When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
71Above
Why 71Above is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Perched nearly 950 feet above the streets of downtown Los Angeles, 71Above offers an unparalleled setting for friends to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a sophisticated dining experience. As the highest restaurant west of the Mississippi, 71Above presents breathtaking panoramic views stretching from Malibu’s coastline to the distant Laguna Hills, as well as the iconic Los Angeles basin and surrounding mountains. The sleek, modern interior design balances vibrant energy with intimate spaces, making it ideal for various social occasions—from lively nights at the bar to serene dinners in private rooms. Guests can savor elevated modern American cuisine crafted by Chef Javier Lopez, featuring an inventive and fresh menu that caters to diverse palates. The restaurant also boasts unique Chef’s tables with views into the open kitchen, offering a behind-the-scenes perspective that adds to the overall ambiance. Whether enjoying signature cocktails at the skylounge or indulging in gourmet dishes with friends, 71Above provides a remarkable combination of exquisite food, stellar service, and extraordinary vistas, making it a premier destination for memorable meetups in Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of 71Above
As of recent, 71Above holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2642 reviews.
Reviews from patrons highlight 71Above’s stunning location and exceptional views as standout features that create an unforgettable dining atmosphere. Many guests praise the quality and creativity of the food, noting that the modern American cuisine skillfully balances flavors and presentation. The attentive and knowledgeable staff often receives commendations for enhancing the overall experience with friendly and professional service. The diverse dining options—from the lively bar scene to elegant private rooms—are appreciated for accommodating different moods and group sizes. On the positive side, reviewers frequently mention the restaurant’s ambiance as sophisticated yet inviting, making it ideal for special occasions and social gatherings. However, some negative feedback points to the higher price point, which some find steep, and occasional wait times during peak hours. A few guests mentioned that certain menu items’ portion sizes could be modest relative to cost. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus reflects a strong appreciation for the combination of atmosphere, view, and culinary artistry. Overall, 71Above is celebrated as a top-tier dining destination in Los Angeles that effectively blends culinary excellence with dramatic vistas and refined service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Humble Hustle
Levi was our server, very friendly with some good stories! The food was amazing start to finish, we went on a Friday night for my wife’s birthday and everyone was very kind to her. The view is unbelievable, I used to go to LA Prime for a great view but this is another league of food and beauty. This was a night I will not forget.
Tracy Lynn
Wow!! My husband booked this place to celebrate our anniversary. I was expecting an amazing view with the food being second; however, we were blown away by the menu, creations and wine pairing. I would never think to review a salad but the salad tasted like everything was just picked from the garden with a wide variety of vegetables with other complimentary ingredients I’d never think of putting in my salads. And, the wine pairing made the whole first course astounding! Ordering steak at a restaurant is always cautionary as I often feel I can do better at home but the steak was likely the best I’ve ever had with an incredible sauce and vegetable pairing. Again, the wine pairing was spot on,allowing me to hear about each vineyard and enhancing the food experience. Dessert was equally fresh and elevated. We were seated at a booth with incredible views but also of the kitchen with Chef Javier. Each staff appeared to take the greatest of care in each dish, work together and smiled through the night. We had the opportunity to meet the Chef as he delivered our dessert and wished us a happy anniversary. The whole night was incredible. And, my husband was glowing with his superb surprise selection!!
Keyasia Yvette Slydell
I went with my friend and my meal was wonderful. I had the pasta which was surprisingly really good. 2nd course, Ribeye and Japanese squash was a very good pair. I enjoyed it a lot and dessert was decent nothing special . Overall I loved what I ordered but hers she said was ok. So I guess it can be a hit or mess here. Service I’ll give it a 1 for sure the hostesses were nothing short of terrible in particular. They seem to go out of their way to not be friendly or seem uncomfortable talking to us. Never seen that at a supposed classy restaurant. Waiters and waitresses were solid okay nothing great either. However the view is great and atmosphere was nice so I enjoyed myself overall. It’s worth trying once I would say.
Thiago Oliveira
As you enter the restaurant you’ll be lightheaded from climbing 71 floors in a high speed elevator. The view from the sky is impressive in how high it is above the clouds. The food is average and I would not want to eat it again. Despite the nice presentation some of it was not tasty; and no dish was amazing in flavor. They did however bring us free things four times throughout the meal $350 meal, so it is quite difficult to give this place less than a four stars all things considered. But I have to rate it on the taste of the food and not the view or the free stuff! A true rating would be a 3.5/5
D Aasiya-Bey
A pleasant and memorable experience. Dining in this sophisticated, high-rise environment involved pleasant greetings and exceptional service from the elevator to the dining table. We had a window view, which made the nearly 1,000 ft view of LA and beyond even more picturesque. The food was delicious and even pleased my teenage son's choosy palate. If you're considering fine dining in the atmosphere, I trust you will enjoy.
How to reach 71Above
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Why 71Above may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at 71Above with your friends?
When planning a memorable gathering with friends or family, 71Above offers an unmatched combination of spectacular views, exceptional cuisine, and an elegant atmosphere that makes it a top choice for group meetups. Located on the 71st floor of the US Bank Tower in downtown Los Angeles, this restaurant provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the cityscape, which makes every moment visually unforgettable. Whether you arrive at sunset as the city lights begin to twinkle or by night when the skyline is illuminated, the vista alone becomes a powerful unifier, sparking awe and conversation among your group. It’s not just a meal, but an experience that feels special and elevated, perfect for celebrating milestones, reconnecting with old friends, or impressing out-of-town guests. The sophisticated ambiance bridges both the warmth of intimate gatherings and the excitement of social nightlife, combining city glamour with refined comfort. Ultimately, 71Above turns a simple dinner into a celebration of friendship and togetherness, making it an ideal rallying point when you want to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
What dining experiences does 71Above offer for groups?
71Above’s dining experience is centered around a carefully curated prix-fixe menu offering a three-course meal that allows guests to choose from a selection of high-quality dishes, optimizing for variety and personal taste preferences. This format is especially advantageous for groups because it simplifies ordering while ensuring everyone has something delicious and thoughtfully prepared. The food leans heavily on seasonal and luxurious ingredients, expertly composed to highlight rich textures and nuanced flavors. Standout dishes include the agnolotti with black truffle and ricotta, scallop curry with complex spices, foie gras terrine, and truffled steak tartare, which underline the kitchen’s commitment to upscale, inventive cuisine. For groups who enjoy sharing or sampling different flavors, the portions are designed to be elegantly sized, encouraging conversation and communal enjoyment as plates move around the table. Additionally, the extensive wine and cocktail list paired with knowledgeable sommelier recommendations enhances the meal, allowing groups to toast special occasions with carefully chosen beverages. This culinary experience supports both relaxed meals and celebratory events, making it a versatile choice for friends and family gatherings.
Why is the ambiance at 71Above perfect for a group meetup?
The ambiance at 71Above combines sophistication with an open, inviting energy that is ideal for group get-togethers. The spacious layout of the restaurant and the Skylounge section affords plenty of room for groups to feel comfortable without being cramped, while maintaining an intimate vibe through warm lighting and elegant décor. The views from the 71st floor create a scenic backdrop that continuously engages guests, offering something visually impressive even during moments of quiet or casual conversation. The setting encourages both lively exchanges and relaxed enjoyment, making it suitable whether your group aims to catch up over cocktails, share a leisurely dinner, or celebrate milestones with style. Moreover, the venue’s status as an iconic downtown location makes it a unique and memorable place to host events, contributing to the feeling that your gathering is truly special. For groups with diverse interests, the dynamic atmosphere lets everyone feel part of the occasion, balancing upbeat energy with sophisticated comfort.
What group activities can you enjoy at 71Above?
While primarily known for its dining and breathtaking views, 71Above offers activities that enhance group interactions and create a multi-dimensional experience. First, the restaurant’s Skylounge is perfect for mingling over craft cocktails, letting guests socialize in a lounge environment after dining or as a standalone meetup spot. This space is conducive to casual conversation, making it ideal for friend groups or family celebrations looking to enjoy a mix of relaxed seating and striking vistas. Additionally, guests can engage in wine tastings guided by expert sommeliers, turning the evening into an interactive journey of flavors and pairings. The photogenic setting also invites groups to capture memorable pictures against the dramatic city backdrop — a natural activity that enhances the sense of occasion. For those interested in a more exclusive experience, private dining options are available, offering tailored service and menus for special celebrations or business gatherings. These activities, combined with the exceptional view and culinary excellence, make 71Above a versatile venue where groups can truly connect and enjoy their time together.
How does 71Above cater to different group sizes and occasions?
71Above is well-suited to a broad spectrum of group sizes, from intimate gatherings of four to larger parties celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions. The restaurant’s flexible seating arrangements ensure that small groups feel cozy and intimate while larger groups have the space and privacy needed to make their event feel exclusive. For corporate meetups or client dinners, the elegant setting and impeccable service create a professional yet warm environment conducive to networking and relationship building. Meanwhile, families or friend groups looking for a festive night out can enjoy the lively ambiance and visual spectacle of the city from above. The staff at 71Above are highly experienced in managing group dynamics, ensuring smooth coordination, accommodating dietary restrictions, and providing attentive service tailored to the occasion. Reservations can often be made in advance to secure the best tables, particularly those with the most stunning views, further enhancing the experience for any type of gathering. This adaptability makes 71Above a reliable choice regardless of your group size or the nature of your meetup.
What practical considerations make 71Above convenient for hosting groups?
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles atop the US Bank Tower, 71Above boasts a central location that is easily accessible by car or public transportation, simplifying logistics for groups coming from different parts of the city. The venue offers convenient parking options, including validation, which is a major plus for gatherings involving multiple vehicles. Elevators take guests swiftly to the 71st floor, ensuring a smooth arrival experience even for those not accustomed to heights or busy urban settings. The restaurant’s reservation system helps groups plan ahead efficiently, minimizing wait times and allowing hosts to focus on enjoying the event. Additionally, the attentive and professional staff are adept at handling large parties, making sure that service remains consistent and that timing between courses and drinks flows seamlessly. The combination of accessibility, service quality, and logistical ease makes 71Above not just a spectacular but also a practical choice for group meetups aiming for an effortless yet exceptional experience.
What makes 71Above stand out compared to other meetup locations in Los Angeles?
71Above stands apart due to its unique blend of lofty elevation, impeccable cuisine, and the panoramic city views that cannot be replicated at most other restaurants in Los Angeles. Few venues can offer such a commanding perspective of downtown LA, the Hollywood Hills, and beyond, creating a visual spectacle that turns an ordinary meetup into a memorable event. The prix-fixe menu curated by celebrated chefs ensures that guests receive consistently high-quality dishes without the hassle of complicated ordering—ideal for groups looking for seamless dining experiences. The combination of sophisticated atmosphere and innovative food elevates 71Above beyond just a restaurant to a destination space where every gathering feels important. Moreover, its reputation backed by numerous positive reviews and recognition from prominent food critics adds to its allure and reliability as a top-tier meetup spot. For friends and family seeking a venue that offers more than just food, but an elevated experience literally and figuratively, 71Above delivers in every respect.
In summary, 71Above is a premier venue that offers memorable group meetups through its stunning views, refined dining, welcoming ambiance, diverse activities, and excellent group accommodation. Whether celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a night out with friends or family, 71Above provides an extraordinary setting that amplifies connection and joy with every visit.