Dining-In Now

Where to enjoy a seated, full-service restaurant experience in the Valley—and what to expect

Arcwood Wine Bar

The Valley restaurant scene is inching its way back to life. Under CDC regulations, numerous local eateries have opened doors for dine-in service. And for many restaurateurs, it’s not a moment too soon.

“I can summarize how we feel in one word: excited!” shares Hitesh Ambalal, owner of Arcwood Wine Bar in Tarzana. “At the end the day, I think that the community wants a shred of normalcy. Hopefully, we can help with that.”

“We missed the human interaction tremendously! We missed the familiar faces, the customers who have turned into friends. We’re so glad to get to see everyone again,” says Armando Pucci, owner of La Cava in Sherman Oaks. The longtime Italian eatery has been open for dining in since June 1, and from the start business has been steady. “I’m glad to see that they missed us as much as we missed them,” states Armando.

La Cava

Among the CDC rules: The staff must wear cloth masks at all times, comply with stringent disinfection practices, and tables must be spaced at least 6 feet apart.

Having dined at restaurants several times in the past week, we can tell you to expect some never-before-seen elements—ranging from disposable paper tablecloths to plexiglass face masks to newly installed handwashing sinks in dining areas. You might also see fewer seats in dining rooms, new reservation-only policies and maximum per-person table seatings. We highly recommend going online and checking out new policies and not assuming your favorite eatery still accepts walk-ins.

Claudine Artisan Kitchen & Bakeshop

One policy to be aware of: Customers must enter with face masks on but can remove them once they are seated at their table.

Despite what feels more than a bit unnatural, restaurateurs like Lea Newton, owner of Claudine Artisan Kitchen & Bakeshop, are taking it all in stride. “It looks like a bank in here with all these plexiglass shields! Certainly not the look of hospitality, but what can you do?” Lea says.

Here’s a list of some eateries offering dine-in service now or with plans to begin soon.