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Perhaps the most iconic, Chateau's patio/backyard is still one of the most gorgeous places to eat/drink in town. Low lighting, caned chairs and, of course, the constant eye candy (whether you're looking for hotties, your next meal ticket or just someone to read your script) means the atmosphere is always one of promise while the energy, especially during the summer, is on full blast. Just beware, reservations are required and can only be made two weeks in advance, which sounds like plenty of time, but really, things fill up quickly.
The French bistro, The Hall, situated on the first floor of this new WeHo institution spills out into the interior courtyard where mostly locals enjoy a cocktail (or three) at the small tables. The ambiance is one of the best with minimal attitude and pretty people looking even prettier by candlelit. Inside, DJs take over the ones and twos in the rec-room-inspired lobby lounge. Feels just like home. Be on the lookout for the (hopefully) soon-to-open sequel: Palihouse Vine, next to Bardot and Avalon on Hollywood and Vine.
Though tiny, the streetside patio at Bar Lubitsch is usually crowded and is a good place to meet people, especially if you're looking to bum a smoke. The patio is enclosed by vine-encrusted iron gates, giving the whole space a secret garden appeal even with the Russian-themed bar's interior glowing through the windows.
Long the standard in Westside hangouts, this entirely brick patio is always a scene for Westsiders--from recent grads to after-work entrepreneurs. Beers tend to be the drink of choice and seating can be hard to come by, which just makes it easier to pick up a date. Definitely stay outside if possible--the weird, doll-festooned decor inside is always a little creepy.
One of Downtown's busiest spots, the patio is usually pretty chill even when the bar inside is packed. Probably because you need a table, but that shouldn't deter you from grabbing one--the twinkle lights and streetside people watching are reason enough to order some snacks (like blue cheese or chipotle fries or mac 'n' cheese--Pete's has one of the best in town).
Tucked away in Glassell Park, the patio at Verdugo boasts a beer pong, er, ping pong, table and loads of benches. Nearly each night of the week is a different party, which you can track on their twitter.
Long a hipster hangout, especially on Thursdays for Dance Right, the patio gets crowded early-ish. As far as people watching, there's no better place.
One of, if not the, best bar in Culver City. It's low-key with no frills, but the classic cocktail list is a must-try, and the rotating cast of DJs means each night of the week is different. Tuesdays are one of the most popular, with Fridays falling not behind. Definitely expect an art-school crowd with a few music executives thrown in.
This gay institution is fast becoming a popular hangout for all sexual preferences, especially straight, as strong drinks, good music and long hours (8am-2am) mean fun mingling. The large patio is the place to be, but it gets crowded as the night goes on.
This place is packed every night of the week from 5pm onwards. With tons of beers on tap and a specially culled wine list, if you're in the mood for a good draft (the bartenders are super knowledgeable) this is the place. Located in the Helms Bakery building, the patio faces the street, which has minimal traffic and is mostly dominated by pedestrians heading over to drink or eat at one of the nearby restos.
It can be slightly precarious walking down all those uneven steps to get to the bar/festively lit patio, but once there, this random spot is a good choice for a dive-bar-kind-of-night-out. Set in the middle of Silver Lake, the flamenco dinner-theater transforms later in the evening into a DJ venue where, depending on the night, music ranges from rockabilly to house.
Ok, so the rooftop isn't really a patio, but it's outdoors and has one of the most spectacular views of downtown. The astroturf adds a whole new level of kitsch to this witty bar.
Ask to be seated outside if possible. The patio at the Sunset Tower Hotel overlooks the small pool and much of L.A., and the cabana-esque decor makes each table feel private. Apropos since this bar plays hosts to major A-listers looking for a quiet drink almost every night of the week. They also make one of the best martinis in town.
Formerly Rix, this new addition to the SaMo scene just steps from the Third Street Promenade has a huge patio on the second floor with tons of leather booths. The brick building next door provides a New York-y vibe outside, giving the place an urban vibe even with the Japanese cuisine (appetizers are pretty good, so order a few).
For the more club-inclined, Skybar offers a break from techno-thumping, sweaty interiors and takes the Strip outdoors. But don't let that fool you: expect a similar crowd, just with a better (city) view.
This Eastside beer garden is a multi-level situation of German-inspired decor. It's dark inside with dive-bar appeal, the patio upstairs is ber popular and making your way through, or just to the bar, can be quit a feat. Go early, stock up and stay late. It's definitley easy to strike up a conversation here.
Right in the middle of Hollywood, this brick-lined, garden bar is a fun, low-key place to catch up. Good for groups, the bar has a reasonable amount of seating that goes quickly, even despite it's being hidden from Sunset Boulevard traffic.
Perhaps the best patio in Silver Lake, the French resto has Champagne cocktails and draft Chimay, making it a great place to meet friends. The brick-red walls provide great ambiance and set the mood for good conversation.
Tucked away upstairs, this beautifully decorated interior courtyard/patio (think warm, rich walls, comfy booths and a cornucopia of oil paintings) with retractable roof is one of the best spots to mingle on a Saturday night when bands like Lykke Li and The Library take over the intimate space. Even heavy-hitters like Michel Gondry, Dita von Teese and The Pointer Sisters have performed on the makeshift stage. Wednesday nights host La Boum with DJ Ana Calderon, who keeps the uber hipsters happy with a wide-ranging selection of tunes and PBR tallboys specials. Not to mention her guest DJs like Franz Ferdinand and Devendra Banhart.
By far one of the most romantic patios in town, The Little Door brings Gallic flair and hot summer nights together with a delectible selection of by-the-glass wines. Separated from the street by a tall wall, it's easy to forget L.A. exists once inside this gem. A small band often plays in the corner, but the best seats are near the bar where cozy canoodling is easily accomplished.
