The Best Places to Kiss in Encino

Romance, in Encino? There are actually many uncovered amorous spots in the southern portion of the San Fernando Valley perfect to share with your sweetheart.   These intimate restaurants and parks are heart stirring locations to celebrate an anniversary, Valentine's Day, birthday or just a special cherished interlude, evening out or daytime rendezvous.  Here are a few magical places to share with your significant other.

More Than Waffles
17200 Ventura Blvd.

Start your day at this cozy eatery for an intimate breakfast or brunch with your sweetheart. Hidden in the Encino Commons Shopping Center, this family-owned restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating areas, a live jazz band and an abundance of menu options. Couples can easily share the huge LOVE waffle, dipped in chocolate and topped with ice cream, strawberries and whipped cream.

Los Encinos State Historic Park
Corner of Ventura and Balboa, open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

This five-acre park was initially a Basque sheep shearers' residence. It now is a tiny oasis of serenity in the heart of Encino, complete with a damned up ancient water spring that is home to flocks of ducks and gaggles of geese. Nearby, tables perfect for picnics and lawns to go strolling hand in hand are surrounded by prickly pear cactuses, pepper trees and original olive trees.

Larsen's Steakhouse
16101 Ventura Boulevard

Whether it's a dry-aged rib eye or a tender filet that you are craving, carnivore couples can head to Larsen's Steak House for a satisfying and intimate dinner.  The atmosphere oozes old school romance with wood and earth tones, mood lighting, comfy suede booths, a piano player, fireplace and outdoor patio.  The menu offers a variety of choice cuts of USDA Prime custom-aged beef as well as traditional family size sides.

Madeline Bistro
18621 Ventura Boulevard, Tarzana

If you're in the mood for organic vegan food, head to this charming bistro decorated in a Craftsman like style with olive green walls and cherry wood lighting fixtures.  Cutting edge menu items include dishes made from tofu, tempeh and seitan such as green papaya salad, kaesespaetzle, chicken fried seitan and raw summer primavera.

Encino Oak Tree
On Louise Avenue just south of Ventura Boulevard

This old Encino Oak tree is now a giant stump. But the California Oak was once a 1,000-year-old tree with a wide canopy, twining branches and colorful leaves. Amidst the traffic, smog and strip malls, this historical-cultural monument symbolized strength, beauty and perserverence. So whether your love is mature or just beginning to bloom, sit on the park bench and enjoy a nostalgic, peaceful kiss.