Nightshade, The NoMad Restaurant, Atrium, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because enjoy mapo tofu lasagna in Nightshade’s elegant environment—while lounging on an emerald green banquette. The innovative riff on Sichuan and Italian flavors comes to L.A. by way of Chef Mei Lin. The mala delivers. Or dive into a bowl of Koshihikari rice congee with crispy shallots and this hits the spot.

Because downtown’s elegant hangout “breathes new life” into L.A., says the LA Times. The team behind New York’s Eleven Madison Park takes a California approach to the menu with a sea urchin tray service —a play on classic caviar. The honey glazed duck with za’atar roti and salsa verde is not to be missed.

Because the high ceilings and indoor landscaping create an open-air dining scene, while chef Hunter Pritchett’s house-made, grilled focaccia takes bread to another level with kimchi butter. Dessert is a must: pastry chef Greg Baumgartner’s sweets are masterful. Try his white sesame dream with tahini sorbet.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (323) 607-6944.

Because wood-fired pizza, fresh burrata, and pork meatballs: what more could Silver Lake want? How about a Tiki, Do you Love Me? A cocktail with Japanese whisky, yuzu, coconut, and pineapple pair with your Georgian Kachapuri (read: cheese-filled pizza dough). Pro tip: get the caramel-and-dark chocolate pie (with rye crust!) for dessert.

Because this West Hollywood newcomer combines the best of both worlds: Italian and Japanese flavors. Chef Keiichi Kurobe (Hinoki & the Bird) isn’t afraid to blend cuisines. Case in point: Hamachi Bolognese with casarecce pasta, shiso, and grana Padano; and buttery chicken karaage tortellini.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (213) 689-5022.

Because Brentwood welcomes everyone’s favorite pasta joint with open arms. The all-day eatery offers a bit of everything: scrambled eggs in the morning, a classic pizza margherita for lunch, and spicy fusilli for dinner. These guys even have you covered for Super Bowl Weekend, with game day staples likes garlic buffalo chicken wings, marinara braised meatballs, and lasagna. Bada boom.

Because Matt Molina knows how to feed you like an Italian nonna. Handmade pasta highlights the menu, with fettuccine in oxtail ragu and fresh ricotta tortellini with bufala mozzarella. But don’t sleep on the barbecue pork country rib. 

Because Michael Cimarusti’s homestyle food is as comforting as it is innovative. Start with the Okonomiyaki, a Japanese savory pancake of cabbage, shiitake, lime mayo, and pork belly. Then move on, to the roasted chicken with broccoli spigarello au jus and a braised lamb shank with uni scramble. No need to decide: just invite more friends.

Because Charles Olalia’s Filipino food is in his roots. Olalia’s grandma’s influence on dishes like Sigsig —made with pig head — adds a hidden depth to his cooking, while  Olalia’s fine dining experience brings a luxurious twist. Don’t forget to bring home an order of hangover fried rice for the morning — the cocktails pack a punch.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (323) 741-8371.

Because the LA institution keeps it in the family with Trisha Langer’s WeHo outpost. Consider this menu a lineup of the Langer Family’s favorite hits, including the Papa sandwich of hot pastrami, swiss, and house Russian dressing on Rye, and the smoked whitefish salad plate. Know what you’re in for.

Walk-ins only.