I'm going to be in LA for 3 nights -- appreciate suggestions on good places for a single woman to dine comfortably alone and hotel recommendations in the mid-price boutique range. Currently booked at the W, though I've heard mixed reports lately. Will be around the Westside but have car & willing to explore to find good spots.

Try Manhattan Beach. Down by the pier there are a bunch of places to eat and you will be completely safe. A bit of a drive but definitely worth it!

Restaurant row is on Beverly Drive near Santa Monica Blvd, you can walk, browse, window shop, and find any number of friendly places to dine. The Mulberry Street Pizzeria is a definite favorite, but you will have a lot to choose from. California Pizza Kitchen has terrific salads, and at The Cheesecake Factory, an appetizer and a hunk of one of the umpteen cheesecake selections will make a full meal.

We always recommend the Holiday Inn Bel Air because it is convenient to the Getty Center (a must see). Sounds like you are looking for something a bit more upscale so I would recommend the Hotel Sofitel down near the Beverly Center. You will not be disappointed.

Also, if you do go to the Getty Center, there are two restaurants, and the more casual of the two is just perfect for a solo diner.

Luce, is this your first visit to L.A.? Then I'd suggest something on the westside, like Santa Monica. 3rd street promenade in S.M. is touristy, but there are many restaurants with outside seating where you won't feel uncomfortable. Plus there's great people watching. Santa Monica is close to many of the attractions.

I love Manhattan Beach, as I grew up there, and it would be a great suggestion if you aren't dead-set on doing "touristy" things. It's south of Santa Monica and considered the "crown jewel" of the south bay beaches (the other two being Hermosa and Redondo). The area is great for dining as well. You'll find the beach crowd to be filled with many 20 and 30 somethings (depending on your age, this may be good or bad). If you like to rollerblade or bike, I think blading/riding down these beaches is one of the most pleasant things to do on a beautiful day (unless it's 4th of July, in which case it's hard to get by the crowd of partiers in Hermosa!)

The Inn at Hermosa is right on the beach. I've never stayed there, but it looks nice. It doesn't have the same pomp and circumstance as the "W" or many of the posh Santa Monica hotels.

Have a great time!

Just go to Beverly Hills, you will be safe alone and nice restaurants and nice shops too. I would stay around there too, call around and try to get some deals. If you want another upscale place go to Montana Ave. in Santa Monica, 17th street Cafe or any place along there to eat and of course shop. Perfectly safe to go alone too.
Be prepared to see alot of homeless along the outskirts of 3rd St. Prom. in Santa Monica, probably harmless, but park closeby.