This is a DineLA review. Debated back n forth about trying DJs, with other great deals out there but Ive heard great things about the steaks. Including an Eater mention in an LAs best list. Im going to focus on the food first which was superb, oustanding, def delicious. Then Im going to harp on all the things that were less than My wife ordered a magnificent shrimp cocktail. Three gigantic prawns in a yummy sauce. I would call it a signature appetizer. One of the reasons I made this reservation was the oysters Rockefeller app choice. It was delicious but the two oyster portion seemed stingy. The presentation in a bowl full of flat shells was flawed. Taste 5, portion 3, presentation 2. We ordered the prime sirloin and upgraded ($20) mine to a Ribeye. Asked our server if the kitchen could cut them in half and plate them with both choices. The steaks were delectable. The sirloin was amazing and the Ribeye equally outstanding. The sides broccolini and au gratin potatoes were delicious especially the well spiced and garlicky broc. OMG the desserts. The flavor train just wont stop. A chocolate torte that tasted like a candy bar. great texture and deep chocolate flavor served with a yummy scoop of ice cream. The mascarpone cheesecake was a dreamy texture with a nice thick buttery crust. Our server was adequate. He told us he might get some "pushback" on the plating request. Then said it was a go. Then the steaks were dropped without being cut and split. No biggie, but not a big request either. Plus they said they would then they didn't. When you walk in, behind a velvet curtain there is a tiny space for the hostess station. A sign saying "please wait to be seated it will be worth it". So we waited and waited, meanwhile another couple came in, now there are 4 people cramped in the closet waiting for the hostess. Another guy came in and squeezed through to the bar and then the hostess came in. Our table was fine, well it was wobbling so my wife had that addressed. The dining room is dark, almost a full house tonight. But it is cramped. Hard to maneuver especially getting to the restrooms thru another velvet curtain and people coming in and out blindly. The back of the house shows a little too much behind the scenes disarray. The food is Five Stars Undoubtedly The atmosphere and service Three Stars The average equals Four. Im grateful for Dear Johns offering a DineLA special to get us in the door, it was just a tight squeeze, haha. read more

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Just.. wow. Our bartender Erick couldn't have been more hospitable, even while he was training another excellent bartender. The chicken parm & peanut butter dessert were some of the best I've had. Will definitely be back. read more

Dear John’s - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Been to Dear John's twice now to celebrate my father whose name was John and who loved steakhouses. I absolutely adore this restaurant. My mom and I are appetizer people so we love ordering the assorted delicious dishes and skip the large entrees. The steak tartare is my favorite followed very closely by the bougie tots! Not something to miss! I also have to say that the service here is additionally spectacular. All the servers have been wonderful. We will be going back every year for my dads birthday. Such a wonderful treat! read more

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My husbund went to Dear John's for his birthday dinner. It was a last minute decision so we didn't make a reservation. We were hoping we didn't need a reservation on a rainy Tuesday night. It was busy, but we got lucky and got seats at the bar. The food was good. The drinks were great. It has a classic old Hollywood vibe. Pro tip: Always make a dinner reservation...or else they may not be able to seat you. It gets busy. read more

Dear John’s - Garlic bread, sand dabs, old-fashioneds, oysters Rockefeller & steak. - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Originally opened in 1962, Dear John's has served many locals and out of towners over the decades. It was closed for a number of years, and recently re-opened by two restaurateurs, and they did a great job of maintaining how it looked, for the most part, back in the 60s or early 70s. It's very dark on the inside, like an East Coast style steakhouse. They have a large full bar as well. As mentioned in some of the other reviews parking is very limited. There's about 10 spaces in the small parking lot attached to the side, otherwise it will be street parking, however, a parking pass is needed to park in the neighborhood next to it. They have a lot of great options on the menu, some retro ones as well. We started off with the French Onion Soup and the Steak Tartare. They make the Steak Tartare right in front of you, and it was truly delicious. The Onion Soup was a bit salty, but still very good with tons of cheese and thick bread. For our entrées we chose the Chicken Parmesan and the Sandabs. The Sandabs were the real highlight of the two, but the chicken was also good. It was filled with cheese, like Chicken Cordon Bleu, and then served with a side of marinara. Dan Tana's is still the best Chicken Parmesan in Los Angeles, but this one is very good as well. Overall a delicious meal in a very classic setting. I know Frank Sinatra himself used to eat and entertain here and it really continues that black and white era style. I would certainly suggest to any local or anyone visiting Los Angeles. read more

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I should have read the fine print. Called more than 24 hours in advance to cancel a reservation and lost the deposit. They said they require 48 hours. My fault for not reading, but that's a ridiculously non-consumer focused policy I haven't seen elsewhere in town. It'd be different if they were some tiny prix fixe spot w super limited table turns. Seems like a cash grab. read more

Dear John's is our favorite steakhouse in West LA. We went for dineLA last night, and everything was superb, as usual. This place never disappoints. DineLA was a great deal at $65 per person. We both had the traditional Caesar salad. I had the Sand Dabs, my favorite, and boyfriend had the Ribeye, which was a $20 supplement, but massive! He took half of it home. DineLA came with the Gratin Dauphinois potatoes and Broccolini with Chili, Lemon and Breadcrumbs. I had the cheesecake for dessert, and boyfriend had the Chocolate Crunch Cake, which was like a large KitKat bar covered with a Reece's Peanut Butter Cup. Boyfriend had his usual martini, and I had a glass of the Saint Emilion Bordeaux. They now have valet parking for $10, which is great, because the place was packed. I'm so glad their lease was renewed for 5 years. We will keep coming back. read more

My husband and I came here on a Tuesday night after it was announced that Dear John's would be closing (they've since announced they will be open for another year). When we came on a Tuesday night, we arrived a little before our reservation time at 6 pm, and were told to wait at the door. There were several other people also trying to get seated for their reservations. We were seated at an outdoor table shortly after arriving. The ambiance outside was pleasant, but it did not compare to the interior of the restaurant, which looked dark and glamorous. Dear John's is a steakhouse, but neither of us ordered steak that night. I got the sand dabs, a white fish in a buttery sauce, which was very good, but I ultimately regretted not ordering the steak, once I saw the steaks come out to other tables. My husband had the chicken parmesan which he enjoyed. We also shared the garlic bread and Caesar salad to start. We had no complaints about our food at Dear John's, but I didn't feel that that the food was amazing. We had a solid experience, but not amazing, and this might be due to the fact that we didn't have steak. read more

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Classy, steakhouse offering a menu of delicious items from top to bottom. Hidden gem and a great place to go with your date or group of guys for the evening. They were kind about opening our bottles of wine. Highest recommendation for a cozy spot. read more

Dear John's is an old, iconic L.A. steakhouse that started its current run as a temporary pop-up, revitalized by Josiah Citrin and Hans Röckenwagner in a Culver City space with a lease that was supposed to run out in April. I went twice last month, thinking I'd better enjoy it while it was still open, but it turns out they're sticking around for another five years! (They announced on Instagram like 15 hours ago, and I'm very pleased with this news.) I came for a dinner with friends, then booked another dinner for nine nights later so I could bring my husband and a friend I knew would love the place. I also wanted to see the interior, as my first dinner was outdoors. The patio was great, but I really loved the dim, moody, old school dining room. Service was excellent both times. If you're a drinker, this is a restaurant that calls for moderate to heavy boozing. I liked the cocktails. Augie's Medicina Latina was an appealing twist on a Penicillin, with mezcal, ginger, lime, and honey. I Get a Kick Out of You was a sweet and spicy mix of tequila, mezcal, jalapeño, hibiscus, passionfruit, and Chartreuse. The Aviation was classic and refreshing, with gin, Maraschino, lemon, and crème de violette. A steak night might call for some red wine, and while I'm not good at reading a wine list, I did like the bottle of Ridge cabernet we got with our filets. The food was superb, elevated classics flawlessly executed. The shrimp cocktail was great, as were the pigs in a blanket, made with little weenies of wagyu beef. The steak tartare was silky and rich with flavor, served with an egg yolk fritter and everything cracker. The Caesar salad for two was solid and traditional. I could've used anchovies, but it was a good salad that was easy to share four ways. I liked the garlic bread, too. As for entrees, I loved both the filet and the chicken parmesan. I'd highly recommend going with a friend and getting them both. Dear John's is a steakhouse, so it seems right to get a steak, and that filet was juicy and full of flavor. It went well with some Bearnaise sauce. The chicken parmesan, though, was the dish I'll always remember. I got it both times I went and it was absolutely phenomenal. I don't know how they cooked that chicken, but it was perfectly done. The breading was crispy and golden, and the tender meat was stuffed with melting mozzarella and marinara sauce. I also enjoyed the house sides. The creamed spinach and steak fries were both tasty, and the broccolini was lovely, with chili, lemon, and breadcrumbs. For dessert, there was cherry bread pudding and chocolate hazelnut crunch cake, both winners. I loved the soft bread pudding studded with lush dark cherries, and the chocolate cake was like a fancy layered candy bar, served with salted caramel ice cream. I'm so pleased that Dear John's is sticking around. It's a wonderful steakhouse that feels essential to L.A.'s restaurant scene. I had a blast both times I went, and very much look forward to going again. read more

After intermittent fasting and reducing caloric intake for 2 weeks to prepare for an event, I was craving lobster as my first reward meal. I scoured Google Maps and Yelp for the crustaceous options in my area -- I had been to Lobster & Beer once (it was fine but not special enough for this occasion), and I contemplated going to a seafood Cajun boil kind of place. I decided on Dear John's; my boyfriend and I live less than a mile away and the signage font had always caught my eye. They had a Lobster Thermidor on the menu, which people raved about, and I liked the idea of trying a longstanding, iconic fixture in our local gastronomic region. I made a 9pm dining room reservation on Resy for later that night, texted a friend, and she coincidentally had just gone to Dear John's the week prior for a date night. She said it was "delicious" and mentioned their dirty martini and creamed spinach. It was kismet and my anticipation began to brew. We donned our shiny date clothes and used the valet service off Culver Blvd. After being seated by the host Jasmine, we were seated against the wall at a 2-top, one booth, one chair. We admired the paintings. It is very dark and loud in there. I started with an Aviaton gin lightly dirty martini -- it was delightful and had a bacon(?) smoky flavor. Our server told us about the specials that night, a lamb rack with mint gelee and clams casino. We started with the bougie tots and garlic bread as appetizers. The bougie tots were wonderful -- lemony, balanced with the sprinkling of chives, and the popping salmon roe is one of my favorite sensual experiences. Just get them. The garlic bread was essentially a sauce-less pizza, but my partner was hungry so he ate it up. We chose the lamb special and lobster thermidor as our entrees. The ribs of the lamb were succulent but too heavily salted. The lobster thermidor is chunks of lobster served in an open lobster tail mixed with cream and in this case, mushrooms and spinach. The lobster itself was cooked well, but the mushroom filling was way too salty. We ordered creamed spinach and broccolini as sides, and I was a bit annoyed that our server didn't suggest against the creamed spinach as there was already spinach in my lobster entree. I noted to myself that if I was an upscale restaurant server, I would note such details to the guests! I drank at least 4 full glasses of water during the meal alone to compensate for the excessive salt. Funny enough, and perhaps sadly, my favorite dish besides the tots was the broccolini. It was well-prepared with just the right amount of bite, and balanced with chili, lemon, and breadcrumbs. I went to use the restroom and also found the soap dispenser finicky as another reviewer mentioned. It seemed it was broken, but just took a few hand waves to get it to dispense. On the walk back to my table, our new server (there was a shift change) spoke to me a little too frenetically about the kitchen closing in 20 minutes. Our bill came out to $244 before tip, and we grumbled the way home about our salt-laden tongues, the high, and frankly unjustified prices, and the acceptable but not 5-star service. I would be hesitant to go again, but if I needed a local cocktail and a steak in a pinch, I might give Dear John's another try. I'll tell them to hold the damn salt. read more

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As we know when there are so many choices to choose for dinner in Los Angeles, we keep try them. As I always say that the ones, we first have tried stay consistent is the most important. We have been coming to Dear John's before covid and it never disappoints. Our server Hank is the best the way he gives details on specials make your mouth water with delight. We started with the clam's casinos so delicious, the balance of flavors along with the portions yummy! We then had the Spaghetti with Meatballs another special so good. We always have the table side Caesar Salad for two I feel it's the best in the city. Also don't forget their Garlic Cheese bread you can't get enough. read more

Dear John’s - Special Spaghetti and Meatballs - American Near Me - Culver City, California

After turning 66 and living most of My life in Los Angeles and diving past Dear John's, I'm sorry it took me so long to dine there. A friend in passing said he had a great meal there. It was my wife's 64th birthday on 11/1. I called and made a reservation with a delightful young lady named Jasmine. I told her there was a plant/vine called night a night Blooming Jasmine and she had no idea there was one. We have them surrounding our whole home because they smell so good. After all the places we have eaten in Los Angeles and the world, I would have to Say I've never had a better meal in my life. I was so satisfied that we went again last night. Got to meet Jasmine and her manager named, Angel, but he's more of a prince or equal to an Angel. Food--Everything thing we order was the best I've ever had. The french onion soup, outstanding. The wedge and table side Ceasar, incredible. The truffle Mac, insanely delicious as were the scalloped Potatoes. The creamed spinach, OMG. The sand dabs my daughter had were the best I've ever had. The rib eyes were amazing not to mention the sauces you can get with them. The Filet, unbelievable. I myself had to make sure since we went back that the nightly special Was a veal chop with a thick Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. The Salmon was wonderful. They have a garlic cheese Bread to die for, but I lived thank goodness so I can go back again. Angel, the manager, not only an angel is one Classy guy who Checked in on us every five minutes to see if everything was good, and acceptable And as expected. I Love Dear John's. It's my new, or at least New to me, is now my hands down best restaurant I've ever been to. I could go every night. It was the food the best I've ever eaten, but Angel and The entire staff treated us like kings and queens. Not in a million years would I have expected the meals and food We Got. To say I highly suggest Dear John's is a great destination would be an understatement. ANGEL was a wonderful host and great ambassador to this restaurant.Jasmine And there was another woman, I can't remember her name at this Moment couldn't have been more wonderful helping us get out reservation Top notch and the highest quality of foods too. Their chef deserves a large round of applause as well See you soon gang.You're all Great ambassadors to The restaurant!!! read more

We had a truly horrible experience at Dear John's. Sadly, regardless of the good yet pricey food and lively room, our meal was ruined by the manager of the restaurant who was rude and abusive to us. He began by interrupting our conversation when we were seated in a threatening and scolding manner because we were using the lights on our phones to see the menu in the almost dark restaurant, which he claimed was "against the rules." Later, when someone at our table questioned him about why he was so rude, he actually physically assaulted our friend. No restaurant should ever treat its guests in this manner. Not only is this incident outrageous but it was dangerous. Shame on the owners for allowing this type of behavior. read more

The only pro is the great ambiance. Candle lit, lovely music and a well laid out dining room. Many cons. Outrageous prices, poorly cooked food and an irritating server/dining room presentation (routine). Everything from the wines by the glass to the A LA CARTE entrees are grossly overpriced. Timing was wrong as well. I had JUST finished my salad and immediately after clearing my plate our entrees arrived. Dinner for two was $216 BEFORE tip. I had the tenderloin which was $65 and my Dad had the ribeye which was $68. We both had a starter (me, the wedge salad and my Dad the onion soup). Also had one glass of wine for $18. My steak was ordered medium rare. The outside of the steak was over cooked and the core was so rare there was blood on my plate. The side we shared were the potatoes which had no flavor and were over cooked. After our meal the dining room manager came to our table with a tablet to present the bill. He stood over us waiting for a credit card. I found this to lack any sort of class for a fine dining concept. I actually had to ask the manager to give us a minute. A minute later our server came over with another tablet and we gave her the card. We complied because I was anxious to leave. The computer light was extremely bright and very annoying. It ruined the calm and dimly lit ambiance of the dining room. A Covid vaccine card (proof of vaccinations) and an ID is required before you even enter the dining room. I found this to be over the top, however I presume this is the new norm. I won't return to this restaurant. Three stars was a gift. read more

Dear John’s - Dear John's receipt. - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Its official. I've exerted authority in my relationship and have taken the lead in deciding the itinerary for date nights. Our trip to Dear Johns proves, that I am, most definitely, getting good at this. Like always, I spent the week cruising through my bookmarked section for a good meal and came across Dear John's. As a Culver resident for 90% of my life, It was always that place I saw, but never visited. I knew that time in their location is limited, so I'm happy I finally had the chance to check it out. We arrived earlier than our 8pm reservation and snagged a spot at the bar before our table was ready. This place was made for cocktails, so I did a quick view of the drink menu and decided on a Hemingway (I think that's the name) it was delicious. Looking around, its a shame Dear Johns may going away soon. Its beautiful, incredibly romantic, and my BF commented on how relaxed he felt in the dim lighting. Once our table was ready we got excited to have the food. We started off with the Garlic Bread and French Onion Soup. Splendid! I'm a girl who loves her cheese, so this was right up my alley. I think this was even my first time eating French Onion soup and I don't know how others can possibly hold up. The Garlic Bread had this giant mound of melted mozzarella on top and c'mon, Bread and cheese, name a better duo thatn that...i'll wait. Next up, our gigantic main course (our eyes were way bigger than our stomach that night). We opted for the Broccolini (incredible), creamed corn (awesome) and the roasted potatoes (these may be better than my mom's - if you tell her I said that, I will absolutely deny it). For our mains, we got the steak and Chicken parmesan which were both very tasty. Such a lovely little date! I really enjoyed my time at Dear Johns. Hopefully, we have time to catch it again before its gone forever. read more

Dear John’s - French onion soup and garlic bread - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Excellent drinks and food. We got there a little early for a reservation and had a few drinks at the bar. The ambience is reminiscent of a 1960s restaurant that's very dimly lit and has great charm. Prices are a little high, but that's expected at a place like this. I will definitely be coming back again. read more

Really great food, atmosphere is Classic old time steakhouse w food to match, great bar, service was impeccable, waitstaff was super attentive and took care of everything. A bit loud inside but it's a small room. read more

The steak was wonderful. The "sand dabs" were like tilapia with a light sauce, they were okay... It's a quaint, dark restaurant with a lot going on in a small space. That said, it was unique, pricey, but a good experience. read more

Great old school LA restaurant. Very dimly lit and very cool ambience. It's a throwback to yesteryear. The food and service are excellent. read more

We happened to cross by Dear John's a while ago and we're lucky enough to visit in February after making a reservation. The place is a an amazing little spot full of red velvet and the fun happens behind the curtain! It is full of art, cute booths and dim lighting. Served in tuxes the staff was very friendly and made for an impressive experience. I loved the diverse menu and would gladly return anytime. They have a small lot off of the street that is tight but you can also find street parking. I didn't venture out to the patio but that is an option. read more

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awesome place, steaks cooked perfectly. great classic choices. The ribeye had a wonderful sear, and the lamb was tender. They should get a piano guy. read more

Went there with friends and the service, especially the manager Angel, was horrible. Moving to LA and this was supposed to be an intro to classic LA steakhouse. Food is good, but not worth it with such bad service. Went to Musso and Frank's last time I was in LA - much better service. read more

I've been wanting to check out Dear John's after hearing about the lease battle and since it's a local establishment that's a well known dive bar/steak spot. My friend and I went for DineLA and sat outside on the green astroturf patio, which I'm told is quite a contrast from the darker more dive bar on the inside. The server was great and good reccos off of the special menu. I had an Old Fashioned with Buffalo Trace bourbon as a cocktail and their bartender pours well. Started out with a the salmon tartare as the appetizer, which was nice and refreshing (this isn't on their normal menu according to the waitress). The chicken parm was fun since it's not served in the traditional way. Instead of a breaded piece of chicken, the cheese and and sauce are tucked and rolled within the chicken piece that is then deep fried. It's a great more modern twist on a classic. My friend opted for the salmon which looked fantastic. For sides, the meal came with mac & cheese as well as broccoli, both of which were excellent steak house sides. For dessert, we got one of each of what was on the DineLA menu. The marscopone cheesecake was nice and light (I had asked the waitress if it was heavy and she was correct it was not). The chocolate crunch bar was out of this world with the right amount of chocolate, crunch and peanut butter. Parking can be a bit tricky in that particular part of Culver City, valet was easy and only $12. read more

Dear John’s - Chicken Parm - American Near Me - Culver City, California

I took a friend to Dear John's tonight for a birthday dinner. I specified this on the website when I made the reservation and it was never addressed. We arrived to find that the restaurant was incredibly dark - to the point where it felt dangerous walking to the table. We were told that there was patio seating with heaters so we opted for that. While the food was very good, the service felt typical for 2 women having dinner. We watched other tables getting the service that I assumed we would get at this price point. No one ever asked if I wanted a refill of my drink, we had to ask for pretty much anything. At the end of the meal the male waiter took time to chat with us, but at that point the love was gone. Dark restaurants just don't work for me, and for an expensive dinner I expect better service. There are a few really lovely restaurants that serve a good steak. I will be returning to those in the future. read more

Aweful atmosphere n ambiance. Walking into this little whole in the wall reminded me of my friend's basement where we used to get stoned as teens. Smelled funny. Frank Sinatra blaring over my head and couldnt hear myself think. Tables were almost on top of each other. Could hear every word of every conversation. Men's bathroom was a mess. Urine all over the floor and it's literally right next to the kitchen. Only saving grace was the food was really good. My daughter n I got the 8oz Filet. Hers was twice the size of mine. Was really weird. Food was over priced. 4 of us for almost $450.00. Service was good. Never, ever going there again. Ever read more

Our experience last evening at Dear John's restaurant left us less than pleased!! The couple next to us ( and I mean shoulder to shoulder) ... showed no respect and spoke so loudly that we were unable to enjoy each other, much less that the $350 dinner...the food was average at best!! when I spoke to the Manager (this was on Tuesday night October 28) he did nothing to compensate for our experience, telling me to request a different table next time and offered me some matchbooks for my trouble....... RUDE!!! read more

I got one of the fanciest bowl of tater tots I've ever seen, which has a half ounce of caviar, ikura, and chives among other things and it was absolutely delicious! Definitely one of the more expensive things I've eaten considering it's size, but it was worth every bite! I also got some of their cocktails as well which were amazing. My only thing was that parking was a bit difficult and it's so hard to see inside the restaurant due to the lack of lighting, but the food and service was great! read more

Dear John’s - IG: Snacks_with_steph - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Went on a Saturday night , we sat inside which was nice. Jordan was our waiter and he was very good. We shared a New York steak which was good but some portions had gristle and were chewy but was good overall, had a couple of sides which were also good, overall it was a very good experience and we will return since we live close by! You want to sit inside where the old vibe atmosphere/ambiance is, that is a part of the reason to come here! read more

Dear John’s - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Top to bottom - solid joint. Can you go wrong with a dark supper club that feels like you stepped back into the 60's. The cons: someone was having a birthday party and screaming. That sucked. - expensive Pros: Yes, it's expensive. But, it's worth it. Solid drinks that aren't just 3 sips and you're done like every other LA spot. Steak - top notch Sides - all stand outs. The staff - Johnny's on the spot - kind yet formal and blended into the background. Glad I finally made it. It's a fun experience. read more

I've never had a bad meal here. We always get the ribeye and it's perfectly cooked, seasoned, and melts in your mouth. Last night we tried the sand dabs too and they were so buttery and delicious we almost forgot we had a steak. The peanut butter crisp cake was the perfect end to the meal. I'm still thinking about it today. Our servers are always friendly, attentive, and down to earth. They make us laugh and they know their sh*t. Yes, the dining room is dark. Yes, it can feel a little crowded when it's a busy night. Yes, it is a very pricey meal. But, it is an LA institution and so SO worth it. read more

It had been 15 years since I had a work lunch in this place. A lot has changed and all for the better: Two big time chefs and Jamie Lee Curtis on the phone message. As you can see, the place is tiny, loud, dark and full of Sinatra-era style. I was worried that DJ's would be all ambience, but the steaks, Chicken Parm, mashies, JLC Caviar Tots and all 3 deserts dispelled any worries about food quality. Our group of 7 ate on the patio, which was heated just enough. We could hear each other, but I missed the Hollywood glam inside. The service was first rate and the valet is necessary in that hood. Use it. read more

Dear John’s - DJ interior. - American Near Me - Culver City, California

Although it is noted in very fine print on their website, it was not mentioned at all when I called to cancel our reservations. A $25 fee per person was charged to my credit card and we didn't even step into the restaurant. read more

I'm upset that I just went to this restaurant for the first time recently. It's so unassuming but it's a perfect spot for a celebration or date night. It's an old school Italian steak house that truly delivers. The chicken parmesan is unique and maybe the best I've ever had. The steak was also amazing. Do yourself a favor and absolutely order the Caesar and the broccolini. Also--do not leave without getting the chocolate hazelnut dessert. It is to die for. Highly recommend getting a seat inside, it's not the same in the patio! read more

Great food, service, and old school ambience. Fun place to go and not pretentious. Friendly staff. If you haven't gone, put it on your list. It's also one of the top 100 restaurants in LA. read more

Excellent. High quality. Delicious. I could go on but I don't want to show the limits of my vocabulary. Let me be blunt: the BEST steak house I have been to in years. The ribeye was DIVINE. The sides were butter and delectable. The dessert, a croissant bread pudding with a Cherry sauce. Also our server could not have been better. A classy, warm and friendly man. read more

Dear John’s - Ribeye with Cafe De Paris butter right next to it. - American Near Me - Culver City, California

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I went to Dear John's based on the 4 star Yelp rating and the fact that it is in my neighborhood. The steak that I ordered as part of the restaurant week 3-course meal deal was unbelievably tough, chewy and unseasoned. I found this to be so unfortunate and embarrassing because I was treating my boyfriend to dinner here for a special occasion. The only saving grace was the cocktails, which were very good. Unfortunately, based on my poor experience, I will not be returning to this restaurant. read more

I had dinner Saturday night with my family and we had a wonderful time. We ordered just about everything on the menu and it was delicious. Excellent melt in your mouth steaks, lobster Thermidor was incredible, chicken parmigiana was unique and delicious. A large variety of sides cream corn, Mac and cheese, broccolini, oysters Rockefeller... Classic cocktails as well Aviation, and Belvedere martini. But I can't forget to mention the outstanding staff, especially our wonderful waiter Mr. Jeffrey. read more

Dear John’s - Bread pudding, strawberry cheesecake and peanut butter chocolate dessert. - American Near Me - Culver City, California

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Dear John's is such a great place! My boyfriend and I had reservations for the patio on a Friday night. When we arrived, we decided to wait for a table inside as the patio while cute, and provided heat lamps, was just not the vibe we were looking for. Inside the restaurant is small, with brick walls and a bar. It's dark with a fireplace, but so cozy, loud with conversation and laughter and just a great vibe. Cocktails: We started with two cocktails, the Aviation and Vesper. Both excellent! The bartender came over to make sure we enjoyed them, so sweet! I then had a martini with a twist, referred by our waiter Hank (who is amazing by the way) and I am not a martini drinker, but that martini was delicious! Food: We started with the special, salmon on crostini, with pickled cucumbers and a lovely spread. It was delicious! The salmon was thinly sliced and so tender, like butter. We also shared the San dab, a light fish with a lemon butter caper sauce, also delicious. For sides we had the broccolini, and German potatoes, which were also tasty! We decided to hear about the deserts because the food was so good, and picked a seasonal desert, a bread pudding with cherries. I typically don't pick a cherry dessert, but our waiter insisted we try it, and it was light and the perfect desert to end our evening. Overall: From the hostess to the bartender to our excellent waiter Hank, everyone was so friendly, knowledgeable and helpful! The food was excellent, and the vibe overall was awesome. We will definitely be back, and are so happy we waited for a table inside, given the awesome experience we had! Fun fact: Frank Sinatra used to play the piano in this restaurant. Just an added bonus to this great place! Take your date here, you will get bonus points! Or just go with friends, either way, everyone is sure to be happy they came! read more

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Dear John's is, without a doubt, my second favorite steakhouse in LA. I admittedly haven't been to many, but whatever. What this place lacks in austerity and dark wood it makes up for in glittery bar ceilings and random works of art. Always packed, expect to wait even with a reservation. And it's not cheap. Wedge salad is superior. Delicious. Could eat every day. Dear John's, sadly, doesn't have baked potatoes but they do have insanely good mashed potatoes, so the trade off is slightly less painful. First time I came, we ordered virtually every veggie side and all were delicious. The mushrooms in particular deserve your attention. I guess the non-vegetarian items are good, too, or whatever. That's what I hear anyway. The French onion soup looks insane. And the tinis are exactly what you need. Glad this place gets to survive a few more years. It's an institution and should live forever! read more