Restaurants you will defend no matter what anybody says...

[calabasas_trafalgar]

For me it's:

La Paz in Calabasas. Yeah, so it's not "authentic" Yucatan-style (according to somebody else), so what. The food is still tremendous, and the portions are big enough to feed a small army. I just wish it was closer. The key here is to order a la carte.

Domenico's in Pasadena. Old-school italian. The thing here is consistency. The food is always hot(amazing isn't it how many places serve cold "hot food" and act like it's no big deal) and delicious. If they make something that's not to your liking, they will go out of their way to make it right and act like it's no big deal.

I'm sure many of you have places like this...

[nick_r]

I don't really know the foodie culture well enough to know how much this needs defending, but I love The Stinking Rose and I think their stuff stands up to many of the better restaurants in L.A.

[SauceSupreme]

Stinking Rose definitely needs defending, though admittedly I like the bagna calda there. But then again, how hard is it to stick a bulb of garlic in a ramekin with some olive oil and shove it in the oven?

[foodientraining]

I could not agree more. I'm a pretty easy-going diner. I also just love food. I ate about a 1/4 of my meal at The Stinking Rose. I love garlic and I rarely cook without it. But, the smell of the restaurant was overwhelming and made me sick. I cannot bring myself to make a return visit.

[slacker]

Here's my memory of the Stinking Rose: waiter gives me a glass of what appears to be something different from the red wine I ordered. I ask the waiter about this. He sticks his entire nose into the glass, and his face touches all of the rim of the glass. He then states unequivocally that it is indeed what I ordered and puts the glass on the table for me to drink from.

The food? Not memorable to me. Besides, I now have an electric garlic roaster that perfectly roasts three bulbs at a time.

[Hapafish]

Don't mean to gang up on you, but I have to put my vote in there against the Stinking Rose and I love garlic. I can see how the kitchy atmosphere could be fun for some though.

[nick_r]

Kitchy atmosphere or not, I think their toy box tomato salad could go mano a mano with any other like it in town. They even make great mojitos.

But, no worries, y'all. You're just making it easier for me to get in on a weekend night.

[Ranchero]

I loved the Stinking Rose- have been there twice...but maybe being a garlic devotee made it more like a pilgrimage to Mecca than merely "dining out." True, the prices are a bit higher than other places, but this is THE Temple of Garlic.

[AlabasterDisaster]

Jiraffe in Santa Monica. Consistently exceptional over the last 7 years or so that I have been going.

[TravelPath]

Absolutely!!...Jiraffe is one of the few consistant, better quality restaurants in the area...As someone who goes at least once a month, I have never had a bad meal...and most have been outstanding!...and a decent value as well!

[Diana]

Il Tiramisu in Sherman Oaks.

I find the food there really good, and the srvice above and beyond most other places. I've only had better service at Providence and Spago. Also, their wine and beer dinners are great!

Midori AYCE Sushi

Okay, it isn't the best sushi in the world. But it's actually (to me) better than a lot of place. No matter what, it's better than supermarket sushi. You can really stuff yourself with pretty good sushi for around $30. Ther are other sushi bars with worse sushi and a higher price.

Gelson's salad bar/Bakery/ Deli I just find it fresh and good, and again, great service.

Rahel. I love her food, I love that it's BYOB.

Mel's Diner: I like going there late for a shake and a good piece of apple pie. If Lucky Devil's did a good pie, though, i'd leave Mel's in a second.

[whatsfordinner]

Diana, you've posted about Rahel a lot. Maybe I'll try it this weekend. What should I order?

[Diana]

The special combo or hudade combo the besso drink, the vegan cheesecake.

If you get the hudade combo, be sure to get sambussas on the side.

Here's a link to the site, which has a coupon on it!
http://www.rahelveggiecuisine.com/ind...

[westsidegal]

also, at rahel get the shiro and order some of their red pepper condiment, awazay, on the side.

[whatsfordinner]

Thanks Diana and westsidegal!

[Diana]

you get shiro on the combo platters.

[westsidegal]

it isn't on the 'lunch special' combination platter.

[Diana]

No, it is on two or all of the offered dinner combos-house special, hudade or vegetarian (I forget which). I always prefer to go for dinner.

[silence9]

My Brother's BBQ, in Woodland Hills. Everybody on this board hates it, except me! I like the combo dinners, with pork and beef ribs and tri-tip, and cole slaw and baked beans and greasy texas toast, with leftovers for the next day, for under $20. Ask for the goofy re-usable I HEART BBQ bib (which I wear casually around my friends to freak them out)... But even the haters kinda like their broasted chicken (not the BBQ chicken), which is better than the fried chicken at most other valley spots. This is BBQ for the anti-purists, of which there is apparently only one on these boards: me! :-)

[TravelPath]

There are a number of us that have been supporting My Brothers...I have been going since the early 60s when it was one of the only places to eat in this part of the Valley!...and you are correct about the broasted chicken...when it is on, it is the best "fried" chicken in SoCal!!...and their BBQ beans are wonderful as well!

[jessisthebest11]

I'll support it with you! Love their tri-tip and the waitress is always so nice.

[monkuboy]

Tito's and Johnnies Pastrami. I'm inexpensive.

[culverloc]

You're not walking out of Johnnies without dropping at least $12.

[BeenThereAteThat]

That's funny. I quit going there because I thought some of their price increases were out of line.

[monkuboy]

I guess I should correct myself... I meant Tito's when I said "inexpensive." (as slink out of the room..)

[jcwla2]

Jacopo's, Peppone, Pizzicotto, The Ivys, R-23, The Grill, John O'Groat's, and a certain chain that rhymes with Sneezecake Smacktory.

[Diana]

bless you!

I love John O' Groats, too. Get the pumpkin pancake, and ask for as die of the caramel to pour on.

[TravelPath]

I used to love John O' Groats...but the last 4-5 visits (including last Saturday) have been mediocre at best...pancakes undercooked, biscuits like hockey pucks...This is sad since I remember wonderful meals here in the past! Maybe they are a victim of their own success!

[mc michael]

Nice list. I'd add Hungry Cat if it needs defending.

[Oh Robin]

OMG I have not had Jacopo's since my first job in Century City. Used to love the lunch special slice of pizza with fried eggplant and fresh garlic. Do they still have this?

P.S. I love Sneezecake too. The absolulte BEST blue cheese dressing I've eaten in my life. Great Bellinis too!

[Golem]

Sneezecake makes really truly great fish tacos, too. My favorite chain of any kind, no matter who disses it.

[jcwla2]

forgot to add Koi and Sasabune and Henry's Tacos

[goodhealthgourmet]

i'll second koi.

[westsidegal]

sushi zo
samosa house/bhraat bazaar
rahel

hungry pocket
happy family
the spot
26 beach
shamshiri grill
the counter
awash
ibex

all of these places have their detractors, but all of them are on my regular rotation and they keep me very happy.

[goodhealthgourmet]

the ivy, but only for the grilled veggie salad.

a votre sante in brentwood, and sante la brea in west hollywood. i know it's not gourmet cuisine, but they do healthy food better than most.

hugo's for breakfast/brunch.

[greengelato]

al gelato and pinkberry.

[ns1]

Turner New Zealand
Sushi Masu

[hungrygirl106]

Hatfield's and Hirozen. Also, Twin Dragon on Pico, which was a childhood favorite and, thus, is critic-proof in my book.

www.infinitefress.blogspot.com

[sunnygordy]

Besides the fact that...maybe...perhaps Hatfield's doesn't seem to change out their menu items as frequently as one might hope they would, what could one possibly find fault with? I think it's definitely one of the top spots in town!

[hungrygirl106]

Agreed! But just because we have good taste in restaurants doesn't mean everyone else does. :)

[TastELA]

Pizza Bianca and The Gumbo Pot...

[aurora50]

Spago. I love most anything Wolfgang Puck does (Note: This is for Spago ONLY, not the myriad Puck's Kitchens).

[lotta_cox]

the only issue there is, does spago need defending. i don't think so. as far as i can tell it is universally loved. or maybe that's just me...oh, wait!

[thomtompkins]

I agree with Aurora50: If you watch these boards closely, Spago doesnt need defending but it needs some love.....of course everyone knows about and it, it is a destination restaurant for many and they are slammed all the time but whenever anyone asks whats good about LA dining on CH, its almost never mentioned. Its not new, not trendy, the only gimmick it has is possibly a little "plastic surgery" but otherwise it serves killer food. As up to date as anything anyone else is doing and because it is what it is, it doesnt have to be that good.....but it is. Or maybe its just that I love Lilly who's behind the bar most nights.....no, thats not it. :-)

[aching]

AOC, Cobras & Matadors, Joans on Third, and Father's Office. Lots of haters on this site, but I love 'em!

[divinesensation]

dude, you have good taste...i love all 4 of the ones you defended! Just went to AOC for the first time a few weeks ago and fell in love with the wine list.

[sku]

Pink's!

[hungrygirl106]

I still can't get over how many people love Pink's! Is it a nostalgia thing?

[sku]

Not for me. I truly love it. They have great, snappy dogs, I love the mush buns. The onion rings always hit the spot.

[therealbigtasty]

I love PInk's, too! I'll defend that place to my dying breath! Thank you for being a Pink's lover!

[Marco Polo]

Snappy! That is exactly the word I was going to use. PINK's makes an excellent, satisfying dog. If you don't like it, Chaya M is around the corner.

[JAB]

2nd!

[Tom P]

Lucques, though I do not think it needs defending.

Also, the grilled salad and corn chowder at The Ivy.

Taylor's and Musso & Franks's, no matter what else anyone thinks.

Cocktails, Onion Rings and dinner at the bar at Edendale Grill

[aurora50]

Second Taylor's and Musso & Frank's - a couple of the last of the old-fashioned eateries.

[lotta_cox]

taylor's...i LOVE their prime rib. i know their veggies are below mediocre but their prime rib is just old school and lovely.

[TravelPath]

Musso & Franks is a treasure...from their flannel cakes at the counter to their chops and a martini...old school and wonderful!

[therealbigtasty]

Musso and Frank's rules. I can't always afford to eat there, but I try and stop in for a martini every now and again because they don't shake 'em. Shaking is very very bad for a martini...

[rednyellow]

I love them shaken. violently. hard. Brused to the point they are airiated with a thin lair of tiny ice crystals floating on top. Musso's will bruise them if you ask.

[thomtompkins]

Shaking is only bad for a martini if you dont do it correctly. You can only get that beautiful microscopic ice "float" by shaking carefully. Doesnt happen when you stir. The trick is to not shake too hard or too long so you water down the gin but you still get the float. It has to be done by a pro, not your typical barmen or it wont be as good or worse, be ruined.

[rednyellow]

I get the perfect ice crystal float by shaking violently but briefly. Perfect every time.

[dac_1971]

I second Lucques and also Barone's. The original location was Sherman Oaks but they moved about a year ago to I believe Van Nuys though I'm not sure.

[Diana]

The Barone's is now where Matterhorn Chef used to be.

[Jwsel]

Kiriko. I know that there is a lot of praise for Kiriko, it seems like there is a rivalry between Sushi Zo and Kiriko fans that makes it impossible to praise one without some people insisting that the other is better. How hard is it to accept that there are two (and more) excellent sushi restaurants in the same area, and people may disagree on which they prefer. Kiriko also excells at cooked foods and desserts.

Al Gelato. I love the gnocchi and the gelatos. I know some people are critical of the tomato-basil sauce being overly sweet, but I love it.

A&W Seafood. Yeah, it's dim sum isn't as good as San Gabriel Valley, but when I want some good dim sum and don't feel like driving the entire length of the city, A&W does just fine. The seafood at dinner is also good and, again, a good time-saver when I want good crab in garlic sauce.

Hirosuke. Yes, it's not traditional. Yes, it's a bit of a churn-out the ubiquitous mayonnaise rolls. But it's tasty and, sometimes, I just want my baked scallop over California roll or my tamago, whitefish, ponzu, mayonnaise, and crab "volcano." Plus, it's convenient and well-priced.

Cho Cho San (Tarzana). Ditto what I said for Hirosuke. But sometimes I want my mayonnaise hand roll for $4.25.

Midori. Ditto. Sometimes I just want to gorge on AYCE mayonnaise rolls. Plus, it is a huge cost-saver for my brother who could bankrupt me at some expensive sushi bars.

El Torito. So sue me. I like the salsa and chips, and find the steak in their fajitas and nachos to be tasty when I am craving something greasy.

[SIMIHOUND]

Brent's, Weiner Factory, Tommy's

[aurora50]

I have another one to add- El Cholo. The original one in downtown L.A. I'm addicted to their Sonoran style enchiladas (the ones with the egg on top) and their margaritas.

[mollyomormon]

Yeah, this is mine too. I don't know if I would even say that I'd defend it or even tell anyone else to go there because I recognize that the food is not very good. But El Cholo holds a special place in my heart for Sunday night margaritas with the shared appetizer plate. Also, the fried dill pickles at Hooters.

[2surly]

I was just thinking about El Cholo this morning, specifically the crab enchilada and the Chicken and Blue Tortilla enchiladas. Don't know if I'd still enjoy their margaritas (I've become a little bit of a tequila snob since my last trip to EC), but they were pretty damn strong, at least the bartenders have always done right by me.

[Golem]

Brents! Brents! Bestest (yes, bestest) deli in L.A. Hands down.

[lotta_cox]

tommy's really, is junk food heavan. i dream of their chilli cheese fries at night...

[Das Ubergeek]

Yeah, I have to admit, I'm down with the Little Bull too. As chain sit-down Mexican goes, it's probably the best -- definitely better than Acapulco's, Don Cuco's or (GAG ME WITH A METATE) Chevy's.

And I am DEFINITELY a fan of Midori. It's better sushi than half the places in LA, it's AYCE, the service is kind. I don't go to fancy high-end sushi places very often, so this is where it's at for me.

While we're on the subject, all of you El Farolito haters are just leaving room for me and my family. Ditto Albano's, Pinocchio's, Yang Chow and Gordon Biersch.

[foodientraining]

Pinkberry-although I was surprised by how offended I was
Sweet Lady Jane
The Coffee Company (Westchester)-my favorite breakfast/brunch spot

[cant talk...eating]

Foodie - What's The Coffee Company? Can't find much on this place (on this board at least), except a reference to Middle Eastern food (???). Is the coffee any good?

[westsidegal]

no

[foodientraining]

It's a little restaurant in Westchester. It's always packed. They serve lunch and dinner, but it's known for it's breakfast. The waffles are light and delicious. The french toast is heavenly...made with Hawaiian bread. The biscuits light and fluffy. But, EVERYTHING is delish. They also have very good coffee. They have a Hawaiian Hazelnut and a few other choices that are very satisfying. If you have a chance, please visit.
Here's the address and phone number:
The Coffee Company
8571 La Tijera Westchester [phone]

[Zool]

The Coffee Company is wonderful!! GREAT coffee, yummy orange juice, and a breakfast that will vanquish you. Love that place.

[hpcat]

I haven't been there for awhile, but I always liked Masa, which was rare on this board. I also like Oinkster, despite its service issues.

[lotta_cox]

and masa has only gotten better. they have a new menu as of this spring (i wonder if they are under new ownership) they deliver locally and their salade nicoise is just delicious, a little unorthodox because the dressing is not a vinaigrette, it's a slightly creamy herbed fluid..bright green and savory. and they deliver all their items in biodegradable containers.

[2surly]

I've always enjoyed Masa, we used to get deliveries a lot from them. Tom, the delivery guy, always made a huge fuss over our dog. He used to tell us that he looked forward to delivering to our house,because he go to see Lily, who goes absolutely nuts when she sees him (and it's not just because he's bringing food!) He would even bring her biscuits.

[ozhead]

BJ's -- at least the one in Woodland HIlls. I like their thick-crust pizza (no matter how "inauthentic" it is), and their beers are terrific. Plus, how could you not defend a restaurant called "BJ's"? Better name than "Hooters!"

[therealbigtasty]

The cask beer is great!

[Diana]

If BJ's brought the food up to the level of the beer, I'd be there all the time. I love Tatonka stout, whatever's on cask, and am even partial to the house root beer.

[nick_r]

I actually think they do a pretty respectable job on the calzones.

[calabasas_trafalgar]

Their calzones are just HORRIBLE, unless you prefer a crust just stuffed to the gills with ricotta! Yecchhhh!

[nick_r]

Are you really the same person who wanted to talk about liking restaurants no matter what other people say? Is this your way of testing my devotion?

[calabasas_trafalgar]

That's me. I just think their calzones(one of my favorite foods, BTW)are really vile!

[nick_r]

Well, I'm a transplant from Boston and perhaps I've been here long enough to give up ANY hope of finding any decent pizza-related foods in Los Angeles. (Until I can get a table at Mozza.) Here's to lowering standards!

[calabasas_trafalgar]

Try Domenico's in Pasadena for a good calzone, and lamonica's downtown for NY and sicilian pizza-the-slice.

[Golem]

BJs has great beer and now fish tacos (my thing, I guess). And lots of TVs with sports. Love it.

[therealbigtasty]

Yeah, ain't it kinda depressing? You go, you get this wonderful beer, but the damned food tastes like Chilis...it drives me apeshit.

[igj]

*Kiriko - the mix of sushi and excellent cooked food do it for me. And I agree with other commenters who pointed out that it is not an either/or choice for Kiriko and Sushi Zo.

*Thai Boom - as I did in another thread today.

*Tacos Baja Ensenada - not that this place really needs defending, but if anyone attacked, I'd join the 1st line of defense.

*Little Fat Sheep - others may have different ideas about where to go for huo guo, but this place is comfortable, occasionally capable of dealing with English-only speakers and has amazing scallion pancakes.

[nd33x]

Casa Bianca, Oinksters, Arroyo Chophouse

[lotta_cox]

i cannot believe i have never been to casa bianca. but it gets so much love in these boards i don;t think it needs defending.

[nd33x]

Only mentioned it because it get alot of hate as well.

[lotta_cox]

i am going to have to search that out, because i have seen multiple posts singing its praises.

[ElissaInPlaya]

Fritto Misto, Orris and Monsieur Marcel.

[ns1]

oh god that fritto misto from fritto misto is death (this is the one in SM right?)

Waiting for some wine ATM, will probably return for the glorious $2 corkage!

[ElissaInPlaya]

Haha - just realized that the the "fritto misto" signature dish is one of the few I don't like here.

[perk]

Agree with Monsieur Marcel. I know it takes a lot of heat here, but I think it's solid casual food in a great setting. Also has a decent list of wines by the glass (although they don't always have everything they list). You can't beat the people watching.....

[Dav]

The Kettle, Pinkberry and PF Changs... let the flaming begin.

[ns1]

i actually like their lettuce wraps. alot. ALOT. the rest of the menu is what it is.

[Local]

true confessions, ...we go to the Pasadena location, always sit at the bar, always have the vegetarian lettuce wraps and they are always good...esp. with the "secret sauce" (not that much of a secret since they make it right in front of you) with extra mustard to kick it up a bit. So there.

[lotta_cox]

we go to the beverly center one, sit at the bar, decent wine list and always order soothing chicken lettuce wraps, seared ahi w/mustard sauce and the spare ribs. yum. and i really am a bit of a food snob. but this is good. it is all identifiable, with no goopy sauces.

[wrj100]

Father's Office, Border Grill, Angelini, Casa Vega. Taylor's, Don Antonio's, Angelini

[Local]

Celestino's.

[thomtompkins]

Celestino Pasadena? I would challenge that one. It used to be good but somethings happened and its "off the boil" for sure. At least from my chair anyway. I had my two worst meals of 2007 there and I just cant go back One of their signature pasta's of spaghetti with fresh anchovie and wild fennel arrived on my plate with totally overcooked mush for pasta and the accompanying sauce was a mess. It was just an overly bitter tomatoe puree without a hint of fresh anchovie-fennel goodness. I also had a white bean and scallop starter which in theory could have been good but it was a flavorless combination of ingredients with no seasoning whatsoever. A year ago I would have told you that this place had some of the most interesting pastas I had ever had to date. No more.

[nick_r]

I actually need to reconsider my comments now that I've read the subject line a second time.

I do love Stinking Rose, but if someone gave me credible evidence that they blew up boxes of kittens with dynamite every Thursday, I in all likelihood would *not* defend them.

[bubbles4me]

Apple Pan! I will defend those burgers and fries to my dying day! Just thinking about them makes me happy.

[BeenThereAteThat]

The food is defensible, but the prices aren't.

Small burger + small fries + small drink + pie + tip = $20

I don't like the looks of that equation.

[genekeats]

RE: Apple Pan ... the service is tantamount to instantaneous, the steakburger is a gold standard, and considering that beef should really trade for $50/pound, it's a bargain. since when should good food be given away?

[lotta_cox]

i think the stinking rose is a nasty tourist trap. my apologies, but i don't think i am really tasting anything BUT the garlic when I eat there. granted, i have eaten at the north beach san francisco location several times in the early 90's and the one here on la cienega only once, but there is just no subtlty.

[Golem]

We used to eat at the SR in SF every time we went there. Loved it. That was before LA opened up. Went to the SR in LA and it was lousy horrible and inedible (don't hold back...). Went to SR in SF and it was so-so. Argggh. Never went back and don't care. Wha happened?

[msmd310]

LOVE this topic!!!

For me- its Tito's, Il Pastaiao, Jiraffe
and California Pizza Kitchen- my 3 year old challenges you to a duel if you criticize it!!!

and I am surprised there is still someone who would defend Sweet Lady Jane....

[nick_r]

Well, I know never to get a wedding cake at SLJ, but I think it would take the aforementioned weekly-kitten-detonation to get me to stop going there for the occasional slice of chocolate fudge espresso. Mmmm.

[hyacinthgirl]

Cayenne on Beverly
Cafe Dana on Montana
and kitten carnage probably wouldn't deter me from the La Scala chopped salads

[westsidegal]

ya mean the ones made with tinny-tasting canned garbanzos and sliced salami and a ton of oil?
or is that another salad and another place that i'm thinking of?

[hungrygirl106]

Yep (tho' everyone orders their salads with dressing on the side because, duh, La Scala). Of course, the salads are totally mediocre and yet... somehow I always end up there with friends or my mom because it is the ultimate girly lunch spot. Glad I'm not the only one!

[hyacinthgirl]

Fair enough, I do get the dressing on the side, and I generally get grilled chicken breast instead of the salami, but, still... I love them. That's what this post is all about right, standing up for them? Damnit, I love the la scala chopped salads! Bring it!

[hungrygirl106]

Of course, the chopped salad tastes better with the salami (what doesn't?), but such is not the fashionable way to order the La Scala chopped salad. Chicken or turkey are a good default position, but lately, I've been getting it with tuna and extra olives.

[Servorg]

We order our chopped salads at La Scala with salami as we believe in taste first and fashion not at all.

[hungrygirl106]

I envy you.

[Wonginator]

Ribs on the Run. Love the beef ribs here, among the best I've found so far. Love the chili they offer as a side order, while most BBQ places don't offer chili. I've only seen one moderately positive review of this place, everyone else rips it pretty harshly.

[Mando]

Portos - To me you can't beat thier Pina Colada mousse for the price. Same with their Chorizo Sandwich,

Salandang and Song - Still my #1 first date spot. Great ambiance, good food, reasonable price

The Hat - I grew up on it. Nuff Said

Daikokuya - It can be 100 degrees but if i get the craving...

Fossilmans - Does this need explaining?

[slacker]

Tender Greens.
King Taco.

[tannazie]

noodle planet. i stand by the pho, in spite of the haters.

[Foodandwine]

Papa Christos had a special place in my tummy..

[Otius Gojius]

Dr. Hogly Wogly Tyler Texas BBQ. I order the sliced beef or links and I am happy 100% of the time. I've been going there regularly since the early '70s, and know what I like. I never understand people who say it's dry and tough. The beef might come fatty occasionally but never, ever dry or tough. If I order the pork, I know it's going to be lean and dry, but that's okay with me; I like St. Louis pork steak -- also dry and over =-cooked, it's fine with me.

Also I have strong loyalty to:
Philippe The Original [Coles? LA Times, you've got to be kidding!]
Brents [So what if the cole slaw is sweet, so don't go]
Sherman Room [NEVER, EVER a bad filet, tough? What are you smoking?]

Beside my subjective taste, objectively, I don't "get" a lot of the criticism of my faves -- a lot of the criticism sounds like somebody didn't like the ambience, neighborhood, or the service spoiled the food or something.

[therealbigtasty]

I want to go to the Sherman Room!

[klaatu]

Neither Papa Christos nor Philippe need defending. Both are perfect.

[Emme]

i defend particular dishes at restaurants rather than the whole place :)

blackberry cobbler at cynthia's

chicken soup at mel's diner

charbroiled chicken and salsa at eduardo's

egg steamers, whole grain hotcake, bluecorn waffle, sugar free/fat free muffins at newsroom cafe

steamed lobster and head of broccoli at ruth's chris

four cheese pasta, vanilla bean, oreo, white choc rasp truffle, boston ream pie cheesecakes at cheesecake factory

green corn tamales (june-sept) at el cholo (the original location)

chopped salad w/ chicken, add eggplant and hearts of palm as well as the grilled vegetable appetizer at sisley

thick crust pizza w/ cheese and big roma tomatoes at numero uno (or is it just the thick sweet crust?)

egg white omelettes (w/ veggies (i like mushrooms, tomatoes, onions)) at jerry's

[westsidegal]

if we're only going to defend particular dishes, then i need to add the baked apple pancake and the german pancake at dinah's family restaurant.

[lotta_cox]

i think you are on to something there, emme. i cannot disagree with one dish..

[pezworld]

Tony's on the Pier in Redondo!

Also King's Fish in Calabasas.
And Duke's in Malibu, but the barefoot bar part only. (Food tastes better with sand in your toes and a killer view.)

Whoops. Almost forgot Abuelita's Topanga.

[annalulu]

Wow, i'm the only one defending Malo!?? Yikes!
I have been eating there a couple of times a month since they opened. I have NEVER had a bad meal, although I have settled into always ordering the same thing, so maybe that's why. Love their spinach/shrimp/avocado salad. Love the Shrimp Diablo. Love the chips (yes, I like the few soggy ones as well as the crispy ones.) Love the corn. The fresh beans served in a little frying pan! Man, I'm going tomorrow!

[nick_r]

I'll join you in defending Malo because their drinks are spectacular and, well, the salsa flight.

I've had some spotty service there before, but after a particularly bad experience I wrote a letter to the manager and he not only refunded the entire bill but also invited me and my girlfriend to come again for dinner on the house. So it's definitely back on my good side.

[graffitipassion]

I'm going to back you up too. The Shrimp Diablo is awesome, and so is the salsa flight. The service has never been bad, I just take into account that the place is usually packed and waiters are rushed. I don't see a need to get upset about it.

I also want to defend Mexico City. Their service is slow, but their food has been good every time I go.

[lotta_cox]

i love the both the massive tequila selection at malo and their skirt steak salad. although the service could be more consistent.

[fizzie]

Scarantino's Italian Inn one of Glendale's best kept secrets.

[nd33x]

Agreed. Nothing spectacular, just good solid Italian classics.

[whatsfordinner]

Now that there's a parallel thread on Apple Pan, I'll play:
Apple Pan (hickory burger with cheese, fries)
Pinks (chile cheese dog with tomatoes)
Campos (avocado burrito and crispy turkey taco with guacamole sauce)
Bay Cities (Godmother)
Yang Chow
Pinkberry

[Marco Polo]

PINKS and APPLE PAN both came to mind for this thread. I love a Steak burger with extra cheese and a slice of Banana Cream pie. The guys behind the counter are the best.

I don't care if anyone thinks it is too expensive, not as good as In-n-Out, etc. It has floated my boat for 25+ years.

[amandine]

Raffi Kabob in Glendale. I still stand by that place as the best Persian chelokebab in the area.

[Hapafish]

I'm gonna name a few chains cuz they always need defending:
Houstons
Cafe Bizou
In'N'Out

[rockhead]

Villa Italian in Culver City for their pizza only. I'm not a fan of their pastas and other menu items, but their pizza is my favorite in L.A. Been going there over twenty years - through ownership changes, fires and the like and it still is excellent. Nice compromise between a thick-crust Chicago-style pizza and a traditional thin crust. The square pizza provides lots of crunchy/cheesy edges, the peperoni nice and crisp with a spicy bite to it. Oh, man.

Over the years, I don't believe I've read one positive comment on this site about this restaurant. All was negative. Living in the Valley, it's a good thing Villa Italian is not near me or I'd be in my cardiologists' office right now.

[silence9]

As a westside alternative to Casa Bianca's pizzas and anti-pasto salads (and hardly ever a wait for a table), I've tooted Villa Italian's horn on myriad occasions here, to the point that I'm embarrased to recommend it yet again. I always ask for the pizza 'well done', and it arrives darkly golden and square/diamond cut. Add easy parking and 405 adjacency, and its a solid substitute. The poster PaulF also mentions his kid's inexplicable-yet-unwavering affection for the pasta there, from time to time. I think the place is not disliked, but rather, most everyone is simply indifferent to its 'sleeper' charms...

[Snoopy]

Does Villa Italian have a website or do you know where I can get a menu? Looked a little on line but not seeing anything. Thanks.

[Servorg]

http://losangeles.menupages.com/resta...

[hrhboo]

I will defend to the death:

Opus
Mozza
Sushi Zo
Ford's Filling Station
Orris
Pinkberry
Primitivo
Abode
Violet
Musha

[goodhealthgourmet]

is there any particular dish you love @ primitivo? granted, my last experience there was quite a long time ago, and i love the atmosphere and their wine selections...but iirc, when i ate there the food was barely passable on both occasions.

i'd be happy to give it another try if i went in armed with some good suggestions!

[hrhboo]

I've never had a bad meal there. The meat and cheese platters are great and a LOT of food. Other dishes I enjoy are the tiger shrimp, bacon-wrapped dates, grilled romaine salad, steak "frites" and killer bread pudding for dessert.

[whatsfordinner]

I love the shrimp po boy and calamari.

[Rodeline]

These definitely need defending

Tito's
Nippon Ramen
The Bear Pit
Empress Pavillion

[Otius Gojius]

Nipon ramen is always good, I like the shio (or "spicy" shio) but the hiyashi ramen, is another fave on hot night. hey it's hot tonight... gotta go to Nippon ramen.

Tito's and Bear Pit? Nope.

[wizardx]

agree 100%

[fdb]

Looks like I'll be the only defender for Giorgio Baldi......maybe I just lucked out but I never experienced the notorious bad attitude from the waiters (and I am no big shot nor from the movie industry)....and I just love their food.....besides, I have learned to order carefully so as to not break my bank.

[Woolsey]

I've seen a few of my own guilty pleasures on here - as well as at least one of my bête noires. As for places I will defend that often get knocked, I will defend:

Palms Thai
25 Degrees
Mozza (Pizzeria and Osteria)
Honey Pig
Tommy's
Valentino
El Cholo (Koreatown location)
Miceli's (Hollywood location)
Cobras & Matadors (Beverly Boulevard location)

And all the Intellegentsias, LA Mills, and Groundworks may come and go, and restaurants can load up on all the Clover machines they want - I still love and will defend Peet's Coffee.

[goodhealthgourmet]

i'm with you on peet's...in fact, i was so impressed with their coffee when i first tried it years ago that i bought stock in the company!

[Golem]

Peet's yes. Overall, nothing better and closer. Lots of coffee places on this globe, and many may be better, but Peet's is accessible, delicious, and who needs more? Blue Bottle in SF (Portland, actually). Raven's Brew in Alaska (Deadman's Reach is my all-time favorite). But I can't just drop by these places on a whim. I may order them on-line, but I'll drive to Peet's. Ahhh.

[thomtompkins]

Right on....love the Peet's. Love the Americano.....

[tijn2001]

Palms Thai lost all of its low-rent charm when they moved into their new first-floor-of-a-big-box-storage-building location. It is now completely and utterly characterless, like dining in a loud, chaotic warehouse. I miss their old location on Hollywood east of Western, with its cramped parking lot and slightly kitschy Dennys-in-Bangkok atmosphere. Alas. For really cheap and excellent Thai I go to Sanamluang or Torung now...... but their no credit card policy is really annoying!!

[Woolsey]

I don't love the room at the new Palms, but I think the food is still just as good. (Yes, I think the food is good - defending it!) It's got this rap these days that when they moved, the food went seriously downhill. I see no difference in that cooking from the old place to the new one. In fact, my last visit was perhaps the best meal I've ever had at Palms, old or new. Yes, the old location was cool, but I don't think I'll ever miss driving around for thirty minutes looking for parking and standing around waiting for a seat longer than it actually took to eat my meal.

As for Sanamluang and Torung, the former is just okay to me, while the latter gave me one of the absolute worst Thai meals I've ever had. (Do they always seem just to ladle straight cooking oil over all the food before it comes out? Disgusting.)

[Pretty Gourmet]

Killer Shrimp is sooooo overrated.

[Das Ubergeek]

Er... this is a list of restaurants you LIKE that you stick up for when people criticise them.

And while KS is overPRICED, I actually really like it -- though it's certainly not worth the drive from Anaheim when I can either go to its imitator, JackShrimp, or make it at home.

[flyerfan182]

Thai Chicken Pasta - Cheesecake Factory! (I honestly dont know why this place gets crap so much, always and I mean always have had good experiences there. I also go off peak hours like at 5-6.)

Ricardos El Ranchito (This place has always been my favorite Mexican in the greater LA area).
Gondolas Pizza - The cheese so gooey, the atmosphere so well ghetto. Gotta love this joint.
Aroma Cafe - Great Turkey Burgers
Golden Spoon - Pinkberry sucks compared to Golden Spoon IMO
Outback Steakhouse - the bread and steaks are very good
Mimi's Cafe - always consistent, always
Big Belly Deli - the french dip is amazing
Renu Nakorn - O my, since being closed I have cried everytime I drive by the place.
Moca Salsa - Gotsa love those Carne Asada's!

[SauceSupreme]

If KS were about $3 cheaper, I think it'd be pretty decent. It's okay quality, but certainly not for the price.

And who recommended Killer Shrimp anyway?

[italiana3]

Where is Domenico? I live in Pasadena and I have not heard of it, but I am also new to Pasadena

[italiana3]

where is Domenico's in Pasadena?

[lotta_cox]

i think domenicos in pasadena is in the shops at el paseo.

[fizzie]

Domenico's Pasadena is on Washington Blvd. It is the original of the family owned and operated restaurants. Old school, been around a long time.

[nick_r]

I have to add El Coyote because the margaritas are lethal, the food is perfectly edible, and the whole idea of the place just brings a smile to my face.

[aurora50]

All right fellow Hounds, here's one I'm sure I'm gonna get comment on:
- Pinnacle Peak.
Because there's something about a simple grilled steak over their mesquite, and "those beans" to pour over your steak and let the juices mingle, a few shots of Tabasco, and that plain-Jane bread to soak it all in .....
*** bliss ***

[Golem]

Food? They serve food? After one (or two) double Margies, my taste buds are on the floor (along with the rest of me). Not that that's a bad thing....

[Rizza]

Loteria - I can never get myself to eat anywhere else at Farmer's Market when I go there. I just love those tacos and don't get to that area enough. But I've seen mixed reviews. And Lucille's BBQ, because it's a quick guilty pleasure.

[Foodielicious]

Sword and sheild in hand, I shall defend Houston's and their fantastic selection of seasonal side dishes: the couscous salad, the white beans and sweetcorn, the maple-glazed beets, the fresh tomatoes, the buttery brussels sprouts, and one of the best house salads you'll ever taste! I don't care about the fact that it's an evil chain restaurant, that there's always a line, that the fries are cut too thin, or that the palce is lit like my mother-in-law's den. Hmpph! So there!

[westsidegal]

i'm a fan of the houstons homemade veggie burger.
it is a mixture of grain, beets, and who-knows-what-else, and i really like it.
it is NOT a copy of a meat burger.

[goodhealthgourmet]

best veggie burgers on the planet. sadly, i can no longer indulge my cravings for them since i had to give up gluten :( man i miss those burgers!

fyi, if you ever have the desire to try recreating them at home, the copycat recipe floating around on the web is actually a pretty close approximation.

[aching]

I'm with you! I LOVE their Thai steak salad, and I've eaten at the SM location dozens of times and always been impressed the service.

[sasha1]

Hide Sushi on Sawtelle. Although I haven't been for a year (we moved) we used to go very regularly. I've never had anything but fresh and delicious fish, the prices are unbeatable for the quality, the cooked and side dishes are great ways to round out the meal (tsunumono is delicious), and the staff is always gracious.

[westsidegal]

not too many detractors re: hide.
everything you said is true.

[sasha1]

I recall last year having to jump to its rescue several times - other times I just silently bristled. There were complaints about freshness, bad service, going downhill, kiriko is so much better, etc. I'd rather eat 3 times at Hide than once at Kiriko, the prices being what they are...
I wish I had a chance to go back and visit more often...

[westsidegal]

for those times when financial reality sets in, hide is the best choice.
second best is sushi ken in the south bay.

when i am in financial denial, though, it's sushi zo all the way

[slacker]

Lol! Well said.

[torta basilica]

Vito's in Santa Monica (not the pizza Nito's) - some just don;t get the old-style, red sauce ambience & food. Spaghetti della Casa is to die for!

Father's Office - love love love it & have never experienced attitude.

Cobras & Matadors - when ordering leaning towards meat dishes... and those olives... and that wine store next door with reasonable prives - what a concept!

[nimo]

Apple Pan.
Casa Bianca.
Dan Tana's.
Musso's.

[LisaStitch]

Many of mine have already been mentioned, so just to add to the list:

Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers
La Dolce Vita
Madre's
Mastro's
Via Veneto
Chipotle
C&O Trattoria or Cucina - for the right, casual occasion/craving
El Compadre - if you go at the right time when it's not crazy crowded, it's a great deal, satisfying food, amazing margaritas, and dimly lit with comfy booths

[Woolsey]

I'm right there with you, fighting the good fight for Chipotle. The best gringo burritos ever!

[Foodandwine]

Woolsey, Okay gonna go to Mc Donalds strike that Chipolte ( same owner ) pass one every day. Which Burro should I order?? I will eat only the one you recommend.. seriously, what do I have to loose but 5 bucks or so..

[mollyomormon]

McDonald's no longer owns Chipotle. And Chipotle attempts to use free range meats when they can so I give them point for that (can you tell I'm another Chipotle defender). It's a burrito in the mission-style, complete with the huge, steamed tortilla and filled with rice and beans so if you object to that, you probably won't like Chipotle. I love the fajita veggie burrito with all the salsas, guac and cheese (and i do realize that's around 1000 calories). I'd like to hear Woolsey's rec too, though, since we seem to share a lot of the same tastes.

[Woolsey]

No, no, no - Chiptole puts their tortilla on a grill. It's much better than Qdoba's soggy steamed tortillas. But they don't get too hard and crackly like Baja Fresh's. Yes, there's an art to gringo burritos. All the meats are good, as are the vegetarian ones - it just depends on my mood. But my favorites are either the carnitas (really an excellent, lightly seasoned pulled pork) or a veggie fajita burrito, both with the black beans and rice. Mild (fresh) salsa and corn salsa, lots of cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and a little lettuce - after all, this is a gringo burrito. Try a Chipotle burrito alongside Qdoba, La Salsa, and Baja Fresh, and tell me they don't do a damn good job. Their salsas are more flavorful, their ingredients are always fresh, and their crew puts together the food with much more care. Because they don't make a lot of other crap, too, they do what they do really, really well - the only guacamole I like better is at Border Grill.

[ns1]

I'd rather get the burrio bol and eat it like a really gangster carne asada nachos

[carter]

Woolsey is right about the carnitas. You have your choices of salsas, black or pinto beans, rice or not, plus the guac, cheese, sour cream, etc. add-ons that you choose on your own. Quite satisfying and filling. I get mine without rice(why rice?!) and they add a few more beans, guac, hot red salsa, and am ready to dive in. And the lines go really fast as they are set up for action, yours included!

[Servorg]

Hi MoM. I too am another Chipotle aficionado. When you say that their burrito is filled with rice and beans and if you don't like that you probably won't like Chipotle I gotta say when I go I have them put in (or leave out) exactly what I want. I am watching them make my food every step of the way. So getting it "my way" with as little or as much of each ingredient as suits me is never a problem.

[mollyomormon]

You're very right about being able to have them take or leave on whatever you want at Chipotle, which is part of the beauty of it. But for me, I guess part of the beauty of having a mission style burrito is loading it up with rice and beans! I'm with you guys that it's far better burrito than Baja Fresh, Qdoba or La Salsa, although I am nuts about the quesadillas at La Salsa.

[Woolsey]

How are the quesadillas at Chipotle? I've always been tempted to get one, but then I always think about how pissed I get when someone orders one in front of me, and I never want the people behind me thinking those sort of horrible things about me...

[mollyomormon]

I mean, melted cheese can never be too bad right? They're decent, but they don't get much of a crust on that grill press and so it's more like a folded, heated tortilla with melted cheese in the middle. They don't skimp on the cheese either.

[LisaStitch]

FYI, it's probably going to cost you more than 5 bucks! :( The burritos I usually get are about $8 I think, mostly because I include their excellent guacamole which is an extra charge of $1.50 or $2.50, but they do give you a huge scoop of it. Whatever you get, get the guacamole with it!

I always get the Barbacoa meat (marinated shredded beef) and the hot salsa. I also always specifically ask for very little beans and very little rice or no rice at all, because I like the focus to be on the meat, salsa, and guac.

Chipotle is set up like Subway, where you see it being assembled every step of the way and can specifically call out what you want or don't want and how much.

http://www.chipotle.com/assets/menu.pdf

[westsidegal]

had a terrific Mediterranean salad at c & o trattoria last night.

[Pancee]

there's a few I could say; but I'll say what I think might be the most debated:
Wahoo's fish Taco

[mermy]

C&O and Maison Akira. Killer garlic rolls and a great spaghetti bolognese make it all worth while.

[AnnieMar]

Ruby's (I think their Rubyburger is one of the best in town)
Islands (I love their nachos, and their kilueua burger is amazing)
Houstons (their ribs are the best)
Salt Creek Grille for dinner
Pink's
King Taco
Tommy's Chili Dog
In n Out
Casa Bianca Pizza Pie with Mushrooms and Eggplant, 'well done"
Romano's macaroni grille pastas

[mikester]

In-N-Out

Napa Rose

Lucques