Looking for a nice place in Beverly Hills to have my birthday dinner in a few weeks(excluding Spago).

Yes, I know that most places in BH are probably "nice" (I will be a first time visitor to CA), but I am looking for ideas from persons who have dined in the area recently and would recommend their dining location to others.

Looking for something not too stuffy or hugely expensive.

Thank you, Happy Holidays!

Since you did not specify what type of cuisine, I'll offer up my three favorites: Nic's Restaurant and Martini Lounge, Crustacean and, although not in Beverly Hills proper, just over on Third, Yi Cuisine. I had a most fabulous and memorable meal at Yi a few months ago and have plans to go back in Jan. Besides having an amazing menu, Nic's is a great happy hour location $5 martiinis and pupus til 7.

Not in BH but not too far -- we went to a place called Little Door last year and it was wonderful.

While I'm a huge fan of Spago, one of my favorite places is the delightful Prego -- so unpretentious, comfortable, great food, and very friendly staff and servers -- all at a fraction of the Spago price.

If it's a Friday or a Saturday night, the Restaurant at the Getty Center. Especially if you like wine.

joesource, I love the Getty, but your post has me curious. What about it for "if you like wine"? What's so special about wine there -- I didn't recall it being a particularly exciting wine list (well any more than most nicer California restaurants).