Sherman Oaks

 

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, Sherman Oaks is a tranquil and affluent suburb. You’ll find a collection of well-kept California Ranch-style homes here, some of which have been expanded to provide more space. New condominiums with resort-like amenities dot wide, tree-lined streets. North of Ventura Boulevard and towards the Hollywood Hills, luxurious estates and Mediterranean villas are hidden behind garden walls and tall, ornate gates for privacy. Many of them feature outdoor pools, lush landscaping, and spectacular views. Notable architecture includes John Elder’s Mid-Century modern home on Glenridge Drive and John Lautner’s “Foster House” on Las Cruces Drive.

 

Endless shopping, chic restaurants, and neighborhood cafes run along Ventura Boulevard, the city’s main thoroughfare. It’s also home to a number of mid-rise office towers and commercial buildings, so it’s a convenient location if you happen to work in the area. West Hollywood and Beverly Hills are just on the other side of the canyons. It’s also a quick commute to Downtown L.A. via the 101 and to LAX and the beaches via the 405.

 

 

 

Sherman Oaks is not as densely populated as most of the San Fernando Valley. It’s quiet and suburban. Locally-owned businesses give it a small-town appeal. Outdoor dining patios that line Ventura Boulevard are always bustling with after-work socialites and the weekend brunch crowd, so it can also feel like a pretty trendy urban space.

 

 

You’ll find diverse dining options in Sherman Oaks. A neighborhood mainstay for over 20 years, Marmalade Café caters to the busy lunch and after-work crowds with elevated California cuisine. Down the street, Mel’s Drive-In is a 1950s-style diner serving classic American comfort foods.

 

For upscale dining, Petit Trois specializes in classic French dishes served in a white tablecloth setting. Mistral also serves French cuisine in an elegant dining room filled with chandeliers and artwork. For Italian fare, Panzanella Ristorante sources fresh ingredients for their classic Italian and Sicilian dishes with an extensive wine list to pair. Oliva Trattoria serves prix-fixe courses family style.

 

For sushi, Midori has all-you-can-eat and a la carte options you don’t want to miss. Kinza Sushi Japanese Restaurant is a laid-back spot that’s a neighborhood favorite for its creative rolls. The Little Izaka-Ya by Katsu-Ya has sushi, small plates, and a variety of sake, while Sushi Note is highly rated for its Omakase experience.

 

Sherman Oaks is a mecca for Mexican cuisine and has several noteworthy spots. Casa Vega is a local landmark that has been serving authentic dishes and margaritas for over 65 years. Añejo Cantina and Grill has an extensive menu, live music, and a spacious outdoor terrace.

 

For social gatherings, On The Thirty serves gourmet pizza, bar fare, and craft beers in a bustling and vibrant lounge, and The Sherman is a local favorite for craft cocktails and comfort food. Both are also popular choices for weekend brunch.

 

For shopping, Westfield Shopping Square has department stores, well-known retail brands, and service spas. Sherman Oaks Galleria is an open-air mall with shops, dining, a fitness center, and a movie theater.

 

 

For a family-fun outing, Sherman Oaks Castle Park is a mini amusement park with batting cages, arcade games, and a miniature golf course. For art and culture, Art Rebel Studio is an art school and studio that serves as a multi-functional clubhouse for plays, classes, camps, and retreats. Skirball Cultural Center is an educational center with a museum, library, public programs, and music and theater performances.

 

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve has nature trails and a lake teeming with birds and wildlife. It’s also home to The Japanese Garden, a six-acre public space with a Zen meditation garden and a teahouse.

 

For private events, 1370 Rooftop is the perfect venue to host an event. They can accommodate up to 200 hundred people and offer fantastic views of the San Fernando Valley.

 

 

The Los Angeles Unified School District serves Sherman Oaks. Top schools in the area include:

 

• Kester Avenue Elementary School
• Chandler Elementary School
• Riverside Drive Charter School
• Dixie Canyon Community Charter School
• Notre Dame High School