RESTAURANTS
1. Water Grill
A premier seafood joint, this (see Water Grill) is usually packed with patrons appreciative of the dock-fresh fare and superb service. Chef Jesse Riofir turns each dish into a celebration of bold flavors and pleasing textures. The yummy white clam chouder and hand-cut tuna tartare are outstanding, and the oyster bar scores high with the pre-theater crowd.
Water Grill, with upscale decor and some of the best seafood in LA
2. Patina
A long-time darling of food critics and gourmets, Patina is where star chef Joachim Splichal takes his innovative French-Californian cuisine to new heights. The melt-in-your-mouth côte de boeuf, served table-side, is indicative of the kitchen’s lofty aspirations. Try the chef’s superb tasting menu. As it is located inside the Walt Disney Concert Hall, it’s a favorite for luxury pre-performance dining and special occasions.
3. Providence
An LA institution, Providence serves some of the West Coast’s best wild-caught, sustainable seafood, fresh from American and international waters. From the series of separate, elegant dining areas, choose the intimate patio room if you are in search of a romantic evening. Fresh truffles are a specialty, as are the changing tasting menus and wine pairings.
Sea urchin, Providence
4. Echigo
Fine, imaginatively presented sushi of all types is the only offering at this eatery (see Echigo). The ambience is simple and plain, with only 12 seats at the L-shaped bar and service is attentive. The omakase (chef’s choice) is outstanding.
5. Matsuhisa
This (see Matsuhisa) is the original of a small chain of restaurants serving Nobu Matsuhisa’s inspired Japanese-Peruvian fusion fare. The sushi is impeccable and the tempura extra-light, but the chef’s talent really lies in cooked seafood dishes, many paired with Nobu’s perky sauces. Celebrity sightings are likely. Make reservations several days in advance to avoid the rush.
6. Spago Beverly Hills
A favorite with the rich and famous (see Spago Beverly Hills) and a great place to sample California cuisine (see Spago Beverly Hills). The menu pairs supreme cuts of meat or fish with seasonal side dishes such as chanterelle mushrooms. The lox pizza is always popular. Early reservations essential.
7. Valentino
Since 1972, Piero Selvaggio has delighted diners with his charm. The restaurant offers classic Italian cuisine, updated for modern tastes without becoming Americanized. His 150,000 – plus cellar containing handpicked Italian wines is outstanding. So are the ingredients, many of them imported from Italy. Insiders ignore the menu and try the “extravaganza,” a series of delicious treats.
Wine cellar private room, Valentino
8. Michael’s
A pioneer of California cuisine, Michael’s serves Oscar-worthy cuisine in a luscious garden setting, making it one of the best alfresco dining spots in all LA. The food delights both the eye and palate. The decor harks back to its 1979 opening, but a new chef has brought contemporary tastes and ingredients to the menu.
Alfresco dining, Michael’s
9. Mélisse
Consistently ranked as the top food spot in LA, Josiah Citrin’s two-Michelin-starred Mélisse uses fresh local ingredients to create classic French cuisine with a modern twist. Seasonal white truffle and game menus also feature. A gorgeous dining room and expertly trained staff add to a dining experience that borders on perfection, making this a top choice for memorable dinners.
10. Maude
You must reserve online over a month in advance to dine at Australian celebrity chef Curtis Stone’s unassuming restaurant. Named after Stone’s paternal grandmother, Maud has only 24 seats, an intimate and cozy atmosphere, and an incredibly friendly service. It is set up like a Chef’s table where a different ingredient is featured every three months – pistachios, black truffles, or pomegranates, are a few examples – and a ten-course meal is derived from there. Each tasting menu also focuses on one of four of the world’s top wine regions.
