4 Stars Restaurants

Just one block east of the Nokia Theater and the Staples Center sits Rivera, the latest Latin creation from legendary chef/owner John Rivera Sedlar. The father of modern Southwest cuisine is back on the culinary scene after a fifteen year sabbatical spent representing Patrón tequila, and while no one would purport that cooking is like riding a bicycle, he certainly re-approaches his craft with the ease and grace of a seasoned veteran. Sedlar merges classical French technique with the memory of the earthy and spicy foods of his New Mexico childhood to produce sumptuous chile-packed masterpieces in a sleek and … Learn More »

If you’re looking for a place to see and be seen, head to the new, super trendy West Hollywood hotspot, STK. With such an edgy slogan (“not your daddy’s steakhouse”), it’s no surprise that the One Group’s latest enterprise has completely reinvented the traditional ambiance of its genre from masculine to sleek and sultry. Steaks come in three different sizes, a la carte, and with a choice of one of eight rich, homemade sauces. If something else is more to your liking, choose from enticing appetizers and entrees such as the Foie Gras French Toast, Shrimp Rice Krispies, or Maine … Learn More »

The Downtown Los Angeles location of the esteemed Palm empire of restaurants offers fine steaks, seafood, and Italian specialties in a posh setting. Located at 1100 Flower Street in an enormous space, formerly a Packard car dealership, the Palm Downtown is the largest in the country. Since 2002 The Palm Downtown has managed to execute the same stellar food that original owners Pio Bozzi and John Ganzi started serving three generations ago in New York City. Today, The Palm Restaurants are still a family business run by the original owners’ great-great-grandsons. Learn More »

Rustic Canyon Wine Bar & Seasonal Kitchen in Santa Monica offers patrons a regularly changing menu utilizing dishes motivated by Farmers’ Market ingredients sourced from local ranchers, farmers, and fishermen who practice sustainable agriculture. With a wine list centered on boutique wineries from around the world, offerings are handpicked by proprietor and owner Josh Loeb. With twenty options of wine by the glass, rotated on a regular basis, guests can expect something new to try with each visit. Food, plated with the intention of sharing, allows restaurant goers to order for the table and embark on a tour of tastes. … Learn More »

Gordon Ramsay lends his name and influence to the London West Hollywood’s newest fine dining addition. Channeling the celebrity chef, Executive Chef Andy Cook combines the sublime pleasures of haute cuisine with the freshest California produce for an approachably refined taste. Diners can choose from an array of a la carte options, or can place themselves in the capable hands of Chef Cook’s team by opting for market specials and tasting menus that highlight the best of the seasons. The décor acts as an excellent platform for showcasing the menu, blending opulent gold and crystal with comfortable banquettes for an … Learn More »

Historic Pacific Dining Car brings classic distinction to Downtown Los Angeles. Since 1921 this railway car-turned-restaurant has treated politicos, starlets, and average joes alike to swanky steakhouse indulgences and a timeless, debonair charm within each of its luxurious and unique dining areas. The menus are no less lavish, featuring massive steaks and succulent seafood for dinner and lunch, and opulent breakfast creations like Blue Crab Benedict and Truffled Eggs that give taste buds the royal treatment, Angelino-style. Having access to these delightful creations at all hours of the day or night makes this 24-hour steakhouse a standout. Learn More »

Toscana sits in the heart of Brentwood and offers simply delicious Northern Italian dishes. Wrapped in posters of old Italy, the dining room has a rustic decor and low key atmosphere. Try such dishes as Brasato Al Barolo, braised beef with Barolo wine served with spinach and mashed potatoes, or the San Pietro Al Limone, John Dory with lemon and capers. Toscana even has their own cookbook available for those who want to try to cook up some of these delightful dishes in their own home. They even offer take-out for any item on the menu! Give your taste buds … Learn More »

Saddle Peak Lodge specializes in elegantly prepared game, offering unique dishes such as buffalo tartar, butter-soft roasted elk tenderloin, and wood-grilled venison chops. Executive Chef Steven Rojas kindly offers excellent seafood and vegetarian dishes, although he is famous for his delightful preparation of the unusual. Saddle Creek's elegant ambiance, extraordinary menu and oustanding selection of American wines make it a favorite among adventurous diners and celebrity guests; it is also ideally suited for special events from anniversaries to business dinners. Learn More »

At Valentino, Piero Selvaggio’s flagship restaurant, freshness is not just a priority, it is a passion. Executive Chef Angelo Auriana, who has been with the restaurant for close to 18 years, seeks out the finest ingredients, often returning to his homeland for superior quality. Whether it is cheese from Puglia or white truffles from Piedmont, Auriana’s menu incorporates the grandest treasures in the culinary worlds. The menu changes seasonally, but you might find dishes such as San Daniele Prosciutto with Tirloese speck and melon pearls, Ricotta gnocchetti with walnuts and four-cheese sauce, and Colorado lamb chop with Gorgonzola and port … Learn More »

Located just North of Universal Studios along a busy stretch of Cahuenga Blvd, Ca’ del Sole stays true to its name as a sunny spot in an otherwise gloomy culinary scene. Amid the lush greenery of the outdoor patio or beside the fireplace between the two dining rooms, guests can enjoy the authentic and comforting Italian cuisine of Chef Soerke Peters in a quiet, homey atmosphere. The flexible bar menu is great for a small bite alone or to share with friends, and the daily “dinner deal” offers a great three course meal for only thirty dollars. Whether it’s a … Learn More »

Adelmo Zarif’s restaurant has occupied a dazzling Art Deco space in downtown’s historic core since moving from West Hollywood in May 1997. Cicada fills the bottom two stories of the Oviatt Building, featuring towering mahogany pillars, plenty of gold, and pristine white tablecloths. Cicada is a fine-dining establishment that’s especially popular for birthdays, weddings and the occasional marriage proposal. Tokyo native Suzay Cha prepares northern Italian cuisine with Asian accents. The menu changes twice a year, but typically includes Ahi Tuna Tartar with Avocado, Piquillo Peppers and Wasabi Caviar and Pappardelle with Filet Mignon Bolognese Sauce. Learn More »

Theme park dining usually means overpriced, tasteless food in small portions. However, the Napa Rose located in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa delivers park goers a sophisticated, delicious meal. Views of Disney’s California Adventure park can be seen through the glass windows, but no park ticket is necessary to dine here. Head chef Andrew Sutton changes the menu seasonally, providing fresh ingredients in his dishes. For appetizers, the Starter to Share consists of Large Seared Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, Pork Spare Ribs with Soy Glaze, and Lemongrass Chicken Skewers. To keep the food at the right temperature, a hot … Learn More »

La Serenata celebrates fine Mexican cuisine and quality service. As a family affair that has lasted over 20 years, this popular eatery has expanded to three locations and continues to draw a loyal following. Jose Rodriguez is the visionary and chef, using his creativity and commitment to authenticity to construct flavorful and healthy dishes. The traditional and less nutritious use of lard has been substituted for olive oil in favorites like their fish tacos and salmon enchiladas. Rodriguez also prides himself for their unique mole sauce, which introduces a slightly sweet presence to the chicken specialty. The décor exerts simple … Learn More »

Tucked in a remodeled 1924 Craftsman-style firehouse in the peaceful community of Silver Lake, the Edendale offers exquisite cuisine in a comfortable, unassuming setting. Accented with fresh flower arrangements, cozy armchairs, antique sconces and walls of old black and white photos, the setting has the potential to make single diners and large groups alike feel like they are home. As is only fitting in this comforting setting, Executive Chef Paul Downer offers an amazing array of comforting dishes including Ahi Tartare, a Fried Green Tomato Salad, and the signature Edendale Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese with chili garlic bread crumbs … Learn More »

Boasting a decidedly contemporary and chic décor, BOA Steakhouse is a refreshingly unpretentious steakhouse. Serving classic steakhouse fare in a particularly un-classic setting, BOA brings a fresh, modern face to the “surf and turf” dining concept. While you’ll find all the old favorites—petit filet mignon, dry-aged New York strip, Maine and Australian lobster—creative fare also peppers the menu. Begin with the Table-Side Prime Steak Tartare, and then move on to favorites like the Chilean Sea Bass and the American Kobe Beef Flat Iron Steak. But the ultimate decadence may just be the foie gras butter you’ll find gracing your Kobe … Learn More »

On Melrose, along a popular strip of hip West Hollywood restaurants, Lucques retains its standing as an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, and drinks. In its eighth year, the restaurant excels with its short-list of savory French-Mediterranean cuisine combining subtle, yet distinct, flavors with fish, poultry, and meat. Executive Chef Suzanne Goin uses seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are inventive, fresh, and flavorful. While not extensive, the selections are sufficiently unique to appease finicky Angelenos and most likely tantalize them to return. The wine list is extensive and hand selected by co-owner Caroline Styne. Learn More »

A slice of Old Hollywood, Dan Tana’s is still a place to grab a hearty bite to eat while gazing at the stars of the big screen. For more than 45 years, this Hollywood institution has served patrons heaping portions of Italian fare. The staff at Dan Tana’s is nearly as renowned as the client list, Mike the bartender, regarded by many patrons as a Los Angeles treasure, still serves up stiff drinks to those looking to whet their whistles while waiting for a table. Reservations are mandatory, as the restaurant is on the small side, and demand always outstrips … Learn More »

La Bohème rhapsodizes with a quintuplet of dazzling crystal chandeliers looming majestically overhead in a large, yet intimate two-tiered dining space. The semi-private booths downstairs and the rock star booths upstairs, along with the opulent ruby-red décor glimmering softly under the glow of two huge open fireplaces make this seductive bistro one of the a romantic destinations in L.A. Guests are also welcome to dine on the Garden Patio, Café La Boheme’s own al fresco paradise, where they can bask in the warmth of a beautiful fireplace framed by roses and greenery. For more casual diners, the bar lounge offers … Learn More »

In a city where restaurants vie for celebrity patronage and flashy presentations sometimes precede flavor, The Palm Steakhouse in West Hollywood remains the unpretentious favorite of locals and celebrities alike. Since its opening in 1975, The Palm has been garnering a crowd of devoted followers with its simple, stunning presentations of high quality meat, seafood, and favorite Italian classics, like Veal Scallopine and Linguini with Clam Sauce. Its lively atmosphere, generous portions, and highly attentive service make The Palm an ideal destination for a special occasion dinner, even as the relaxed bar scene invites old friends to re-connect over a … Learn More »

Casual taqueria within walking distance of the Grove and the Farmers Market. Top quality product crafted in a unique, creative way and served in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Bring your friends for some of the best tacos in LA - and that's saying something! Learn More »