9 minute read

Ye Olde King’s Head

World Famous British Pub, Restaurant, Shoppe & Bakery into a restaurant and rooftop bar in the Vinyl District. Views of the Hollywood sign can be seen from the rooftop. D (W-Su). 1518 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, 323.963.7800 Map H14

GWEN > American $$$$

Maude chef Curtis Stone and his brother Luke offer meatcentric tasting menus in an art deco dining room; plus European-style butcher shop. Pretheatre menu available. L, D (daily). 6600 Sunset Blvd., L.A., 323.946.7513 Map H14

HARD ROCK CAFE

> American $$

British Fare, imported beers and world famous Fish & Chips.

Heated outdoor patio. Stop by the Gift Shoppe, Bakery & Coffee Shop for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more.

Heated outdoor patio. Stop by the gift shoppe for food and collectibles from the British Isles, including bone china, teapots, souvenir items, tea, candy, wine, freshly baked goods and much more.

Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner

Freshly baked pies and pastries

LIVE SPORTS – Call for schedule

Happy Hour

Afternoon Tea

116 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica • (310) 451-1402 www.yeoldekingshead.com

Leo Messi and Hard Rock Cafe teamed up to create a winning combo. Smashed burgers with savory Spanish-style chorizo and signature sauce, available for a limited time. L, D (daily). 6801 Hollywood Blvd., #105, Hollywood, 323.464.7625 Map H14

MUSSO & FRANK GRILL

> Steak $$$

Mon-Thurs 4-7 pm; Fri 4-8 pm Mon-Sat 11:30 am-4 pm

Wed-Sat 11:30 am-4 pm

Storied restaurant, Hollywood’s oldest, recently marked its centennial. Enjoy flannel cakes, lobster Thermidor, and Welsh rabbit. Start with the martini; the drink was purportedly invented here. D (Tu-Su). 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.467.7788 Map H13

LA BREA / MID-CITY

JON & VINNY’S > Italian $$

Stylish modern diner offers pizza, creative vegetable dishes, pasta and meat entrees and pastries. Locations also in Beverly Hills, West L.A., and Brentwood. Reservations strongly recommended. B, L, D (daily). 412 N. Fairfax Ave., L.A., 323.334.3369 Map B2

PINK’S HOT DOGS > Quick Bites $

There’s a perpetual queue at the legendary stand, open since 1939. The menu offers about 40 kinds of hot dogs and chili cheeseburgers, too. Open late. B, L, D (daily). 709 N. La Brea Ave., L.A., 323.931.4223 Map I13

RÉPUBLIQUE > French $$

Walter Manzke and pastrychef wife Margarita offer bistro classics such as escargot, duck confit, steak frites in a landmark that once housed silent-film legend Charlie Chaplin’s studio. Café and bakery is a popular spot for brunch. B, L (daily); D (TuSu). 624 S. La Brea Ave., L.A., 310.362.6115 Map I13

LA CIENEGA BLVD. / RESTAURANT ROW

ANGLER > Seafood $$$$

Acclaimed Bay Area chef Joshua Skenes brings his Michelin-starred prowess to sea life-focused luxury spot at the Beverly Center. The menu centers on a wood-burning hearth. D (Tu-Sa). 8500 Beverly Blvd., Suite 117, L.A., 424.332.4082 Map J12

BARTON G. THE RESTAURANT > American $$$ L.A. location of Miami spot offers showstopping food presentations in fine-dining setting. Laughing Bird Popcorn Shrimp; cotton-candy Marie Antoinette’s Head. D (nightly). 861 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.388.1888 Map I12

GOZEN BISTRO

> Japanese $$$$

Director Mr. Hide presents tiered seasonal kaiseki tasting menus featuring premium ingredients, e.g. Angus-Wagyu hybrid beef and exclusive small-batch junmai sakes; elaborate bento boxes to go. D (M-Sa). 521 N. La Cienega Blvd., 213.308.9393 Map J12

NOBU > Japanese $$$$

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s flagship location focuses on sushi rolls and Asian fusion dishes. The black cod in miso is his signature dish—a must. Also has a location in Malibu. Reservations are highly recommended. D (nightly). 903 N. La Cienega Blvd., L.A., 310.657.5711 Map H12

Malibu

DUKE’S MALIBU > Seafood $$

Named for surf legend Duke

Kahanamoku; daily-changing fresh fish plus tropical cocktails and ocean views. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.0777 Map west of K7

GLADSTONES > Seafood $$$

Iconic oceanside restaurant on PCH featuring classic seafood, sandwiches, and the famous clam chowder served in a bread bowl. Outdoor and indoor dining available. Popular spot for cocktails during sunset hour. 17300 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, 310.454.3474

Map M8

LUCKY’S MALIBU > Steak $$$

Second location of Montecito steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks, live lobster and classic cocktails. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). Malibu Country Mart, 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, 310.317.0099 Map M8

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB

> Seafood $$$$

On-the-waterfront eatery offers Malibu views; ahi tartare and caviar starters followed by Maine lobster and steaks. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.454.4357 Map west of K7

NOBU MALIBU

> Japanese $$$$

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s popular coastal spot attracts celebrities and foodies for excellent sushi and ocean views. Reservations are highly recommended. L, D (daily). 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310.317.9140

Map west of K7

PASADENA / GLENDALE

ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE

> Steak $$$$

Super-luxe take on the American steakhouse—with Japanese influences. Certified Angus beef, domestic and imported Wagyu. Omakase menu available. Leave room for the signature cotton candy dessert. D (nightly). 111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 626.486.1111 Map Q20

DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$ Foodies and families line up for renowned Shanghai-style dumplings filled with pork or crab or both, noodles, and a host of habit-forming sides. L, D (daily). The Americana at Brand, 177 Caruso Ave., Glendale, 818.551.5561 Map U23

FLOAT > American $ Cozy neighbordhood cafe with a retro vibe and modern take on old-fashioned soda fountains. Sandwiches and coffee also served. Also located in Hollywood. B, L (daily). 380 S. Lake Ave., #106 Pasadena, 626.844.3488 Map Q19

PERLE > French $$$

Bistro spills out onto the sidewalk in Old Pasadena. Serves classically inspired fare such as steak tartare with black truffles, escargots, roasted duck breast, and steak frites with béarnaise. D (W-Su). 43 E. Union St., Pasadena, 626.460.8819 Map Q19

SUSHI ROKU > Japanese $$$

Find nouvelle Japanese, sleek decor and a creative menu that includes tuna tartare with yuzu guacamole and soy truffle. L, D (daily). 33 Miller Alley, Pasadena, 626.683.3000 Map Q19

Santa Monica

1 PICO > California $$$

This upscale oceanfront dining venue focuses on California coastal cuisine. Pair with a handcrafted cocktail or selection from the extensive wine list. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). Shutters on the Beach, 1 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.587.1717 Map M8

BIRDIE G’S > American $$$

James Beard Award-nominated chef Jeremy Fox presents “regional American cookery and timeless family recipes” at Bergamot Station. D (nightly). 2421 Michigan Ave., Santa Monica, 310.310.3616 Map L9

BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE

> Seafood $$$

Spot near Santa Monica Pier puts a California twist on East Hampton lobster bakes with oysters on the half shell, clam chowder, and lobster rolls. L, D (daily). 1355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 310.576.3474 Map L8

CASSIA > Asian Fusion $$$

Asian brasserie from Rustic team is inside a 1930s building. Vietnamese pot-au-feu, grilledpork-belly vermicelli. Esters Wine Shop & Bar adjacent. D (nightly). 1314 7th St., Santa Monica, 310.393.6699 Map L8

MICHAEL’S > California $$$

Michael McCarty’s influential restaurant, opened in 1979, is refreshed and back in the spotlight. D (M-Sa). 1147 3rd St., Santa Monica, 310.451.0843 Map L8

MILO & OLIVE > Pizza $$

The team from Rustic Canyon is behind this casual pizzeria and bakery. Expect to make friends with your neighbors; seating is at communal tables and the bar only. B, L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). 2723 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.453.6776 Map K9

PASJOLI > French $$$$

Modern French bistro that earned a Michelin star in 2021. Standout dishes include the chicken liver mousse and roasted duck breast. New tasting menu available Th-Sa. D (nightly). 2732 Main St., Santa Monica, 424.330.0020 Map L8

RUSTIC CANYON

> California $$$

Michelin-starred spot from chef-owner Jeremy Fox. Seasonal small plates and wine. D (nightly). 1119 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.393.7050 Map L8

YE OLDE KING’S HEAD > British/Irish $$

British pub and restaurant offers English fare, known for fish and chips. B, L, D (daily). 116 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.451.1402 Map L8

South

BAY

/ LONG BEACH

DIN TAI FUNG > Chinese $$

Foodies and families line up for renowned Shanghai-style dumplings filled with pork, crab or both and a host of habit-forming sides. L, D (daily). Del Amo Fashion Center, 21540 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, 310.214.1175 Map D2

ESPERANZA COCINA DE LA

PLAYA > Mexican $$$

Upscale Mexican-inspired

Reserve Today!

Sink restaurant with a modern twist. Large selection of rare tequilas and mezcals. Vibrant atmosphere and steps away from the beach. L, D (daily). 309 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 424.422.0057 Map L13

FISHING WITH DYNAMITE

> Seafood $$$

Chef David LeFevre (Arthur J, M.B. Post) offers old-school small plates with East Coast inspirations. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1148 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.893.6299 Map L13

ISE-SHIMA > Japanese $$

Sushi/seafood inspired by Japan’s Ise Shima region at Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Old Town Torrance offers. B, L, D (daily). 21381 S. Western Ave., Torrance, 310.320.6700 Map M14

LITTLE SISTER > Pan-Asian $$

Signatures at chef Tin Vuong’s pan-Asian spots include Balinese fried meatballs and salt-andpepper lobster. M.B.: L (F-Su), D (nightly). R.B.: L, D (daily). 1131 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.2096; 247 Avenida del Norte, Redondo Beach, 424.398.0237 Map L13, M13

LOVE & SALT > California $$$

Dine on creative Cal-Italian fare in this buzzy South Bay spot. Chef de cuisine/pastry chef Rebecca Merhej’s desserts are divine. D (nightly), Br (Su). 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5252 Map L13

M.B. POST > American $$$

Chef David LeFevre serves artisanal small plates of seafood, cured meats and fresh-baked breads in former post office. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su) . 1142 Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.5405 Map L13

NOBLE BIRD ROTISSERIE

> American $$

Spot opposite marina serves 24-hour-brined slow-cooked birds. Korean-inspired G Chicken; coq au vin; and composed sides. Mecca for those with food allergies. L, D (daily). 2nd & PCH, 6460 Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, 562.431.0445

Map O17

REMIX KITCHEN BAR

> Eclectic $$

Chef Ross Pangilinan serves small plates—roasted Brussels sprouts with Korean chile, citrus and peanuts; Filipino fried chicken with pickled chiles and calamansi honey—and pastas including shrimp-and-bone-marrow arrabbiata. D (Tu-Sa), L (Sa-Su). Long Beach Exchange, 3860 Worsham Ave., Long Beach, 562.421.0200 Map 17

SAUSAL > Mexican/Latin $$

This stylish El Segundo restaurant serves nuevo-rancho cuisine by chef Anne Conness, with an emphasis on wood fire, smoke and slow-roasting methods; Mexican and Spanish flavors; and locally sourced produce. L, D (daily). 219 Main St., El Segundo, 310.322.2721 Map L13

THE STRAND HOUSE

> California $$$

Multi-level beachside restaurant with ocean and pier views and a stylish bar. L (Tu-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310.545.7470 Map L13

TIGRES FUEGO > Mexican $

Casual ceviche and taco spot along PCH from the same team behind award-winning Baran’s 2239 nearby. Takeout and counter seating only. L (W-Su), D (Tu-Su). 1223 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach, 310.921.8293 Map M13

WOOD + SALT TAVERN

> Cal-Global $$

Contemporary dishes in Bixby Knolls; Santa Carota beef tartare, Tehachapi Rye potato gnocchi with smoked chicken ragu, wood-grilled whole dorade with Sicilian-style caponata. D (nighly), Br (Sa-Su). 4262 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, 562.349.0111 Map M16

Valley

ASANEBO > Japanese $$$$

Michelin-rated sushi bar and restaurant in a strip mall offers sushi as well as inventive fare such as uni tempura in shiso leaf. D (nightly). 11941 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.760.3348

Map A1

CASTAWAY > American $$$

Fine dining with sweeping valley views from hilltop perch and steak-forward menu by Cutthroat Kitchen winner Perry Pollaci. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 1250 E. Harvard Road, Burbank, 818.848.6691 Map north of W21

PETIT TROIS > French $$$

French-bar-style eatery from notable L.A. chef Ludo Lefebvre offers a la carte classics such as a confit-fried chicken leg and omelet with Boursin cheese. Also in Hollywood. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 13705 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 818.989.2600 Map G10

Venice

BELLE’S BEACH HOUSE

> Asian-fusion $$$

Modern tiki bar with indoor and outdoor space for alfresco dining. Seafood-centric menu paired with fun tiki cocktails in a lively beachside atmosphere. D (nightly), Br, L (Sa-Su). 24 Windward Ave., Venice, 424.363.6600 Map N9

BULL & BUTTERFLY

> Cal-Baja Steaks $$$

Ranching roots from Paso Robles to Guadalupe Valley evoked with ember-cooked vegetables, spitroasted chicken and charcoalbroiled steaks—notably rib-eye cap asada. D (W-Su). The Runway, 12746 Jefferson Blvd., Playa Vista, 213.267.2900 Map N10

FELIX TRATTORIA

> Italian $$$

Award-winning chef Evan Funke has a glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled pasta laboratorio where his masterpieces take shape before diners’ eyes. Reser- vations required. D (nightly). 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 424.387.8622 Map M9

GJELINA > Cal-Med $$$

Small plates, vegetable dishes, upscale pizzas served to chic Westsiders; one of Venice’s most popular eateries and liveliest patios. Also, check out Gjelina Take Away to go next door. B, L, D (daily). 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1429 Map N9

NIGHT + MARKET > Thai $$

For acclaimed Thai food, head to the WeHo, Silver Lake (Night + Market Song) or Venice outpost (Night + Market Sahm) of this hip spot from L.A.-born chef Kris Yenbamroong. L (W-F), D (W-M). 2533 Lincoln Blvd., Venice, 310.301.0333 Map M9

NUEVA > Mexican $$$

Cantina offers contemporary Mexican on a colorful patio. Highlights: hamachi and uni with local citrus, charred peanuts and fresno chile; octopus tacos; alt-agave (e.g., sotol) cocktails. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 822 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey, 310.747.6050 Map N9

OSPI > Italian $$$

Spot near the boardwalk offers olive oil-glossed country toast with toppings from garlic to chilled lobster; Sardinian gnocchi with beef cheek ragu; and pizzas with cracker-thin tonda-style crusts. L, D (daily). 2025 Pacific Ave., Venice, 424.443.5007 Map N9

(V) PLANT FOOD + WINE > California $$$

Restaurant from Matthew Kenney takes a raw, locally sourced, plant-based approach to dining. Lovely patio sheltered by olive trees. Extensive organic and biodynamic selection of wines. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 1009

Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310.450.1009 Map N9

West Hollywood

TESSE > French $$$

Raphael Francois is in the kitchen at this sophisticated spot serving classic delights. L (Sa-Su), D (W-Su). 8500 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite B, West Hollywood, 310.360.3866 Map H12

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