There are many fine dining restaurants in Los Angeles. However, there are a few key differences between them that can help you narrow your choices when searching for the perfect restaurant for your special occasion. Here are some of those key differences:
Most fine restaurants can be classified by the number of tables they have: four, five, six, seven or eight. In addition to the number of tables, most restaurants are also separated by cuisine (fine dining, casual, traditional, fast casual, family-style, and others). Additionally, most fine-dining restaurants are located in areas with a higher social distancing from city centers or apartment downtown neighborhoods: downtown L.A., Hollywood, Westwood Boulevard, San Pedro, Santa Monica, Miracle Mile in downtown San Diego, Pacific Palisades, and Orange County. On the other hand, this does not mean that all restaurants with fewer than four tables are less expensive than restaurants with a maximum of five or more tables.
Many people believe that casual dining means fast food. Not so! The term is used to collectively describe all types of non-household cooking, from quick-serve fast food chains like Mc Donald’s, to full-service gourmet restaurants that offer a variety of carefully prepared food items. It is a subset of food service that is usually served in a counter-service restaurant. As a result, the experience is very different from what would be described as a casual dining experience.
Some general categorization factors can help one determine which types of restaurants to fit into which price range. First, consider the cost per meal. This will include taxes and tip. Since many casual restaurants do not offer special menus, it will not be possible to request that your server to bring anything to add to your meal. In contrast, most gourmet restaurants will have a wide selection of side dishes and drinks to add to your meal.
Secondly, consider the atmosphere of the restaurant. Many full-service restaurants have very large and busy tables. If you have young children, you may not want to dine at a restaurant with an atmosphere very different from your home. Some quick-service restaurants, such as some of the coffee shops and pastry shops, also have large, open tables and can accommodate children and adults with different skill levels.
Some final restaurant categorization factors are decor, ambiance, and service. Again, these are broad classifications that can sometimes be used interchangeably. In many fine dining restaurants, you will notice decorations that may seem elaborate and expensive. Many diners do not find this impressive. On the other hand, if you go to an upscale restaurant, the decor may seem to be more expensive and opulent. The service may be friendlier, too.
If you are looking for casual dining restaurants in which to dine, then consider whether you want a casual American cuisine or European cuisine. In most cases, American cuisine is served on a casual patio or bar and European cuisine is offered at fancy diners. For more casual family style restaurants, you will find many Asian cuisine choices, including Chinese, Japanese, and Thai. You may also find American food served on a casual board or table service.
Many of the outdoor dining restaurants you visit will offer warming gazebos and grills to provide a comfortable eating experience even when the weather is cold or the sun is shining outside. However, you need to keep in mind that the warmth provided by these warming devices may not always be adequate. Even when the weather is warm, dob teas and other hot drinks may not be sold because customers would rather go elsewhere. To solve this problem, you may want to go to restaurants that have a take out window or that have several portable grills.