Best Contemporary European Restaurants in Marina del Rey

Vespertine delivered one of the most extraordinary dining experiences we’ve ever had in the United States, rivaling the caliber of Michelin three-star restaurants abroad, such as Boragó in Santiago. The food was a stunning combination of originality, flavor, and artistry, each dish a masterpiece that delighted the palate and the eye. Service was impeccable, with the timing of each course orchestrated to perfection. The building itself is a marvel, adding a unique and modern dimension to the experience. While the evening was nearly flawless, there were a few minor areas for improvement. The final dessert felt overly elaborate and heavy, making it challenging to fully enjoy at the end of such a substantial meal. The dessert room, located near the entrance, was uncomfortably chilly on a cool evening, requiring us to retrieve our coats. Lastly, the $20 valet charge came as an unwelcome surprise, especially considering the restaurant’s high price point and the fact that the parking lot is private and on-site. A clearer sign or complimentary parking would have better matched the overall premium experience. These small critiques aside, Vespertine was a truly unforgettable dining journey—one we would highly recommend to anyone seeking a world-class culinary adventure in Los Angeles.

Absolutely exquisite holiday decorations. Excellent service, all around 10 stars!

Vito's has been a neighborhood favourite since I moved here 17 years ago. The staff are always friendly, they remember you. It's cozy and wonderful place to build memories with family, celebrate special occasions or just pull up a seat at the bar and enjoy their delicious and well priced happy hour. My favourite dish is a Pasta della Casa. Honestly, if that's the last meal I'd ever eat, I'd be OK with that. The wine selection is wonderful. The cocktails are spendid. Sharing isn't frowned upon. The hardest decision of the night will be "do I get my regular dish or one of their delightful specials." Great options for Gluten free, vegetarians. Wait till you see the dessert cart! I can't describe enough how much my friends and family from both here in LA and abroad in Australia, love their visit to Vito's. A must on everyone's visit to LA.

Joliet is, without a doubt, the best spot in LA for whatever it is you're looking for. My boyfriend and I are absolutely obsessed with it - when a group of our friends decided to have a night out the 6 of us, we came to Joliet and there is something perfect for everyone. By day, it is the cutest spot for coffee, tea, a dirty chai, a pastry, and/or a sandwich. I recommend bringing your laptop or a book and staying a while, striking up a conversation with Alejandro or Olivia at the bar, and trying one or several of their fantastic options. You TRULY cannot go wrong. I had a pistachio croissant that absolutely changed my life. The egg sandwich made my jaw drop. Come nighttime, Joliet is a sexy speakeasy that boasts outstanding cocktails, great music, date-night ambience, and a whole different menu of mouthwatering options. My boyfriend loves the lobster roll, and I am obsessed with the mezze platter. The espresso martini is elevated and vibrant, and the spicy marg was better than imagined. Alejandro's attention to detail is incredibly extraordinary - he adds a special touch to everything he does, whether it's shaving an extra layer of cheese on your sandwich, or adding a cute little flower to your cocktail, or just taking the time to get to know you, it's really such a special experience.