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A long-time darling of food critics and gourmets, Patina is where star chef Joachim Splichal takes his innovative French-California cuisine to new heights. The melt-in-your-mouth côte de boeuf , served table-side, is indicative of the kitchen’s lofty aspirations. Try the chef’s superb tasting menu.

A premier seafood joint, this is usually packed to the gills with patrons appreciative of the dock-fresh fare and superb service. Chef Michael Cimarusti turns each dish into a culinary celebration of bold flavors and pleasing textures. The yummy white clam chowder and hand-cut tuna tartare are outstanding, and the oyster bar scores high with the pre-theater crowd.

Settle down with a mojito (a minty rum drink) beneath the skyscrapers at one of downtown’s liveliest dining rooms. The menu blends the exotic flavors and ingredients of several Latin American cuisines into intriguing new dishes. The inexpensive cuchifrito (snack) menu served in the afternoon at the bar is great for sampling.

Chefs Mark Peel and Nancy Silverton are the royal couple on LA’s cuisine scene. Both have garnered multiple awards, he for his pioneering “urban rustic” fare, and she for her scrumptious breads and divine desserts. This long-running restaurant is a definite highlight on LA’s culinary scene.

This is the original of a small chain of restaurants serving Nobu Matsuhisa’s inspired Japanese-Peruvian fusion fare. The sushi is impeccable and the tempura extra-light, but the chef’s talent really lies in cooked seafood dishes, many paired with Nobu’s perky sauces. Celebrity sightings are likely. Make reservations several days in advance to avoid the rush.

This beautiful Wolfgang Puck outpost is a favorite with the rich and famous and a great place to sample California cuisine. The chef keeps the menu in flux but always pairs supreme cuts of meat or fish with seasonal side dishes such as chanterelle mushrooms. The lox pizza is always popular. Early reservations essential (see Spago Beverly Hills, Spago Beverly Hills).

A pioneer of California cuisine, Michael’s serves Oscar-worthy cuisine in a luscious garden setting, making it one of the best alfresco dining spots in all LA. The food delights eye and palate.

Helmed by Alain Giraud, one of LA’s star chefs, this chic eatery transports you to the sunny climes of Southern France. Seated in the delightful tree-fringed garden, patrons linger over plates of sautéed foie gras or other upscale indulgences, accompanied by exquisite French wine.

Joe Miller is one of LA’s most dedicated and competent chefs, and his excellent French-infused California cuisine has leagues of loyal fans. Using only fresh, seasonal ingredients, Miller shows off his far-reaching talent with frequently changing menus. The prix fixe dinners are good value, while lunches are a real steal. Dinner reservations are a must to avoid disappointment later.

For over 30 years, Piero Selvaggio has delighted diners with his charm and inspired Italian cuisine. His 150,000 plus cellar of handpicked wines from all regions of the Boot is outstanding. So are the ingredients, many of them imported from the old country. Insiders ignore the menu and try the “extravaganza,” a series of delicious treats.