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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown

Date spots with outdoor space

You want to spend your date outside, and you refuse to be stuck in a cramped room when the weather is right.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
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Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant offers authentic homestyle decor with private outdoor patios featuring firepits and cozy seating. Atmosphere feels like a friend's home, combining cozy vibes with an elevated dining experience. Bar serves unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule, creating a lively spot to meet and relax.

Dimly lit outdoor garden vibe creates a romantic ambiance with warm soft lighting and bookshelves that add charm. The space suits evening dates and hosts events like speed dating.

Outdoor space includes a secret garden patio that feels cozy and inviting. Tables spread across different rooms and a great back patio create a fun, relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, homestyle, and elevated comfort food."

"The pierogies and lamb dumplings are amazing date spots."

"The patio felt like a secret garden, a beautiful outdoor space."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough in that area; street parking is available.

2

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

3

The outdoor courtyard hosts Yappy Hour on alternate Thursdays, and dogs are always welcome.

02
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Great atmosphere near the promenade offers good people watching and a lively vibe. Food feels authentic and fresh, making it a solid choice for happy hour date nights or special occasions.

Outside patio offers a relaxing family setting with a fireplace that enhances the atmosphere. It suits bottomless mimosa brunches and casual gatherings, making it a favored spot for both daytime and evening events.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The outdoor space is cozy and nice, perfect for sitting by the fire."

"The servers here are so attentive, making it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

03
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

Offers a lovely atmosphere suited for dinner dates. Worth the night out for a quiet, intimate setting.

Rooftop seating offers a mountain view and has heaters to keep the space warm. The outdoor area feels inviting yet intimate and creates a nice atmosphere for evenings.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, especially the slow-roasted chicken."

"The food presentation for Date Spots here is amazing."

"The outdoor rooftop vibe and atmosphere made the evening."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

04
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Warm, welcoming atmosphere with a husband and wife team running the place. Offers delicious food that works well for a date night or a casual meal with family.

Outdoor seating offers a lovely spot to enjoy meals. It suits days with perfect weather.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"The food here is superb, making it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

05
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Offers a fun and casual vibe ideal for date nights. Staff add to the experience, making it feel welcoming and budget-friendly for quick outings.

Multiple patios spread across the second and third levels offer spacious outdoor areas. A private patio suits group gatherings, and the rooftop features a mini golf course for added fun.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The mini golf courses here are super unique and fun for date spots."

"The private outdoor patio is ideal for groups."

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

06
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Dining space feels elegant but cramped with loud music creating a bar-like atmosphere when busy. Outdoor patio offers a romantic and quiet setting ideal for dates. Interior blends new yet dated decor with veneers and cheaper materials.

Outside seating offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere. The setting suits both first dates and business dinners.

The outdoor space features a quiet patio that feels romantic and suits a first date. Seating there accommodates service animals but service can be slow compared to inside.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal and beautifully presented."

"The food here is extraordinary, making it a great spot for Date Spots."

"The outdoor space felt romantic and quiet, perfect for a date."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance for prime weekend seating.

2

The meal typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

3

A 4% opt-out service charge is added to the bill.

07
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Dinner offers a nice setting for celebrations with options like a salad with skirt steak that stands out. The atmosphere suits special occasions with family.

Openable windows offer fresh air and views. Heated outdoor pool and rooftop areas provide relaxing spots. Lobby and pool deck support remote work outside rooms.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"The outdoor space here is beautifully designed and truly amazing."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

08
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Memorable date nights happen here with a warm atmosphere. It suits special occasions like graduations and romantic evenings.

Outdoor space features a covered patio that lets sunlight in and a relaxed lounge area with bamboo and rope decorations. Views of the ocean and PCH enhance the dining atmosphere outside.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The DJ played awesome international music and took requests."

"The outdoor space here has a great indoor and outdoor vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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