There are restaurants in Sherman Oaks that just feel good the second we walk in, and The Front Yard is one of them. It has that polished but comfortable energy that makes you think, “Okay, we are definitely ordering appetizers we didn’t plan on.” It sits inside The Garland Hotel, but honestly, it feels more like its own little world than a hotel restaurant. We had heard the buzz for a while, so we went to see what the hype was about. Short answer: this place delivers.

The Front Yard has that rare balance of being stylish without being intimidating. You can come in jeans or a cute brunch outfit and either way you fit right in. It works for brunch, it works for dinner, it works for groups, and it works when we want to feel a little fancy without committing to a full fine dining night.

The Vibe

The Front Yard feels like the prettiest backyard gathering you have ever been invited to. There are trees wrapped in lights, big open patio spaces, cushioned seating, and warm earthy tones everywhere. It is bright during the day and romantic at night. The kind of setting where conversations last longer and nobody is rushing to get the check.

Inside is just as charming. High ceilings, soft lighting, and a modern rustic feel that somehow makes the whole room feel both elevated and cozy. It is one of the few places in Sherman Oaks that consistently gives “this feels special” energy without trying too hard.

We saw families, couples, girls brunch groups, and hotel guests soaking up the California weather. The staff is friendly, patient, and actually seems happy to be there. Overall the vibe is warm, inviting, and honestly just makes the whole experience better.

The Food

Let’s talk about the real reason we are all here. The Front Yard is known for taking approachable comfort food and giving it a playful, elevated twist. Everything is familiar but done better than you expect.

Here are the dishes that stood out:

Avocado Hummus
Fresh, creamy, and surprisingly addictive. A signature starter for a reason.

The French Toast
This one makes brunch feel like a celebration. Thick, fluffy, and perfectly sweet without going overboard.

Short Rib Eggs Benedict
Rich. Tender. Luxurious. The kind of brunch dish that makes the table go quiet for a few seconds.

Garlic Chicken
A dinner favorite. Simple but bold flavors and perfectly cooked.

The Burger
Juicy, flavorful, and one of the better burgers in the area. Great choice if you want something classic.

The Charcuterie Board
Pretty, generous, and great for sharing. Perfect with a glass of wine.

The Front Yard leans slightly indulgent, slightly California fresh, and always satisfying. Nothing felt boring or lazy. This is comfort food with a glow up.

The Drinks

Drinks at The Front Yard fit the vibe perfectly. The cocktails are refreshing and balanced, with a good mix of classics and creative options. Their margaritas are bright and smooth, the sangria is a crowd favorite, and the wine list is solid without feeling overwhelming.

If you go for brunch, the mimosas flow generously and the coffee is surprisingly good. They do not phone anything in.

The Experience

We love restaurants that give us a full experience instead of just a meal, and The Front Yard checks that box easily. The staff is attentive without hovering. The pacing is relaxed. The environment is beautiful. And the menu feels like something everyone at the table can get excited about.

It is also one of the few restaurants in Sherman Oaks where you can take out of town guests and feel confident they will be impressed. The space has that “LA but approachable” feel that always wins people over.

The Front Yard is the type of place where we finish the night feeling full, happy, and already planning our next visit.

Who This Place Is For

The Front Yard is perfect for
• brunch lovers
• relaxed but elevated date nights
• family dinners
• cozy birthday celebrations
• hotel guests who lucked into a great restaurant downstairs
• anyone who loves a beautiful patio
• locals who want something special without trekking across the hill

Not ideal for people who want super fast dining or quiet spaces. The Front Yard is lively and social in the best way.

Final Verdict

The Front Yard Sherman Oaks is easily one of the most charming restaurants in the Valley. The atmosphere is warm and gorgeous, the food is comforting with thoughtful upgrades, and the entire experience feels like a little escape from everyday life. Whether we are coming for brunch, dinner, drinks, or a long lingering patio meal, The Front Yard always hits the mark.

If you want a restaurant that makes an ordinary day feel like an occasion, The Front Yard is absolutely worth a visit.