$50 - $75 Restaurants

In this confection of a restaurant, Il Cielo presents a wondrously elegant and stunningly romantic setting that is sure to bewitch even the most cosmopolitan of patrons. Owner and Executive Chef Pasquale Vericella has meticulously created a destination restaurant where guests can bask in the charms of Il Cielo’s visual beauty and revel in its exquisite Northern Italian cuisine. Nestled in a residential area of fabled Beverly Hills a couple miles east of Rodeo Drive, Il Cielo beguiles guests with a captivating romantic beauty created by its casually elegant décor, twinkling lights, and lush foliage. Learn More »

Kate Mantilini in Beverly Hills is not just another diner it is a local landmark. Proprietors Harry and Marilyn Lewis established Kate Mantilini in 1987 after selling their first foray into the restaurant business, Hamburger Hamlet, which the couple opened together in 1950. The menu at Kate Mantilini is extensive, with deli classics, gourmet diet fare, mountainous salads, and refined entrees like pork chops and frog legs. Open from early morning to late at night, and always packed with celebrities, wheeling-and-dealing producers, post-theater diners, and retirees, this upscale yet casual joint has something for everyone. Breakfast is served all day, … Learn More »

Dining at Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is an opulent experience. Dishes feature the highest quality ingredients, cooked to perfection, and served in generous portions. Start off with their creamy lobster bisque and then try the “Chef’s Cut” New York Strip. The ambiance is full of high energy with an undertone of elegance, with dark wood and subdued lighting throughout the dining room. Live entertainment and an extensive wine list add the final changes to an already exquisite dining experience. For a night of elegant dining in a luxurious setting, try Mastro’s Steakhouse. Learn More »

Nic’s takes the feeling of upscale grandeur and mixes it with the smooth feeling of the current surfer youth of Los Angeles. Patrons can enjoy private vodka dining lounges to go along with the martini bar. The food is mainly American fare with a few distinctive international twists. The main idea of Nic’s is to have fun. The restaurant illustrates just that with its exquisite menu and the wild outfits of those in the vodka lounge. Live music is provided on Monday, Thursday, and Friday with leanings towards jazz and R&B. That having been established, cocktail parties and dancing are … Learn More »

Chef-owner Sal Marino, has delighted Los Angelenos for the past decade with his contemporary, market-driven approach to traditional Italian cuisine. Centrally located near the intersection of the 10 and 405 freeways, Il Grano draws a steady crowd of well-heeled Westsiders craving pristine crudo, house-made pastas, and unpretentious entrees. He writes a new menu every month, to capitalize on “whatever swims in the ocean and grows on Mother Earth.” Noted sommelier Peter Birmingham keeps pace with inspired wine pairings and pastry chef Corinne Sidelsrud’s desserts share Marino's seasonal approach, minus the swimming ingredients. 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 »

Veterans of the Los Angeles dining scene since 1981, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger have garnered national acclaim and multimedia stardom with their modern approach to Mexican cooking. Throughout their ascension, the duo has managed to keep their Santa Monica flagship vital. A magnet for both tourists and locals, Border Grill showcases colorful murals and plentiful portions of equally vibrant Mexican cooking. With encyclopedic menus and daily specials, ordering can be daunting, but regardless of the selection, the dishes are consistently flavorful. The duo’s attention to detail lasts through dessert, with house-baked cakes and strong, spice-infused café de olla. Learn More »

Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi is a family managed restaurant that has been serving the Los Angeles area for over fifteen years. The restaurant offers simplicity, authenticity, the love for tradition, and full respect for their customers. Try such dishes as Risotto with roasted peppers and Dungeness crab or Sweet Corn Agnolotti with mascarpone and truffle butter. They even sell their own tasty sauce so you can make your own dishes at home. This is nice place for getting together with family and friends to enjoy a good meal and wonderful service. Learn More »

Since 1979, Michael's has presented modern American cuisine with a French influence. The decor is light and airy, with a spacious, uncluttered dining room featuring modern art from an array of great contemporary artists. The lush, serene patio garden allows guests a chance to enjoy the Southern California weather while dining. An extensive wine list includes more than eight hundred labels from California, France, Italy, and wine growing regions from across the globe. The secluded garden, landscaped with a variety of trees, exotic flowers, and flowing fountains, creates an ambience ideal for a garden party, a relaxing meal, or romantic … Learn More »

The restaurant exclusively features specially selected and aged USDA prime beef. In addition, there are live Maine lobsters, Alaskan king crab, fresh seafood, double-cut lamb chops, pork, veal and rotisserie. While enjoying the stylish, contemporary craftsman motif, the discriminating diner can select from an extensive wine list (recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence) or enjoy one of the many premium single-malt Scotches or martinis. There is also a patio for dining. Learn More »

Near the Playhouse, in one of the quaintest districts in Pasadena, a rare jewel sparkles in the Crown City—Maison Akira. Step off the bustling Green Street into the foyer door and find yourself halfway around the world in an elegant restaurant just off Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence, France. Though distinctly French, a peaceful Zen-like esthetic pervades the atmosphere. That is because Maison Akira is home of the world-renowned chef Hirose Akira. His menu is like a symphony of truly beautiful French classics, made modern and dazzling with subtle Japanese influences, like his signature Miso-infused Chilean Sea Bass, which has made … Learn More »

Parkway Grill brings together casual sophistication, elegance, and even a grand piano to create a dining experience that is pleasing to the eye and the palate. The restaurant specializes in Regional American Cuisine using a seasonal, market driven approach to cooking that incorporates diverse influences and classic French technique. Try such dishes as their Grilled Kobe Burger with maytag blue cheese, tomato aioli, sweet potato fries or the Grilled Filet Mignon with Yukon gold “smoked” mashed potatoes, wild mushroom ragout, marsala-veal reduction. Give your tastebuds a vaction and let them enjoy the scrumptious Parkway Grill creations. Learn More »

Nico's is a contemporary American bistro with subtle French and Italian inspiration. Covered in art deco posters and straw-colored walls, this chic and cozy hot spot serves up a wide array of entrees from Dungeness crab cakes to New York Strip. The intimate décor complete with candle light and the upscale ambience makes Nico’s a fine choice for a romantic evening on the town with that special someone. The upstairs cocktail lounge is a wonderful place to kick back and enjoy a drink while waiting for a reservation, should guests arrive early, or just a place to unwind after a … Learn More »

With an amazing 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles county as well as a history that dates back to 1926, The Sky Room atop the Breakers Hotel is a timeless Los Angeles landmark. Classic Art Deco décor transports diners to the Supper Club era of the 1920's and 30's, when dining out was synonymous with elegance and style. The menu offers French infused California cuisine with elegantly presented dishes that include Maine lobster and Colorado rack of lamb along with an inspired collection of wine that compliments Chef Juan Carlos's menu. Fine china, linens, and crystal hark … Learn More »

Hidden from the desert heat the Steakhouse at the Spa Resort Casino in Palm Springs is a carnivore’s oasis. Dimly lit, The Steakhouse contrasts against the vivid sunshine of the surrounding environment, and brightens diner’s palates with succulent meat and seafood entrees. From the first glance of the backlighted menu, The Steakhouse at Spa Resort Casino lives up to its name as a meat eater’s paradise. The list of appetizers covers dishes from the earth and the sea, with options like Jumbo Sea Scallops to Escargot with garlic butter, Brie and sourdough bread. The main entrée selection boasts traditional cuts … Learn More »

Located in the heart of downtown Fullerton, The Cellar is located in the basement of downtown Fullerton’s historic three-story Villa del Sol, the setting is reminiscent of the Old Europe. With a heavy-beamed ceiling, stone walls, and crystal chandeliers, the restaurant promises an intimate and romantic setting. The Old-World charm extends to the French-inspired menu, with courses such as lobster bisque and Norwegian smoked salmon. The exquisite fine dining experience is crowned by the Cellar's award-winning wine collection featuring an extensive selection of over 1400 wines. Learn More »

Once surrounded by an enormous orange grove, this landmark jewel was built as a family home in 1909. The Victorian decor exhibits extravagance and splendor; with warm tones accented by soft lighting and tapestries exude elegance. The atmosphere is only outdone by the kitchen’s French-influenced Northern Italian fare. The menu is peppered with fame and glamour, with playfully-named dishes such as Sophia Loren Caviar and Cartier Calamari. With 12 private rooms, the White House is ideally suited for private parties and groups; while the elegant ambiance makes the White House an excellent destination for any special occasion, large or small. Learn More »

The First Cabin, located in the Balboa Bay Club and Resort, perfectly captures the essence of the Newport Harbor with its panoramic bay views. The menu offers classic Californian cuisine, with dishes such as creamy lobster bisque and beef tenderloin. Complimented by a wide selection of more than 600 wines, including vintages from around the world, The First Cabin received praise for its wine collection with awards from both Wine Spectator and the Distinguished Restaurants of North America. Chef Josef Lageder uses only the freshest ingredients the season has to offer for the menu, and even offers a special wellness … Learn More »

Located on Alamitos Bay, McKenna’s is scenic and serene as diners overlook the peaceful Pacific while delighting in fresh seafood and succulent prime steaks. Although it resides in the midst of bustling Los Angeles, the tranquil eatery allows guests to experience the al fresco ambiance of sailing lofts as the fresh breezes roll in from the picturesque horizon cooling the grand deck. Lighting up the stage five nights a week, eclectic vocal, guitar, and jazz add smooth harmonic vibes to the relaxed atmosphere, entertaining patrons as they choose from a diverse menu with dishes such as the delicious Hawaiian Ahi … Learn More »

Gemell’s Restaurant has been serving the citizens of Dana Point fine French cuisine for over a decade. Owner and Executive Chef Byron Gemmell is one of Orange Counties culinary elite, and his namesake restaurant reflects his depth of experience and knowledge with the dishes the serves that keep guests returning time and again. Patrons rave about the Lobster Bisque, Lamb, and Chocolate Soufflé, but with a full lunch menu, and Sunday Brunch as well, the dinner menu is not the only star in Gemell’s sky. The cozy dining room is the perfect venue for a meal with that special someone, … Learn More »