Located behind Chris Burden’s iconic Urban Light installation on Wilshire Boulevard, Ray's and Stark Bar sits right at the edge of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art campus. The restaurant itself has real character—Mediterranean-inspired dishes that change with the seasons, crafted by chefs who clearly know what they’re doing. Inside, you’re surrounded by celebrated artwork that makes you feel like you’re dining somewhere that takes both food and culture seriously.

The outdoor patio is where you’ll want to head if you’re bringing your dog. It’s a genuinely welcoming setup, not one of those places that tolerates dogs as an afterthought. You can actually sit down with your dog beside you, order a glass of wine, and enjoy a real meal while taking in the scene around you. The atmosphere feels vibrant without being chaotic—that sweet spot where you’re not stressing about your dog or yourself.

What makes it work is that the patio has its own vibe separate from the main dining room, so there’s room to spread out. The staff seems used to dogs being around, which takes the pressure off. You can focus on the food and the surroundings rather than worrying you’re imposing. On a nice day, this is exactly the kind of place you want to spend a few hours—good enough reason to head to that part of Wilshire, especially if you’re already in the area exploring LACMA.

If you’re planning to go on a weekend or during peak hours, arriving early helps secure a good patio spot where your dog will have shade and you’ll have a comfortable table.