Quiet Conversation Restaurants

A slice of Old Hollywood, Dan Tana’s is still a place to grab a hearty bite to eat while gazing at the stars of the big screen. For more than 45 years, this Hollywood institution has served patrons heaping portions of Italian fare. The staff at Dan Tana’s is nearly as renowned as the client list, Mike the bartender, regarded by many patrons as a Los Angeles treasure, still serves up stiff drinks to those looking to whet their whistles while waiting for a table. Reservations are mandatory, as the restaurant is on the small side, and demand always outstrips …

Sparkling lights line the welcoming patio at Il Piccolino Trattoria where the atmosphere is cozy and romantic. The menu offers a range of both casual and exquisite Italian fare, and the service is some of the most gracious around. The kitchen utilizes organic, local, and sustainable produce when possible. The house bread is vegan and the only cooking oil used is extra virgin olive oil, be it for dressing, cooking or frying. Other fine attentions to detail include Balsamic vinegar aged at least a decade, natural gray sea salt, daily fresh seafood, and house made salad dressings. With an eye …

La Bohème rhapsodizes with a quintuplet of dazzling crystal chandeliers looming majestically overhead in a large, yet intimate two-tiered dining space. The semi-private booths downstairs and the rock star booths upstairs, along with the opulent ruby-red décor glimmering softly under the glow of two huge open fireplaces make this seductive bistro one of the a romantic destinations in L.A. Guests are also welcome to dine on the Garden Patio, Café La Boheme’s own al fresco paradise, where they can bask in the warmth of a beautiful fireplace framed by roses and greenery. For more casual diners, the bar lounge offers …

In a city where restaurants vie for celebrity patronage and flashy presentations sometimes precede flavor, The Palm Steakhouse in West Hollywood remains the unpretentious favorite of locals and celebrities alike. Since its opening in 1975, The Palm has been garnering a crowd of devoted followers with its simple, stunning presentations of high quality meat, seafood, and favorite Italian classics, like Veal Scallopine and Linguini with Clam Sauce. Its lively atmosphere, generous portions, and highly attentive service make The Palm an ideal destination for a special occasion dinner, even as the relaxed bar scene invites old friends to re-connect over a …

The Blvd at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel is located at one of Beverly Hills’ most well-known intersections: Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive. This restaurant is the place to see and be seen as well as dine on some fabulous food created by Chef Brian Moyers. The dining room of The Blvd is sophisticated and stunning, featuring lofty ceilings and large windows that overlook the intersection. Producing American cuisine that incorporates fresh produce from local farmers’ markets, the lunch and dinner menu will include such tasty dishes as Line Caught John Dory and Natural Beef Filet Mignon. Don’t wait any longer; …

In this confection of a restaurant, Il Cielo presents a wondrously elegant and stunningly romantic setting that is sure to bewitch even the most cosmopolitan of patrons. Owner and Executive Chef Pasquale Vericella has meticulously created a destination restaurant where guests can bask in the charms of Il Cielo’s visual beauty and revel in its exquisite Northern Italian cuisine. Nestled in a residential area of fabled Beverly Hills a couple miles east of Rodeo Drive, Il Cielo beguiles guests with a captivating romantic beauty created by its casually elegant décor, twinkling lights, and lush foliage.

Since opening in 1956, La Scala has been popular with locals and entertainment industry types alike, with its comfortable red booths and drawings of Hollywood figures lining the walls. Traditional Italian fare is complimented by an exceptional wine list supplied by Owner Jean Leon’s personal vineyard, Chateau Leon, in Spain. The restaurant is revered for its Chopped Salad, but other menu highlights include the Steamed Mussles served in a broth of garlic, white wine, and tomato sauce, and the Tiramisu served with fresh whipped cream and berries. The quality of ingredients has never faltered in the restaurant’s long history, and …

Dining at Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is an opulent experience. Dishes feature the highest quality ingredients, cooked to perfection, and served in generous portions. Start off with their creamy lobster bisque and then try the “Chef’s Cut” New York Strip. The ambiance is full of high energy with an undertone of elegance, with dark wood and subdued lighting throughout the dining room. Live entertainment and an extensive wine list add the final changes to an already exquisite dining experience. For a night of elegant dining in a luxurious setting, try Mastro’s Steakhouse.

Chef-owner Sal Marino, has delighted Los Angelenos for the past decade with his contemporary, market-driven approach to traditional Italian cuisine. Centrally located near the intersection of the 10 and 405 freeways, Il Grano draws a steady crowd of well-heeled Westsiders craving pristine crudo, house-made pastas, and unpretentious entrees. He writes a new menu every month, to capitalize on “whatever swims in the ocean and grows on Mother Earth.” Noted sommelier Peter Birmingham keeps pace with inspired wine pairings and pastry chef Corinne Sidelsrud’s desserts share Marino's seasonal approach, minus the swimming ingredients.

This Italian restaurant may seem like just any old option from the vast choices in Los Angeles, but this venue is known more their diversions that involve food rather than the food itself. Every once in a while on a special date Piccolo will have patrons enjoy a five course meal that is based off the wines they choose. It is a very random, mysterious game that is just right for the adventurous eater. For those seeking ambiance and serenity the restaurant’s location with a great view towards the horizon will do just fine. Inside one can enjoy elegant dining …

With nearly every new restaurant offering some sort of fusion cuisine today, Sam’s by the Beach rises above the rest and delivers fresh, smart food in an intimate neighborhood setting just off Pacific Coast Highway. The seasonal menu includes traditional California basics that seem familiar until the taste reveals unique Mediterranean details. The unassuming outside belies the quiet romance waiting inside. Dedicated staff members cater to your every dining need, implementing a special menu if requested and treating each patron as a regular. Visit this surprising getaway to relearn all your old favorites.

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 …

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 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.

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 …

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.

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.

Located in the heart of downtown Fullerton, The Cellar is located in the basement of downtown Fullerton’s historic three-story Villa del Sol, the setting is reminiscent of the Old Europe. With a heavy-beamed ceiling, stone walls, and crystal chandeliers, the restaurant promises an intimate and romantic setting. The Old-World charm extends to the French-inspired menu, with courses such as lobster bisque and Norwegian smoked salmon. The exquisite fine dining experience is crowned by the Cellar's award-winning wine collection featuring an extensive selection of over 1400 wines.

Once surrounded by an enormous orange grove, this landmark jewel was built as a family home in 1909. The Victorian decor exhibits extravagance and splendor; with warm tones accented by soft lighting and tapestries exude elegance. The atmosphere is only outdone by the kitchen’s French-influenced Northern Italian fare. The menu is peppered with fame and glamour, with playfully-named dishes such as Sophia Loren Caviar and Cartier Calamari. With 12 private rooms, the White House is ideally suited for private parties and groups; while the elegant ambiance makes the White House an excellent destination for any special occasion, large or small.

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 …