Best Southwest American Restaurants in Universal City

237 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Firefly - Studio City restaurant

1. Firefly - Studio City

4.7

Exceptional(4153)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Studio City

Booked 68 times today

Firefly in Studio City epitomizes the essence of American cuisine with its innovative dishes that leave diners raving. With an enchanting, romantic outdoor patio complete with fireplaces and hillside views, it offers a unique dining experience that is distinctly American yet influenced by Mediterranean flair, thanks to the culinary expertise of Chef Viet Pham. Guests consistently praise the "amazing food" and "fantastic ambiance," making it a top recommendation for both locals and visitors. Signature dishes like the Tuna Tartare and Lamb Shank are highlighted as must-tries. The glowing reviews speak volumes, with one guest noting, "the food is unbelievable!!!" This spot is not just about dining; it's about creating memorable experiences, as evidenced by the enthusiastic feedback on both the atmosphere and the exceptional service.

2. Verse

4.8

Exceptional(1400)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Toluca Lake

Booked 33 times today

At the heart of Toluca Lake, North Hollywood, Verse epitomizes the pinnacle of American cuisine with a twist of Angeleno flair. Helmed by the talented Chef Oscar, the restaurant crafts dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in American culinary traditions. Patrons rave about the "utterly perfect" steak and the "creamy, flavorful deliciousness" of the roasted corn, highlighting the exceptional quality and creativity of the menu. The ambiance, enriched by state-of-the-art acoustics, allows for an intimate dining experience complemented by live music, which enhances the uniquely American vibe of the venue. Verse is not just a meal; it’s an "incredible experience" that leaves guests planning their next visit. This gem is a must-try for anyone seeking the best in American dining.

3. FIVE on the Hill

4.1

Excellent(973)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Studio City

Booked 58 times today

An elevated bar experience offering handcrafted cocktails, shared plates, and views overlooking the Hollywood Hills.

4. The Tower Bar

4.7

Exceptional(1998)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • West Hollywood

Booked 70 times today

Nestled in the heart of West Hollywood, The Tower Bar stands out as a beacon of Californian cuisine, with its breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline and a chic, art deco ambiance that harkens back to old Hollywood glamour. Celebrated for its "delicious" food and "wonderful atmosphere," this restaurant epitomizes California bistro with a delightful Italian twist. Patrons consistently praise the "exceptional service" and the menu that offers something for everyone, including healthy options like "roast vegetables with quinoa" and indulgent "lobster tacos." As noted by a satisfied diner, "It's a new favorite. I love anything 'Old Hollywood'! Great food, great service and a feeling of going back in time." The Tower Bar's commitment to quality and its striking setting make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the quintessential Californian dining experience.

5. Cannabis Cafe

4.6

Exceptional(673)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Beverly / Fairfax / La Brea / Third St.

Booked 14 times today

The Original Cannabis Cafe in West Hollywood is a trailblazer in café cuisine, seamlessly integrating cannabis into a gourmet dining experience. This unique establishment offers a diverse menu that captivates both cannabis enthusiasts and the café-curious, creating an ambiance reminiscent of the historic cannabis tea pads of the pre-prohibition era. Patrons consistently praise the cafe, with highlights like "the FOOD was amazing!!!” and “the vibes were great, the music enjoyable." This spot is not only about quality food but also a sociable, memorable experience. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Original Cannabis Cafe provides a standout café experience that's both delicious and distinctive. Join the community and partake in an unmatched dining adventure where every visit promises culinary delights and excellent cannabis in a vibrant atmosphere.

6. Arden Restaurant

4.2

Awesome(630)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • West Hollywood

Booked 63 times today

Arden Restaurant in West Hollywood, Los Angeles, offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience that is both enchanting and authentic. Guests are immediately captivated by the artful integration of nature and culinary expertise, creating an ambiance akin to "stepping into a magical realm." The Mediterranean cuisine served here is celebrated for its "edible works of art crafted from seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients," ensuring every dish not only tantalizes the palate but also pays homage to Mediterranean traditions. Diners rave about the "amazing food" and the unique atmosphere, highlighted by European florals and impeccable service. Arden's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of the Mediterranean.

7. La Boheme

4.7

Exceptional(4668)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • West Hollywood

Booked 51 times today

Nestled in the heart of West Hollywood's vibrant scene, La Boheme shines as a beacon of American cuisine with a delightful French twist. Celebrated for its enchanting ambiance and exceptional service, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience that captivates all who visit. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" dishes, each crafted to perfection and bursting with flavor. The setting, complete with crystal chandeliers, colorful velvet couches, and magical string lights, adds to the overall allure, making every meal a memorable event. Whether it's the praised "best lamb ever" or the lively Friday night bands, La Boheme consistently exceeds expectations, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination in West Hollywood. Perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to lively celebrations, La Boheme is a true gem in the landscape of American dining.

8. Gwen

4.6

Exceptional(1489)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Hollywood

Booked 29 times today

Gwen in Beverly Hills is an exceptional destination for steak lovers, offering an unmatched culinary experience that has earned it a Michelin Star. The restaurant, helmed by Chef Curtis Stone and his brother Luke, showcases a mastery of fire-based cooking techniques that elevate its steak offerings to sublime heights. Patrons rave about the "amazing steaks and wine selection," with the A5 Wagyu and Blackmore NY strip receiving special mentions as some of the best in town. The ambiance complements the dining experience with its "charming, knowledgeable staff" and "moments of theatre," like choosing your steak knife from a specialty collection. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual dinner, Gwen consistently delivers "stellar experiences" that make it a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Steakhouse cuisine in Los Angeles.

9. The Ivy

4.8

Exceptional(8270)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Beverly Hills

Booked 141 times today

The Ivy, nestled between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its exceptional culinary experiences. Patrons consistently laud the restaurant for its "always exceptional food & service" and a menu that "always lives up to expectations." Signature dishes like the "extra chopped Cobb salad" and "icy oysters" are frequently highlighted in glowing reviews. The ambiance, described as "tranquil beautiful decor" and "old world elegance," complements the meticulously crafted menu. The Ivy ensures every dining experience is memorable, with commendations like "the best waiter ever" and "always a pleasure" underscoring the attentive and personalized service that makes each visit outstanding. A favorite for locals and tourists alike, The Ivy promises a sublime dining experience in the heart of LA’s most iconic neighborhoods.

A photo of Morton's The Steakhouse - Burbank restaurant

10. Morton's The Steakhouse - Burbank

4.4

Awesome(2140)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Burbank

Booked 42 times today

Arnie Morton's The Steakhouse in Burbank is a pinnacle of American dining, offering an unmatched steakhouse experience that began in Chicago in 1978. Renowned for serving "The Best Steak… Anywhere," Morton's commitment to quality shines through its USDA prime-aged steaks and fresh seafood. Guests consistently rave about their experiences, noting the "perfectly cooked" steaks and "exceptional" service. Reviewers highlight the cozy, comfortable ambiance and the attentive staff that makes each visit memorable. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual dinner, Morton’s in Burbank stands out as a premier destination for authentic American cuisine, making every meal not just a dish, but a celebration.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Universal City

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Award-winning

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237 restaurants available nearby

1. Firefly - Studio City

2. Verse

3. FIVE on the Hill

4. The Tower Bar

5. Cannabis Cafe

6. Arden Restaurant

7. La Boheme

8. Gwen

9. The Ivy

10. Morton's The Steakhouse - Burbank