YOUR GUIDE TO THE NOTEWORTHY DINING DESTINATIONS by M IC HE LLE ROS TAM IAN While we love a trendy restaurant as much as the next Angeleno, something hits differently when you step into an eatery that's brimming with rich history, headed by a world-class chef, or known for a signature dish. From the starstudded Polo Lounge in Beverly Hills to the unforgettable views at Yamashiro in Hollywood, L.A. has no shortage of classic restaurants across the map. Here are some noteworthy iconic restaurants to add to your must-dine list.
BEVERLY HILLS Spago / If you're looking to treat yourself, Spago is undoubtedly the place to go. Lauded as Wolfgang Puck's flagship location, every aspect of the restaurant exudes excellence, particularly the attentive service and the market-driven menu that's home to staples like Tuna Tartare Cones and smoked salmon pizza. The restaurant is prominently situated in the heart of Beverly Hills and has definitely made its mark among locals and visitors alike. The Polo Lounge / There are so many things that make the Polo Lounge special—its trademark banana-leaf wallpaper, vintage sign, and palm tree-filled patio. Located within the Beverly Hills Hotel, the
restaurant is known for being the go-to spot among Hollywood's old-school greats, including Charlie Chaplin and Marlene Dietrich. Today, it's the quintessential place to dine at if you want to see and be seen. Don't skip the McCarthy Salad, which is prepared tableside and pays homage to polo-playing millionaire and frequent guest Neil McCarthy.
WEST HOLLYWOOD Madeo / An ode to Alfio Vietina's grandfather Madeo Vietina, the culinary experience within the intimate dining room begins with salty green olives and blocks of fresh cheese. It's a family-run restaurant and a classic for a reason, offering authentic Northern Italian dishes like Scampi Alla Griglia and Veal
Milanese for the last 36 years. Alfio himself is often in the house and may offer patrons a greeting.
Craig’s / If you're looking for the true Los Angeles dining experience (paparazzi and all), Craig's is the place to be. The dimly lit dining room and spaced out booths make for a lavish yet buzzy atmosphere, and the bar scene alone may have you rubbing elbows with a celebrity or two. The menu includes several fan favorites (including honey truffle chicken and mushroom truffle pizza), but in true L.A. fashion it also brims with vegan options (the vegan cheeseburger is a must). Best of all: Though Craig's boasts a clientele of Hollywood moguls, models, and celebrities, they provide top-notch service to all.
From top: Trust me light nigiri plate at SUGARFISH Opposite clockwise from left: Wolfgang Puck in the kitchen, Centennial cocktail at FIG, Polo Lounge Alcoves, beef carpaccio at Madeo
14 SOCALPULSE.COM SEPTEMBER 2022
FRIED CHICKEN STUDIOS, OPPOSITE CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: ANTONIO DIAZ, COURTESY OF FIG, COURTESY OF MADEO, COURTESY OF BEVERLY HILS POLO LOUNGE
8 Iconic Restaurants To Check Out