One of the nicest things about attending a performance at the Hollywood Bowl is that the evening feels like more than just a concert. It is the ultimate dinner-and-a-show experience. The setting, tucked into the hills, makes it the perfect place to picnic before the music begins.

You have plenty of options when it comes to dinner. Some guests bring elaborate spreads, while others keep it simple. Below are a few of my personal favorites to help you plan your night.

Bring Your Own Dinner

This is my favorite way to experience the Hollywood Bowl. I get up early and head to the market to plan the meal. It turns the evening into an event long before the first note. We start with appetizers, move to the main course, and save dessert for intermission. I love looking around at other picnic setups for inspiration. The creativity people bring to their outdoor dinners never fails to impress me.

To keep everything cold, we freeze water bottles and use them as ice packs in the cooler. By the end of the night, they melt into a refreshing drink for the walk back to the car or shuttle. It is simple, efficient, and saves valuable space.

Most subscription performances allow alcohol, which makes pairing wine with dinner part of the tradition. Lease events do not allow alcohol. Because policies vary by performance, it is always smart to confirm the rules with the box office before packing your picnic.

Picnic Boxes

Whether you are dining at your seats or at one of the Bowl’s many picnic areas, it is easier than ever to enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal. Suzanne Goin’s picnic-perfect menus offer a variety of delicious options designed to please a wide range of tastes. Each picnic box serves one, making it simple to mix and match selections for your group.

Just pre-order online by 6:00 PM the day before your concert, and your meal will be ready for pickup at the designated location in the main plaza before the show. It is a convenient way to enjoy a curated dinner without the work of packing and prepping, while still embracing the Bowl’s beloved picnic tradition. Many of the upscale markets like Whole Foods, Gelson’s and Trader Joe’s offer complete pre-made dinners especially during the Bowl season. 

 

Supper in Your Box Seats

Enjoy a delightful pre-concert meal served directly to you in the comfort of your box seats. Menu selections include Suzanne Goin’s three-course dinners, family-style feasts, and a variety of à la carte starters, main courses, desserts, and wine options. It is a seamless way to elevate your evening without the effort of packing and setup.

To take advantage of the full menu, be sure to place your order by 6:00 PM the day before your concert. A limited selection may be available for night-of purchases, but ordering in advance ensures the best variety. This service is available exclusively to ticket holders seated in Garden and Terrace boxes. Check out the latest food menu.

On-site Restaurants

The Hollywood Bowl features three beautiful on-site restaurants where guests can enjoy a relaxed, sit-down meal before the performance. Each dining experience is brought to life by chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne, offering thoughtfully crafted menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and California-inspired flavors. It is an elegant way to begin your evening before heading to your seats for the show. Make reservations early in the season for Ann’s Wine Bar by a.o.c. and Jay and Deanie Stein Backyard Restaurant.

Mobile Ordering

The Bowl offers a wide range of dining options. Whether you want a full meal, refreshing drinks, quick snacks, or one last item to complete your picnic, you will find it on the grounds. Choose from mobile ordering, convenient marketplaces, street food stands, snack counters, and local favorites like South LA Cafe. There is something for every taste and schedule.

Pro tip: order from anywhere using your phone. The Bowl will text you when your food is ready for pickup. All dining locations now operate cashless, so be sure to bring a credit card or other electronic payment method.