Lube Masters
I went to this place for the first time on a Saturday afternoon and even with a considerable they had me in and out in about 15 minutes. The staff was friendly and efficient. They showed me my air filter and offered to replace it. Even though I refused, they weren't pushy or insistant on changing it for me. A great experience!
Chili's Grill & Bar
Chili's never disappoints me, but maybe I'm easy to please. The strawberry lemonade is bottomless and by far the best drink at any restaurant. The waiters/waitresses are usually very prompt with service and always courteous. The fajitas here are excellent and will definitely fill you up. The prices are just right...
Red Lobster
It's worth showing up just for the bottomless basket of garlic cheese rolls, but while you're at it, why not enjoy the seafood? I find their shrimp to be some of the best I've had -- particularly in the combo platters. It's very crowded at night, but worth the wait. It's a little too dimly lit for my taste and I can't say that the "romantic" lighting mixes well with the large fish on the walls...
Olive Garden
As if it were a secret, this place has the best bread sticks on earth. Besides that, the food is great and the atmosphere is cozy, complete with fireplaces. The Tour of Italy is on of my favorite dishes featuring three different classic Italian dishes in one. Keep the Parmesan cheese coming!
Elephant Bar Restaurant
It's kind of fun to walk in a restaurant and feel like you are on safari. The Elephant Bar is smartly decorated and has good food. The bar has nice booths and their appetizer sampler platter is one of the best things on the menu. It can get kind of crowded, but is a great place for kids or adults.
P.F. Chang's
This has to be my favorite Chinese restaurant. The atomsphere is class and perfect for a date. I've only been there with friends, but we always have a good time. The wait can be a little long on certain nights, but a lot of restaurants in Sherman Oaks are like that. The location is great and lends itself to browsing the shops at the Galleria after dinner.
Sisley Italian Kitchen
This is probably the most classy Italian restaurant in the Santa Clarita Valley. The atmosphere and service are top notch, but the prices are a bit high for some menu items. The restaurant has a nice covered outdoor area for comfortable dining on beautiful summer nights. The chefs here really have a way with the spices -- delicious!
Thai Pepper
This Thai restaurant is somewhat of a hole in the wall, but it has great food and reasonable prices -- I was pleasantly surprised. I prefer Thai Dishes on Valencia Blvd., but this place is a close runner up for best Thai food in the Santa Clarita Valley in my book. Parking is kind of a problem too with such a small alley lot.
Thai Dishes Valencia
The Pad Thai and Spicy Thai Fried Rice are to die for at this restaurant. The authentic decor is a delight and a conversation piece during dinner. They have a very large menu and reasonable prices. Their lemonade is home made and delicious, but refills aren't free. I haven't found a better Thai restaurant.
Il Buco Ristorante
I stumbled on this place almost on accident and it is the best Italian restaurant I know of. The prices are surprisingly reasonable (<$40 for 2) and the atmosphere is cozy and romantic. They even put your napkin in your lap for you! It's very small, so make sure you have reservations if it's a weekend.
