Dining out in Los Angeles is always an adventure. The city is home to some of the most dynamic, diverse, and creative food scenes in the country. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden neighborhood gems, there’s something for every palate. But if you’re a parent, you know the struggle: finding restaurants that balance upscale food with a welcoming vibe for families.
Too often, “family-friendly” means crayons and chicken nuggets while “upscale” means quiet dining rooms where kids are frowned upon. What if you want both? Parents deserve a place where they can sip a glass of wine, enjoy beautiful plates, and still have their kids feel comfortable.
That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to 10 Los Angeles restaurants parents love for upscale family dining. These restaurants strike the perfect balance: elevated menus for parents, approachable options for kids, and atmospheres where the whole family feels welcome.
Why Upscale Family Dining Matters
Before diving into the list, let’s acknowledge why this balance is so important.
- Parents Need a Break: Dining out should feel like a treat, not just survival.
- Kids Deserve Exposure: Children benefit from trying new foods and learning restaurant etiquette.
- Family Memories: Meals are moments of connection—why not make them delicious and memorable?
- LA Lifestyle: In a city as diverse as Los Angeles, it’s possible to enjoy world-class dining without leaving kids at home.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: Don’t wait for a “special occasion.” Upscale family dining can be a monthly ritual that both kids and parents look forward to.
1. FIG at Fairmont Miramar – Santa Monica
Located inside the iconic Fairmont Miramar Hotel, FIG offers a farm-to-table menu that shines with California ingredients.
- Why Parents Love It: Beautiful coastal atmosphere, craft cocktails, seasonal dishes like wood-fired flatbreads and locally sourced seafood.
- Why Kids Love It: The hotel’s relaxed vibe makes kids feel welcome. Menu highlights include house-made pastas and flatbreads that even picky eaters enjoy.
- Parent Hack: Arrive early for their famed FIG at Five happy hour (5–6 PM) for discounted dishes and drinks—ideal for families.
2. The Golden Bull – Santa Monica
The outside patio and casual options on the menu makes this spot great if you want to bring kids.
- Why Parents Love It: Elevated classics with casual fare options to pick from as well.
- Why Kids Love It: They have a kids menu!
- Parent Hack: Book an earlier seating. Upscale restaurants are often quieter around 5:30 PM—perfect for families.
3. STK – Various Locations
For hip families that want upscale and trendy. This restaurant has everything from fancy steaks to a casual happy hour. Either one can be turned into a fun trendy experience with you and the kids.
- Why Parents Love It: There are a lot of options for both kids and adults, even with the Happy Hour.
- Why Kids Love It: While not a “kid’s menu” kind of spot, older kids or adventurous eaters can enjoy dishes here and feel like an adult.
- Parent Hack: Call ahead to see if the kitchen can adapt. Many fine dining chefs are more flexible than parents assume.
4. Matu – Beverly Hills / Brentwood
A steakhouse focused on Wagyu beef, Matu is indulgent without being stuffy.
- Why Parents Love It: Tasting menus highlight Wagyu in multiple styles. A true treat for beef lovers.
- Why Kids Love It: Steak, fries, and rich sides are kid-friendly by nature.
- Parent Hack: Order à la carte for kids. A simple steak and potatoes plate keeps them happy while parents enjoy the full experience.
5. The Rooftop by JG – Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
Dining with a view doesn’t get better than this. Sweeping city views set the backdrop for upscale but approachable cuisine.
- Why Parents Love It: A Jean-Georges–curated menu with elegant small plates, handcrafted cocktails, and unparalleled ambiance.
- Why Kids Love It: Flatbreads, burgers, and fresh fruit make it easy for kids to find something they like.
- Parent Hack: Go during daylight hours so kids can marvel at the views without needing to “sit still” for too long.
6. Terranea Resort – Mar’sel (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Terranea is a resort that blends coastal luxury with family-friendliness. Both Nelson’s and Catalina Kitchen offer upscale dining with casual touches.
- Why Parents Love It: Seasonal California menus, oceanfront views, and great wine selections.
- Why Kids Love It: Space to roam. Kids can explore the property’s open lawns between courses.
- Parent Hack: Time dinner to coincide with sunset—it’s breathtaking, and kids will love the natural “show.”
7. Telefèric Barcelona – Brentwood
A Spanish tapas restaurant with vibrant energy, Telefèric Barcelona is family dining elevated.
- Why Parents Love It: Authentic Spanish tapas, paellas, and sangria.
- Why Kids Love It: Small plates make it easy for kids to nibble and try new things. Favorites include croquetas and patatas bravas.
- Parent Hack: Order family-style. Kids feel included when they get to “pick from the table.”
8. AJA Vineyards Tasting Room – Santa Monica
While known as a wine tasting room, AJA doubles as a kid-friendly destination thanks to its casual, welcoming atmosphere.
- Why Parents Love It: Estate wines, charcuterie boards, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
- Why Kids Love It: Light bites like pretzels, pizza (from North Italia), and chips make it approachable.
- Parent Hack: Pair the outing with dessert at Turn Dough nearby for a complete family experience.
9. Benihana – Encino & Other Locations
The hibachi experience is theater for kids and adults alike.
- Why Parents Love It: A mix of entertainment and solid Japanese-inspired dishes.
- Why Kids Love It: The chefs’ tricks—onion volcanoes, flying shrimp, and heart-shaped rice—keep kids mesmerized.
- Parent Hack: Book a private hibachi table for your group—it keeps the evening more relaxed and tailored.
10. Katsuya – Brentwood
Trendy but family-welcoming, Katsuya combines Japanese tradition with LA flair.
- Why Parents Love It: Signature sushi rolls, robata dishes, and stylish ambiance.
- Why Kids Love It: Options like teriyaki chicken, rice bowls, and crispy rice with spicy tuna (for adventurous eaters).
- Parent Hack: Go during weekday early dinners. The energy is lively but not overwhelming for kids.
How Parents Can Make Upscale Dining with Kids Stress-Free
Choosing the right restaurant is half the battle—your mindset and preparation make up the other half.
Parent Hacks for Dining Upscale with Kids
- Book Early Reservations: Less crowded, quicker service, calmer vibe.
- Bring Entertainment: A small coloring kit, puzzle, or card game can buy you 20 extra minutes of calm.
- Order Kids’ Food Early: Keeps hunger meltdowns at bay.
- Set Expectations: Talk to kids about restaurant manners before arriving.
- Know the Menu: Check online menus ahead to avoid surprises.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: Praise your kids for good restaurant behavior—positive reinforcement goes a long way.
The Magic of Family Upscale Dining
Upscale family dining isn’t just about “fancy food.” It’s about:
- Introducing kids to new flavors.
- Modeling social skills.
- Creating family traditions.
- Giving parents a chance to indulge.
When done right, it transforms a meal into a memory.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles is full of restaurants where parents don’t have to choose between great food and a welcoming atmosphere for kids. From beachfront bistros to glamorous rooftops, the city offers plenty of spots where you can order truffle pasta while your kids happily dig into pizza.
By choosing restaurants that balance quality with inclusivity, dining out becomes less about “managing kids” and more about sharing experiences as a family.
So next time you want a night out that feels indulgent but still family-focused, try one of these 10 spots. Because parents deserve more than chicken nuggets—and kids deserve to see what great dining looks like.
