California Restaurants

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 »

Opened in March 2005, Ocean and Vine is located in the gorgeous Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, next to Santa Monica pier. The swanky lobby sets the scene for an upmarket experience. The split-level, low-ceilinged room is attractive; the top level is dominated by a steel chimneyed fire pit, with striking artworks adding to the ‘wow’ factor. The cuisine, from Head Chef Robert Trester under the watch of Executive Chef Gregg Wangard, is Californian; each dish a showcase of local, seasonal ingredients. Dishes are near-faultless, and although prices are high, it’s worth coming here for a splurge or special occasion. Learn More »

Classy meets comfortable at Whist, located at the Viceroy Santa Monica, a restaurant offering elegant Coastal Mediterranean cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch. Not only do menu items offer variety, but in order to ensure individual levels of comfort guests are offered several choices in seating locations including the traditional formal dining room, casual poolside tables as well as private chef cabanas for a more intimate experience. Whist is an eatery known for its significantly stylish décor which fuses vintage and modern furnishings. The restaurant excitedly welcomes new Executive Chef, Tony DiSalvo to the team, who uses his vast … Learn More »

Chef Simon Dolinky brings a lot to the table with every dish he creates: His commitment to environmental sustainability and his energetic vision for flavorful cuisine blend quite nicely on the plate. Simple elegant presentations allow the rich and vibrant flavors of his food to shine as diners mingle in a dining space equally refined and satisfying. Deep earth tones bathe the walls in subdued sophistication, while energetic splashes of green pop up in the strategic placement of leafy plants. Small plates of artisan cured meats and cheeses warm the palate, and comforting soups and savory entrée selections warm the … Learn More »

Wilshire elevates the warmth of a neighborhood restaurant to the elegance of haute cuisine. Thomas Schoos’ décor skillfully balances the historic, rough hewn architecture with opulent materials, juxtaposing exposed brick walls with lush leather, hard wood, and amber lighting. Chef Andrew Kirschner’s California fusion menu reinforces the ideal of local sophistication, emphasizing organic ingredients from local producers. Although local in origin, Kirschner’s creations are anything but ordinary, elevating fresh, seasonal ingredients to the heights of epicurean refinement. The outdoor garden and fire-heated private terrace provide a refreshing dose of greenery in Santa Monica’s urban landscape. Learn More »

Whether you’re staying at the Le Merigot Hotel and Spa or are simply searching out a fabulous dining experience, Cezanne is the restaurant to visit. Parisian charm and elegance is served up in abundance here, along with a captivating menu of fine French fare. Massive glass-molded chandeliers, plush upholstered bench seats, and impressive architectural features all make for a subtly dramatic atmosphere complemented by similarly stunning cuisine. Come for breakfast, lunch, or dinner any day of the week and savor your very own bite of French goodness at Cezanne, in Santa Monica. Learn More »

Treating diners to panoramic views of the ocean and located on the Pacific Coast Highway, Gladstones Malibu is one of the most popular restaurants on the Southern California coast. Known for oversized portions, regulars swear by the famous Mile-high Chocolate Cake, huge bowls of crab chowders, and giant lobsters weighing in at up to 6 pounds. The restaurant is also known for their iconic mojitos, including flavors like watermelon, pineapple, and dragonberry; and the restaurant has been voted the best place to watch Monday Night Football on the Westside. So if you’re looking for a memorable meal, head to Gladstones … Learn More »

Situated at the corner of Laurel Canyon and Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, is one of the most delectable frozen yogurt venues in Los Angeles, Studio Yogurt. Their flavors are rich and creamy and many are non fat! Studio Yogurt serves up delicious frozen treats 7 days a week and has been doing so since 1997. They also tend to stay open until around 11pm in case you need that late night fro yo fix. Studio Yogurt has a few staple flavors such as Chocolate, Vanilla and Peanut Butter; however the rest of the board tends to rotate every few … 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 »

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 »

Don't be surprised if you see the ever-present owner Robert Simon welcoming you to his restaurant. The cozy atmosphere is paired wonderfully with the classic, luxurious appearance of the restaurant. Some tasty bistro classics like baked brie and apples and maple leaf farm duck two ways are great dishes to try. Don’t leave without trying their chocolate soup, a chocolate soufflé served with vanilla bean ice cream. While the restaurant does offer great bistro classics, a majority of the food is a fusion of French and California tastes and cooking styles. With creative and delicious dishes, you will want to … Learn More »

Shades Restaurant and Bar embodies the unpretentious elegance of its Huntington Beach location. Formerly the Palm Court, this fixture of the Hilton Waterfront has been given a vibrant new personality through its recent renovation. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere is interpreted differently by its seating options: warm amber lighting and wood accents make for a chic indoor dining experience while the outdoor patio, with its ocean views and sunny tables, is the essence of coastal casual. Chef Jeff Littlefield’s menu is dictated by seasonality, resulting in a quietly sophisticated cuisine that is the epitome of fresh. A meal at Shades is … 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 »

Deep in the heart of Hollywood, four-year old Cinespace is a unique venue that features traditional favorites in a modern atmosphere. Customers can choose to sit in the futuristic-feeling lounge, the open-air patio or the dark and moody screening room. The latter option features a free, intimate film-viewing experience. Executive Chef Stephen Rea’s movie-themed menu is a combination of modern takes on both American and Californian staples. Specialty cocktails are served at the full bar, and a DJ performs live nightly. 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 »

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 »

With nearly every new restaurant offering some sort of fusion cuisine today, Sam’s by the Beach rises above the rest and delivers fresh, smart food in an intimate neighborhood setting just off Pacific Coast Highway. The seasonal menu includes traditional California basics that seem familiar until the taste reveals unique Mediterranean details. The unassuming outside belies the quiet romance waiting inside. Dedicated staff members cater to your every dining need, implementing a special menu if requested and treating each patron as a regular. Visit this surprising getaway to relearn all your old favorites. Learn More »

Offering an atmosphere of casual elegance and attentive service, The Park Grill, offers the French-inspired California cuisine, accompanied by an impressive wine selection. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily in the dining room or in the Garden. Try a Belgian Waffle with Honey-Vanilla Poached Pears or the 8oz Flat Iron Steak with white truffle mac and cheese, glazed baby carrots and wild mushroom demi. Or come for lunch and try a Bento which includes ½ a soup, ½ salad, ½ a sandwich, and assorted mini pastries. Whether you’re just visiting or a local, try Park Grill for a relaxing and … 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 »

The Ivy’s disarmingly rustic décor and chic Californian twist on American comfort food entice both L.A.’s rich and famous, and their adoring public. The charming white picket fence and fragrant roses of its front patio evoke a by-gone era of simplicity and nostalgia, a glaring, but welcome contradiction amidst the ultra-chic posturing of Beverly Hills. The Ivy’s menu is made similarly appealing by its culinary juxtapositions, creating a balance between hearty comfort and refreshing innovation. The Ivy’s star-studded people watching possibilities, its quaintly romantic atmosphere, and its deeply satisfying cuisine ensure a dining experience that is both delightfully homey and … Learn More »