Places to eat like a local in Los Angeles

www.yelp.com/biz/titos-tacos-culver-city?start=360

Best rotgut cheap Mexican in the city most typical

of LA for me.

Carney's railroad car for great burgers and such in Studio City (Ventura Blvd.) and on Sunset Boulevard. West Hollywood also. Probably no tourists at the one in SC..but on Sunset i summer, could be ovrwhelmed with turistas.

Thai Kitchen on Ventura Blvd, SC...a block from Art's deli. Best pad thai in town.

Or, something more "isolated" and quite local, in a little mall just south of Mulholland on Beverly Glen Blvd (we live in the neighborhood). The Glen Deli, Fabroccini's, Le Wok. Many local "biz" folks lurking about. They're harmless, unless you steal their script ideas!

In Brentwood, on San Vicente, La Scala for their famous chopped salad. Try the large one, it easily feeds two comfortably, for $13.95. And next door, La Salsa for very good Mexican. Across the street, Whole Foods Market for superb take-out selections....and also on San Vicente, Daily Grill...Cobb salad extraordinaire...along with pop corn shrimp...mmmm!

Stu Tower

I should add, if you're into a splurge frame of mind, up the street on San Vicente, Brentwood, The Tavern is very unique, quite new...a bit more expensive than the others. Has become a favorite with Angelenos.
stu

Church & State - Los Angeles (French)
Barbrix - Silver Lake - small bites
Gale's - Italiano in Pasadena
Girasole - Italiano in Larchmont
Cafe Beajolais - French in Eagle Rock
Daisy Mint - Asian Fusion in Pasadena
The Lazy Ox - Downtown Los Angeles
Peach Cafe - Monrovia (breakfast)
Azeen's Afghani Restaurant in Pasadena - great kabobs

Below is a link to my personal website that has reviews (and photos) of some of my favorite restaurants (most are located in Southern California). Almost all are neighborhood-type restaurants. Lawry's The Prime Rib is the exception to that rule, but I have been going there since I was a little kid, so I still consider it a "local" place (yes, I know it caters to tourists, also) because of the great memories I have of dining there through the years.

http://www.travelswithmaitaitom.com/Tom_%26_Tracy_Home/Toms_%22Dining_Out%22/Toms_%22Dining_Out%22.html

Where were you guys when I was going to LA on business. I had to eat at expensive places on the company.

________

Is the Chinese food in Monterey Park still the best in the LA area?

Our favorite non-touristy Italian restaurant in LA:

La Bruschetta Ristorante. 1621 Westwood Boulevard | Los Angeles, California 90024 | 310.477.1052

We accidentally found it four years ago, and have returned every year since. Guests we have brought there have been very pleased.

"Where were you guys when I was going to LA on business. I had to eat at expensive places on the company."

All you had to do was ask. We had operators standing by. With its large Asian population, I would surmise that Monterey Park has an abundance of great Chinese restaurants.

If I am looking for a step above rotgut Mexican in LA, I like Baja Buds. For a nice sit-down restaurant, we love Lares, which is right on the border of Santa Monica and LA. There is also La Serenata de Garibaldi, with one location in West LA and one in East LA.

What's your favorite LA deli? We like Art's and Jerry's ( both on Ventura Blvd.)?

@ sf -- My dad, right before he died a few months ago, had me run from Cedars Sinai to Label's Tables to get him a corned beef sandwich. It was his favorite deli for CB. That's on Pico by Doheny. Otherwise, Factors on Pico by Beverly in WLA is a local deli favorite.

@ Aduchamp1 -- Yes, Monterey Park still has the best, according the latest edition "Best of LA" in Los Angeles Magazine. I can't personally answer that question, since I don't live close to Monterey Park, and have been there once in the last 10 years.

All you had to do was ask. We had operators standing by. With its large Asian population, I would surmise that Monterey Park has an abundance of great Chinese restaurants.
_____
My business colleague was Chinese-American and her aunt owned a take-out place in Beverly Hills. But the family went to Monterey Park to eat and the food was fabulous. And although our work was downtown and in Century City we would travel to their family dinners.

Tito's Tacos, of course, but practically next door to Tito's is Johnnies (cash only) diner and patio, famous for their hot pastrami's, but their corned beef on a french roll is nothing to sneeze at. Johnnies has been around since at least the early 50's, maybe even earlier than that.

Apple Pan on Pico by Westwood has been open since 1948, caters primarily to the locals, but has been hit up in all the tourist books. However, I suspect that tourists take one look at it from the outside and don't stay because it's all counter sitting. Best hickory burgers EVER.

I'm partial to French food, so my Westside Favorites are Le Petit Bistro on La Cienega just north of Melrose, and Lilly's on Abbot Kinney in Venice. Both reasonably priced.

We're off to La Paella tonight for some wonderful Spanish food -- that's another local regular spot on San Vicente between Wilshire & Third.

The local heavy metal/rock star wannabes dine at the Rainbow on Sunset Strip, which does have really good pizza.

That's a start.

I think that someone on Fodor's from each well-traveled spot should start a thread about their favorite local restaurants (Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, NYC, Miami, et al), and soon we could compile our own Fodorite Restaurant Guide.

adu, did I hear you volunteering to start it off for NYC?

Another Tito's Tacos fan here!

_____________________________________________
Vic's travels: http://my.flightmemory.com/vogilvie

MaiTai

I will start it but we will need parameters.

How about under $25 person

Approximately $50 a person

And over and way over $50

Any type of cuisine, any part of the coty.

>>Tito's Tacos, of course, but practically next door to Tito's is Johnnies (cash only) diner and patio, famous for their hot pastrami's, but their corned beef on a french roll is nothing to sneeze at<<

I was sitting here trying to remember the name of that pastrami place - thanks, Surfergirl!

We used to love Dinah's. Is it still there?

Lee Ann

In the Under $25 per Person category:
Versailles - several locations in West LA : Cuban
Misto - in Santa Monica : Italian
Al Gelato - on Robertson in Beverly Hills : homestyle Italian served in back of the gelato shop

Any Cuisine

Two monetary categories:
Under $25 per person
Between $25 and $50 per person

Booze not included because everyone is different.

Does that sound OK?

Yes, Dinah's is still there.

In n Out Burger, FatBurger, HabitBurger, Tommy's Burgers, Astro Burger and Hot Dog on a Stick.

All of my suggestions were in the under $25 per person category.

Speaking of the venerable Dinah's, a very similar place is "Dolores" in West L.A. Outstanding wraps and mucho comfort food on the menu. If you're at The Royal Theater on SM Blvd, it's only a block away (two blocks from the 405)

One other that has come to mind.."My Father's Office" on Montana and 12th(?)...unique burger preparations and a wonderful beer collection (imported and domestic). Their sweet-potato fries are addictive. Burgers come with carmelized onions and a long roll. One could easily feed two unless you're famished.

Stu

Prices:

Church & State - Los Angeles (French) ( 25-50)
Barbrix - Silver Lake - small bites (25-50)
Gale's - Italiano in Pasadena (about 25)
Girasole - Italiano in Larchmont (25-50)
Cafe Beajolais - French in Eagle Rock (25-50)
Daisy Mint - Asian Fusion in Pasadena (under 25)
The Lazy Ox - Downtown Los Angeles (about 25)
Peach Cafe - Monrovia (breakfast)( under 25)
Azeen's Afghani Restaurant in Pasadena - great kabobs (under 25)

My Father's Office also has a location in Culver City. We haven't been there yet because they don't allow people under 21.

Good to know. DS is moving to Culver City this month. Will tell himm

Beachwood Barbecue and Taco Surf in Seal Beach

Hey Maitai, not many postings on the NYC favorites.

HATE Titos. Just hate it.

If you are in Long Beach, CA you might try our home grown mini-chain of standard Cal-Mex fare, SuperMex. There is one not too far from the downtown hotels, can be reached by the red Passport bus.

A more revered Mexican choice with secret menu is Enrique's, in east Long Beach not far from Cal State Long Beach.

My favorite Peruvian hole in the wall, El Pollo Imperial, is hidden in a dodgy neighborhood of North Long Beach. Get something more adventurous than lomo saltado or grilled chicken. The ceviche is quite good.

Another good neighborhood joint is Benley, quasi Vietnamese also in east LB.

Nice place for Sunday Brunch is the LB Museum of Art cafe. Easy to reach from downtown, also.

El Burrito Jr or Walt's Wharf in Seal Beach. The latter is a is the upscale restaraunt on Main Street.

Tourists don't fly to the LA/OC intent on going to Seal Beach. The multiple mentions of Tito's makes me believe that it is now on the tourist map. Seal Beach isn't and maybe it should not be, except for the OP who wants to get away from tourist areas. We have a lot of area visitors in SB, especially oh the weekends and in summer, who are getting away from the inland heat. But it is not touristy like our neighbors Long Beach and Huntington Beach.

You'll see visitors strolling Main Street to visit the restaraunts and shops (like the kite store, sea shell store, art & beachware stores). But there are a lot of locals there, like the old guys hanging out in front of Javatini's coffee shop) and the neighborhood kids walking buy in their swimsuits carrying boogie boards to/from the nice beach.

Come mid-week. On Thursday (maybe Wed) evenings in the summer they have a band playiing on the lawn next to the pier (scenic pier) and a lot of neighborhood folks show up.

Found another gem yesterday...I don't know how many of you ever venture up Roscomare Rd., to Mulholland..but about a miles south of Mulholland, there is a market and a little shopping center.

There you will find the "SUGAR CUBE" restaurant.

Very fair prices, gigantic chalk board menu covering a whole wall, featuring almost every category you can think of. Wife had a chicken cheese quesadilla, large and delicious. I had the "power scramble" with spinach, mushrooms and little potatoes, and small chunks of chicken. Their homemade desserts look super..but we passed this time. Quiet, neat place, attentive service. A bit isolated unless you live somewhere nearby like we do. We'll do it again, for sure.

Highly recomend it..open every day, specializes in Sunday breakfasts.

stu tower

All under 25$ per person.

President Thai is my local place in Pasadena on Rosemead Blvd. I have taken out of town guests there and they still talk about how good it is. It's family owned and I remember when they started out in a small wooden bungalow.

The Tibet Nepal House is great for dinner in Pasadena.

Tallyrand is the best for hot turkey sandwiches in Burbank.

Brents the best deli, it's in the Northridge area.

Ye Olde King's Head Inn is still good in Santa Monica.

Firefly Bistro is good in South Pasadena

I have some great Chinese places in Monterey Park but they change frequently.

I should say that at President's the only dish I don't care for is their Pad Thai, the more complicated dishes are the best, even some which are not on the menu. My guests had lived in Thailand and ordered specially.

Beachwood BbQ just opened up another branch in downtown Long Beach near 3rd Street on the Promenade, that location also includes a brewpub. Should be a nice addition for those staying downtown pre-cruise. They have a live "hop-cam".

http://beachwoodbbq.com/brewery.html

Long Beach has some scattered Thai restaurants, every neighborhood has their favorite.

Thai on Main is just a few doors down from Beachwood BBQ on Main Street in Seal Beach. Sweet Jill's Bakery is between the two. Get a brownie with peanut butter & chocolate topping for dessert and have a seat on one of the benches on the sidewalk.

bookmarking

Oh, good to know about Ye Olde King's Head, SeaUrchin! We had drinks there once but did not eat that time, so now we will be sure to try it. We will be in LA staying at the place where we stayed in '08 in west LA. I always get you and Surfergirl mixed up re: which one of you is near that neighborhood and which one is not!

One I forgot that rarely disappoints. Sit outside on the patio in Old Town Pasadena for some good Mediterranean food.

Cafe Santorini - $25-$50

Maitai, where do you go for BBQ in the area? Didn't you recommend an Ethiopian place nearby too? Or am I all mixed up.

Hi Socialworker, I do not live in that neighborhood but visit often. I like King's Head's (?) atmosphere and the food is good.

Yeah, Ilive in the neighborhood and agree w/SeaUrchin about the King's Head -- didn't mention it because it does cater to tourists in SM, but it does have a local crowd. Been going there for over 35 years -- in the beginning just to hang at the bar, drink and meet the local young English males on a trip abroad having the need for a decent pint! After the marriage and the kid bit, that's when we actually began to eat there and the food IS good, particularly their fish and chips. I always go for the "queen" portion -- eat there about twice a year.

Oh, new local watering hole is the stand out Waterloo on Washington just west of Centinela and east of the Marina del Rey Costco.

A little pricey, but great food and great vibes.

Oooh, looking forward to our 3 months there! Please continue to recommend any of your neighborhood faves, Surfergirl!

We have eaten at Craft w/DS&DDIL and as much as we loved it, it is a splurge, not a go-to kind of spot!

Is Cafe Montana still good? I know it has had ups and downs in the past and wondering if it is in an up phase now. If so it is very good and has pleasant local brunchly surroundings.

Here is a new Peruvian place in West LA for those staying Bev Hills /SM with a car. I've been to Peru a few times and tried his dishes at Mo-chica, it is a bit toned down (in terms of flavor and heat, so add salsa) but still excellent.

Oh dear, forgot the link

http://www.piccaperu.com/menu/

Wow, mlgb, that looks so good! Thanks for adding to the list. LA has so many places that look so intriguing but w/o a rec from someone who knows the place and likes it, we are never sure if a place is truly worth trying.

mlgb -- thanks for the heads up on this. We drove by that place a couple days ago, saw the Peruvian flag outside, and were trying to figure out the country -- husband found it googling flags on his iphone.

Piccaperu took over the spot on Pico by Beverly Drive formerly Spark Woodfire, and formerly Orsini Osteria.

Is it too toned down? I like food with lots of spice and flavor, which is probably why we don't go to La Serenata close to our house in WLA. Do you recall if they have Pisco Sours?!? It would be worth a visit just for that!

Another one:
"Out-Take" Cafe for any lunch or dinner, and especially Sunday brunch/lunch...broad, fair priced menu....it's on Ventura Blvd, just a long block east of Laurel Canyon. It was a popular standby in Studio City and moved a few years ago to the east side ot Laurel. They have a bar.
stu

Thanks, stu! Even though our 3 months coming up in January will be spent on the West Side, DS and DDIL live in Studio City, so any tips in those environs are very welcome!

I can add one here as well. Hugo's on Ventura in Studio City and on Santa Monica in West Hollywood are places where *lots* of locals eat. Some of the best breakfasts anywhere!

The Counter in Santa Monica on Ocean Park and in Studio City are both (very casual) great places for burgers with some of the best sweet potato fries I have eaten. (Hmm, surprised, I just looked it up and did not realize it is a bigger chain. Still, though it is good!)

Hi surfer, yes they have Pisco sours as well as a lot of other Pisco cocktails. If you focus on the items with "rocoto" that is the spicier chile. Aji amarillo has flavor but less heat.

Lots of other interesting flavors in Peruvian cooking, not all of them hot.

I would go there (or to Mo Chica) just for the seabass ceviche.

We have been to The Counter in El Segundo and really enjoyed it. The burgers are in the $10 range. I like it because you get to check off your ingredients on a sheet, and can be sure that you order exactly what you want. We find that the half-and-half basket of fries if plenty for four people, with half regular fries and half sweet potato fries.

I want some BBQ from Dr Hogly Wogly's!

Keep your flame throwers in check, please. I'm going to throw in a rec for Marie Callenders for one reason only. The best St. Louis baby-back ribs in the city for a great pice. We tried them a few months ago and have gone back a few times including this early evening (afer watching the grisly flick "Drive" with Ryan Gosling..outstanding acting jobs by Gosling and of all people Albert Brooks...superb in his role)

At Marie's they have been featuring these ribs at $18.99. More than enough for two (which amounts to seven ribs each)..they literally fall off the bone...smacking good..hold the sauce, ask for it on the side and add some yourself. I suppose I've chomped on ribs in at least a dozen places here in L.A...both wife and I rate Marie Callendar's #1, believe it or not. Highly recommend whenever you get the rib urge. IMO Tony Roma's, Cecils, and the other candidates are all behind Marie. Certainly dollar for dollar, no comparison.
stu

Stu, which Marie C's? They vary so much, in one town they can be good and really bad in another.

SeaUrchin

I've only eaten at the Oxnard and the Valley locations. The ribs I rec are at the Valley MC on Ventura Blvd., between Sepulveda and Van Nuys Blvd. We take in Friday late afternoon flicks at the Galleria and MC is very convenient for an early supper on our way home. We live just up the hill at Mulholland and Beverly Glen Blvd.

Whenever I mention it to friends and family I get the "Are you kidding?" response. Those who have tried it come away in amazement.

Thanks to the OP (cferrb) and all who have eagerly responded to this thread. The information has been interesting and meaningful for all of us SoCal denizens. Best wishes to all!

Stu Tower

I should clarify...the MC is in the CVS lot, North Side of Ventura Blvd.

Thanks, tower. I'll keep that one in mind. Some MC's are on my no go list after repeat bad meals. It is all up to the management I guess.

In that area I wonder how La Frite has been doing since the Gordon Ramsey takeover.

As I have said before, the timing of this thread is great for us, as we will be staying in LA for a little over 3 mos, come January.

We will be zipping past your neck of the woods, Stu, as we will be staying just off Beverly Glen in Century City and that is the street we will use to go down to Ventura to see DS and DDIL in Studio City. (Perhaps when I say zipping, I am being optimistic! )

In-N-Out Burger is much loved--cause unknown.

SocialWorker

If you travel north , there is very lttle traffic until 4pm-7pm..then it could be very clogged. Driving south, anythim after 10am should be OK..it's a very curvy road and only two lanes for the most part. When you get to four lanes, going north you will pass The Glen Center shopping mall (small one)...but it's classic L.A....if people there are not selling a script, buying a script, or promoting a flick, they must be from Bakersfield!). My street (Angelo) is the last street on the right before crossing Mulholland Drive going north. Write me at rozstu1 at aol dot com if you wish.
stu

SU...La Frite continues to be a very fine place..don't know if Ramsay has hurt or helped.

social worker: I should add, since you're from Massachusetts...I'm a Quincy "boy" born and raised. Emerson College grad (as is granddaughter and her husband!)..been a happy Angeleno since 1957...ain't no turning back! Still love New England, though.
stu

stu, when I was at UCLA many moons ago, we went to Dolores quite often with our two-for-one coupons. Glad to hear it is still good, I'd heard about a downward trend in quality. Do they still cut their own Suzy Q fries and bake their own huge yeast rolls at dinnertime?

Have you tried Pomodoro, the little mom pop Italian across from the Crest theatre? How about the Sweet Rose Creamery on 26th near Sunset/Montana?

Dinner at the Getty Center on a Saturday night is a nice splurge. The Bel Air Hotel is supposed to be re-opening soon, had a great burger in the bar there once. The Counter must be very popular if they have one in Studio City and also in Toluca Lake.

You're from Quinzy like the FABULOUS Ruth Gordon!

yup, Tracy, Kwinzee! Ruth Gordon, Lee Remick, Billy DeWolfe (and his famous Mrs. Murgatroyd drinkng skit), John Adams and son, but since they took my name and picture off the billboard entering town, I guess my Califoria residency since '57 just don't qualify me no mo'. But when I visit I still "pahk my cah in the Hahvidd yahd and take the trolley cah to Bahstin's No'th End."
stu

Pomodoro still there..and good spot for dinner. Dolores seemed to have quality menu offerings when I was last there after a flick at the Royal. Tasty crispy wraps. Did not have fries.

Will try the Sweet Rose Creamery as we go by 26th when we drive to SM via San Vicente quite often.

Stu

A quick search didn't find any of these on this thread, which is rather surprising to me, but maybe I'm just inept.

Phillipe's, a block or so north of Union Station downtown. Home of the French Dip sandwich and 9c coffee. Lots of history and color. It's been "discovered" a little, but still a lot of fun. http://www.philippes.com/

Nate 'n Al's on Beverly Drive in downtown BH. Good, not great deli food (best at breakfast) but the room is the attraction: always a lot of B-list or lesser Hollywood types or wannabes, often some A-list folks (Larry King pretty much a daily diner) but always decent nosh served by your grannie. With attitude. http://www.natenal.com/

Canter's deli on Fairfax - bigger menu than Nate 'n Al's, often (not always) better but also quite the landmark. Open 24 hours for when you need matzoh balls at 2 AM. http://www.cantersdeli.com/

Martha's 22nd Street Grill in Hermosa Beach - THE place for breakfast in the South Bay - sit at a sidewalk table in the sun (when you're done waiting) and eat. Then, get up and waddle 50 feet down the street to the Strand (pedestrian walk on the beachfront) and walk those calories off (well, provided you walk for six or seven days) past the bazillion-dollar beach houses facing the surf. I promise you'll be deciding which bank to rob so you can move here.

Here's a little write-up I did on Philippe's a couple of years ago (with some photos). I went a couple of weeks ago, and everything remains just about the same (as it has for more than a hundred years).

http://www.travelswithmaitaitom.com/Tom_%26_Tracy_Home/Toms_%22Dining_Out%22/Entries/2009/11/6_Entry_1.html

I think Phillipes was closed down for filth this year for a short time. Some people think that means it's probably cleaner than ever, others of us wonder if it signals other problems with the operation?

stu, somewhere on youtube there's an interview that Dick Cavett did with Ruth Gordon where she tells him how to pronounce KWINZEE and talks about her first trips to New York on the "Fall River Line". She was one of a kind.

socialworker....Big Sugar Bakeshop in Studio City for the brownies. Fabulous with some Trader Joes vanilla ice cream. A block or so west of Laurel Cyn on Ventura Blvd.

interview Dick Cavett did with Ruth Gordon

I'll have to catch that...just watched the Cavett-Mel Brooks interview..hilarious.
stu

Great thread, cferrb!

Here are a few of mine:

Rose Cafe, Venice

http://www.rosecafe.com/


Shamshiri Grill (Persian food), Westwood Blvd, LA -- Huge platters, Persian bread to die for. This is the best of the Persian restaurants along that part of Westwood Blvd.

http://shamshiri.com/


Diddy Riese Cookies (and Ice Cream!) - Is it still just $1.50 for a large scoop of ice cream between two still-warm, fresh-baked cookies?!

http://www.diddyriese.com/home.php



Best Chinese restaurant chain in LA: Sam Woo's. It even has it's own wikipedia article!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Woo_Restaurant

The quality of the food is not the same at all locations. I like the one in Irvine best.

http://www.samwooirvine.com/index.html

If a Sam Woo location has takeout, their takeout is very good and inexpensive. The restaurant part can be inexpensive to expensive, depending on what you order. The live seafood is terrific but costs more.


Los Angeles is sushi-land. Lots of great sushi restaurants. Also there are some South American restaurants like the Brazilian churrascaria, Fogo de Chao (Beverly Hills, expensive) http://www.fogodechao.com/locations/ to neighborhood SA restaurants where one can get a plentiful platter of steak or lamb for under $15/$20 (pay by weight).

I give up! Too many good places to eat in LA!

"I think Phillipes was closed down for filth this year for a short time. Some people think that means it's probably cleaner than ever, others of us wonder if it signals other problems with the operation? "

Philippe's (note spelling) was closed for two days in February 2010 when health inspectors found a family of uninvited cockroaches. I didn't see any a few weeks ago, although my French Dip was a bit crunchy (just kidding). Still has an "A" rating, so I really have no concerns. The place is always packed at lunchtime, so to avoid long lines wait until about 2, if you want to go.

Cole's in L.A. is the other restaurant in L.A. that says it invented the French Dip. Here is my little review (with photos) of that restaurant.

http://www.travelswithmaitaitom.com/Tom_%26_Tracy_Home/Toms_%22Dining_Out%22/Entries/2009/11/13_Entry_1.html

Las Fuentes on Vanowen in Reseda has consistently good Mexican food. It's clean and not expensive. I eat there whenever I am in the area, today included.


http://lasfuentes.com/

Aaaaah, our favorite spot has been mentioned! My husband would rather eat here than ANYWHERE. Marvelous yummy food.

Beware of crowds at peak weekend dinner times, you seat yourself at any open table, and often have to hover about and stake out a table where someone's almost done. No waiters, you stand in line and place your order at a counter, then wait for your number to be called. Weekdays are the least crowded, Sunday dinner is the worst.

Sea and gig...thanks for the Las Fuentes reco. Sea, you really get around, almost as if you're the undercover Zagat girl! Jut kidding. This thread has come up with dozens of interesting recs. The OP deserves accolades for coming up with the idea! Who says L.A. can't compete with the old over-rated standbys?

socialworker, if you go south on Beverly Glen, you'll find the road ends at Pico Boulevard. One long block west on Pico, on the south side of the street, is John O'Groat's. Great for breakfast and lunch. I haven't been there for dinner. There's a second location in Encino.

http://www.ogroatsrestaurant.com/

Why thank you Tower. You should see the dust that was kicked up when I tried to start a similar thread about the SF bay area.

We are not locals in LA--yet--that may change next year. However, we have spent quite a bit of time there over the last 10+ years that our son has been living there.

One of the places we really like--have only gone for lunch, but have gone multiple times--is Hal's on Abbot Kinney in Venice. There is just something about the place. A great vibe and really good food. We stumbled on it by chance, as it is directly across the street from Hair Venice, where both DH and I go for haircuts when we are in LA. We thought of it as our own private find, but DS says that it is a popular spot for many locals.

Totally agree with socialworker about the Hal's "vibe" and food. They have live jazz one or 2 nites a week as well.

Also love Lilly's just down the street.

Hal's has American nouveau comfort food. Lilly's has trad French bistro food.

tower, I guess having grown up here in LA and having a car since I was sixteen and wanderlust to boot, I don't think anything of driving across the city for a good meal. I can find something to do in the local area and make it an outing.

Another little place I like is Eduardos on Westwood at Little Santa Monica. I was so addicted to their Border Burritos for the longest time when I worked in the area. Not much atmosphere, clean and cute, sometimes a star sighting and fun atmosphere, sitting on stools. The crew has been there for years which says something.

http://www.eduardosbordergrill.com/home.nxg

Funny but when I traveled a lot and just before landing at LAX the first thing my family, friends and I would think about would be stopping at Eduardos for some good Southwest/Mexican food as a welcome home. I can't even remember how many times it was our first stop right off the plane. After our meal, we were home again!

These nachos are making me thirsty!

How could I forget Clementine's on Ensley in the Century City area? Three blocks east of Beverly Glen in the first block north of Santa Monica Boulevard. If you don't snag a parking space in their lot, be sure to read the street parking signs very carefully.

This thread is great!

Jean, thanks, you keep coming up with places that are right in the vicinity of where we will be staying!

The Century City Houstons has always been good. The other Houston's are lousy. I used to eat there at least once a week before the movies. You can try it, if you happen to be in the shopping center.

Warszawa on Lincoln in Santa Monica is traditionally good, I have never been disappointed there.

Vicente Ristorante on San Vincente near Bundy is excellent.

One more for socialworker, just inside Beverly Hills:

Da Pasquale, 9749 Little Santa Monica Blvd. (north side of street between Linden and Roxbury, about one mile east of Beverly Glen). There is public parking behind the restaurant that you enter from Roxbury.

I was so disappointed to recently discover that Houston's in Century City is closing. And not for lack of business but b/c of a rent increase for the space. We were looking forward to eating there during our upcoming stay in LA. Not only do we really like the food and atmosphere, but it was a real plus that it is walking distance from the house where we will be. And as has been recently discussed, even tho it is a chain, all locales are not the same in terms of quality of the food, and certainly no other Houston's offers the walkability perk!

Oh, well..it's back to COSTCO for a hot dog and a slice of combo pizza. The maitre'd is efficent and very nice... always has an A-list table for us.

Stu

Well, there's still one in Santa Monica, but I don't know how long it's been since you've been there, since the menu has changed a lot over the years, and not for the better in my opinion. Although they still have the killer ribs falling off the bone, they dropped my favorite baked beans some time ago, a recipe that was pretty darned close to the old Love's BBQ recipe -- ahhhhh, so lovely! No worries for me, I got the recipe and it's become an Easter staple at my house.

Do you stay at that little house on Fox Hills? Have you tried Rock Sugar across the way from Houston's in the mall? If not, I'd suggest going there, for drinks and a bunch of appetisers to share -- the laquered ribs are stellar!

Also, the Smith Ale house just opened up north side of Santa Monica & Beverly Glen -- a big trendy sports bar, but incredibly decent decor, and the food is shockingly good.

And free valet parking. Yes, FREE.

Thanks, Surfergirl. Rock Sugar is on our list to try. The last time we went to Houston's was '08 and my memory of what I loved was the (grilled? maybe rotisserie?) chicken which was delicious and sauteed spinach (or it may have been green beans, "ah yes, I remember it well", ) but I also loved the atmosphere which DS described briefly, but very well as California Clubby.

Yes we will be staying on Fox Hills, a locale that we love!

Maybe the "kids" will want to try the Smith Ale House with us. Anyplace called an Ale House is usually something DH loves, as they are likely to have his favorite IPAs on tap.

Then you will love Smith House. My husband loves their 1/2 chicken with sauteed spinich.
http://www.smithhousela.com/smithhouse-food-menu.html

OKOKOKOK...found a Mex restaurant that is my #1 choice from now on. Loteria (Farmer's Market), Hollywood and now in Studio City, same building as Daily Grill. Absolutely superb....red snapper enchilada's with a creamy black bean sauce, shrimp tacos with very hot sauce..and a very complete menu. Priced a bit more than just moderate. Try it! Socialworker...right in Studio City area for you in January! Corner of Laurel and Ventura...delightful balcony dining.

stu tower

Mmmm...didnt know there was a Loteria in Studio City, thanks stu. I went into the Glen center near you a couple of weeks ago but it was lunchtime and there was no parking so we drove off in a tif. Turned right onto your street and hollered "hi Stu" out the window. LOVE the little bench where you can take a breather when you're out for a walk. Have I mentioned the brownies at Big Sugar Bakeshop? Yummers!

I think it's actually Loteria Grill. Only saying this for out-of-towners so they can Google it. I think they may be opening up on the Santa Monica Promenade at some point as well. You're right, their food is excellent.

http://www.habitburger.com/

Great veggie burgers and also grilled, albacore tuna burgers! Happy Travels!

http://www.joombangkokcafela.com/

Delicious Thai food and directly across from CBS studios which is attached to Farmer's Market and The Grove for those who are tourists. It's within walking distance and is in the same strip mall with Subway.

http://mypaninicafe.com/

Absolutely delicious. The best salmon kabob with avocado salad (other salads available) and either fluffy white rice or bulgar. I eat here regularly and find the Beverly Hills location, and the Westwood locations the best. I think there's one downtown, but I haven't tried it. There's also one, in The Valley that I eat at. It's across from Westfield Topanga Mall and in the same shopping center with Nordstorm Rack on Victory between Canoga and whatever the other cross street is, one street west of Canoga. . And the Nordstrom Rack there is excellent. So, I shop and eat.

www.stanleys83.com/ It has been around since the 80s and I've eaten there since it opened. Great California style food. Famous for Chinese chicken salad. I haven't had it since I don't eat chicken, but many friends have and one of my parents just had it week before last and loved it. They serve delicious sour dough bread and butter with the meals. And the veggie burgers are delicious.
It's on Ventura Blvd., a little west of Woodman Avenue, north side of the street.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/nordstrom-cafe-bistro-canoga-park
Cafe Bistro inside of Nordstrom deparment store at Westfield Topanga in The Valley. Delicious food and always jam packed with shoppers doing lunch.

http://www.cafebizou.com/ Cafe Bizou in Old Town Pasadena. Delicious and jam packed. I've eaten here since its beginnings. I've heard. from friends who live in The Valley, that The Valley one isn't as good as the Pasadena one. They usually come out to me in Pasadena. I threw one of my GTG dinners there and everyone loved it. Happy Travels!

"SeaUrchin on Aug 18, 11 at 10:31am
All under 25$ per person.

President Thai is my local place in Pasadena on Rosemead Blvd. I have taken out of town guests there and they still talk about how good it is. It's family owned and I remember when they started out in a small wooden bungalow. "

I've never been a President Thai person. I have eaten there several times as some friends like going there. I'm a Saladang Song (Thai) person (Pasadena). Have been eating there for many years. I had one of my GTG gatherings there and folks loved it. There's also Saladang across the parking lot from Saladang Song. "Song" means the number "2" in Thai. They're both packed which is one reason that Dang, the owner, built "Song", and from the ground up.

http://restaurants.uptake.com/california/pasadena/saladang_song_13364968.html

http://maps.google.com/maps/place?hl=en&gs_upl=0l0l1l2627l0l0l0l0l0l0l0l0ll0l0&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&biw=1280&bih=604&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=saladang+song+menu+pasadena+ca&fb=1&gl=us&hq=saladang+song&hnear=0x80c2c2dc38330b51:0x52b41161ad18f4a,Pasadena,+CA&cid=14011357650625242456

http://dineries.com/ca/pasadena/saladangsong/383sfairoaksave

Happy Travels!

Yeah, the Saladangs are good too. I also remember when they first opened. I love going to Bizou too, I agree it is now better than the Valley one.

Lately I have been going to Roy's, still good quality.

How about hot turkey sandwiches from Tallyrand in Burbank, my go-to fresh turkey craving place. (I only like the turkey dishes there, fun old timey bar downstairs which also serves meals).

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g32123-d891908-Reviews-Tallyrand-Burbank_California.html

I should say I have only tried the turkey dishes there, I hear the breakfasts are very good and are also homemade.

Posted by Tower, "Who says L.A. can't compete with the old over-rated standbys?"

We have had really great food, here in L.A., for decades. When I'm away, either in other states or overseas, I always look forward to coming back to our food. One thing that we have is "variety". And we are also VERY flexible in trying to suit people with different eating plans. It's usually easy for a group of friends to go out to eat and everyone is able to find something to eat on a menu.

Yesterday I zipped over to the Santa Monica Shopping Center and while there needed to grab a bite. So, I went into the restaurant at Nordstrom. Although it was a different restaurant than Nordstrom's usual Cafe Bistro, and the menu was totally different, they worked around my three major food allergies and also the fact that I don't eat meat/poultry. Even at the bottom of the menu it was written to let the wait staff know of any food allergies before ordering.

I let the waiter know of my food allergies and he came back with a menu and had checked the items that I could eat. That's one reason I love eating here at home. Also because we have such fresh ingredients year round and vegetables aren't used as decoration, but are taken seriously. Happy Travels!

Was in Palms, near Culver City, last week. Ate at Cafe Brazil, a very authentic little place on Venice Blvd. Loved it. The spiciness in the air as you walk by is irresistible!

Zabumba, nearby Cafe Brazil, is good too. Lively music, good food and the staff is attentive.

Thanks, SeaUrchin, will try next time I'm in town. There are other appealing ethnic restaurants right on that little block, too. Have you tried others?

FYI, Zabumba is now known as Kikafulo -- as of last month. Zabumba was owned and operated by Monica Beresford-Redman and it looks like her sister took it over. I noticed the name change about a week or so ago.

http://losangeles.grubstreet.com/2011/08/zabumba_becomes_kikafulo.html

For Cuban try Versailles nearby.
For a quick healthy Mexican meal try Eduardos Border Grill on Westwood Blvd, love their border burritos. "Star" sightings and you sit on benches in a mini mall tiny cafe. It is not typical Mexican and the food is delicious.

I'll try and think of some more.

Thanks, SeaUrchin! DS just moved into that neighborhood. It is nice to be able to walk to restaurants there.

Wow, lots of great new info on here that came on during our 3 days with NO internet after our freak storm out here.

Funny coincidence, stu, but a friend out here recently asked me if I had ever been to Loteria. We had gone to the Farmers' Market locale, but b/c of her asking me I looked up their website and discovered the info about the SC location. DS then told me that they go there often, so it will definitely be on our list for January!

And, Guenami, you exactly echo my sentiments about eating in LA. When we come back east after being there for even a quick trip, I find myself missing the incredible freshness, esp the salads!! We have a Nordstrom out here that has a different menu in one of its locations. It is tapas style and absolutely wonderful! Just like the store, quality and service both are excellent.

Yep, fresh food, a huge variety in food, and Nordstrom. What more does one need? LOL! Happy Travels!

Fascinating thread!
Any recommendations for the area around Santa Monica Blvd between Western and Vermont (or not too far from there)?

We'll probably go to the Lebanase Marouch when I'm there next weekend but would love to get a list of any other favorites. Have written some notes based on your Santa Monica replies, but (in case I make there) if you want to add any more, my pencil is ready.

There is a gelato thread in the Lounge right now that made me realize that I should mention this place on this thread too! IMO, no gelato in the US truly compares to Italy but this place is good.

Here is the link is the place which is in Venice, CA of course! http://www.ilovenicecream.com/

I had lunch the other day at the Nordstroms in Brea and it was very good and reasonable.

I have rediscovered Pie and Burger in Pasadena, I had the best turkey burger and my friend loved her veggie burger and the pies are still delicious.

On this thread I was thinking it is recommending places that a local goes to as a go-to place, not necessarily a night out on the town once in a while.

There is no more "local" ice cream than Thrifty (RiteAid) chocolate malted krunch.

Oh I love Thrifty choc malted krunch, it's the best. And I will not accept the name Rite Aid!! Thrifty and SavOn!

Phillipes near Dodger Stadium have good french dipped sandwiches and The Apple Pan in Pasadena-have good burgers

Is there an Apple Pan in Pasadena? I only know of the one on Pico Blvd. in West LA.

Nope. Apple Pan is not a chain. It is on Pico around the corner from my house.

"I have rediscovered Pie and Burger in Pasadena"

I must admit, I do not understand the allure of Pie and Burger. The few times I have had meals there, the service was sloooow and the food was average at best. I know some people swear by it, but I am not one of them.

Have you tried their pumpkin pie? Sooo good with some kind of vanilla whipped cream if you want.

I have only had the turkey burger, I have no idea how the rest of their menu is, maybe not so great?

Service has been good so far with me and I do like that the cooks are right in front of you so you can watch what they are (and not) doing.

"Have you tried their pumpkin pie? Sooo good with some kind of vanilla whipped cream if you want."

I will give it a try. Tracy reminded me that my mom was a Pie 'n Burger fan, and we do need some Thanksgiving pies now that Marie Callendar's has bit the bullet. I see they have Mince Meat pie, and since I am the only one in the family who eats it, I might have to try that, too (with lots of hard sauce).

I think you will like the pumpkin pie.

Try a burger while you are waiting for the pie? I may be excited because I haven't had an old fashioned burger for so long since I don't eat red meat nowdays and In and Out has only meat. I got the works, onions, pickles, 1000 Island dressing, cheese, toasted bun.

Quirky counter service, one stool missing but the screws still there, some are not stools but chairs, long time waitresses, some with semi-attitudes until they put you through their hoops, D the 80something diner who runs marathons and power walks the rest of the time....neighborhood experience.

"There is no more "local" ice cream than Thrifty (RiteAid) chocolate malted krunch."


Although I have had a dairy allergy for 30 years, back when I didn't have one, I grew up on Thrifty's ice cream. It was delicious and 5 cents for a scoop! And that was back when the Thrifty drugstore was still in business. My over 80-year-old parent still only eats Thrifty ice cream. Happy Travels!

Marie Callendar's has bit the bullet

Maitai...are you saying they're out of business? There's one fairly close to me..I'll have to check it out.

Their website is still operational, Stu, so maybe Maitai is referring to a particular location that closed?

The Pasadena one went kaput as did many others, but not all.

You'r right Social Worker and Tom..I did check and our local MC in Sherman Oaks is operational..love those St. Louis Barbecued baby back ribs..best deal in town..$18.95 easily feeds TWO.
stu

Bombay Cafe, Pico Blvd. and Bundy in West LA. Dinner for 4 including beers for three for about $80.00. Not sure if anyone mentioned Pampas for Brazilian churrascaria. It's a "by the pound" place where you select from salads and hot sides and then request the meat that you want and pay by weight. Unless you really load down your plate you can get out for under $15.00. There is a location in the Farmer's Market on Fairfax and another location in Culver City in the Culver Center at the corner of Venice Blvd and Overland Blvd.

In-N-Out Burger and Chick-fil-A.

Bookmarking

Continuing our periodic quest for local restos that warrant a special mention, we found another today.

May we present The A-Frame in the Culver City/Marina area.
It ain't fine dining, but it sure as hell is unique and ten kinds of delicious. Dress-up is a no-no. In fact when you read the owner's comments on the menu you may decide to come with old jeans, rubber boots, a bib and extra napkins.

AFRAMELA.COM
12565 Washington Blvd.
L.A. 90066
310-398-7700

Today, for Sunday lunch, we started with the amazing Furukake Kettle Corn, Hawaiian style. On to the crab cake sandwich, along with the Dyn-o-mite butter and sour cream, twice baked duchesse potato. We split everything, quite large portions as we had had a late breakfast. Read the menus for lunch and dinner on their web page and don't miss owner Papi Chulos welcome blurb.

The building is an old IHOP a-frame, nicely renovated and painted, with outside dining under Japanese-style lamps.
No reservations and people share tables. We opted for outside and ate alone. We ended with a "thick ass" ice cream sandwich"...try the A-Frame..we loved it and will def go again.

Stu

Someone above recommended a Chick Fil A. For those of you who care about such things, they are a huge financial contributor to anti-gay marriage causes and are currently harassing a Vermont t-shirt maker.

Chick openly acknowledges giving money to anti-gay marriage causes but will galdly take the money of gays at the counter.

They are also suing a VT samll entrepreneur for selling his "Eat More Kale" t-shirts. Chick has an "Eat Mor Chikin" advertising campaign.

Besides the spelling, the type face, and the colors being different, what moron would confuse kale and chicken? It is a big company preying on a small guy.

Just thought of a few of you might like to know.

Thank you, adu! I would probably have not gone to that place, anyway, but will certainly cross it off my dance card now!

sw...thank you for your protective words when that totally clueless poster accused me of advertising..what a feeble joke!Some people have nothing better to do, it seems. Waiting for you visit in January. I've enjoyed and contributed broadly to this interesting and most useful thread. Hope you have a chance to visit some of the many places mentioned herein...that A-Frame in Culver City is most unusual and fun...along with memorable dishes.
stu

We had lunch with Fodor royalty last week at the Farmer's Market. What a charming spot with a host of choices. We all had the crepes which were expertly prepared squarely. We were there many, mnay years ago but now it is retro-hip and rightfully crowded.

Where Adu ever got the idea of "Fodor Royalty" I dunno. But talk about charm, Adu and his lovely wife, along with her two delightful sisters, joined me for a mini-GTG. They're sure a fun group. We chatted long and loud while munching on those delicious crepes to keep Adu from monopolizing the conversation.

Next stop was the Getty Villa (the original Getty Museum, mainly Roman and Greek antiquities), located high on a Malibu hill overlookng the blue Pacific. A beautiful California October day.

A wonderful and most enjoyable afternoon was had by all. Even Adu begrudgingly admitted this!
Stu.

What fun we had after Stu left!!

It was an absolute pleasure to meet Stu and he charmed my wife and her two sisters. He led and then accompanied us through the Getty Museum. It was a serene and unhurried setting with equisite exemplars of Roman and Greek art and pottery. (I am sucker for Greek kraters.) Stu is proud of his fifty plus years in the LA area and his enthusiasm, knowledge, and wit made our trip delightful. (I hope he does not read this, it could ruin my reputation forever.)

After Stu left to attend to domestic matters, I made an ass of myself. There is a room dedicated to amusing children. You can stand behind a screen and don or brandish Greek accoutrements. Which of course we did complete with a photographic record. There are also vases designed specificly to withstand modern magic markers so they can be adorned then erased. On one vase I wrote. "For Oedipus, Love Mom." On another I worte, "Be Home Soon. Wish You Were Here. Odyssues."

The women running the small center pretended to be amused and placed the vases prominently.

Stu, thanks again for everything.

We just had another great dinner at Church & State Bistro (1850 Industrial St Los Angeles, California 90021 - (213) 405-1434) on Friday night. It is now definitely my favorite restaurant in the Los Angeles area (but we'll keep looking). I have an old review (from our prix-fixe meal earlier in the year) and will post another one on Friday night's meal soon. This time, we ordered from items on the menu, and the results were spectacular.

Thanks for the good tip Tom...
stu

Hey stu (and other Fodorites near the Pasadena area), you should come to the GTG at my house on the night of January 1. We can trade restaurant reviews. News about it is in the lounge.

Tom...,thanks..I already emailed my regrets to Faina (Dayenu). Wish I could, but cannot. But a very happy season to all.
stu

Tom -- totally bummed -- will be out of the country, nuts!

@ cferrb -- been wanting to check out Bombay Cafe -- thanks for letting me know it was worthy of checking out. Although it is across from Chan Dara, and I'll wait until the holiday season is over, since they like doing the sobriety check point right there. Also -- it is Overland AVENUE, and NOT Boulevard. My Little Overland group gets frothy if I don't correct these mistakes!

- Original Tommy's Hamburgers, Beverly at Rampart, LA; beware the wicked jalapenos in the jars at the counter

- Pacific Dining Car, 1310 W. 6th St, LA

- Musso & Frank Grill, 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood

- Pink's Hot Dog Stand, 709 N. La Brea, LA

- Phillipe the Original Restaurant, 1001 N. Alameda Street; the French Dip mecca.

Someone else mentioned the Farmer's Market. Love the place. The french crepe joint mentioned is probably The French Crepe Co.---yum. FMLA, 3rd and Fairfax.

DS's apartment during the years before he was married, was right around the corner from the Overland Cafe, Surfergirl, so I know Overland Avenue well!

And BTW, that is a good addition to this list. We have had some great, and super reasonably priced Saturday/Sunday breakfasts at the Overland Cafe. It has a really great laid back vibe and very good food too!

Another thing to remember when eating like a local in LA, is the KCRW discount card that those of you who live there might know. I just checked it and it says that for Overland Cafe the discount is 15% which is pretty amazing considering how reasonable the prices are!

Pinks is an institution, but plan on waiting for a while for your food. I've never been there, but I understand that the lines can be really long.

@cferrb, you are correct. The lines can be downright numbing, even sometimes at 1 AM on a Monday morning. The chili cheese dog is arguably worth it. And who can pass on going to a venue where legend has it that Orson Welles ate 15 of them in one sitting---at least once?!? The place is steeped in stories of Hollywood royalty stuffing their cake holes with Pink's chili dogs whilst engaging in various celebrity shenanigans...

The Curious Palate at Santa Monica Place. This is the mall at the intersection of the 3rd Street Promenade and Broadway. If you go upstairs to the MarketPlace you will find the Curious Palate. (Don't look in the food court, you have to go to the Market Place). The owner shops at local farmers markets 4-5 times a week, and the fresh produce in their food is delicious. If you are there between 5 p.m. and 7 pm. you will hit happy hour, with wines at 50% off. Dinner for two (we split a salad and a sandwich) and two glasses of wine was about $37.00.

Thanks, cferrb, we are in LA now and will be sure to try it! What an amazing bargain!

To Surfergirl, we just came came back from Smith and Co. DH was bowled over by the beer selections! On your (husband's) recommendation, I had the chicken and spinach. It was yummy, esp the spinach. I am still sad about Houston's though......

We used to love a little spot that ended up on the Food Network. Then, lines around the block. We regulars stopped going, it was insane. The new people who'd found it on tv were appalled at the long lines and gave them really bad reviews for things like long waits and running out of food. Next thing we know they're out of business, geesh loueesh.

My favorite brownies went from 2.25 to 2.95 after I opened my trap about them one too many times. Now if I find something we like, I keep my yap trap shut. Sorry!

Well, tracy, while I understand your trepidation, our little LA food thread here will probably not be picked up by the AP.

As DH and I are only here for 3 months, if there is a special place that you would like to share, you could email me at socialworker71 at gmail.com I promise not to (using one of our favorite lines from the original movie Arthur) alert the media.

Jean mentioned my all-time favorite in Century City which I did not want to mention because I don't want to ruin the place. I just thought I'd go ahead and give it a second vote. Go there for lunch or take-out. Fabulous. It's very tiny and parking is hard to come by, so if you can walk, that'd be perfect.

Thanks, elknap! We do more takeout here than when we are at home so we will be sure to try it.

Over the holidays, I ate way too much. Here are recommendations (I'll have better descriptions on my website with photos when I can find the time):

Celestino Ristorante - Pasadena - Great Italian with a special Limoncello Ball dessert I could kill to find the recipe. Killer seafood risotto!

Cafe Bizou - Pasadena - always consistently good food at a reasonable price ($2 corkage is a nice touch, too).

Zugo's Café - Sierra Madre - small, intimate space. Owner is from Rome. Really good meal. Pasta was terrific. Sat at a table next to Laffit Pincay Jr. so we had to jockey for position.

Bistro De La Gare - South Pasadena - We had couple of uneven meals a couple of years, but just returned last weekend. I'm happy to say the service was terrific and the food delicious at this French restaurant. One block from Mission Gold Line stop.

Jean mentioned my all-time favorite in Century City which I did not want to mention because I don't want to ruin the place

So when you come to NYC please go to Carmine's, Ellen's, Tao, Serendipity, and Joe Allen's, so you won't run into any Ny'ers.

Many thanks to tracy!!

@socialworker.

Worry no more -- if you liked Houstons, go over to South Beverly Grill on Beverly Drive, just south of Wilshire where the old Hamburger Hamlet used to be. They are part of the Houston's group and have all of the same food you've been longing for! I had dinner there for the first time just before Christmas, and was there again with my husband this past Friday. Plan to go again this Friday night. Aside from the best fall off the bone ribs in town, their oak-roasted artichokes are so perfect, you will want to run home and google the recipe! The artichokes are on their "special" of the evening, but point in fact is, their daily specials always include the artichokes!

Very reasonably priced, great atmosphere, and if you don't have a reservation, it's a fun 40 minute wait at the bar.

That whole section of South Beverly (in the non-tony part of Beverly Hills) has a ton of up and coming neighborhood haunts, definitely worthy of checking out!

If you're around and want to meet up for ribs this Friday, let me know.

That would be great, Surfergirl! I really want to and I hope that you will ask again! That would be so nice for us to meet you and your husband.

Right now, I am experiencing a skin reaction that is a stress-induced response to what we have been going through in the aftermath of my son's very serious car accident. It should clear up within the next week or 10 days. So sometime after that would be wonderful!!

So sorry to hear about your son's accident. So stressful! I hope he is recovering and that things will improve for you very soon.

OK, update to Surfergirl---actually my skin issue seems to be clearing up faster than I feared it might, and is such that I feel fine about going out. If that still works for you for this Friday, what time is good? (If for any reason things have changed in your schedule, just let me know.....) It would be great to meet a Fodorite and to find a Houston's replacement all in the same evening!

7 -- 7:30 is generally best for us. Let me know the time that works best for you and the number of people (just you and your husband?) and I'll see if I can get a reservation.

They have valet parking, but close by is also lots of not too expensive public parking lots.

PS Sorry to hear about your son -- hope he's recovering -- my husband went through that in 2006 and UCLA Emergency became his second home.

Great! Anytime is fine with us. The good thing about my husband being a visiting scientist at UCLA is that he has less time pressure than he does back in Boston. At home, b/c of his work demands and never being sure what time he can leave work, we can almost never make plans for a Friday night!

There will just be the 2 of us, should we wear red carnations?

Got reservations for tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. Check your gmail!

To those who mentioned John O'Groats, we had breakfast there on this past Sunday. What a great place! I love the fact that there are a number of places in LA that have kind of a country diner feel to them! Nothing like that that I know of in Boston. Diners, of course, but not places with that kind of a feel. I think someone further up this thread said that they hated to recommend it, lest it get even more crowded, but right in their front window, there was a plaque saying that they had been awarded "Best Breakfast in LA", so apparently the word is out!

socialworker, how is your son? Have you posted a thread about his accident? I hope he is recovering quickly.

Thank you, PeaceOut. No, I have not. He is recuperating but will be out of commission for a while. All things considered, it could have been so much worse.

My husband and I will be in Los Angeles next week to attend a conference. We are staying downtown at the Marriott by the Staples Center and LA Live. I've been assigned to find a good spot for dinner for our group who will be attending. In looking over this thread, it's a bit overwhelming to remember names and areas of LA. Any suggestions on a place downtown that's got a great ambiance AND food? My husband's niece suggested the Water Grill, a seafood place. Though we like seafood, we are looking more for a California fusion type place.
I've always admired your reviews maitaitom and we used a few of your suggestions last time we went to Italy. So, any fine dining downtown recommendations?

Well, my favorite place downtown is Church and State Bistro (we just went there again in December). My recommendation is to take a cab, since it is in the warehouse district of L.A., which can get kind of sketchy on the fringe. The food here was phenomenal. I'll try and update my review (below) this week on our latest dinner. I am also including the restaurant website. Currently it is #1 on our L.A. restaurant list.

The retired lawyer who Tracy used to work for was one of the first owners of one of L.A.'s most popular restaurants (not C&S), and he, too, puts Church and State at the head of the class right now.

http://www.travelswithmaitaitom.com/Tom_%26_Tracy_Home/Toms_%22Dining_Out%22/Entries/2011/5/29_Church_%26_State_Bistro_-_Los_Angeles%2C_CA.html

http://www.churchandstatebistro.com/

Thanks, it looks great!

Just reiterating the warning that C&S is in the skid row/ aka warehouse district of downtown, so take a cab. It's sort of French Bistro food.

A bit higher up on the elegance scale but just as good and in the Financial district (you probably could walk, actually) is Drago Centro. I also like Rivera.

Be sure to browse the websites to get a feel for the menus and ambience.

I don't think I'd go as far as saying its in "skid row." There are lofts going up all around there. That said, I would take a cab.

New discovery....for fish lovers or even for people that think fish lunch/dinner is boring...Ventura Bulevard, same block as Baja Fresh in Sherman Oaks...recently opened...The Fish Dish. Turns out to be a great choice for getting your fish-twice-a-week allotment as demanded by the FDA, Dr.Oz and others gurus.

It's a small, unpretentious place, spotlessly clean, cmprehensive menu that does include a few chicken dishes for the fish-timid. AND, the prices are downright attractive..not a thing over $10 p/p. Typically, from the grill (or fried) salmon, tilapia, trout, all delicious (we've been three times in the last two weeks). Served with special sauces (garlic, for one) for each. Good sized portions (that could be split) ..you order from wall board menu but everything is served to your table.

It's beeing discovered more and more...crowds at lunch hours and dinner. (South side ventura Boulevard, just est of Van Nuys Blvd., with two-hours free parking ..validated) on Cedros Street lot).

Stu

Thanks, Stu, sounds delish!

Costco is a local hangout. Every try getting in there on a Saturday when they are doing taste testings? Everyone and their brother is in their getting free samples, then the hotdogs.

There's another branch of FishDish just outside the Burbank airport, a good stop if you have a half hour to kill before a flight and need some nourishment.

I like the vanilla frozen yogurt at Costco, though it doesn't contain any actual yogurt.

Thanks Stu. Sounds good!

I was going to post today anyway, as during the last week we returned to 2 places we have not been to in several years.

On Sunday we had breakfast, at noon, at the Overland Cafe which was a long time fave when DS lived right nearby. It was still good and as crowded as ever, but was just a tad less yummy than I remembered, but still very good. They offer unlimited champagne for $5/pp, which most of the patrons seemed to be enjoying but we passed.

The other oldie that we had not been to in 4 years was The Counter which has sprung up all over LA. We went to our local one at the CC Mall and it was as good or better than I remember it being when we went the first time back on Olympic Blvd. They still have the best sweet potato fries that we have ever eaten and the burgers were great.

socialworker....still have the lingering tasteful memories of Rock Sugar...excellent in every way. Thank you for recommending..did not disappoint in any way. Company was lovely, too!

Gotta try The Counter..so close...by the way, Father's Ofice (on Montanta) also offers a little wire basket of those fries, too. I pass the Overland on my "secret" back door to LAX when the 405 is jammed...and now I'll just have to stop in some time. Hope Nick is getting along well!

This thread has life!

Stu

And there are always the thousands of food trucks, an L.A. institution, that have been roaming the streets for decades. It wouldn't be L.A. without food trucks. I remember them when I was a kid.

http://roaminghunger.com/la/vendors/

http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/los_angeles&id=7939017

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/12/us/12trucks.html

Happy Travels!

Stu, my street, my obviously not so secret LAX back door

surfergirl..most anyone I know from Valley or Westside uses Overland to Jeff, Jeff to Sepulveda and LAX. When picking someone up at LAX, I pull into the CVS/Kohls/Panera lot on Sep and when they ring my cell, after they get ther luggage, I spin to the whatever terminal in a few minutes. No luggage, same thing.
stu

I am just on my way to LAX in about 15 minutes and was wondering if there was a good place to park and wait for DH to call. Thanks, stu!!

PS The route you cite above is the one we have used for years! I just don't usually have to wait for someone coming in---usually we are both traveling.

We went back to a place that we have not been for a few years and it was as good, or better, than ever---lunch on the veranda at the Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica. We had great food, service and a million dollar view for entrees that are ~$10 if you stick with salads and sandwiches. I had a Cobb Salad that was beautifully presented and delicious! DH had rosemary ham w/brie and avocado grilled on sourdough bread. The sweet potato fries on the side of his sandwich were the best I have ever tasted.

When I checked the temp on my iPhone, it showed 59 degrees, but we actually had to sit in a shaded area of the veranda b/c it was so hot in the sun. Santa Monica was filled with people enjoying the lovely weather that belied the (alleged) temperature!

Social worker:
Ah, the venerable Georgian....our first "home" when transferring to Santa Monica in 1957. Nearby RAND put up many transfer families at The Georgian. We were later moved to the late William Tell Motel(with its Bow and Arrow Restaurant...sheeesh!) on SM Blvd until new house was finished, in the valley. Each time I drive past the Georgian, it conjures up memories of those carefree, exciting days.

Stu (how is Nick coming along? Good, I hope)

Stu -- that's not the best shortcut. You only think it's faster turning onto Jefferson but you get stuck at some mind-blowingly long red lights, and often a lot of merging traffic at Sepulveda.

Stay on Overland all the way to Sepulveda. As it rounds the corner at Holy Cross, it turns into Playa. Then left at Sepulveda. All you have are a couple of stop signs and one potential red light.

Back the subject of food, and even though the owners are Trojans in Bruin territory, their new Skylight Gardens opening up in Westwood Village, across from Napa Valley Grille, will, if their ultimate menu when they open March 1st is anything like their friends and family evening, be THE Village destination. They snagged the chef from Pane E Vino, which recently closed down.

surfergirl...I'll have to try it..although I don't recall any traffic snags where Jeff turns into Sep...but always willing to try something new.

So Trojans have invaded our Westwod, eh. But another place to try. I like the NV Grille, too.

Any suggestions within walking distance of the Nokia Theatre for a couple of low-income college students? DD says most everything at LA Live is out of their price range.

Lee Ann

The Pantry is pretty reasonable.

The Original Pantry is pretty awful, but college student digestive systems should be able to handle it. It's also fairly expensive for what you get..$12 sandwiches etc.

They can check the menu at www.pantrycafe.com

Friend who works at 8th and Fig usually goes for lunch at Corner Bakery, IHOP (yes) or Simply Salad. There is also a Ralphs at Flower and 9th that has sandwiches, salad bar, etc.
Some of these are only going to be open during working hours.

They might check out the Yardhouse at LA Live, I think it's the best value of the lot.

I'll pass your suggestions along to them. Thanks!

Lee Ann

We just went back to Lula on Main St. in Santa Monica today and I have to reiterate that it continues to be one of our all time favorite Mexican restaurants!

Green Peas on Sepulveda Blvd. in Culver City is closed for renovation. I'll post when it reopens.

A surprising find only five minutes from LAX.

Late Sunday afternoon, we had a friend on a layover on the way to Australia, so on a whim we hit Chalet Edelweiss on Sepulveda just north of the airport.

http://www.chaletedelweiss.us/

Terrific Cheese fondue (for two) and all salads were good (including a spinach salad). Our friend had the Käse-Bier-Suppe mit Schwarzwälder Schinken (Bitburger beer with Black forest ham and cheese combined in a tasty soup with a warming color and flavor) that she said was very good.

I topped my dinner off with a chocolate soufflé that the lady said was less than 250 calories (I don't know if she was kidding). Upon departing, we each were given a big bar of Swiss Chocolate (nice touch). Total was $81 for the three of us (plus tip).

Tracy and I want to go back and have Rheinland Saft-Gulasch mit Spätzle und Rotkraut
(a Goulash in red wine marinated beef and pork stew, simmered with sweet Hungarian paprika and onions that's served with homemade Spätzli and red cabbage).

Lady who owns it (well, I think she owns it) is from outside Bern, Switzerland, and she was really nice.

Now we just need someone to fly to LAX to give us an excuse to drive that far.

Chalet Edelweiss
8740 Sepulveda Blvd.
Westchester, CA 90045
310.645.8740

Just a couple of comments on already-mentioned places.
I totally loved Waterloo & City (in Culver City). Food was delicious, and our waiter (Michael?) was excellent. Looked like a nice place to go for drinks & an appetizer too. Easy parking.
As for Martha's in Hermosa Beach, the food is good, and a locals hangout, but know that it is nothing fancy. Those outside tables all slope due to the patio being on an uneven surface, and the service is ok but not great. The wait is usually quite long on the weekends, and parking is challenging.
Finally, I hope to visit Rock Sugar soon, and was interested to hear that folks here recommend it. Have been hearing about it after multiple trips by my hairstylist, who is a real foodie. He claims the Banana Custard Cake is to die for.

Also in Culver City, is Ugo which has a wonderful wine bar and cafe. We were recently there and enjoyed it very much. Very popular place, with seating inside and out (with heaters).

http://www.cafeugo.com/cafe.html

We love the charming little downtown Culver City. There are several attractive-looking restaurants near Ugo.

Ah, now this thread will make me sad, altho I will definitely keep reading it......we are heading back to Boston on Sunday night, (April 8) and will no longer be "locals"---not that we ever really were! Just temporary ones.....

We did not make it to Culver City this time, but have gone to Ford's Filling Station (mentioned upstream) in the past. Ugo above sounds great!

Socialworker, you could start a thread eating like a local in Boston!
Safe travels.

Thanks, Peace, good idea but we would only have a handful of places to recommend, as we don't go out in Boston the way we do here. However, other posters would, no doubt, have good contributions!

As a nod to one of our favorite places here, which probably does not attract a lot of locals (as opposed to tourists), I--for the first time in 8 years of Fodor participation--put up a pic on my profile that I took on Monday of this week. The view is from the veranda of the Georgian Hotel. You locals should try it if you have not yet, such a great combo of good food, amazing vista and really reasonable prices!

Late to the party here and I apologize if any of these have been already mentioned. Just returned home staying 3 nights in Century City. Places we tried and enjoyed were:

-Sushi Masu on Westwood, a mid-range sushi restaurant, excellent food and good value.
-John O'Groats on W. Pico, terrific breakfast spot, great pancakes and egg dishes.
-Guido's in Santa Monica, old school, comfort Italian cooking.
-In n Out in Westwood, best fast food burgers, cheap and very crowded at lunch.
-Gilbert's El Indio in Santa Monica, popular neighborhood spot, almost a hole in the wall (serving cokes in a glass jar), great Mexican food, huge burritos! No reservations, cash only.

Seems like this thread just won't die..good. Thought I would alert you that Conde nast Travler (May Issue)has an article on hot restos in L.A., NYC, Paris and Hong Kong. The L.A. restos that made it are the simple A-Frame in Culver City which I have touted above somewhere, Picca on Pico (Peruvian), Son-of-a-Gun and Red Medicine. Interestingly enough all of these were in the very reasonable category, especially so when compared to the offerings at all other locations. Paris is out of sight, topping NYC prices by much more than 100%. (Ah, yes, L.A. is a cultural, foodie desert..NOT!)
stu

Well, I'll try to contribute a few to keep this thread going!

There's Pampas - believe someone mentioned this Brazilian churrascaria. One of my favorites.

Also Urth Cafe, an organic coffee and tea cafe with a wonderful bread pudding. Has this been mentioned before?

http://www.urthcaffe.com/

And the marvelous Malibu Seafood Restaurant with its great, fresh seafood. Can't wait to get back to LA to go there again!

http://www.malibuseafood.com/

I saw the CNT article and comparing their Paris and LA prices is like apples and oranges. The Paris prices are all listed as multi course menus whereas the LA prices are starting prices for single dishes with many being small plates. The price for Septime is for a 6 course tasting. Small plates add up and I doubt you could get out of Son of a Gun or Red Medicine for less with an equivalent amount of food especially after factoring in almost 30% tax and tip on top here. LA isn't a foodie dessert but it's not less expensive either.

Oh and in an effort to actually contribute to this thread some places I've eaten in the last couple of months and liked:

Racion in Pasadena, tapas style, the duck sausage stuffed squid is fab
Vol 94 in Pasadena, a wine bar with creative small plates (I think the food is better than Lazy Ox)
Papilles in Hollywood, nice changing market menu, the foie torchon (extra supplement) is great
Church & State in downtown, Sunday dinner was a good value

My weekend of overindulgence starts tonight at Newport Seafood followed by lunch at Marche Moderne tomorrow

Patty....too bad you didn't come across thie thread befoere..you would enjoy it. You're right..guilty of apples and oranges...but I'm basically a "small plate" fan. I still think dollar for dollar, meal for meal, plate for plate you can get by very sated in L.A. compared to the others. I've dined, snacked, grabbed a bite and munched in over 75 countries over seven decades...but I'm not a foodie per se'...love good food, but it's not my main thrust for travel.

By the way, try The aforementioned A-Frame..it's fun. See my review scrolling way back. Nice to see you on this thread.
Happy travels and happy food-ing.
stu

I just realized I wrote dessert instead of desert. You can tell where my brain is.

Small plates is my preferred style of eating too. I love sampling many tiny dishes. We live in the SGV so don't get out to the Westside as much but have friends who just moved to Culver City so will probably head that way more often now. Thanks for the A Frame rec, Stu.