A.O.C. 8700 W. Third St., Beverly Grove; (310) 859-9859, aocwinebar.com.
Since making a move to their bigger, cozier, more elegant location, Suzanne Goin and Carolyn Styne’s A.O.C. has continued to pave the way in modern Californian fine dining. Wine-focused and French-inspired, this mashup of local cuisine and European influence delivers an exceptional experience for foodies, casual diners, and serious drinkers alike. They take the small plate concept to the next level, but also offer platters for communal dining. This means that whether you opt for the fresh grilled half artichoke, oregano & roasted garlic aïoli, share the grilled whole fish, coconut rice, bok choy & lemongrass sambal platter with the table, select from the best wine list on the west coast or delight in bartenders’ hand-crafted cocktails. We haven’t dared mention dessert… 😉
Crossroads 8284 Melrose Ave., Beverly Grove; (323) 782-9245, crossroadskitchen.com.
Melrose Avenue is the perfect location for this swanky, trendy vegan restaurant to have established itself. Since first opening four years ago, Crossroads has sparked a wave of chic vegan restaurants and continued to set the standard. In the kitchen Chef Tal Ronnen and his team focus on placing the vegetables in a starring role on the plate, as opposed to fancying up fake meat, grain bowls, and a collection of sides. Enjoy your rapini with toasted hazelnuts and black garlic, “crab cakes” crafted from hearts of palm, or one of the comforting classics on the menu, paired with a delicious cocktail, or a bottle from their extensive wine list. Although it is vegan, this is a place that even the most devoted meat eater can enjoy.
The Little Door-164 W 3rd St, Los Angeles; (323) 951-1210, littlenextdoor.com
With its charming setting and seasonal French-Mediterranean cuisine, The Little Door serves up specialty late-night and French-Moroccan fare that complements its traditional European cuisine perfectly. Located in West Hollywood, this Parisian-style eatery spotlights organic ingredients fresh from local farmers, served in a romantic candlelit outdoor garden oasis.
Red O – 8155 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles; (323) 655-5009, redorestaurant.com
Red O, a sumptuous fusion of classic steakhouse cuisine and bold Mexican dishes, features fresh seafood and prime steaks. The authentic Mexican sauces are made using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Patrons can select from an award winning wine list and specialty cocktails, as well as a considerable selection of tequila to accompany the satisfying fare.
Jar – 8225 Beverly Blvd., Beverly Grove; (323) 655-6566, thejar.com
Located on one of Beverly Grove’s busiest streets, Chef Suzanne Tracht’s & Preech Narkthong“modern chophouse,” Jar, embodies everything that people love about steakhouses, both new and traditional. With its signature retro American dishes, including Lemon Grass Chicken, Kansas City Steak, Pot Roast, Fried Ipswich Clams, Roasted Wild King Salmon and Black Mussels. Jar is serving up the mid-century charm, perfect martinis and good vibes galore, and blending LA glamor and modern dining seamlessly.