There is something so special about a lunch date with a small group of close girlfriends. This past weekend I left my husband happily watching a hockey (or was it football) game at home and met some of my good girlfriends at Perch Los Angeles, a restaurant in the heart of downtown.

Linda and Esther (the “trend sisters”) introduced me to this chic spot that sits on top of a 1920’s style building in downtown Los Angeles. Occupying the 15th and 16th floors, this is not the tallest building in the city skyline but that adds to the bird-like experience. You truly feel a part of the skyline surrounded by all sorts of interesting vistas that can only be seen ‘perched’ on a rooftop.

The atmosphere is trendy and the menu is satisfying. We shared a few appetizer plates and then selected mains. A band was playing a mixture of old crooner and new pop songs (at the right ‘loudness’ so that conversation was still easy and I wasn’t always saying, “what?”).

My Sangria was delicious (I’m thinking of ordering the pitcher next time, to share of course!). The bar on the top floor has fire pits and unobstructed city views. I plan to return with my husband for a romantic sunset happy hour (his elevator phobia will get him in the right mood for a cocktail I’m sure).

This place is not easily identifiable from the street which adds to its cool factor. You need to look for the Perch plaque on the building outside then take the elevator across from the fish tank to the 13th floor where you switch to another elevator that takes you to the restaurant. A gentleman outside the 13th floor elevator will direct you.

This is one of those speakeasy style joints that must be experienced. The Pershing Square metro stop is just across from the building and there are a few parking lots close by which makes getting here easy. Let me know what you think of it.

www.perchla.com; 448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013; (213) 802-1770