BOUCHON

Now there's one less reason to travel all the way to Yountville. Acclaimed chef Thomas Keller continues to exceed all expectations in his growing empire with an unforgettable dining experience in Beverly Hills.

Say bonjour to Bouchon. A casual French bistro rooted in tradition, where you can expect le crème de la crème of French classics, such as sublime Steak Frites, a juicy Croque Madame, Moules au Safron, and a Grand Plateau filled with the freshest oysters, shrimps, clams, mussels, crab and lobster. Or the more adventurous Boudin Blanc, a white sausage with potato puree and poached prunes. Perfect with a glass of crisp champagne, or one of the French or Californian Wines, on the extensive wine list. The Pot de Crème tops off the meal beautifully.

Frequented by Hollywood business execs, curious restaurateurs, the European elite and those fortunate enough to afford this sensational cuisine.

235 N Canon Drive       (310) 271-9910

CUT

Wolfgang Puck means business. Serious food business. No where else can one experience the quality, expert preparation and presentation, than at this highly acclaimed steakhouse. Located at the luxurious Beverly Wilshire Hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills, this is a place to see and be seen, while savouring a lengthy menu that will delight any carnivore.

CUT has been consistent in receiving high praise. Perhaps it’s the high quality and aging of the meat, apparent with the signature dishes such as the Kobe Beef Short Ribs with Indian spices and curried corn puree, or the Bone in Rib Eye Steak served with your choice of sauce, side and accompaniments. Consider the Maple glazed Pork Belly with Asian spices, watercress and sesame-orange dressing, or Bone Marrow Flan with mushroom marmalade. The well-advised staff provides assistance with an extensive wine list.

A constant stream of financiers, producers and Hollywood actresses flow into the chic, contemporary, Richard Meier-designed space. You might even bump into the world renowned Chef himself, but more than likely you’ll be entertained by the buzz of the celebs and their star studded conversations.

9500 Wilshire Blvd at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel
(310) 275-5200

FOGO DE CHÃO

Fun and leisurely, with its rustic gaucho-style ambiance, Fogo de Chão Churrascaria is an event in itself. They may cater to the serious meat eater, but their huge salad bar offers over 30 items of fresh cut vegetables, imported cheeses and Brazilian side dishes. Don’t get too distracted, there’s plenty of food to come. Turning the little disc on your place mat to green, signals that you are ready for the Gaucho chefs to slice from 15 cuts of delectable fire roasted skewered meats, brought to the table at steady intervals. Chew your way though cuts such as the signature steak, Picanha (Top Sirloin), Filet Mignon, Rib Eye, Pork Ribs, Sausage and Lamb. Flip the disc to red to stop the manic meat overload.

A predominantly South American wine list includes some terrific Argentinean and Chilean selections. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, sharing their advice on the perfect bottle to complement your meal. Sipping the signature Caipirinha made with Brazilian Cachaça will transport you to the beaches of Bahia.

The pre-fixe menu includes limitless side dishes such as the soft pao de quiejo (warm cheese bread). One bite into these soft balls of heaven will make it difficult to exert self-control. End your Beverly Hills/Brazilian experience with the traditional Papaya Cream dessert. Come hungry.

133 N La Cienega Blvd      (310) 289-7755

KIRIKO            Japanese

Hidden in a humble strip mall is one of the finest sushi places in Los Angeles. Chef/owner Ken Namba brings his influence of spending his youth at the Tsjusiki Fish Market and Tokyo's sushi bars to West LA.

As Japanese restaurants go, Kiriko stands apart by the quality and creativity of their menu. The discriminating clientele, including many renowned Japanese chefs, (it is said to be one of Nobu's favorites), is a sure-fire indicator of the exquisite flavor sensations this restaurant has to offer.

A seat at the Sushi Bar is your best option. Choose from an extensive list of sashimi, the freshest and rarest sushi, and exquisitely formulated specials. Must tries include, Kampachi Carpaccio, a thinly sliced amber jack carpaccio, or the seared Wild Blue Fin Tuna with garlic soy and truffle butter. Smoked Salmon with mango and caviar is the most flavorful you will ever taste outside of Japan. The Omakase (Chef's choice) menu is a Japanese gastronomic experience.

Chef Namba is also a notable sake sommelier, suggesting the perfect sip to compliment your dish. Intimate and authentic, this is definitely sushi worth the seeking.

11301 W. Olympic Blvd #102       (310) 478-7769

NATE 'N AL

Nate ‘n Al has been a tradition to the rich and famous, eccentric personalities, and deli-lovers in Beverly Hills for over 65 years.

Known for their satisfying Jewish comfort food favorites, like Corned Beef or Pastrami on rye, Beef Brisket, and Short Ribs. Delicious Matzo Ball Soup, Stuffed Cabbage, rich Chopped Liver, and dense Potato Pancakes are just like momma makes. And why shouldn’t their wild Smoked Nova Salmon be flown in from New York? Strudels and cheesecake are some of the many tempting dessert treats. Don’t miss the Nate ‘n Al Special Hot Dog, which Nora Ephron claimed would be her “last meal on this Earth”. A great option for breakfast, too.

Sweet motherly waitresses in 1950’s attire treat diners with warm smiles, no matter who they are. Nate ‘n Al is a real deli with heart.

414 N Beverly Dr      (310) 274-0101

NOOK

Nook is the epitome of a neighborhood bistro-- Communal tables, seasonal rotating menu, warm knowledgeable staff, and food that leaves one more than satisfied. This find is literally in a nook of a mini mall on a busy west LA main drag. Instantly inviting, savvy diners are treated to a friendly atmosphere and creative cuisine.

The chef focuses on seasonal, market-fresh ingredients. Pushing the envelope on American classics, this is comfort food raised to the next level.

Not to be missed is the Nook Burger served with red onion wine jam and Gruyere cheese. The Pork Chop goes above and beyond with Stilton cheese, Asian pears and an apricot vinaigrette.

Shitake Gruyere bread pudding is simultaneously decadent and airy, and serves as a perfect side for the array of braised meats, grilled fish, and a house favorite-- chick pea and butternut squash stew.

An elegant selection of beers are available on tap.

11628 Santa Monica Blvd #9      (310) 207-5160

URASAWA            Japanese

In the tiny minimalist dining area, Chef Hiro Urasawa reigns supreme, as the smiling and friendly Sushi King. He leads you through a menu of exotic fresh fish, flown directly from Tokyo, artistically sliced with precision using his custom made Japanese knife. Watch him create his culinary works of art, including the sesame seed Tofu, topped with Beluga caviar and 24 carat gold flakes, the melt in your mouth Toro, Foie Gras Shabu Shabu, Shark Fin soup, the freshest Sashimi served in a hand carved ice bowl, and the many other tasty dishes presented to the fortunate diners. Of course, the service is impeccable.

Urasawa is not a Japanese restaurant where you can frequent often …unless you have unlimited funds. By the end of the evening, you might not mind spending $275 per person. For dedicated Japanese foodies, it will be one of the most memorable dining experiences ever.

218 N Rodeo Drive       (310) 247-8939