Meet For A Drink Restaurants

Your senses may revel in the stunningly engaging décor and modern Japanese cuisine menu presented at Katsuya. Executive Chef Katsuya masterfully crafts traditional sushi rolls and distinctive specialty dishes to please more seasoned and fresh palates alike. Dishes like the Crispy Rice and Spicy Tuna and the Kobe Filet with Foie Gras have developed their own loyal following. Chef Katsuya’s artful menu is complemented and heightened by the truly innovative and equally satisfying décor of designer Philippe Starck. Striking contrasts of black and white capture snippets of moments for patrons to muse over as they dine in the appetizing “wooden …

Situated in Manhattan Beach's downtown area, just a block away from the pier, Rock’ N Fish is a local favorite offering a classic New Orleans styled dining room. Surrounded by tall ceilings and hand painted murals, the area appeals to a variety of moods and tastes. Oak grilled fish, signature sandwiches, and Alaskan king crab are some of the menu's highlights. The bar offers the restaurant’s signature "Navy Grog" drink as well as one of the most extensive wine lists in the area. For a fine meal, strong drinks, and a great time, check out Rock’ N Fish!

Opened in March 2005, Ocean and Vine is located in the gorgeous Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, next to Santa Monica pier. The swanky lobby sets the scene for an upmarket experience. The split-level, low-ceilinged room is attractive; the top level is dominated by a steel chimneyed fire pit, with striking artworks adding to the ‘wow’ factor. The cuisine, from Head Chef Robert Trester under the watch of Executive Chef Gregg Wangard, is Californian; each dish a showcase of local, seasonal ingredients. Dishes are near-faultless, and although prices are high, it’s worth coming here for a splurge or special occasion.

Dish in La Cañada Flintridge has been serving up California comfort food to the chagrin of hungry patrons. Weeknight specials included Fried Chicken Tuesday and half-off beers on Monday nights. All items are made in house, including Banana pancakes featuring banana batter, and desserts like the decadent Turtle Bar. The folksy atmosphere, accentuated by the shabby-chic décor, has touches like pop-up toaster ovens on each table so diners can toast their bread to exact taste. With a warm and cozy feel and filling meals, it is no wonder Dish is popular among those looking for something a little different.

If your idea of a great meal is garlic, garlic, and more garlic, head to Restaurant Row on La Cienega and visit The Stinking Rose. Executive Chef and owner Andrea Froncillo has created a garlic lover’s paradise, featuring great food in a wildly fun, garlic-themed atmosphere. Fantastic for large parties, the restaurant boasts a varied menu with specialties including roasted crab, prime rib, pastas, and giant tureens of steamed clams, all bathed in garlic. Don’t forget to visit "Dracula’s Grotto," one of many ornately decorated rooms, and to try Gilroy’s Famous Garlic Ice Cream.

Every aspect of Oliver Café in Beverly Hills represents top talents in the fields of design, business management, and innovative cuisine. Combining the culinary talents of Chef Francisco Ochoa with the restaurant acumen of Mario Oliver and the genius of interior designer, Dodd Mitchell, Oliver Cafe offers an irresistible and contemporary backdrop for breakfast, lunch, chill-out hour, or dinner. The menu features health conscious dishes, with certain items endorsed by the house “Register Dietician” to fall within a certain specified caloric range. For those in Beverly Hills looking for something light to nosh on, give Oliver Café a try.

A premier full service dinner house since 1965, The Rusty Pelican is a Newport Beach landmark. The charming waterfront cottage features fresh seafood prepared in innovative ways, with dishes like "The Flagship”, a fresh brandy-herb marinated piece of mahi mahi dusted with cajun spices and Kentucky bourbon sauce. Serving lunch Monday through Saturday, a Sunday brunch, and the ever-popular weekday Happy Hour, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the upstairs lounge, The Rusty Pelican is a great place to take in the sights of the harbor. The warm and inviting atmosphere, with its skylights and cathedral ceilings, and waterfront …

Sundried Tomato Café serves fresh café food with a California twist. Nestled in a Laguna Beach shopping center, this classy but casual restaurant provides guests a healthy dose of appetizing treats. True to its name, this American bistro adds a sundried tomato zest to classic dishes. Starting from Sundried Tomato Butter with bread to their signature Creamy Sundried Tomato Soup, diner’s palates are consistently wowed. This bowl of deliciousness can be served a la carte, or part of the “Sundried’s Comfort Combo” complete with Grilled Asiago Cheese and Tomato Sandwich. Heartier options are also available in the form of seafood, …

Nestled in Dana Point Harbor overlooking the yachts and docks is Harpoon Henry’s. This seaside restaurant provides diners with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean while offering classic seafood entrees. Many Dana Point locals enjoy munching on favorites like Beer Battered Fish and Chips or Coconut Shrimp while sitting under the warm California sun on its expansive patio. For more lavish diners, Harpoon Henry’s inside dining warms guests with a fireplace and upscale plates like Mahi-Mahi Macadamia, sauteed with Macadamia Nut Crust under an Orange Mango Sauce. Not only does the surrounding Dana Point Harbor provide ample people watching, but …

Located on Alamitos Bay, McKenna’s is scenic and serene as diners overlook the peaceful Pacific while delighting in fresh seafood and succulent prime steaks. Although it resides in the midst of bustling Los Angeles, the tranquil eatery allows guests to experience the al fresco ambiance of sailing lofts as the fresh breezes roll in from the picturesque horizon cooling the grand deck. Lighting up the stage five nights a week, eclectic vocal, guitar, and jazz add smooth harmonic vibes to the relaxed atmosphere, entertaining patrons as they choose from a diverse menu with dishes such as the delicious Hawaiian Ahi …

The Golden Truffle is a unique bistro known for its innovative fusion menu, which includes a mixture of Asian, French, Spanish, and Caribbean-influenced dishes from Chef Alan Greeley. The menu changes daily with whatever the freshest ingredients available are, but favorite items include Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad and Rosemary Roasted Spring Lamb Loin with Vegetable Soufflé and Mushroom Meat Juices. With such a wide array of dishes to choose from, The Golden Truffle keeps its clientele curious. An extensive and award winning wine list featuring French and Californian selections to compliment the exciting menu.

The First Cabin, located in the Balboa Bay Club and Resort, perfectly captures the essence of the Newport Harbor with its panoramic bay views. The menu offers classic Californian cuisine, with dishes such as creamy lobster bisque and beef tenderloin. Complimented by a wide selection of more than 600 wines, including vintages from around the world, The First Cabin received praise for its wine collection with awards from both Wine Spectator and the Distinguished Restaurants of North America. Chef Josef Lageder uses only the freshest ingredients the season has to offer for the menu, and even offers a special wellness …

The Orange County Mining Co. is located in the hills, boasts a panoramic view of Orange County. In the tradition of the mining days of Silverado Canyon, the restaurant is patterned after the steak houses and saloons frequented by the prospectors of old. The Orange County mining Co. sits upon the old silver mine sites of the canyon. Relics displayed within the restaurant's interior are genuine artifacts of the mining era. The kitchen serves hearty American fare such as steaks, grilled chicken, and seafood. The full bar refreshes guests thirsts with traditional cocktails as well as bottled and draught beer …

After seven years of success in the North Hollywood Arts District, Paul Hibler and David Sanfield took their Pitfire Pizza concept downtown in 2005. Across from St. Vibiana’s Cathedral and in the shadow of skyscrapers, office workers flood this modern Italian café at lunch for thin-crust pizzas, hearty pastas, and market-fresh salads. At night and on weekends, the rush subsides and Pitfire offers a more relaxed dining experience with the same value. Order at the counter, where a board lists seasonal specials and fresh-baked desserts are on display. To drink, there’s fresh sangria and watermelon lemonade, plus wine and beer.

Engine Co. No. 28 is an American restaurant reminiscent of the classic grills of San Francisco and New York with its mahogany booths, granite bar, and Ella Fitzgerald music in the background. This Los Angeles landmark is set in a beautifully restored 1912 Los Angeles firehouse. Inspired by traditional firehouse cooking, Engine Co.’s menu features a wide variety of timeless American fare. Dishes are inventive, delicious, and full of fresh ingredients. Step back in time as you dine at this authentic firehouse still complete with its original fire pole and brick walls.

With an amazing 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles county as well as a history that dates back to 1926, The Sky Room atop the Breakers Hotel is a timeless Los Angeles landmark. Classic Art Deco décor transports diners to the Supper Club era of the 1920's and 30's, when dining out was synonymous with elegance and style. The menu offers French infused California cuisine with elegantly presented dishes that include Maine lobster and Colorado rack of lamb along with an inspired collection of wine that compliments Chef Juan Carlos's menu. Fine china, linens, and crystal hark …

For delectable fusion cuisine, blending flavors of the Pacific Rim, Provence, and Tuscany, travel no further than Restaurant Christine. Chef and Owner Christine Brown created an eclectic menu that is both unique and flavorful, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and French influences to offer a wide variety of tastes. Located in Torrance near the foot of Rolling Hills, Restaurant Christine feels like a cozy Mediterranean villa, and provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal with friends and family or perhaps celebrate a special occasion. A reasonably priced wine list, friendly service, and excellent fare make Restaurant Christine an experience worth repeating.

Nico's is a contemporary American bistro with subtle French and Italian inspiration. Covered in art deco posters and straw-colored walls, this chic and cozy hot spot serves up a wide array of entrees from Dungeness crab cakes to New York Strip. The intimate décor complete with candle light and the upscale ambience makes Nico’s a fine choice for a romantic evening on the town with that special someone. The upstairs cocktail lounge is a wonderful place to kick back and enjoy a drink while waiting for a reservation, should guests arrive early, or just a place to unwind after a …

For sharp and flavorful Asian dishes that render a taste of the east, Pearl Dragon can offer something special for everyone. The sleek, dramatic decor and chic bar scene draw a stylish crowd to this industry hangout, which offers the only full bar in Pacific Palisades. The Pearl Dragon's elegant yet laid back atmosphere, with potted bamboo and gleaming wood tables, is well suited for crowds coming for the lobster specialty dishes, sushi and Pan-Asian entrees. This elegant and modern décor enhances the fine dining atmosphere, and when paired with Pearl Dragon’s entrees and appetizers, a little taste of the …

Antonello Ristorante serves Italian favorites to Santa Ana residents in a classy, but family friendly environment. The landscape paintings adorning the walls lend the air of vacationing in an Italian villa. Antonello Ristorante’s expansive menu features all traditional Italian courses, from antipasti through secondi. Local favorites include the antipasti Prosciutto, with slices of Italian Parma Prosciutto, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and Marinated Olives. No Italian experience is complete without the Primi, or pasta course. With options such as Ravioli Magro with Spinach, Ricotta, and San Marzano Tomatoes, Fettuccine with Porcini Mushrooms, Fresh Tomato, and Truffle Oil, as well as a Chef’s …