You’ve got one month until you’ll want to unveil a nice surprise for that special someone on February 14. (Even if you just met at 2am on February 13.) But you’ve got considerably less time to book one of these tables, because they’re kind of the best in town.
You could drive right past this place without knowing about the overhauled Italian hideaway within. Don’t do that. Instead, guide your date to Table 401—past the TV moguls, past the bar, all the way to the extremely private corner booth in the back. Things will go well from there.
Over in Malibu, there’s one table Sean Penn takes his dates to. One table Barbra Streisand will accept. One table where Pink and her husband sat on Christmas Eve. This... is Table 17, the one with the view of Malibu Canyon. Sean Penn will have to make other arrangements.
If you’re more in the mood for sweeping views of gently bobbing boats, Table 151 at Cafe del Rey is right at the wall of windows looking out onto the marina—so the view is unimpeded in both directions. When you’re not gazing deeply into each other’s eyes, of course.
Your mission as you work your way through the newly restored Hotel Bel-Air: the last in a row of alfresco private alcoves at Wolfgang Puck’s ornate new indoor-outdoor spot. You’ll be surrounded by... well, swans. For the low-key, subtle approach.
If all that’s a little much, go to Papaya King. Get some hot dogs. Commandeer the random janky table they set up out on the sidewalk by the door. Eat your hot dogs. The views of the Sayers Club crowds are simply unparalleled.
Or if you’re thinking full-on getaway, this Palm Desert oasis is offering two Valentine’s dinners at the most loving spot imaginable—hole five of the golf course. As for the menu, it’s totally up to you. The chef will call you up beforehand to discuss. Probably don’t bring your clubs.
