When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Casa Dani Century City
Why Casa Dani Century City is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Casa Dani Century City stands out as an elevated dining destination that brings the vibrant flavors and creative spirit of Spain's Mediterranean coast to the heart of Los Angeles. Established by renowned Michelin-star chef Dani García, the restaurant offers a spacious and beautifully designed multi-room venue within the Westfield Century City mall, making it an attractive spot for gatherings with friends or special occasions. The restaurant’s ambiance balances upscale yet approachable vibes, featuring an impressive 17,000 square feet with seating for 400 guests, including three distinct bars and an open-air terrace with sweeping views of the Beverly and Hollywood Hills. Diners can experience authentic Spanish culinary traditions with a modern flair, highlighted by signature dishes such as flavorful paellas, Iberico ham, innovative tortillas with truffle, and unique creations like oxtail brioche. The seating and layout encourage a social experience, where guests can share plates in a convivial setting. Additionally, Casa Dani offers fresh seafood selections where patrons can personally select their catch, adding an interactive element to the meal. Its location within a major shopping mall and provision for late dining hours (open for lunch and dinner) make it convenient for meet-ups and celebrations, combining culinary craftsmanship with a culturally rich atmosphere that invites guests to experience Spain in Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of Casa Dani Century City
As of recent, Casa Dani Century City holds a 4.3-star rating based on 48 reviews.
Customer reviews for Casa Dani Century City reveal a mixed reception. Positively, patrons appreciate the restaurant's impressive and inviting ambiance, noting the spacious, well-designed environment that is ideal for social gatherings and special occasions. Many reviewers commend the creative spirit of the cuisine, particularly highlighting standout items such as the Iberico ham, fried calamari, and various tuna-centric dishes. The interactive element of choosing fresh seafood also receives favorable mention. Furthermore, the pairing of modern twists on traditional Spanish dishes, such as truffled tortillas and oxtail brioche, enriches the culinary experience for diners familiar with Mediterranean flavors. On the other hand, some critics express disappointment with the food quality, citing certain dishes like the seafood paella as lacking in flavor balance and the burger as overly salty. The price point for certain items, especially the Iberico ham plate, also raised concerns about value relative to the mall setting. Some reviewers found the lack of traditional socarrat (the crispy bottom crust in paella) and less impressive tortilla española detracted from an authentic experience. In summary, while Casa Dani garners praise for its atmosphere, creative menu, and unique offerings, certain inconsistencies in food quality and pricing are noted as areas needing improvement. The restaurant remains a decent option for those seeking a Spanish-inspired meal in a stylish setting, especially for groups and special events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Houman Hemmati
After a disappointing experience when they first opened, I posted an honest, but of course negative review of the restaurant, never expecting that they would fix any of this. After some friends had positive experiences more recently, I decided to go back with another group last night to give it another shot. the restaurant managed to take the feedback from comments and has fixed basically everything that was wrong with the restaurant. The location remains beautiful. They have placed a small lamp at each table that allows you to actually see your menu and the food. They reduced the volume of the music to a reasonable level and now you can enjoy your party and hear the person next to you or even across the table without having to scream. This has made it dramatically nicer. The wait staff and managers are exceptionally attentive now going table to table. Props to manager Stefano who’s the best in the business. The drinks and appetizers were magnificent. We tried numerous different cocktails, one of which was like an old-fashioned, all of which were superb and appropriately sized. They were spot on! Moving onto appetizers, we had the avocado and basically anything that had tuna in it. From the carpaccio that comes on a gigantic plate to both tartares. All were fantastic and decently sized! The Duo Tartare was to die for. It’s not cheap but it’s large and has exceptionally high quality expensive cuts of tuna in it. Presentation is gorgeous as well. The tomato tartare was the surprise hit of the dinner. Delicious with a slight kick. The babaganoush was beautiful, tasty and well portioned. Caesar salad was enough for 4 of us to each have a decent and delicious portion. So many apps came with their bread, which was toasted on a grill and perfectly accompanied the food. We did not order the paella this time as we had had it last time. However, looking at other tables, it appears that the paella is now significantly more substantive in amount, and contains a lot more meat or fish on it than it did when we were there last. They also created a half portion of paella, which is enough for two people, rather than forcing you to buy a massive one that could serve four. As for sides, the farmers market vegetables were very good and the creamy potato purée was out of this world. I could easily have ordered another one. We are not big meat eaters so we went for two of the fish. We ordered the catch of the day times two. And unlike a few weeks ago when it was just a single option, they now have four different fish options, which you can see sitting on ice as you walk into the restaurant on your right hand side. We are regulars at Avra and love fresh Mediterranean fish. And what we had was nothing less than a work of arch. Perfectly salted, perfectly flavored, came with grilled lemon slices unlike last time, and the fish were each massive. Each order was literally enough for all four of us so we ended up having to take much of the second fish home. Nonetheless, having tried both, it is impossible to go wrong. When we asked to order two different fish, they suggested two fish. They had different types of texture and flavor so that we could have some diversity in our menu. Finally, with the desserts, we had a flan, Keylime pie, Chocolate mousse, and rice pudding. The desserts were certainly the highlight of the evening after a magnificent meal! Every one of them was substantially portioned, absolutely delicious, and fresh, and very unique. I say that in a very good way. Now after having gone to Casa Dani once they had figured out the kinks in their staffing, ambience, and food as well as their selections, I can strongly recommend it. It’s possible to go there and spend a very reasonable amount of money but based on what you order, you can also go in and spend a fortune. It’s entirely up to you and what you’d like to eat and how much of it. You may simply feel tempted to order a lot because it’s amazing.
Mary Cruz
Had an incredible dining experience at Casa Dani — the flavors were rich, the ambiance was stunning, and the service was top tier. Highly recommend the paella and the jamón — truly unforgettable. Can’t wait to go back!
Tasty Noodz Only
🥘 Casa Dani is proof that mall dining has seriously leveled up. This gorgeous Spanish spot at Westfield Century City serves up elevated tapas that'll make you forget you parked next to a Macy's. Is it revolutionary Spanish cuisine? Nah. Is it a solid choice when you want to impress someone without leaving the shopping center? Absolutely. ⭐️ The Star (Must order): Chicken paella - and I say chicken because they give you a whole Cornish hen like they're showing off. The gamba frita hits like a fancy shrimp egg roll that went to culinary school. Oxtail sliders are small but mighty - worth the splurge for tender, fall-apart beef. 🚫 The Villain (Don't order): Spanish tortilla was giving sad cafeteria vibes. Empanadas were mediocre - fine, but not amazing. 💵 Ticket Price (Wallet damage): $$$ territory. That $76 chicken paella is pricey, but it’s big. ✨ Vibe Check: Interior is absolutely stunning - perfect for impressing dates, clients, or anyone who needs to think you have your life together. 🚗 Parking: Mall parking 📱Follow @tastynoodzonly (IG/Tiktok/Youtube) for the best eats in LA!
Laura Sanna
A wonderful experience at Casa Dani. I already knew the chef for his three Michelin stars at his restaurant in Marbella, and I absolutely wanted to try it. The dishes were truly exceptional, with the freshest and most delicious food, and the staff were very kind and friendly. Congratulations also to the management, especially to the manager Stefano, who served and welcomed us, and made us feel at home.
Dijon Aragon
The food was excellent. Chef Luis Mayoral was so accommodating. I could not eat the chicken plate I ordered. Immediately came to our table, made the suggestion of the sea bass filet with vegetables, and it was made to perfection deliciou. They need to be clearer about what we are ordering so we don't have to be surprised when the meal comes.
How to reach Casa Dani Century City
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Why Casa Dani Century City may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Casa Dani Century City with your friends?
Casa Dani Century City is an exceptional venue to gather with friends for a lively and memorable meetup. Situated within the bustling Westfield Century City mall, this spacious and beautifully designed restaurant offers a vast setting that feels both upscale and welcoming, making it ideal for group gatherings. Its impressive size—able to seat hundreds—means you won’t have to worry about squeezing into a cramped spot, giving everyone room to mingle comfortably. The atmosphere is vibrant and inviting, infused with Spanish cultural influences that create a unique backdrop to your gathering. Beyond mere aesthetics, Casa Dani’s variety of dishes rooted in traditional Spanish cuisine with modern twists ensures there’s something to satisfy a diverse range of tastes, perfect for sharing and experiencing together. The ability to order tableside paella, and the interactive experience of selecting fresh seafood, adds an engaging, communal dining feature that encourages conversation and bonding among friends. Whether it’s a casual lunch or an evening celebration, Casa Dani provides a dynamic, enjoyable space to reconnect, unwind, and create lasting memories with your group.
What activities are available at Casa Dani Century City?
Casa Dani is more than just a restaurant; it offers several immersive dining experiences and a lively ambiance that make it perfect for group activities. One standout activity is the tableside seafood paella experience, where your server escorts the group to a special display featuring fresh “today’s catch” fish, allowing you to choose what goes into the paella cooked right in front of you. This interactive culinary moment turns dining into a shared event, fostering fun and engagement. Besides paella, guests can savor a variety of traditional Spanish offerings—like Iberico ham, fried calamari, and unique dishes such as oxtail brioche prepared with a signature "bull sauce." These items are designed for sharing, making them ideal for communal tasting and conversation. Additionally, the restaurant’s connection to acclaimed chef Dani García ensures the menu includes innovative Mediterranean-inspired Spanish cuisine, balancing classic flavors with creative presentation, which keeps the dining experience exciting. The vastness of the space, multiple seating areas, and a stylish bar encourage guests to enjoy appetizers and cocktails together, facilitating socializing beyond just the meal.
Why is Casa Dani perfect for a group meetup?
Casa Dani’s expansive, multi-room layout makes it a prime choice for hosting groups of friends or family. Unlike many restaurants constrained by limited seating, its vast dining area can accommodate both small and large groups without compromising comfort or service quality. The design aesthetics—rooted in Spanish styles but presented with modern flair—create an environment that feels festive yet intimate, striking the right balance for social gatherings. Its location inside Century City Mall provides added convenience, allowing attendees to extend their meetup with shopping, entertainment, or a movie before or after dining. The menu’s shareable format aligns perfectly with group dynamics, as plates are made to pass around, encouraging communal experiences where everyone can chat, try different dishes, and enjoy a variety of flavors together. Even with the bustling ambiance, attentive and responsive service ensures groups can be accommodated smoothly without feeling rushed or overlooked. This combination of factors makes Casa Dani an ideal destination for those looking to combine great food, engaging atmosphere, and ease of access for a memorable group outing.
How does the food contribute to the group experience?
Food at Casa Dani enriches the group dining experience by offering dishes both traditional and innovative that invite sharing and tasting across the table. The centerpiece for many gatherings is the paella, a quintessential Spanish dish served in generous portions large enough to share among friends, amplifying the spirit of togetherness. The interactive selection of fresh seafood for the paella adds an element of excitement and personalization, making the meal feel uniquely yours and a part of the overall experience rather than just a standard order. Appetizers like jamón ibérico, fried calamari, and tomato tartare offer reliable crowd-pleasers that are sure to satisfy a range of preferences. Moreover, the inclusion of creative dishes such as truffled onion tortilla and oxtail brioche reflects the restaurant’s culinary finesse, enhancing variety and stimulating conversation about tastes and textures. The dessert offerings, like the burnt Basque cheesecake featuring earthy goat’s cheese, provide a perfect sweet ending that guests can enjoy together. Overall, the menu’s balance of shareable plates and bold flavors fuels interaction and enjoyment within a group setting.
What makes the atmosphere and design inviting for social meetups?
Casa Dani’s atmosphere is thoughtfully crafted to enhance social interaction and group comfort. The restaurant boasts a sleek, upscale décor influenced by Spanish culture but presented with a contemporary twist, making the space visually striking yet warm. Its large-scale layout prevents overcrowding, so guests feel relaxed and unhurried. Multiple seating arrangements, from cozy booths to open communal tables, accommodate different group sizes and preferences, fostering both intimate and lively conversations. Large windows and outdoor patios add natural light and pleasant views, contributing to a vibrant yet comfortable environment. Bar areas provide an additional social hub for pre- or post-meal gathering with cocktails or wine. The attentive, professional staff add to the welcoming ambiance by offering seamless service that balances attentiveness with the freedom to enjoy the moment. Collectively, these elements create a space where friends and family can gather comfortably for long conversations, celebratory toasts, or casual catch-ups, making any meetup special.
How does Casa Dani’s location in Century City enhance the meetup experience?
Located in the heart of Westfield Century City, Casa Dani benefits tremendously from its prime mall location, offering convenience and versatility to groups meeting there. The Century City mall is a lively destination boasting plenty of shopping, entertainment, and nightlife options, meaning your meetup can extend beyond the restaurant. Friends can combine dining with activities like watching a movie, going shopping, or enjoying a nearby bar for after-dinner drinks, creating a full-day outing rather than just a meal. This makes Casa Dani especially suitable for groups who want a one-stop hub that covers multiple interests and needs. Additionally, the central location offers excellent parking and accessibility, reducing logistical headaches for attendees. Its presence among other upscale dining and retail establishments also lends a sense of occasion and sophistication to gatherings. For groups coming from different parts of Los Angeles, the ease of access and vibrant surroundings make Casa Dani a convenient and attractive meetup spot.
What do reviews say about hosting groups at Casa Dani?
Although individual reviews of Casa Dani’s food range from mixed to positive, many highlight the spaciousness and atmosphere as strong points, which are key for group meetups. The restaurant’s large capacity is often praised, reflecting its suitability for social gatherings without feeling cramped. Reviewers note that the ambiance is lively and stylish, ideal for celebrations or casual group meals alike. Some critiques focus on the food quality consistency, suggesting it shines more in shareable appetizers and interactive dishes such as the seafood paella experience rather than conventional entrees. However, many guests appreciate the unique touches and the visually impressive presentations that elevate the meal beyond typical mall dining. Service is generally described as attentive and accommodating to larger parties, which helps groups feel cared for. Overall, the reviews corroborate that Casa Dani’s strengths lie in being a social hub with an enjoyable setting, making it a sensible choice when prioritizing atmosphere and shared experiences over flawless haute cuisine.
What special dining features enhance group interaction at Casa Dani?
Casa Dani provides several features designed to elevate group dining beyond ordering off the menu. The most notable is the tableside preparation and service of paella, which becomes a central spectacle and a conversation starter. Watching the chef or server prepare this iconic dish in front of the group creates a dynamic, shared experience rather than a standard meal. Additionally, the presentation of fresh seafood for diners to select personally adds an extra interactive dimension that invites participation from everyone. These elements transform dining into an event, fostering connection and engagement. Casa Dani also offers a broad menu of shareable plates and finger foods meant for passing around the table, encouraging communal tasting that sparks discussion and enjoyment. The stylish bar and lounge areas enable flexible socializing spaces for groups to start or continue their meetup over cocktails or lighter fare. These thoughtful touches demonstrate Casa Dani’s commitment to making dining a collective, enjoyable moment for friends and family.
How can special occasions be celebrated at Casa Dani?
Casa Dani is well-equipped for special occasions, providing a festive atmosphere and a diverse menu that can cater to celebratory needs. The spacious venue can accommodate parties of various sizes, making it suitable for birthdays, reunions, or milestone events with friends or family. Its setting inside Century City mall also allows guests to incorporate additional activities such as shopping or movies, extending the day’s festivities. The upscale decor and trendy design lend an air of sophistication that elevates any celebration, while the interactive dining experiences add a playful touch to mark the occasion. Guests can customize their meal with specialty dishes and shareables to create a personalized feast. The attentive service staff are experienced in handling groups and celebrations, often able to assist with requests or add special touches to enhance the experience. For those seeking a combination of style, comfort, and lively ambiance, Casa Dani offers a compelling venue for memorable celebrations.
What should groups know about the menu and price range?
Casa Dani’s menu is moderately upscale, with prices reflecting its quality focus and prime location in a high-end mall. Expect to spend in the mid-to-high price range per person, especially when ordering specialty items like Iberico ham or tableside seafood paella. While some dishes have received mixed reviews for taste balance, the menu overall offers a well-curated selection of traditional Spanish dishes and modern interpretations. The emphasis on shareable plates makes it easy for groups to sample multiple flavors without ordering individual entrees for everyone, which can add value and variety. Lunch options offer some set menus at a better price point, ideal for daytime meetups on a budget. Groups seeking a combination of design, atmosphere, and social dining will find the pricing reasonable for the experience. Planning ahead and making reservations is recommended to ensure seating that accommodates the group size comfortably.
What nearby attractions complement a visit to Casa Dani for a group?
Casa Dani’s location within the Westfield Century City mall places it at the heart of a broader entertainment district that enhances any group outing. After dining, visitors can explore the mall’s extensive shopping options featuring high-end retailers and unique boutiques. For cultural or entertainment pursuits, the Century City AMC theaters are just steps away, providing a perfect post-meal activity like catching the latest blockbuster or independent film. Several upscale bars and lounges in the area offer lively places for groups to continue socializing over drinks after dinner. Outdoor spaces around the mall provide pleasant walking areas to digest and enjoy California’s sunny weather. All these nearby attractions make Casa Dani an excellent anchor point for a full day or evening spent with friends or family, combining great food with plentiful activities and convenience.
In summary, Casa Dani Century City stands out as a spacious, stylish, and interactive venue perfect for hosting friends or family meetups. From its ambient Spanish-inspired design and large seating capacity to the engaging tableside paella and shareable food options, the restaurant creates a communal dining experience that fosters connection and fun. Its prime location within the lively Century City mall further supports versatile and extended group outings with plenty to do before or after your meal. Though the food reviews vary somewhat, the overall experience and setting make Casa Dani an appealing choice when looking to rally a group in a vibrant, convenient, and comfortable environment.