy hour on Sundays.

04
CENTO Raw Bar image 1
Restaurant

Modern space with a NYC vibe and innovative architecture creates a stylish, bright atmosphere. Music is loud, making conversation difficult, while the patio offers a relaxed, otherworldly feel. Cocktails stand out as a highlight, complementing the fresh seafood and creative dishes.

A beautifully designed space sets a relaxed vibe for drinks and bites. Cocktails like the dirty vodka martini and chilled Cento red pair well with the atmosphere for a fun date night.

People are saying

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The seafood tower here is out of this world good."

"The seafood at these dinner spots is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $14, making it easier to access the restaurant.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so expect potential wait times during busy hours.

3

Portions are small; consider ordering at least six small plates to feel full.

05
Johnny's Pastrami image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a huge secluded patio with firepits and heat lamps for outdoor dining. Atmosphere stays friendly and relaxing, with a vibe similar to a spoken word cafe. Space includes a fully equipped bar and a rentable party room with DJ for social events.

A small cozy bar area creates an intimate vibe ideal for date nights. The spot suits both small groups and couples looking for a relaxed setting.

Dinner here has a family vibe with a focus on pastrami dishes. Meals feel friendly and casual, suitable for groups or friends.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating, it was so nice and spacious."

"The pastrami sandwich and fries here are amazing for Date Spots."

"These dinner spots have the most nostalgic pastrami."

Good to know

1

Johnny's Pastrami is open 24/7.

2

Parking is difficult around Johnny's Pastrami.

3

Food is cooked to order and ready in 10-15 minutes.

06
La Barca Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with dark interior and Mexican charm creates a relaxed atmosphere ideal for conversation. Strong margaritas and authentic dishes like enchiladas and caldo de pollo define the experience. On-site parking and mariachi music add to the setting.

Suitable for a quick lunch date or early dinner, the spot offers chill vibes that fit casual dating moments.

Dinner features yummy chicken enchiladas served in a beautiful setting. Friendly service adds to a relaxed vibe suitable for quick or casual meals.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and the flavor is on point."

"The food here is delicious and worth the price for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot out back, but it fills up quickly.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours on weekends.

3

Happy Hour offers discounted house margaritas and beer.

07
Harold & Belle's image 1
Creole restaurant

Creole restaurant blends modern touches with Southern charm in a classy, inviting interior featuring a full bar with expertly mixed cocktails and a lively bar area with live jazz music that captures New Orleans spirit.

Perfect drinks set the tone for date night, but the loud atmosphere can make conversation tough.

Dinner here suits both special occasions and casual nights with a welcoming, elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The red snapper dinner comes fried just right and stands out on the menu.

People are saying

"The seafood platter here is massive and amazing."

"The Dinner Spots here have amazing seafood, like the hearty gumbo and fresh oysters."

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Valet parking is available for $10, but street parking is also an option.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

08
Maydan Market image 1

Market space centers around a central hearth with an amber glow and worldly vibes. Atmosphere feels cozy yet lively, with loud sounds and a loungy bar area. Variety of authentic dishes and craft cocktails create a dynamic, well-curated experience.

Large, airy space creates a relaxed setting for dates. Breakfast offers warm honey Halloumi, flavorful dips, and a sweet date cake that stand out.

Dinner offers phenomenal meals that impress groups. The atmosphere suits social gatherings well.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the ambiance is excellent."

"The lamb shoulder is a standout, rich and tender."

"You have to try the lamb shoulder for dinner; it's rich, smoky, and tender."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely limited, so consider alternative transportation options.

2

The market opens on Tuesday at 11:00 am for lunch.

3

The coffee bar opens at 8:00 am for early visitors.

09
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with soft jazz music creating a chill vibe. It attracts people looking for a late-night breakfast spot and families seeking an affordable meal. The environment feels calm and welcoming when not busy.

Great service from Jessy adds to the experience. The spot works well for casual dining with a partner or friends. It suits celebrations and relaxed dates alike.

Dinner includes salmon and other dishes served with attentive care from staff like Maria Aviles. Wait times can be long, but the food quality starts off very good.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and great."

"The service at these dinner spots is always on point."

"Lamel's gregarious nature made this a memorable Date Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first come, first served.

2

Expect longer wait times on Sundays due to church crowds.

3

Denny's accepts EBT for payment.

10
Wah Gwaan Jamaican Kitchen & Bar image 1

Small space fills with loud music and strong aroma of jerk chicken from an open grill. Seating includes bar-style high chairs indoors and a compact outdoor patio. Atmosphere feels authentic and vibrant, evoking a sense of Jamaican community and warmth.

Tender oxtails stand out as a solid choice for a date meal. Fried chicken has an unusual soapy flavor that might affect the experience.

Oxtails and jerk chicken dinners offer tender, flavorful meat with authentic Jamaican spices. These dishes provide a warm, soul-satisfying dinner experience.

People are saying

"The Jamaican food here is authentic and absolutely amazing."

"The jerk chicken here is awesome and totally different."

"The oxtail dinner here is fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, rice, and beans.

2

Some items, like stew peas and escovitch fish, are only served on certain days.

3

Expect to wait an hour for your food during busy times.

11
Pete's Burgers image 1
Fast food restaurant

Huge building with 50โ€™s vibes and vintage style interior creates a calming atmosphere despite being small and cozy inside. The place serves generous portions of burgers and fries that many find very good. It stands out as a great neighborhood spot for a greasy burger fix.

Couples can share a fried chicken dinner and still have leftovers. Meals for two cost around $50 to $60. The spot stays lively late, with visits around 8:30 pm common.

Dinner features a fried chicken dish that often has more crust than meat. The meal costs around $25 and attracts families looking for a hearty dinner.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were literally the best."

"I loved their fried chicken dinner; it was the best ever."

"I thought the burgers here were literally the best."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available for customers at this restaurant.

2

Expect inconsistent pricing; the same item may cost differently each time.

3

A combo with a burger, fries, and a soft drink costs $15.

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South Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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