Best Date Night Restaurants in Manhattan Beach
Updated May 17, 2026 · Ranked by combined rating and review volume
Manhattan Beach, with its stunning coastline and vibrant culinary scene, sets the perfect stage for an unforgettable date night. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a romantic evening out, this charming coastal city offers an array of dining experiences to ignite sparks and create lasting memories.
From sophisticated steakhouses to innovative sushi spots, and even an exciting Brazilian grill, we've scoured the local scene to bring you the top five restaurants guaranteed to impress. Prepare to discover culinary delights, impeccable service, and atmospheres that range from intimately chic to bustling and celebratory, all promising an exceptional backdrop for your next romantic outing.
JOEY Manhattan Beach offers a vibrant yet relaxed contemporary setting, perfect for any occasion. Guests consistently praise the exceptionally professional staff who go above and beyond, even accommodating early arrivals with champagne. Be sure to try their highly acclaimed chicken lettuce wraps, a flavorful standout on their diverse international menu.
For an elevated and truly celebratory experience, BOA Steakhouse delivers phenomenal food and service in a sophisticated atmosphere. Diners rave about the thoughtful touches that make special events memorable, from the moment of arrival to the last bite. Don't miss their engaging table-side Caesar salad preparation and expertly crafted espresso martinis.
Sushi Roku Manhattan Beach
Sushi Roku in Manhattan Beach is a beautiful, intimate spot celebrated for its fresh, uniquely crafted sushi and impressive service. Beyond traditional rolls, explore inventive combinations like the truffle salmon or the standout crispy truffle rice topped with avocado. They also offer surprisingly solid vegan options, making it a versatile choice for any palate.
Porterhouse
Located in El Segundo, Porterhouse stands out as a beautifully decorated steakhouse offering an exceptional dining experience. Renowned for its perfectly cooked steaks, like the wagyu, and an extensive, well-curated wine list, it's a haven for steak lovers. The inviting bar area also serves up expertly made cocktails, including a highly praised espresso martini.
Fogo de Chão in El Segundo provides an exciting, upscale Brazilian steakhouse experience with an all-you-can-eat parade of perfectly cooked meats carved tableside by skilled gauchos. Beyond the continuous meat service, their comprehensive and premium salad bar offers a fresh counterpoint to the rich flavors. The staff consistently earns accolades for their warm, attentive, and welcoming service, making every visit a delightful occasion.
How we rank
Rankings use a Bayesian weighted score that combines each place's average rating with its number of reviews. A place with twelve glowing reviews ranks lower than one with hundreds of slightly less-perfect ratings — because a small sample size is noisier than a large one.
score = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × C
Where R is the place's average rating, v its review count, C the mean rating across all candidates, and m a minimum-review prior (we use 50). Descriptions are AI-synthesized from recent review snippets.