30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Sherman Oaks
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Sherman Oaks
Best American in Sherman Oaks
Master Critic Review
Valley Inn Restaurant and Martini Bar
7.9
Since 1947, this Valley landmark has served classic American steakhouse fare in pin-cushion leather booths under dark wood paneling. The 1800s-era English bar and celebrity photos create nostalgic Old Hollywood atmosphere, while dishes like country fried chicken and prime rib maintain traditions spanning seven decades.
Must-Try Dishes:
Famous Garlic Cheese Bread, Country Fried Chicken, Prime Rib French Dip
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: 78-year Valley institution where Cary Grant once dined, now serving fourth generation
Who should go: Families celebrating grandma's birthday or nostalgia-seekers wanting Old Hollywood
When to visit: Dinner for full traditional experience, bar anytime for martinis
What to order: Garlic cheese bread, fried chicken, prime rib, classic martini
Insider tip: Request John Wooden Room for private parties up to 40 guests
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant, street parking available on Ventura Blvd
Dress code: Business casual to dressy - collared shirts recommended, no shorts
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - leather booths dampen sound, easy conversation
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - side salads, baked potato, sautéed vegetables available
Vegan options: Very limited - custom veggie plate upon request, traditional menu
Gluten-free options: Some options - prime rib, grilled fish without breading, communicate with server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for second or third dates when you want to impress - the Old Hollywood atmosphere and dim lighting create romance, but the traditional steakhouse vibe skews older so better if you both appreciate classic dining
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6:30pm) usually fine, but Friday/Saturday evenings strongly recommend reservations - bar seating available walk-in if dining room full
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (10+) and special occasions - quiet atmosphere means very young children may struggle, but families celebrating milestones are welcomed and common, especially Sunday dinners
How does it compare to other Valley steakhouses? More nostalgic and less flashy than modern steakhouses - choose Valley Inn for history and tradition over trendy cuts or scene, prices 20-30% lower than high-end competitors
Can I just grab drinks at the bar? Absolutely - the 1800s English bar is perfect for solo martinis or pre-dinner cocktails, full menu available at bar, regulars post up here nightly
Best For
Better for: Multi-generational celebrations, nostalgic dining experiences, classic American steakhouse done right without pretension, reasonable prices for quality prime rib and traditional preparations
Skip if: You want modern cuisine or Instagram-worthy plating, need extensive vegetarian/vegan options, prefer loud energetic scenes, looking for cutting-edge culinary innovation
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday4pm - 9pm
Wednesday4:30pm - 9pm
Thursday4:30pm - 9pm
Friday4:30pm - 9pm
Saturday4:30pm - 9:30pm
Sunday4pm - 8pm