Valentine’s Day in LA: where the romance is high, the lighting is low, and the cocktails are just bougie enough to justify the price tag. Whether you're planning a night out with your new crush, long-term partner, or just want to celebrate your love for yourself, LA is brimming with date spots that bring the ambiance, the allure, and the "let’s get another round" energy you need.

From speakeasy-style bars to dreamy European-inspired cafes, myself and our amazing LA team (appreciate you Jessie) compiled a list of five must-visit spots that are serving up romance on a silver platter. And of course, I’m giving you the deets on exactly what to drink—because nothing sets the mood like the perfect cocktail in hand. So grab a glass of wine (or a spicy mezcal margarita), and let’s get into it…

1. Il Cielo – The Enchanted Garden of Romance

• Instagram: @ilcielorestaurant

• Website: https://www.ilcielo.com/

If LA had a love story backdrop, it would be Il Cielo. This Beverly Hills institution has been dubbed one of the most romantic restaurants in the city, and for good reason. Twinkling string lights? Check. Lush greenery? Check. Intimate tables that make you feel like you’re in a hidden European courtyard? Check, check, check. If your goal is to impress, this is the place to do it.

Must-Have Drink: The Foxy Champagne – A delightful blend of coconut rum, fresh blackberries, lemon juice, and Prosecco. It's like a flirtatious wink in a glass, setting the perfect tone for the evening

2.Bar Chloe – Intimate Speakeasy Meets Old-School Romance

• Instagram: @barchloe

• Website:https://barchloe.com/ 

A true hidden gem, Bar Chloe is small, sexy, and oozing speakeasy energy. With candlelit tables, dark wood interiors, and a cocktail list that’s basically liquid gold, it’s the ideal spot to lean in close and whisper sweet nothings over perfectly stirred Negronis.

Must-Have Drink: I know I just mentioned Negronis but the French 75 – A classic combo of gin, lemon, and champagne- is effervescent, refreshing, and just bougie enough to feel like a splurge.

3.Tu Madre – Tacos, Tequila & a Whole Lot of Spice

📍 Multiple Locations – West Hollywood, Los Feliz, Westwood
Instagram: @eat_tumadre
Website: https://www.tumadre.com/ 

For the couple who loves to keep things casual, fun, and full of flavor, Tu Madre is your spot. If traditional, buttoned-up Valentine’s dinners make you want to fake a work emergency, this vibrant taco-and-margarita haven is your solution. With bold flavors, neon lights, and a menu packed with “Holy shit, these are good tacos”, Tu Madre is serving up all the flirtation you need—one spicy bite at a time.

And the best part? No stuffy candlelit dinners here—just strong drinks, and an atmosphere that says, let’s have a damn good time.

Must-Have Drink: Jalapeño Margarita – Because nothing fuels date-night chemistry like a little heat. The perfect mix of tequila, fresh lime, and just the right amount of jalapeño kick—it’s basically a spicy love potion.

4. The Misfit Bar & Restaurant – Vintage Glam & Late-Night Vibes

• Instagram: @themisfitbar

• Website: https://www.themisfitbar.com/ 

A vintage-style bar with a touch of Gatsby-level glamour? Yes, pleased. The Misfit is for couples who like their dates with a side of mystique and expertly crafted cocktails. Think dim lighting, plush seating, and Art Deco details that set the mood for a night of flirtation and fantastic drinks.

Must-Have Drink: The Misfit Cocktail – A sophisticated blend of Cutwater barrel-rested gin, Carpano Antica, and orange bitters. It's the kind of drink that says, "I have refined taste, and I know how to have a good time."

5.Mezcalero – A Spicy Date Night Must

• Instagram: @mezcalero_la

• Website: https://mezcalerodtla.com/ 

Want to turn up the heat on your Valentine's date? Mezcalero is the move. This laid-back yet electric bar is home to some of LA’s best mezcal and tequila-based cocktails, a chill but vibrant crowd, and just the right amount of dimly lit romance.

Must-Have Drink: The Spicy Paloma – A mezcal-forward take on the classic Paloma, featuring fresh grapefruit, lime, a hint of jalapeño, and just enough smokiness that brings the heat in all the right ways…

So, whether you’re in the mood for an intimate, candlelit affair or a laid-back, taco-fueled love fest, these LA spots are guaranteed to make your Valentine's Day one for the books. And if you're still searching for that special someone to split the check with, we’ve got you covered.

Download FROM, use code “DATING” for a free month of our highest-level subscription, Terracotta, and let’s turn those maybes into let’s-do-this. Until next time x