37 South El Molino Avenue, Pasadena
626 440 0044
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You're well-versed on the five elements—earth, air, fire, water and lobster. So you'll be glad to know that there's a gleaming new restaurant that's also done its homework. Elements Kitchen is now open in Pasadena. The menu here is organized not by course, but by "element," by which they mean notable ingredient to be sampled in several different forms.
1448 Gower Street, Hollywood
323 962 0800
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Occasionally, you simply require something... unprecedented. Sometimes that's on Valentine's Day. Sometimes that's just how you end your week. Here to help on both fronts is Hollywood's sprawling new Mediterranean wonderland—La Vida is now taking reservations.
501 W Olympic Boulevard, Downtown
213 988 8808
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On a nondescript Downtown corner, a new restaurant is heating up. Literally—pots of boiling water on every table. Welcome to Yojié, an unusual (and purple) new Japanese enclave now quietly open. First off, you won't come here for sushi. They don't have it. This is shabu-shabu gone mainstream—so here's what you do. After the game at Staples just down the street, grab one of the bamboo-topped booths at the back.
933 South Brand Boulevard, at Palate Food + Wine
818 662 9463
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Lately, you might be feeling a little bored with the restaurant scene. In need of some culinary adventure. In need of...some brains, possibly folded into some fresh ravioli. Step in, if you dare, to Offal Good, an intense new celebration of uncommon foods at the acclaimed restaurant and wine bar (and shop, and library) known as Palate. Now expanding your limits at the back wine bar every Wednesday, Offal Good is a decadent three-course affair with a rotating menu the likes of which you rarely see–offal is foodie talk for innards and extremities, taken here to unprecedented new places.
2 California Plaza, 350 South Grand Avenue, Downtown
323 638 4885
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Bourbon, cigars, that tattooed wild one from last night...usually the good things in life aren't exactly good for you. But today we bring you a welcome exception to the rule: a resolution-friendly lunch spot that won't stink up your suit or steal your car. Behold the cleansing power of Mixt Greens, now open in Downtown. This is the kind of place you keep hearing about, where humans and androids will one day commingle over heaping bowls of organic, locally sourced vegetation, speaking only of peace and sustainability. In the meantime, Sirloin Sandwiches With Black Truffle Aioli and salad options like the Porky–with spice-rubbed pork tenderloin, bacon, apples and squash–make this all go down easy.
933 South Brand Boulevard, Glendale
818 662 9463
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Casual California-Mediterranean bistro and wine bar. Small menu of fresh dishes focused on California's great bounty of local ingredients. A relaxed space with the dining room sprawling into a cocktail lounge and a wine bar. They also have laboratories for curing meats and aging cheeses, which are well used, and a wine shop stocked mostly with small-production bottles from Burgundy and the Rhône.
235 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica
310 395 3200
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They've captured the vibe and high energy feel of a French brasserie. Serving classic French food infused with fresh ingredients from the farmer's market.
6600 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood
not availble
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You always try to be a good neighbor. Very considerate. But every now and then, a wild, boozy blowout is in order—neighbors be damned. Which is just what Mercantile's new next-door neighbor did on New Year's Eve. Introducing District, a new spot for fine dining and cocktails that's hosted a sneak-peek preview party to properly introduce itself (and 2010). The place looks like 1880s New York, if you'd been around then and hung out drinking in ominous monasteries.
241 South San Pedro Street, Little Tokyo/Downtown
213 626 5299
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Fine dining in a casual atmosphere, with and extremely diverse and flavorful menu. Chef Josef Centeno demonstrates his mastery over the human palate with every entrée. The menu changes often and there are always interesting daily special, incorporating their organic produce is grown specifically for the Lazy Ox Canteen by Mountain Sage Farms in Temecula.
340 North Cañon Drive, Beverly Hills
310 274 3200
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It's the same old dilemma: one of you wants sushi. And the other wants Guinea Hen and Champagne Vinaigrette. But it's no longer a problem—thanks to a polished sliver of a Japanese restaurant called Tiger, officially open in Beverly Hills. This is a stark, gleaming tunnel in the former home of Luckyfish. Up front you're covered but still technically outside, and inside there's a sparse dining room and sushi bar.
490 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills
310 275 7077
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Furry boots. Gucci shopping bags. High 70s sun. Yes, it's wintertime in Beverly Hills, and you're craving Vietnamese soup for your soul. Introducing a cozy little hideaway called—shameless pun alert—9021Pho. This is a casual spot that you could literally only find in Beverly Hills (guess they're not interested in franchising), where ravenous WME agents, immaculate Barneys shopgirls and wide-eyed tourists can now stroll in on foot for quick, soothing power lunches of the under-$10 variety.
2138 Hillhurst Avenue, Los Feliz
323 663 2000
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It's Friday, and everything around you has stopped making sense. Oprah is ending her talk show. Ace Ventura has a married daughter. Someone's trying to drag you to New Moon. Which means you're in the perfect state of dazed bafflement to enjoy a colorful spectacle like Tangier Korean BBQ of Tokyo, now open in Los Feliz. Let's just make something clear right away—this is not the place to impress your boss, or pitch your stately Churchill biopic, or propose to your true love (unless you two met at Comic-Con).
6600 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood
323 962 8202
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There are lots of important men in Hollywood. Not least among them—the man who brought you the Bowery burger. And now, George Abou-Daoud wants to be sure you get your fill of wine and Buttered Popcorn Ice Cream. Finally the day is near—The Mercantile open now on Sunset Boulevard. A few blocks west of his other empires (the Bowery, Delancey and Mission Cantina), this new market, restaurant and wine bar takes things back to those leisurely days in grandma's kitchen.
235 N. Cañon Dr, (N. of Wilshire), Beverly Hills, CA 90210, Beverly Hills
310 271 9910
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In life, there are but a handful of days you remember forever. Like this one. Because Thomas Keller, he of the venerated French Laundry and Per Se, is finally bringing Bouchon to Beverly Hills on November 18—and today's the day the reservation lines go live. Bonus: it's also the day we'll tell you about his secret little wine bar. But first things first—from the courtyard next to the Montage hotel, you'll enter the stately Beverly Hills Gardens building and ascend to the second floor alongside a ravenous flock of besuited Gersh agents, trophy wives, moneyed celebs, beards and eager foodies who've eaten Top Ramen since March to save for the big night.
1544 North Cahuenga Boulevard, Hollywood
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Ricky Gervais and the Golden Globes. Sue Sylvester and tracksuits. Juicy burgers…and cold beer. Some things were just made to go together. Tending to that last blissful union is Stout, your new favorite late-night Cahuenga stop celebrating its grand opening one week from today. (Countdown starts…now.) Upon entering the strip-mall corner hideaway, the first thing you'll notice is the giant beer wall made of hammered copper—a noble ode to the reason you came, thanks to ever-thoughtful designer Kris Keith (BoHo, Bar Delux).
1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica
310 581 7714
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Some things are just a given. Summer lasts until November. Your Halloween costume will bring tears of exhilaration to all who see it. And
when you are offered the chance to drown yourself in gratis bubbly on the beach—you take it. Yes, there's a kind of amazing new Sunday Brunch in town—now available at the Hotel Casa Del Mar. Under the soaring windows facing out onto the sand, the waves and the pier, you'll settle in at the Veranda (some might call it the lobby lounge) for a three-course affair. Shellfish and Avocado Salad to start, then some Lemon Ricotta Pancakes or Country French Toast With Honey Roasted Figs.
514 North La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 289 1940
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You've always been up for experimenting. Maybe not "hey, let's build a giant silver helium balloon in the backyard for the kids" experimenting. But when a French-Japanese restaurant starts slinging Collagen Terrine in an old church—you're the first one up to give it a try. Welcome to Agura, now soft-open on La
Cienega's restaurant row. From the entrance, there's a small standing-room-only bar and a compact waiting area overstuffed with armchairs to the left. That'll be more important once the liquor license comes through.
1120 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica
310 393 9099
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In this corner…NYC-style thin-crust pizza. And in this corner…Chicago deep-dish. And you'll have until 4am to sort out a winner. Introducing n.y. & c. pizza, an NYC-versus-Chicago spot that's literally divided down the middle—the official grand opening is tomorrow. It's a small, no-frills kind of spot from the South guys, with red walls and laminated menus waiting on the table. But look closer—to the left, the tables are covered with old copies of the New York Times, and the walls are covered with Broadway playbills, Yankee jerseys and so on.
1915 North Bronson Avenue, Hollywood
323 871 8894
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There's only one thing you need from a den of wine. Actually…it's kind of a lot of things. Some beer. Ostrich jerky. A built-in cigar humidor. Welcome to The Oaks Gourmet, finally opening Thursday in Franklin Village. Don't worry, they didn't forget the wine. Now here to help you prep for a memorable night at that sterling new hotspot she keeps hearing about—your place—the Oaks is a new kind of corner market/dining room that's got more than 325 wines in stock. (The walls are covered with it.) But the owner of La Cienega favorites like Oak Fire Pizza and Spanish Kitchen knows you might also need some Moretti, Hoegaarden or more than three dozen other beers.
6611 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood
323 462 3278
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A little to the left. Down a bit. There. Right there. You've never been afraid to take direction. So allow us—you'll want to head East as soon as you can. The reservation lines are now open. The first restaurant from David Judaken's Syndicate Group (Mood, MyHouse), East reveals itself slowly. A 10-foot-wide glass fireplace keeps the front lounge visible from the street, its paper walls and Balinese yoga chairs flickering mysteriously behind flame.
Mondrian, 8440 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood
323 848 6000
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Unlikely but delish culinary fusions: fried-calamari salad, tamarind-barbecued-shrimp satay … You get the idea. All served in a glorious, white-on-white restaurant. Service is family style, so come prepared to share. (No fingers!) Outdoor seating is a must at lunchtime.
7458 Beverly Boulevard, Mid City West
323 634 0700
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Ah, the dinner party. The best of them mix alluring strangers, candlelight and wine. Lots of wine. Well, we've found a promising new host—welcome to Eva restaurant. On most nights, things run as you'd expect—which is to say, you drop in to the tiny former home of Hatfield's, you order a bottle of wine, and you're handed a menu. Foie Gras With Summer Melon, Maldon Salt and Maple Syrup. Chatham Bay Cod With Seawater Glaze, Liquid Potato and Raisins. It all sounds great, and the prices aren't bad. But it's just a menu. You know how this works. Come the Sunday dinner parties, though, things get a little livelier.
611 South Spring Street, Downtown
213 488 5136
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If your week is the meal—a Bacchanalian feast, to be sure—then your weekend is the dessert. And epic weekends call for equally epic desserts. You're thinking an endless assortment of waffles and sweet grilled-cheese sandwiches. Welcome to Syrup Desserts, now open on Spring Street. From morning until midnight, you can sidle into this unassuming hideaway (wardrobe: T-shirt and jeans) to get your fix of Caramel Apple Pie Waffles. And Double Chocolate Waffles. And Raspberry Tart. Try them on their own with whipped cream and sugar, or match your choice with a deep selection of toppings and suddenly you might have a Tropical Coconut made up of a coconut waffle, lychee ice cream, pineapple and coconut flakes.
8226 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood
323 656 0336
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At the end of a long day, sometimes you don't want fuss. You don't want finery. You want your chair. A cold one. And maybe even a TV dinner. But, you know, a classy TV dinner. And now you can find all that at The Den of Hollywood, a new bar and restaurant opening later this week on the Sunset Strip. The former home of an unfortunate naughty-sushi den (the rolls had awkwardly sexual names), this revamped stone-covered getaway—peaked ceilings, a fireplace, totally casual—now feels like your den, if you lived on the Sunset Strip…and if the Sunset Strip were in Aspen. You almost want to take off your shoes. Almost.
1102 North Brand Boulevard, Glendale
818 507 0592
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From the classroom to the boardroom, life moves fast. Really fast. And that's okay. You can keep up. But there's one thing in your workday you've been missing lately. Recess. After your morning meeting, and before your afternoon conference call, you should still get recess. And now you can. For your low-key-getaway needs at any time of day, a low-key bistro-y hideaway called, yes, Recess is now open. Based on the idea that everybody needs a no-fuss escape, Recess upstages your old cafeteria pretty quickly—yes, you'll want to get a glimpse of what's behind the counter, but you should expect to see some pristine orzo salad instead of gray mystery meat.
6506 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood
323 656 4800
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After a wild night of hedonism, bourbon and impressive feats of aerial endurance... You might think it would be unwise to return immediately to the scene of the crime. But you'd be wrong, now that there's a late-night diner soft-open at Hollywood's Playhouse nightclub. Welcome to Sweet Love Hangover, here to bring you back to fighting shape. With a glass façade right on Hollywood Boulevard and plenty of mirrors inside, the room offers views
of that only-in-Hollywood two-step between shutterbug tourists and sultry night owls any direction you look. (Even if it's behind dark glasses.)
1733 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica
310 434 9509
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After 15 years in the heart of Century City, you can't blame a guy for wanting a little beach time. Not to worry, he brought all the wine—Jean-Francois Meteigner's La Cachette Bistro now open in Santa Monica. You know the original La Cachette well—it's the acclaimed, and authentic, French legend you'd bring
someone to celebrate a special occasion. Probably someone...with some gray hair. But its replacement is a lighter, brighter, California-ier version several miles west that'll still accommodate your refined foodie grandma, but also your sun-kissed date. You can't quite see the beach, but you can smell it wafting up in
the breeze.
8009 Beverly Boulevard, Beverly Hills
323 951 1088
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It takes a lot to impress you. Five-course dinner—sure. Fine. Great. But a five-course dessert—well, that's a new one. So you'll want to pay a visit to the brand-new Bistro LQ, a crisp indoor-outdoor space with an absurdly decadent five-course dessert menu. First, find your way to a sidewalk table—the simple room spills out into the street, and the whole place is so bright and white, you'll feel like you're in a detergent commercial. Then, start building your own post-feast feast with options like Raspberry Glass With a Basil Sorbet. Then maybe some Rice Pudding in Goat Milk With Red Beets Espuma. Perhaps a helping of Avocado Mousse.
1634 N. Cahuenga Boulevard, Hollywood
323 856 0888
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When a rustic new Cahuenga spot promises quality pizza until 4am, you can bet we'll be first to investigate. Literally. That was us sneaking up to the bar for some wine and a pie. First customer ever. So here's the scoop on Vinolio, now soft-open in the heart of Hollywood. With the old brick, old chandeliers and beat-up wood floors, it's the kind of old-timey find that's been around forever—except it's brand new—here to help you refuel after Ecco, Halo and Bar Delux close up. (Your night, as usual, is just beginning.)
14 N. La Cienega Boulevard, Beverly Hills
310 652 0007
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You're all for jetsetting models, obviously, but sometimes you wish they would just settle down and open a Japanese restaurant. And if they happen to do so on La Cienega's still-bustling Restaurant Row, all the better. Welcome to Hakobe. Now residing in the famed former Lodge Steakhouse, Hakobe is brought to you by now-investor Adolfo Suaya (he's not the model, but he's helped you out with Bar Delux, BoHo and many others) and new owner Asako (that's the model).
3110 Main Street, Santa Monica
310 399 4800
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You're good at many things, but keeping secrets isn't one of those things. We have that in common with you. So when a restaurant once called Hidden gets replaced—and catches the attention of one of our city's most esteemed chefs in the process—we're here to discuss. Caché now open in the depths of a Santa Monica courtyard. The covert entrance remains the same—a few steps up into a brick-heavy courtyard off Main Street, and a vague sense of confusion as you seek the place out, all the way in the back. But once inside the sprawling indoor-outdoor space—right, there it is—you'll notice some…changes. Some mahogany. Some concrete. An airier, more opened-up feel. And also, not 47 cuisines shoehorned into one menu.
10850 West Pico Boulevard, Westside Pavilion
310 470 1539
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You had great times together in the past. Endless dinners by a sparkling pool. And then... a sudden separation. Distance. Sadness. But now you'll have the chance to reunite with the food from esteemed former Whist chef Warren Schwartz on Thursday—alongside a craft beer or three—with the welcome debut of Westside Tavern. The plan is to provide you with Whist-level cuisine at non-Whist-level prices, and with a bit less chandelier-lit-cabana fuss. So you can expect reasonable California beers, good wines, charcuterie and seasonal tavern grub.
700 S. Grand Avenue, Downtown
213 802 1470
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Downtown is many things. But a warm neighborhood full of crisp, giant, corner market-restaurant hybrids it is not. Or… it wasn't. Welcome to the bright white Italian mecca called Bottega Louie—stocked with espresso, pizza, wine and everything under the Tuscan sun—finally open on the corner of Seventh and Grand. Split into two distinct but open spaces (café and market on one side, dining room on the other), this Bottega is here for you in the morning with $1 LAMILL coffee, smoothies, fresh-baked baguettes and pastries—and free WiFi, if you've got some last-minute prepping to do before the morning meeting.
9601 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills
310 859 7600
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Every life has one of those defining moments—standing at the crossroads, wondering which way to turn. But if you're at Camden and Brighton, just step onto the corner patio for pizza and a cold one, under the shade of the rustling banana trees. Like a St. Tropez dinner party on a black-and-white TV, this Villa is breezy, Euro and wall-to-wall white and gray. It's from the owners of Weho's SUR, so you'll notice they've imported signature touches like mismatched relics, giant floral arrangements... and, they hope, a similarly lively crowd. (In the conservative penne-and-chopped-salad environs of Beverly Hills, techno-friendly soundtracks are decidedly rare.)
11648 San Vicente Boulevard, Brentwood
310 806 6464
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You've been waiting awhile for this one. But the wait is over Tavern has opened in Brentwood. Your wine-soaked nights at A.O.C., Lucques and the Hungry Cat have been plentiful and memorable, but you've never seen something quite like this from Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne—so allow us to give you the first look around the place. Up front is the Larder, where you can pick up pastries early and market goods later—everything from cayenne-covered almonds to sopressata to fontina cheese and a bottle of red. (Make that two.) Behind that is the lounge, a magical place where you can drop into a green highbacked chair and watch kumquats become martinis…or maybe score dinner without a reservation.
2000 Main Street, Santa Monica
310 396 9145
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What do you want? You're not sure. But when do you want it? Now. Introducing Main Street's lively new all-day spot for your coffee-and-newspaper needs…and your
quick-sandwich-to-go needs…and your leisurely pizza-and-wine needs. La Grande Orange opens Monday. Step up to the counter on the market side at 6:30 a.m., and you can order pastries, the Alice Waters–favored Mr. Espresso, Lemon Skinny Pancakes or Huevos Rancheros (griddled, not deep-fried). Come lunch, they've got grab-and-go sushi and salads and the famed Green Chili Burger.
2442 Hyperion Avenue, Silver Lake
323 662 2442
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Every house should make you feel welcome, at ease…relaxed. Also, every house should probably be a wine bar. Welcome to Barbrix, the long-delayed wine bar in a former residence, finally open. Tucked off the street against the backdrop of the Silver Lake hills, Barbrix is a casual neighborhood hideaway that happens to have a James Beard–winning Campanile alum handling the wines. (Just be sure to wipe your feet.) On breezy summer nights, try the rustic front patio for your tour of global grapes from California to Croatia. Inside, you can find a stool at the 360-degree bar (yes, just like home) or a seat in the more formal dining area, where reservations are accepted.
1301 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica
310 39 2015
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There's nothing like a Santa Monica sunset—though you'd rather not deal with Pier tourists while soaking it in. You'd prefer a place where the red meat and seafood are plentiful, where all martinis have sidecars. A place like The Dining Room at Shangri-La, now open on Ocean Avenue. On the first floor of the renovated hotel, you'll want a seat by the windows (yes, they open up), where your view of the big blue ocean is interrupted only by the occasional Big Blue Bus. For lunch, maybe a Roasted Leg of Lamb Sandwich for you, and an "Et Tu Brute" Salad (think about it for a second) for her.
9200 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 278 2050
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Less is more. But on the other hand, bigger is better. So we gladly bring you news of the oversize brand-new incarnation of BOA Steakhouse. Formerly a tiny spot shoehorned into Sunset Boulevard's Grafton Hotel, the new BOA is just a bit farther west—and approximately 8000 times bigger. (We exaggerate for effect. But not by much.)
2005 North Highland Avenue, Hollywood
323 876 8600
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Among your finest LA evenings, several wine-drenched Hollywood Bowl spectacles rank at the top. Which you always have to remind yourself as you're schlepping all those bottles up and down Highland on foot. (You learned long ago to avoid the Bowl's stacked parking if you want to get home before September.) But there's a covert new restaurant offering respite to all you melancholy concertgoing pedestrians—The Hideout is now soft-open, just in time for the Bowl's official season kick off this weekend.
6610 Melrose Avenue, Hancock Park
323 297 1130
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Now, we understand that, ordinarily, take-home and delivery places aren't what fill up your calendar days in advance. But when we're talking about the new sibling to Pizzeria and Osteria Mozza—probably the most famed spots on our coast—well, you might have to start instituting their notorious one-month-in-advance reservation system over at your place.
2454 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica
310 586 1707
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The atmosphere on the patio is beautiful and inviting - with lots of trees, heat lamps and a gorgeous long firepit. The food is amazing with a focus on in season and local ingredients, and the the bar has it's own happening scene.
742 North Highland, Hollywood
323 203 0500
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Chef Susan Fenigner has found her own spotlight with this new funky restaurant. Serving, you guessed it, street food from around the globe. On the menu you'll find everything from Chinese sesame cakes to Egyptian spiced rice, lentil and macaroni.
3009 Main Street, Santa Monica
310 399 1843
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Great wine list featuring many hard to find wines. Try the caprisi with fresh buffalo mozzarella, and the fantastic porcini mushroom risotto.
8479 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood
323 782 1178
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Your basic Hollywood restaurant with pricey but scrumptious french food and the occasional movie star hanging around. Coq au vin is done very well.
8764 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood
310 432 2000
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Troubled pasts can be tough to surmount, but so can legendary pasts.
In the former home of Morton's, where deals were made and Pitt-attended Oscar parties were thrown, a new stunner is here to give it a shot. Cecconi's opens tonight. Joining the empire that includes NYC's famed SoHo House and the original Cecconi's in London, this is the kind of Italian spot that aims to balance an airy, open-all-day ease with some elegance…even at 7am, when sometimes you can't yet spell "elegance."
6350 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood
323 467 7991
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Owned by Eva Longoria, Beso serves up amazing Latin fare with the occasional star sightings. The ambience is the real seller, the dark decor, crystal chandeliers, dim lighting and music the feeling is intimate, romantic and fun.
7450 Beverly Boulevard, Central LA
323 930 9744
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A neighborhood gathering spot with a casual and friendly ambience. Great for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, for desert try the fromage blanc cheesecake.
8720 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 360 1950
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Soothing ambience with hushed brown and vanilla tones. The restaurant consists of a large bar area, large open dining room , several private dining rooms.
114 West Channel Road, Santa Monica
310 573 1660
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A perfect date place. The food is amazing! And don't be surprised if Giorgio Baldi himself is sitting at the table next to you.
6266 1/2 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood
323 467 0660
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Great place for standard favorites done right, roasted chicken, sea scallops, steak salad, rigatoni bolognese, grilled artichokes... Nice sleek décor, good service and hearty portions. It is loud inside, so sit out on the patio if you are looking for intimate conversation.
755 North La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 659 3535
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If you're looking for a restaurant in LA with good-looking people, classy/trendy atmosphere and creative dishes...then this is the place for you.
8020 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood
323 653 5858
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Being one of the few cool late night diners in LA, it definitely plays the part well. Huge menu, with items from pretty much any cuisine you can think of, all done in typical diner style.
8565 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood
310 659 0628
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Fine teas, gourmet pastries, great food, excellent coffee and a relaxing atmosphere.
8715 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 652 2335
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Italian just like Grandma used to make—that is if your Granny was a five-star chef, grew her own herbs, handcrafted mozzarella, and kept the wine cellar stocked at all times.
8439 Sunset Boulevard, at Queens Road, West Hollywood
323 650 8585
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Fall across the street from the Mondrian to one of L.A.’s newest darlings. The team that made Sushi Roku such a scene hit another home run at this skewer-heavy Japanese joint. Very sceney.
730 North La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 659 9949
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Sleek and very, very trendy. Koi’s stellar Japanese cuisine (everyone’s obsessed with the crispy rice with spicy tuna) and exquisite setting have made it one of the hottest spots in town.
8164 West Third Street, Mid-City-West
323 951 1210
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Still a favorite among those seeking to impress or seduce. Oscar nominees (and even a few winners), French chefs, and English expats dine on pistou, roasted-garlic tart, tagine, and pistachio-crusted scallops in grapefruit-anise sauce.
8638 West Third Street, Mid-City-West
310 274 1893
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Great Northern Italian food; small but elegant place: the simple and effective recipe for Locanda Veneta’s longevity and devoted following.
8474 Melrose Avenue, at La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood
323 655 6277
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Serious foodies and see-and-be-seen types flock in equal numbers for Suzanne Goin’s impressive French food. Tip: Sunday night’s well-priced three-course prix fixe is a steal.
672 South La Brea Avenue, at Wilshire Boulevard, Mid-City
323 934 2110
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Spin-off of the San Francisco hot spot of the same name (no relation to the defunct venue on Robertson): An eclectic menu, and you’ll obviously want to try the make-your-own s’mores for dessert.
4326 Sunset Boulevard, east of Fountain Avenue, Silver Lake
323 664 1011
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Tasty Mexican from the can’t-miss owner of Cobras & Matadors. The space is industrial-meets-old Hollywood, the menu includes wafer-thin pork chops, shrimp Diablo, and chicken marinated in achiote and citrus).
129 North La Cienega Boulevard, Beverly Hills
310 659 9639
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The cornerstone of Nobu Matsuhisa’s empire is still a classic, favored by sushi snobs and high rollers. Simply put, it will never die (and never should). Don’t feel small if you can’t get a table; the best of us can’t.
Fred Segal, 8100 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood
323 653 7970
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Celebrities, socialites, those who aspire to be or look like either, and even the occasional average Joe can be spotted lunching at this sunny Fred Segal restaurant.
344 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills
310 278 9911
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Celebrity sightings are a given (if that’s what you’re into). If you’re into decent, high-priced Chinese food, well, Mr. Chow has that, too.
435 S La Cienega Boulevard, Mid-City West
310 276 5205
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Yet another industry hangout, made even more famous by the overly hyped Vanity Fair Oscar party. Scenewise, it’s still all about Monday nights, but the American fare is well executed and available all week long.
6667 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood
323 467 7788
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Steaks à la carte and old-school attitude. People come more for the history than the food. A long-standing landmark in a neighborhood that’s seen a lot of change.
414 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills
310 274 0101
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A 55-year-old institution that has kept waitresses working from the day it opened. A traditional Jewish deli that has been known to serve as an impromptu office for Larry King.
Malibu Country Mart, Malibu
310 317 9140
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The guy is darn near everywhere these days, but his modern Japanese fare remains top-notch. And yes, the crowds keep coming.
8706 West Third Street, West Hollywood
310 274 7144
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Very Italian, extremely cozy. Best known for delicious thin-crust pizzas, calf’s liver, and celebrities who slink in not wanting to be seen. Prepare to be pelted by ficus blossoms.
923 East Third Street, Downtown
213 687 7178
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Devoted sushi seekers have made this hidden gem a regular stop. Many claim it’s the best in town.
826 North La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood
310 659 4794
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Don’t let the name confuse you—this place is Mexican. Pineapple-grilled shrimp in tortilla cups and smoked duck breast with a plantain huarache are served in a romantic hacienda with a sprawling patio, full bar, trickling fountains, and cascading bougainvillea.
176 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills
310 385 0880
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Wolfgang Puck, now having matched—or outdone—most of his patrons in the fame and fortune departments, continues to impress with his signature California cuisine.
11288 Ventura Boulevard, Suite C, Studio City
818 508 7017
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So good that West Siders and industry foodies routinely make the trip to this authentic sushi bar in a no-frills Valley mini mall.
8445 West Third Street, Mid-City-West
310 458 4771
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Insanely trendy and always packed, this New Agey 115-seater is backed by Drew Barrymore and Tori Spelling. Heavy music scene at lunch. Heavy movie scene at dinner.
8221 West Third Street, Mid-City West
323 655 5018
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Whether you sit inside or out, the breakfast and lunch at this hopping Third Street restaurant/bakery is always fresh, delicious, and served up with a huge side of quality people watching. The red velvet cupcakes end every meal on a high note.
1429 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice
310 450 1429
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Right in the heart of Venice this is a foodie favorite, the food is an amazingly tasty blend of everything in season and local. Wonderfully modern, open space with brick and rustic wood finishes and communal tables.
9570 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills
310 777 5877
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Homesick New Yorkers take comfort in the just-flown-in H&H bagels and impressive fish selection at this outpost of their fair city’s Sturgeon King, but the scene is pure Beverly Hills, from the agents to the Botoxed babes on the patio.
520 Olympic Boulevard, Santa Monica
310 450 8600
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The blink-and-you-miss-it exterior hides a happening, clubby, American spot with a beautiful patio and fashionable crowd. Some gripe that it’s snooty.
1534 North McCadden Place, Hollywood
323 469 7300
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A gorgeous terrace serves as a sweet backdrop for romantic touches (fireplace, fountain) and French cuisine that’s right up there with the best.
4655 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood
323 669 3922
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Delicious tapas served in a bustling, hip setting. Buy a bottle of Spanish wine at the shop next door, and bring it along to complete the experience.
118 East 6th Street, Historic Downtown
213 622 4090
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The hundred-year-old French Dip spot is reopening downtown with a prohibition-style bar, house made pies and a newly refurbished cocktail list.
8117 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood
323 656 1414
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This decadently palatial new restaurant and Chateau Marmont neighbor, courtesy of hospitality gurus Michael Mina and Phillip Starck, serves up an adventurous menu divided into innovative mix-and-match categories.
8478 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood
323 655 6333
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West Hollywood tries hard to be Tribeca (big airy space, aluminum ceiling, etc.) at this Northern Italian spot.
1155 North Highland Avenue, between Lexington Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard
323 871 2666
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A small but airy joint that continues to pack in industry lunchers, fashionistas, and indie rock spillover from Aron’s Records across the street. The conspicuously healthy Californian fare is pretty good.
8022 West Third Street, between Fairfax Avenue and Crescent Heights Boulevard
323 653 6359
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Reservations are essential at the latest restaurant from Lucques team Caroline Styne and Chef Suzanne Goin. The wine bar/restaurant serves tapas-size portions (speck with apples and arugula, trout with jambon and almond salsa) and excellent wines by the glass.
624 South La Brea Avenue, between Sixth Street and Wilshire Boulevard
323 938 1447
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Considered by many to be the best restaurant in town. Owners and Chefs Nancy Silverton and Mark Peel are local heroes for their Mediterranean food and the awe-inspiring breads at adjoining La Brea Bakery.
445 South Figueroa Street, between West Fourth and West Fifth Streets
213 486 5171
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Legendary Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (who also own Border Grill, in Santa Monica) continue to reinvent contemporary Latin cuisine at this downtown spot.
3626 Sunset Boulevard, between Maltman Avenue and Edgecliffe Drive, Silver Lake
323 666 6116
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Getting to eat dinner under the massive tree laden with lanterns in the center of the outdoor patio would make the trip to this hidden gem worth it but the Meditteranean-meets-Italian menu helps, too.
9071 Santa Monica Boulevard, at Doheny Drive, West Hollywood
310 275 9444
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The old-school vibe is about as authentically old-school as it gets in L.A.—red-and-white tablecloths, been-there-forever waiters, excellent steaks, and outstanding martinis.
6145 Franklin Avenue, Hollywood
323 467 1175
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The latest from Warner Ebbink, of Swingers fame. Popular with Beachwood dwellers and dressed-down celebs seeking comfort food. (The mac and cheese is ridiculously good.)
8360 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood
323 653 7145
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Just about the loveliest dessert place you could hope for. Delicious cakes of every description (eight kinds of cheesecake alone!), plus good coffee. Perfect postprandial stop.
9635 Little Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Hills
310 274 8765
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Whether you’re in the mood for a classic chocolate or vanilla treat or you’d rather try something more adventurous like chai latte or lemon ginger, these delicious cupcakes are as gourmet as it gets. Frostings range from creamy vanilla to cinnamon-spiced cream cheese and are decorated beautifully every time. A great gift for a hostess, or an excellent snack all for yourself anytime.
7122 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood
323 934 7900
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A European-style patisserie and mecca for the sweet-of-tooth. With nine kinds of scones, multiple fruit tarts, and handmade chocolates, it’s the ideal for morning espresso avec croissant or a mid-shopping pit stop.