12 Restaurants That California Goes All Out For The Holidays – And Are Worth The Trip
When the holidays arrive, California’s restaurant scene doesn’t just decorate – it transforms, turning dining rooms into full-blown seasonal experiences that feel worth planning an entire trip around.
From candlelit Valentine’s Day dinners to lavish Mother’s Day brunches and festive Easter spreads, chefs and restaurateurs across the state treat holidays as a creative playground.
This is not ordinary dining. This is celebration dining.
Menus grow more ambitious, service becomes more theatrical, and details matter more than ever, whether that means roaming carolers, multi-course tasting menus, or rooms glowing with warm, festive charm.
These restaurants understand that holidays are emotional. They’re about moments.
Across California, beloved dining institutions and buzzy modern kitchens alike go all out, crafting experiences that feel personal, memorable, and intentionally indulgent.
Some lean into nostalgia, recreating traditions families return to year after year, while others design limited-time menus that exist for only a few magical days.
This isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about how it feels to be there. These are the restaurants Californians dress up for, book weeks in advance, and talk about long after dessert is cleared.
If you’re looking for meals that turn holidays into stories worth retelling, these destinations prove that sometimes the best gift is a table, a menu, and a little bit of magic.
1. Lawry’s The Prime Rib – Los Angeles
Few dining traditions feel as timeless as a visit to this iconic steakhouse, where white-coated servers glide through the dining room carving prime rib tableside from gleaming silver carts in a ritual that has barely changed over decades.
Located at 100 N La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, this landmark has been serving its signature cuts since 1938, building a legacy that generations of diners return to for celebrations both big and small.
The famous spinning salad bowl arrives first, theatrically tossed with Lawry’s secret dressing before plates of Yorkshire pudding and creamed corn follow, delivering a comforting, old-school start to the meal.
During holiday seasons, roaming carolers weave through the dining room, adding a festive warmth that makes Valentine’s Day dinners and Easter celebrations feel especially nostalgic and memorable.
Despite the restaurant’s popularity, the noise level remains pleasantly controlled, and the softly glowing lighting creates an intimate atmosphere well suited for romantic evenings and special occasions.
Reservations tend to fill quickly around Mother’s Day weekend, so booking several weeks in advance greatly improves the chances of securing preferred seating and ideal dining times.
Weeknight visits often unfold at a more relaxed pace than weekends, allowing guests to linger comfortably and enjoy the full experience without feeling rushed.
2. Cento Restaurant – Los Angeles
Chef Avner Levi’s culinary vision comes alive through seasonal menus that change with California’s abundant produce cycles.
This modern dining spot sits at 4921 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016, within a historic downtown building that blends industrial charm with contemporary comfort.
The patio seating offers a relaxed vibe where diners can enjoy scallop crudo and steak tartare under string lights.
Spring celebrations like Easter and Mother’s Day bring special prix fixe options featuring dishes like seared scallops paired with seasonal vegetables.
The restaurant’s open kitchen design lets guests watch the culinary team at work, adding an element of theater to the meal.
Service tends to be attentive without hovering, and the staff happily explains unfamiliar ingredients or preparation methods.
Parking can be tricky downtown, so arriving early or using ride-share services may reduce stress before your reservation.
3. 1 Kitchen By Chris Crary – West Hollywood
Nestled inside the stylish 1 Hotel, this restaurant brings California-fresh ingredients to every plate with a focus on sustainability and flavor.
You’ll find it at 8490 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the bustling Sunset Strip.
Brunch here feels like a celebration any day of the week, with gingerbread pancakes making special appearances during holiday seasons and country eggs Benedict served year-round.
The dinner menu shifts toward heartier fare like braised beef short rib, perfect for Valentine’s Day dates or Mother’s Day family gatherings.
Natural light floods the space during daytime hours, while evening service brings softer ambient lighting that encourages lingering conversations.
The hotel’s eco-conscious design extends to the restaurant, with reclaimed wood accents and living plant walls adding texture to the modern space.
Weekend brunch books solid, so weekday visits might offer more flexibility for walk-ins.
4. San Laurel – Los Angeles
Perched high above downtown, this Spanish-inspired restaurant offers both elevated cuisine and literal elevation with stunning city views.
The address is 100 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, on the upper floors of the Conrad Los Angeles hotel.
Family-style dining takes center stage during holiday celebrations, with platters of mussels tostada and Maine lobster tail passed around tables.
The sharing format works beautifully for Mother’s Day gatherings or Easter brunches where multiple generations come together.
Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the dining room, providing panoramic views that shift from daylight sparkle to evening city lights.
The restaurant’s design incorporates warm wood tones and comfortable booth seating that balances elegance with approachability.
Service staff tend to pace courses thoughtfully, allowing time between dishes without leaving guests waiting too long.
Sunset reservations book fastest, so consider lunch or late dinner for easier availability.
5. Saltie Girl – West Hollywood
Seafood lovers find their happy place at this coastal-inspired restaurant where oysters and caviar share menu space with creative preparations.
The restaurant occupies 8615 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069, in a space that feels both upscale and welcoming.
Holiday specials might include grilled king crab legs with delicate angel hair pasta or a trio of warmed oysters prepared three different ways.
The lobster pot pie has become something of a signature, with flaky pastry giving way to chunks of sweet lobster in creamy sauce.
Counter seating at the raw bar lets solo diners or couples watch shuckers at work, while table seating provides more privacy for conversations.
The restaurant’s nautical-chic design incorporates white subway tiles and brass fixtures that catch the light without feeling too shiny.
Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day reservations disappear quickly, so booking several weeks ahead improves your chances of snagging preferred times.
6. Fairmont Breakers Long Beach (Nettuno)
Italian tradition meets California coastal charm at Nettuno, the hotel’s signature restaurant that specializes in seafood done right.
Located at 210 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802, the restaurant sits steps from the waterfront with views of the harbor and Queen Mary in the distance.
The Feast of the Seven Fishes becomes a highlight during holiday seasons, featuring seven different seafood preparations accompanied by live acoustic guitar.
This Italian-American tradition translates beautifully to the California coast, where fresh catch arrives daily from local waters.
The dining room’s nautical-inspired design includes subtle maritime touches without feeling themed or overdone.
Seating arrangements range from intimate two-tops near windows to larger tables that accommodate family celebrations for Mother’s Day or Easter.
Parking at the hotel property tends to be straightforward, with valet service available during peak dining hours. Weekday evenings often feel more relaxed than busy weekend services.
7. Pasjoli – Santa Monica
French technique meets California ingredients at this neighborhood bistro that’s earned a devoted following since opening.
You’ll discover it at 2732 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405, tucked into a charming stretch of Main Street lined with boutiques and cafes.
The menu reads like a love letter to classic French cooking, with dishes like prime rib served alongside pommes purée and creamed spinach that taste like they traveled straight from Lyon.
Holiday celebrations bring special multi-course options, with three-course and five-course formats that let diners choose their adventure level.
The dining room strikes a balance between casual neighborhood spot and special-occasion destination, with white tablecloths that don’t feel stuffy.
Service staff demonstrate genuine knowledge about wine pairings and can guide diners through the menu’s French terminology.
Street parking requires patience, but several public lots sit within a short walk. Weeknight visits tend to offer a quieter atmosphere than bustling weekend evenings.
8. Nerano Beverly Hills
Named after a picturesque Italian coastal village, this restaurant brings Amalfi Coast flavors to the heart of Beverly Hills.
The address is 9960 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, in a location that attracts both locals and visitors seeking authentic Italian fare.
Handmade pasta forms the foundation of many dishes, with lasagna doppio and beef cheek agnolotti showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to traditional techniques.
Holiday menus expand the usual offerings with seasonal ingredients woven into familiar Italian preparations that comfort and surprise in equal measure.
The dining room’s design evokes Mediterranean elegance without relying on cliché touches, using soft colors and natural materials to create warmth.
Booth seating along the walls provides the most intimate settings for Valentine’s Day dinners, while center tables work well for larger Mother’s Day gatherings.
The restaurant’s wine list focuses heavily on Italian regions, with staff happy to recommend pairings. Reservations become essential during holiday weekends.
9. The Ivy – Los Angeles
White picket fences and cottage charm define this celebrity-favorite spot that’s been serving California cuisine since the 1980s.
Located at 113 N Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048, the restaurant sits on a tree-lined stretch of Robertson Boulevard known for boutique shopping.
The flower-filled patio remains the most sought-after seating area, where diners enjoy dishes like grilled vegetable salad and crispy crab cakes under umbrellas and greenery.
Mother’s Day brunch here has become a tradition for many Los Angeles families, with the garden setting providing a lovely backdrop for celebration photos.
Easter Sunday also draws crowds seeking the restaurant’s lighter California fare and cheerful atmosphere.
Inside dining rooms offer cozier seating during cooler months, with floral wallpaper and vintage touches creating a homey feel.
Service tends to be friendly and accommodating, though the restaurant’s popularity means waits can stretch during peak times even with reservations. Weekday lunches typically move at a more relaxed pace.
10. Water Grill – San Diego
Pristine seafood takes center stage at this downtown San Diego location of the respected seafood restaurant group.
You’ll find it at 615 J St, San Diego, CA 92101, in the Gaslamp Quarter where historic architecture meets modern dining.
The raw bar showcases daily selections of oysters from both coasts, while the kitchen prepares everything from whole roasted fish to classic cioppino.
Holiday celebrations might bring special preparations featuring seasonal catches, with Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day menus highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality seafood.
The dining room’s classic steakhouse-meets-seafood-house design includes dark wood, white tablecloths, and comfortable booth seating that encourages leisurely meals.
Service staff demonstrate solid knowledge about seafood sourcing and preparation methods, helping diners navigate the extensive menu.
The restaurant’s downtown location makes it convenient for combining dinner with theater or other Gaslamp entertainment. Weeknight visits often feel less rushed than busy weekend services when the Gaslamp crowds peak.
11. Aubergine – Carmel-By-The-Sea
Refined technique and quiet luxury define the dining experience at this Michelin-starred restaurant tucked inside a historic Carmel inn.
Aubergine is located at 7th avenue Monte Verde St, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, where its intimate setting immediately signals that the evening will unfold at a slower, more deliberate pace.
The tasting menu-driven approach allows the kitchen to highlight pristine ingredients through meticulous preparation, with dishes that often feature seasonal vegetables, sustainably sourced seafood, and carefully selected meats.
Holiday dining here feels especially elevated, with Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day menus designed as multi-course journeys that emphasize elegance, balance, and restraint rather than excess.
Each plate arrives thoughtfully composed, encouraging diners to linger and savor rather than rush.
The dining room remains hushed and sophisticated, making conversation feel natural and uninterrupted.
Wine pairings draw heavily from California and European producers, chosen to complement rather than overpower the food.
Service is polished yet warm, with staff offering detailed explanations without formality tipping into stiffness.
Aubergine suits celebratory meals that call for intention and refinement, making it a destination for those who see holidays as opportunities to slow down and truly indulge in craft-driven cuisine.
12. Farmhouse At Roger’s Gardens – Corona Del Mar
Seasonal abundance defines the experience at this garden-centered restaurant where spring holidays feel woven directly into the setting.
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens operates at 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd, Corona del Mar, CA 92625, surrounded by blooming flowers, citrus trees, and lush greenery that immediately set a celebratory tone.
The menu leans California-forward, highlighting organic produce, sustainably sourced proteins, and comforting preparations that feel elevated without losing approachability.
Mother’s Day and Easter brunches are especially popular, often featuring prix fixe menus that showcase seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, house-baked pastries, and thoughtful desserts.
Dining unfolds at a relaxed pace, encouraging guests to linger over multiple courses while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Indoor and outdoor seating options allow flexibility, though the garden patio tends to be the most sought-after during spring.
Service remains attentive but unhurried, matching the tranquil environment. The restaurant’s connection to the surrounding nursery makes each visit feel immersive rather than transactional.
Farmhouse excels at turning holiday meals into full experiences, where food, atmosphere, and seasonality align seamlessly, making it a favorite destination for spring celebrations that feel warm, fresh, and genuinely memorable.
