Anzu is a tiny window hidden off Sawtelle where we get our Japanese fried chicken or "karaage" fix. It's available either in a burger style or bento with rice. We love their fries and simple mini salad, too. It's delicious Japanese casual street fare worth looking for in the middle of west side J-town.

Cassell's is a burger joint started in 1948 by Al Cassell (famous for grinding fresh beef daily) offering breakfast & classic American fare in a diner setting in the middle of Koreatown because it now resides in the historic Hotel Normandie. We highly recommend their 1/3 lb. cheeseburgers but leave room for a milkshake, some house made pie, and a craft cocktail from their fully stocked bar.

Papa Cristos is a Greek family style restaurant and market across the street from Saint Sophia's Greek Orthodox Cathedral in the Pico-Union part of Los Angeles. It started in 1948 as in importing/exporting business for goods from Greece and opened its taverna in 1985. We love perusing the aisles full of olive oils, spices, and culinary goodies after enjoying a full plate of marinated chicken skewers served with greek salad, lemony roasted potatoes, pita, and tzatziki. Always save room for a piece of their seragli, rolled baklava topped with ground pistachios.

The Mar Vista is a boon to the Mar Vista neighborhood. This restaurant from chefs D. Brandon Walker and Jill Davie features an open kitchen, a buzzy bar and a fold-down Murphy Bed–type stage for live music. The seasonally changing, California-centric menu plays to the diverse cultures of LA. We like the torn potatoes and the pot o' burrata for a quick and tasty lunch in a contemporary but casual setting.

The Wallace is a true California restaurant serving seasonally inspired shared plates focusing on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. We go for their elevated happy hour menu, paired with a glass of sparkling rosé champagne. Great for an easy date night too!