Quick Bite Restaurants

Rogelio and Janet Huidobro opened the first Café Sevilla in 1987, honoring their homeland with a Spanish restaurant in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. After finding additional success in Riverside, they launched in downtown Long Beach in 2006. Mid week, the old-world setting draws business types. Weekends attract a younger crowd for upstairs dancing and dinner shows. Café Sevilla specializes in pans of paella and traditional Spanish tapas. The reasonably priced wine list is especially strong on full-bodied Spanish reds like Tempranillo and Torre Oria. Learn More »

For a taste of the Mediterranean, those in Simi Valley can head to Greek House Cafe. Although the archetypal exterior reflects its surrounding strip mall, Greek House Café is a break from the norm. Featuring classic dishes such as Kabobs, Hummus, and Spanakopita, the menu lets diners choose their favorite Greek delights. What keeps guests returning for more are the Pita bread sandwiches and entrees. The sandwiches offer a selection of Gyro, Chicken, Lamb, or Falafel wrapped in warm pita smothered under tzatziki sauce and onions. The dinner plates come complete with Roast Potatoes or Rice, Green Veggies, Soup or … Learn More »

Composing a colorful mosaic of Italian small plates, or enotecas, Master Chef Celestino Drago brings the heart of Italy to his aptly named Beverly Hills restaurant, Enoteca Drago. Rustic authenticity is the key to this regional Italian cuisine menu, and seasonal and artisanal ingredients bring the flavors to life. Before one takes a single bite, he or she may gain insight into Chef Drago’s vision by noticing the décor – the cherry wood communal dining table set center stage hopes to encourage a shared dining experience, while the use of weathered stone and touches of terra cotta transport us far … Learn More »

Adopting the iconic canary-colored building familiar to many Venice locals is Ado Ristorante, the brainchild of Co-owner Paulo Cesaro and Chef Antonio Mure’. This rustic Italian cuisine eatery marries the understated sophistication of its earthy décor of exposed wood beams and simple wood seating with a welcoming menu of unpretentious authentic fare. The Taagliolini Rossi is a rich dish of homemade red beets pasta in a Marsala quail egg ragu, and the Tagliata di Cinghiale is a savory delight of grilled wild boar tenderloin served with a white port and raspberry sauce. Learn More »

Beacon stands as a go-to destination for innovative Asian cuisine that seamlessly marries traditional technique with visionary flavors. Chef Matsusaka utilizes years of experience as both a classic and avant-garde chef to create a menu that is equally inviting as it is adventurous. Dishes like the Green Tea Soba Noodle Salad and the Miso Braised Shortribs shine in the stark yet comforting décor of the restaurant’s main dining space. Bare cement walls stand tall along floor-to-ceiling windows that wash the entire space in warm light, while the outdoor patio provides a relaxed and lively spot to savor the fine Asian … 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 »

Barbrix Restaurant and Wine Bar is a new venue in Silver Lake serving fusion dishes consisting of Italian and Spanish cuisine with a Californian flare. The menu and décor are creative, modern, and eclectic with an ambiance that is intimate and friendly. This unique venue offers cooking classes, and a wine list that nicely complements their menu. Try such dishes as Pamplona and steak frites. Barbrix also prepares delectable desserts, such as their nutella crème brulee. Whether you’re interested in a quick bite or a gathering of friends to enjoy good food and a few glasses of wine, Barbrix is … Learn More »

BottleRock’s philosophy is simple: “passion about wine, beer, food, and the subtle intermingling and fusion of tastes.” This idea pervades the entirety of the wine bar’s menu. Bottle Rock presents an extensive wine list alongside an inventive selection of appetizers, entrees, desserts, and cheeses. The Los Angeles hotspot has two locations: one in Downtown and the other in Culver City. Both locations are part tasting room, part wine retailer, and part quick bites. BottleRock also carries handcrafted beers and sake, and the venue encourages guests to explore new flavors and combinations. Their food menu changes seasonally and is presented to … Learn More »

If you’re in the valley and searching for a trendy and sophisticated hangout for the evening, head to Rocco’s Tavern in Studio City. This rapidly expanding Los Angeles rendezvous is located on Ventura Boulevard at Whitsett Avenue. Rocco’s Tavern is open for lunch, dinner, drinks, and late night fare daily. Their menu is full of Italian favorites and they have a full bar along with 20 beers on tap, more in bottles, and a respectable wine list. Rocco’s has both indoor and outdoor patio seating accompanied by a mixture of bar stools, booths, and tables. The décor is simple yet … 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 »

Ready for a bit of old world European charm? Look no further than Il Tramezzino. The quaint Italian café is a genuine place of culinary mastery and excellence. The restaurant distinguished itself amongst its Beverly Hills neighbors on “Restaurant Row” by preparing custom baked goods and traditional Italian cuisine. They have an extensive menu that is every bit as creative as it is delicious. Il Tramezzino invites guests to enjoy a temporary European vacation as they dine in a familial, laid back atmosphere with superb service. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, delivers and caters. Head out to one … Learn More »

Dino’s Chicken & Burgers may have a full menu featuring breakfast items (served until 11:00 a.m.), sandwiches, burritos, tacos, and burgers, but what makes this Los Angeles restaurant a local fast food institution is the famous charbroiled chicken. The Chicken Dinner is ½ a Chicken, French Fries, Homemade Coleslaw, and Tortillas and diners come back time and again to get their hands stained red with Dino’s famous marinade. The chicken is served on top of the fries, and it is one of the rare instances where soggy fries are an added treat. For an affordable meal in South Los Angeles, … 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 »

For a causal night out with family or friends, Chi Chi’s Pizza is the place. This Italian-American restaurant dishes up hungry patrons in the Simi Valley area an assortment of sandwiches, pastas, and pizza in a bustling environment. In the pasta department, Chi Chi’s homemade Spaghetti, Springs, Shells, Rigatoni, and Whole Wheat noodles are smothered with sauce. Pizza lovers can create the pizza pie of their dreams by pilling toppings ranging from classic pepperoni, to anchovies, to Fried Jalapeño peppers, for an extra kick. Those looking for the American side of the menu can order the “Famous Golden Pressure Fried … Learn More »

Bamboo Café combines Vietnamese cuisine and stylish décor together to create a tranquil escape to a faraway land for Simi Valley locals. Hidden behind a façade of bamboo trunks awaits a healthy approach to Vietnamese classics. Starter favorites include standard Spring Rolls, and the Beef or Chicken Salad. Pho lovers have their choice of meats, but the pride of the restaurant is the Bamboo Café Noodle Soup, featuring Filet Mignon, Shrimp, and Beef in a tasty broth with Rice Noodles.Plastered around the restaurant are photos of Pho enthusiasts who conquered the “Pho Real” challenge by finishing a hefty bowl of … 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 »

Sweet Rose Creamery offers small batches of homemade ice cream to those looking for a cool treat in Brentwood. The fine folks at Sweet Rose use only organic ingredients in creating their fabulous flavors, and never use any stabilizers or ice cream bases. Toppings, cones, sauces, and ice cream sandwiches are made from scratch on a daily basis, so patrons can rest assured that freshness is at the forefront at Sweet Rose Creamery. Ice cream flavors feature rotating staples like Peanut Butter with Brownie Bites, Ginger with Honey, and Toasted Coconut with availability throughout the year. Classics like Old Fashioned … Learn More »

Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro is synonymous with a fun and fulfilling dining experience at The Grove in the heart of Los Angeles. With a diverse seasonal menu ranging from cheese and charcuterie to fresh seafood, prime cuts of steak, and even fondue, this successful L.A. establishment caters to the palates of all who walk through the doors. Enjoy a glass of wine and wonderful views of The Grove's lively fountain while you dine. Morels French Steakhouse offers more than 60 wines by the glass, and for those who truly enjoy a superb pairing of wine and cheese, Morels provides … Learn More »

Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza and Grill serves Palm Desert locals and vacationers an expansive selection of ambrosial American cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the El Paseo Shopping District location offers a collection of soups, salads, tapas, tacos, burgers, wraps, and an assortment of specialty pizzas. Using only the freshest ingredients, the diverse menu includes plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for guests to enjoy. A Southern Californian favorite since 1989, this family-friendly restaurant puts an innovative spin on the traditional pizza pie. Aside from tasty classics like Margherita and Royal Hawaiian, Sammy’s presents artistic toppings from Burrata and … Learn More »