Now on Resy: Cafe Triste, Marouch, Sora Craft Kitchen, and More Local Favorites

This Brenwood staple is part of the swarm of Italian restaurants that fill the few bustling blocks around San Vicente Boulevard — but this is one of the OGs. Locals and longstanding regulars rely on favorites like tricolore salads, classic pastas, grilled veal chops, and tiramisu.

Does food taste better with a view of yachts bobbing in the water? Absolutely. This Italian favorite in the Marina scene has a boatload of classic dishes like tender clams and mussels steamed in white wine and crispy calamari fritti — and the views are just as good.

Dining in this charming space, with exposed beams, a fire place, and stained glass windows, feels like dining in someone’s home — and that has as much to do with the cozy hacienda decor as with the friendly staff. The menu is full of creative takes on Mexican classics like lobster tacos, cornbread with braised short rib, and kale and shiitake flautas. Definitely add a side of mole potatoes, and round out the meal with a mezcal old fashioned.

With one bite of the light, lacy, and crisp Kyoto-style tempura at this Japanese import, you’ll realize you never really had tempura until now. The omakase comes with ethereal pieces of fish, wagyu, and vegetables all fried with special batters — none greasy or heavy. Details like the salt trio for dipping and attentive service are hallmarks.

A sweet little spot for any and all sushi cravings, head to Mama M for sashimi and creative, flavor-packed rolls. This family-run spot has been accruing regulars for years, with a cozy dining room and a sidewalk patio that’s ideal for breezy Pasadena nights.

This is classic Italian at its best: Locanda Veneta has been a hub in the Beverly Grove neighborhood for over two decades, beloved for its lobster ravioli in saffron sauce, tender ossobuco, and freshly baked ciabatta. Regulars know to rely on the daily specials including a three-course prix-fixe dinner that includes dessert.

This unassuming Koreatown strip mall gem hits big with the quality and presentation of every dish, from silky salmon carpaccio to melt-in-your-mouth toro on garlic toast. Traditionalists go for sashimi and nigiri, but the creative rolls and udon always hit the spot.

No matter the year, lore, or renovations, this classic neighborhood spot never goes out of style. Garlic knots, meatballs, chopped salad, pastas (wild mushroom or clams and linguine are always winners), and a martini or two make any night. Not ready for it to end? There’s always post-dinner drinks at speakeasy-esque The Rendition Room or The Velvet Martini Lounge next door.

There’s a night at Vitello’s Restaurant, and then there’s a night at its swank alter ego. Head to the back of the restaurant to find this moody spot filled with 1930s glamour. Order from the menu (it’s the same as Vitello’s) or just sit for sipping while Ella, Billie, and Frank sing from the jukebox. Specialty cocktails all speak to today, but a classic martini is always perfect here.

Tucked inside Vitello’s Restaurant, this cocktail lounge is a little more tongue-in-cheek than its sister bar next door. You might find a chef-prepared TV dinner on special and classic movie nights, but know that The Velvet’s an excellent spot for a bite, cocktails, and entertainment, all in one fell swoop.

Perched at the top of the Mondrian, this sleek spot gives Tulum vibe with views for days. Taco plates, bright salads, fresh crudos, and sashimi pop in the bright space. Big bites like the slow-roasted short rib barbacoa served tableside on the bone is sure to draw attention, as does the margarita with zhoug.

Just come with a group: It’ll be difficult getting out of this Venice gem without wanting to try everything on the menu, from bihun goreng and Hainanese chicken rice to creamy laksa. Or, simply go for the nasi bungkus for a little sampler of Simpang specialties (chicken and vegetable curries, beef rendang, and sambal egg), all wrapped up in a banana leaf.

If you fancy a particular North London (or really, any) football club, chances are you’ll be able to watch the game alongside other fans packing the joint (and sidewalk). But you don’t have to love soccer to come to this Culver City spot — there’s plenty for an enjoyable night out, from burgers and fried chicken sandwiches to kale salad and linguine with mussels.

When you think of Malibu sunsets and ocean views for days, it probably looks like the sights you get from this rooftop. Make it light and breezy for breakfast with egg white omelets and green juice, or keep it simple for dinner with skirt steak skewers, veggie tacos, and rosé.

Hidden amongst the swath of Glendale shopping malls, this intimate trattoria is the place to tuck away for Italian bites and a glass (or two) of vino. Crostini, tuna tartare, and citrus and fennel salad are the way to start, then add a plate of pasta, something hearty, and finish with a silky panna cotta.

This Japanese chain is known for its incredibly crispy and juicy fried chicken, served choose-your-own-adventure-style with a slew of toppings from wasabi mayo to cheese. But there’s so much more to this izakaya, like the deep-fried eggs, truffle fries, and mentaiko udon. Ice-cold beer and sake are a must.