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Master Critic Review
Lemon Grove
8.3
Perched atop The Aster at Hollywood & Vine, Lemon Grove is a rooftop restaurant and lounge with citrus trees, skyline views, and a menu that leans Italian-California. It draws pre-Pantages crowds, industry meetups, and brunch groups who want cocktails and a polished but relaxed patio scene. The food is solid, but the setting and views are the main event.
Must-Try Dishes:
Short rib rigatoni, Smash burger or steak frites, Bougie chips or tuna tartare
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A rooftop terrace with Hollywood-sign sightlines, citrus trees, and pre-theater energy.
Who should go: Brunch crews and date nights pairing dinner with a show.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or pre-show sunset seatings.
What to order: Short rib rigatoni, smash burger, Bougie chips.
Insider tip: Plan extra time for valet and ask for an edge table facing the Capitol Records Building for the best skyline backdrop.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet at The Aster is the primary option and runs on the higher end; street parking around Hollywood & Vine is scarce, especially before Pantages showtimes.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; elevated denim is fine, but most guests skew dressy for photos and pre-theater plans.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during peak hours but still workable for conversation, especially on the terrace edges.
Weekend wait: Typically 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer on Pantages show nights.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait unless a private event occupies part of the terrace.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including salads, pastas, and shared plates.
Vegan options: Limited; expect only one to two items without modification.
Gluten-free options: Multiple dishes can be made gluten-free, though cross-contact precautions are limited due to the open kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the open-air terrace, skyline views, and polished atmosphere create a relaxed but impressive backdrop that works well for a first date without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly during off-peak hours, but pre-theater windows and brunch tend to book up. Walk-ins should expect to wait or be seated at the bar or lounge if available.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; it skews adult with cocktails, pre-show crowds, and a rooftop lounge vibe. Older teens are fine, but younger children may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Rooftop ambiance, skyline photo ops, and pre-Pantages dinners that feel celebratory without being overly formal.
Skip if: You want chef-driven, food-first dining; the setting outshines the menu, so pick a different spot if cuisine quality is your top priority.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 11pm
Saturday10am - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
Sunday10am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm