LAZY OX CANTEEN

This cute and cozy eatery is a favorite for all local gastronomes in the know. Chef Josef Centeno blends his diverse, ethnic heritage with his impressive experience, having worked in such prestigious restaurants as Daniel and La Cote Basque in New York, Charles Nob Hill and Aubergine in California.

The hard to define magical menu is inspired by modern and traditional French, Mexican, Japanese and Catalan dishes. Chef Centeno’s ingredient-driven creativeness conjures up inventive dishes such as Lamb Neck Hash with jidori egg and pickled mint onions, melt in your mouth Ricotta Fritters with saffron honey, Dashi marinaded Yellowtail, and a guilt ridden Crispy Pork Belly sandwich with garlic alioli. The crunchy, salty-sweet Caramelized Cauliflower with pine nuts, chili flakes & mint will create cauliflower converts everywhere.

Bustling and vibrant, the packed bar is filled with foodies taking advice from the friendly bartenders for the perfect libation to match their dishes. A remarkable selection of wines, beers, sakes and shochu. Begin with one of their selections of crisp Belgium Beers, or the lighter Bundaberg ginger beer. Be sure to save room for dessert with the creamiest, most luxurious rice pudding on the planet.

241 S San Pedro St.      (213) 626-5299

PRIMITIVO

Primitivo is the King of the Westside tapas bars. Chef Eddy Shin earned his stripes working with the famed Patina group for seven years. Now his eclectic menu veers towards multiple genres, merging simple sensibility with complex flavors.

Braised Short Ribs, Bacon-wrapped Dates, Four-Cheese Gnocchi, and Tiger Shrimp are a few of the superb dishes served in a candlelit dining room.

A regionally diverse list features over 300 wines, with obscure selections from India, Croatia, China and Canada, alongside the Barolos and Chateauneuf du Pape. The wine descriptions are poetically coherent, and helpfully suggests food pairings.

The garden patio is lovely during warmer nights. A seat at the bar guarantees an oenophile discussion with the locals.

1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd.       (310) 396-5353