Celebrity Spotting 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 »

Situated just off of Melrose Ave in West Hollywood, Sur attracts exactly the crowd you would expect from this area: the young and trendy and, of course, celebrities. Inside you’ll find a cozy respite from the bustling streets outside. The stunning dining room is eclectically adorned, mixing romantic French touches like dazzling chandeliers and long, dramatic curtains with statues of Hindu gods and lots of dripping candles. The menu offers contemporary American dishes inspired by classic Mediterranean cuisine such as Taboulé Couscous with Ahi Tuna or Crab Gorgonzola Risotto, which can be accompanied with a glass off the extensive wine … 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 »

Whether you are out on the town for a lively night of entertainment or you’re settling in for a lazy Sunday with the morning paper, Café Montana is eager to suit the occasion with its subtle SoCal charm and distinguished California cuisine menu. Weekend visitors may savor the thoughtful brunch menu that caters to multiple palates and diets. Dishes like the Lox Benedict and the Montana Angus Beef Burger are worth getting out of bed for. The evening menu is equally eclectic and satisfying with highlights like the Seared Scallops, the Pumpkin Ravioli, and the Blackened Prime Rib. And did … Learn More »

Famed Chef Todd English pairs up with Hollywood darling Eva Longoria Parker to introduce us to Beso, a glamorous and refined restaurant serving up fine fusion cuisine with a side of glitz nightly. Step into Beso and be seduced by the lush and invocative palette of deep crimsons, rich wood tones, and alluring leather upholstery. The menu infuses Latin-inspired flavors with Middle-Eastern flare for a tantalizing array of meat and seafood selections. Eva’s Tortilla Soup is a comforting bowl of spice and the Beso Paella is an invigorating melding of surf and turf. Every bite glistens like the crystal chandelier … 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 »

Situated on Hollywood’s posh Sunset Strip is The Well, a lounge with chic modernism that permeates its décor and menu. The Well juxtaposes comfort and harshness with its wood flooring and plush couches. This Hollywood playground presents an intimate atmosphere for all guests to experience. Drinks are original and flavorful. The Well contains a full bar, is open late, and is a great place to unwind. Swing on by The Well relax, enjoy, and indulge in the trendy Hollywood experience. Learn More »

Situated at the cross roads of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, is a quaint corner eatery called Toast Bakery & Café. This Los Angeles hotspot, often frequented by celebrities, offers a wide variety of menu options. Open from early in the morning to relatively late at night, this café provides a hearty breakfast, a relaxing get away from work for lunch break, or for simply a light cup of coffee when a pick me up is needed. Toast is a phenomenal venue for a Sunday brunch as well as a date. Their menu showcases pastries, eggs, salads, soups, sandwiches, and … Learn More »

Aroma Coffee and Tea offers diners an alternative from the ordinary chain coffee shop. Serving meals for any time of day, this Studio City locale remains a local favorite. The welcoming restaurant boasts multiple seating options, allowing guests to cozy up inside the renovated house, or enjoy the California sun on its expansive, plant filled outdoor patio. The menu selection offers breakfast specialties like Eggs Benedict, or the luscious Smoked Salmon Plate with Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese, Tomatoes, Sliced Red Onions, Lemon and Capers on a bagel, among other favorites. For lunch, the Grilled Turkey Hummus Melt, with Sliced Turkey, … Learn More »

Located on Los Angeles’ famous Sunset Strip and derived from the Latin word for ‘fragrance‘ is Aroma Bakery and Café. Whether you’re looking for a quick shot of espresso, a fresh mug of mint tea, a full 3-course meal, or just some dessert, Aroma café offers a little bit of the Mediterranean in the heart of Los Angeles. The café’s authentic and flavorful dishes, drinks, and atmosphere transport each diner to the European coast for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The focus is great service and delectable food. Their menu showcases everything from breakfast to dinner, and the daily specials are … Learn More »

Specializing in Pan-Asian cuisine and sushi, Wokcano is located in downtown LA’s financial district. The wooden décor creates a cozy and almost serene atmosphere. Specialties include Peking Duck with onions and pancakes or Korean Style Short Ribs. Or try one of their many specialty rolls like the Late Night Party Roll and The Black Pearl. Stop by for a quick snack in the lounge, complete with large flat screen TVs. Wokcano is a great place to enjoy a nice dinner with family and friends or to just grab a quick bite to eat. With tasty menu options like these you … Learn More »

Located in West Hollywood at the corner of Melrose Avenue and Robertson Boulevard, Cecconi is a classic Italian restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as cicchetti (Italian tapas). You can enjoy a meal inside the refined dining area within the main restaurant, on the terrace, or at the bar with its wood-burning oven. With its simply prepared Venetian-influenced food and drink, Cecconi is the place to go to if you want some fine dining food that is affordable, as it is focused in serving you the finest in quality ingredients. Learn More »

With awards including James Beard s' "Best New Restaurant," Esquire Magazine's "Restaurant of the Year" and Zagat's "Top Newcomer," as well as a four star rating from the Los Angeles Times, The Bazaar offers a highly-recommended dining experience. Accompanying the stellar tapas-style menu is a diverse set of lounge spaces including a European-inspired patisserie with glass cases of cookies, cakes, candy and bon bons where diners can enjoy their dessert, an upscale bar, and a chef’s tasting room. Two dining areas flank the entire space – Blanca, the contemporary area, and Rojo, the traditional side – as well as an … Learn More »

Situated on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, is Marmalade Café, a quaint European bistro. Marmalade’s ambiance is homey and relaxed and the restaurant prides itself on delicious food, spectacular service, and being an escape from the busy LA city life. Whether you’re looking to have a business lunch or just brunch with friends, Marmalade Café is the place to choose. Their extensive menu includes everything from frittatas, omelets, and benedicts to pancakes, salads, waffles, and soups. They even have a full espresso bar, take out, and are available to rent out for banquets and events. For a delightful meal stop … Learn More »

Chicago-native Brian McKeaney and Emmy-award winning writer, Tom Patchett hashave brought Chicago’s Rush Street to Culver City. The restaurant, under the same name as the infamous avenue in Chicago, is known for their innovative menu and ambiance that encourages social interaction. Their modern atmosphere with a kind of low-lit ambiance is both comfortable and stylish. Boosting a large sidewalk patio facing Washington Blvd., a rooftop patio, and one of the largest bars in Culver, the layout of the restaurant incorporates a seamless openness from within the establishment and with out . Learn More »

Rod Rotondi, founder and Executive Chef of Leaf Organics, is a culinary expert whose tireless crusade to bring organic foods into the mainstream has reached some of SoCal’s main retailers like Mother’s Markets, Rainbow Acres, Erewhon, and Whole Foods Markets. Rod’s dream was to create an eatery where diners can make healthy and positive changes in their lives. His dream came true and Leaf Organics is now the place to go to when you want to eat from a unique and organic menu. Creative and original items include salads, veggie burgers, rice and noodle bowls, pizza, vegan desserts, chai with … Learn More »

Open since 1983, Diddy Riese, located in Westwood, CA has been serving some of the Los Angeles’ tastiest cold treats. For only $1.50, you can choose your cookies and ice cream and create your perfect ice cream sandwich. Their cookies are baked fresh daily and are available for purchase to have in your own home. This landmark establishment is situated on Broxton Avenue, one of the main streets in the area where the college crowd hangs out. You are sure to find a line out the door, however, not to worry, Diddy Riese stays open late and the line moves … Learn More »

The Farm of Beverly Hills offers a California spin on classic down home cooking. Taking an innovative approach to everyday American comfort foods, The Farm of Beverly Hills’ breakfast favorites include the Farmer’s Benedict and Huevos Rancheros. Lunch sees staples such as The Farm Classic Cheeseburger, Meatloaf Sandwich, and Maple Baked Salmon Salad. Dinner features the renown Dill Pickle Fried Chicken and Farm Chicken Pot Pie. The Famous Farm Brownie will satiate any chocoholic’s sweet tooth. An array of options is available for every meal, and each menu throughout the day features the freshest ingredients available. For food that satisfies … Learn More »

Up the stairs of the Via Rodeo, on the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive is 208 Rodeo. A quaint and casual fine dining experience, 208 Rodeo has elegant outdoor patio dining that is perfect for people watching or just relaxing with old friends. The restaurant serves modern American cuisine made up of eclectic influences from around the world. Chef Alejandro Arrieta focuses on technique and ingredients when dishing up his signature cuisine. With a varied selection from the breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert menu, 208 Rodeo gives those looking to take a respite from the hustle of Rodeo … Learn More »