Valley dwellers and city explorers alike, we’ve found your next dining obsession. Casaléna in Woodland Hills is bringing all the coastal Mediterranean vibes you crave, served with a generous helping of California cool. Whether you’re a local or venturing from across town, trust us, this spot is well worth the drive. Located at 22160 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, Casaléna feels like stepping into a chic coastal retreat, with just a hint of a cozy wine cave vibe. The first thing that catches your eye is the stunning crystal selenite chandelier hanging right in the entrance. But beyond the glitz, Casalena has a laid-back charm that instantly makes you feel at home. Read on to find out why we love Casaléna.
The Vibe
The ambiance here is effortlessly stylish, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Picture dark, moody interiors that create an intimate vibe—ideal for date nights or catching up with your squad. And then there’s the outdoor sunken patio, a lush oasis surrounded by greenery, perfect for those long, lazy brunches under the California sun. If you’re all about the views, the fully enclosed Terrace is your spot, with floor-to-ceiling glass that lets you dine in style while soaking up all the natural light. It’s like being in a chic greenhouse! This place is so good that we recommend coming once to sit outside for brunch and then another date night inside, it will feel like two total different experiences.
Photo courtesy of Casaléna
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- Photo courtesy of Casaléna
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- Photo courtesy of Casaléna
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- Photo courtesy of Casaléna
The Food
Casaléna truly shines in their food. Executive Chef Lobo Leon, of The Rose and Cento fame, is the mastermind behind a menu that feels like a love letter to the Mediterranean coast, using California’s freshest seasonal produce. Every dish is a celebration of flavors, beautifully blending Italian, Spanish, and Californian influences into something uniquely delightful. Our dining adventure began with a spread of appetizers that set the bar high. The Stracciatella was light, fluffy and perfectly creamy, served with spicy honey, pistachio, and a drizzle of basil oil. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and sigh with happiness. Then came the Whipped Eggplant, a velvety blend topped with pickled peppers and a drizzle of olive oil, all scooped up with crisp pan de cristal. We aren’t too proud to say that yes, we scraped the plates clean.
Photo courtesy of Casaléna
For the main course, our server let us know about the seasonal specials, and that the Chicken Piccata, was a house favorite. We were glad we listened, as we SO enjoyed the tender chicken breast pan-seared to perfection, bathed in a bright lemon and caper sauce that was both tangy and buttery. Paired with a side of mashed potatoes that were creamy and smooth, it was comfort food elevated to new heights. Plan to at least try one of the pizzas as well!
Our pick was the Margherita Pizza—a classic done right, with fresh mozzarella, tangy pomodoro sauce, and fragrant basil. We also indulged in a special seasonal salad that was almost too pretty to eat—cucumber, feta, watermelon, and mint tossed in what we can only describe as the most delicious dressing ever. Seriously, if they bottled this dressing, it would be worth another drive to Woodland Hills to bring home a case. It was refreshing, bright, and perfect for a hot summer day. And then, dessert. Oh, the Valrhona Chocolate Ganache Pot de Crème—a decadent pot of silky, rich chocolate topped with fresh cream and delicate chocolate pearls. To balance it out, we ended with a selection of fresh, seasonal fruit that was the perfect palate cleanser—light, sweet, and a lovely end to an incredible meal.
The Drinks
We kicked things off with the R’Espressotini, a rich blend of reposado tequila, Mr. Black coffee liqueur, and cold brew—basically the coffee cocktail of our dreams. It was smooth, slightly sweet, and had just the right amount of kick. For something a bit lighter, the Amalfi Fresca was he perfect antidote to a hot day. Fresh cucumber, green apple, ginger, and lychee mixed with cucumber soda—YUM.
From the enchanting ambiance to the thoughtfully crafted menu, Casalena is the kind of place where every detail has been considered to make you feel special. It’s no wonder they were named the Winner of OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice in 2023 and 2024. Whether you’re brunching it up with friends or settling in for a romantic dinner, Casaléna is the perfect spot to elevate your dining game. And if you’re looking for some great recommendations on what to wear to your next dinner date at Casalena, check out our article on The 12 Best Places to Shop in LA.
