Looking for the hat trick in West LA!

[kimikim1]

I'm looking for good food, this is my first time to LA! I'm looking for thoughts on the places to go for authentic Mexican, great steak, and awesome burger joints? And while I'm at it, where's a place to go for a great cocktail experience? Thanks!

[gsw]

All good choices, I'll throw in a few more alternatives. You don't say what your price point is.

Cocktails - there are great possibilities in Santa Monica since all the beach hotels seem to be competing for Happy Hour. In addition to the Penthouse and Copa D' Oro, try the Casa del Mar, Shutters on the beach, and Bar Chloe.

Mexican - Monte Alban is Oxacan cuisine, very good, but not what a lot of Americans think of as Mexican. Other Oxacan places on the westside are El Texate, Gueleguetza in Palms, and Juquila. On the other hand, if you want other variations, try Taqueria Sanchez, Tacos por Favor, or Lares or Gilbert's El Indo. Do you want high end? Try Border Grill, Tlapazola, or La Sereneta di Garibaldi - Santa Monica or W.LA.

Burger - FO is great, try the one on Helms Ave so you don't have to go through the seating difficulties at the Montana location. Or if you want 'fast food", try In-And-Out. Or do it custom-style at the Counter

Steaks - Try Pacific Dining Car, Houstons, or, if you like a little atmosphere, Chez Jay.

[vinosnob]

Cocktails - Copa d' Oro or the Penthouse on top of the Huntley hotel.

Mexican - Monte Alban

Steak - Mastro's, Cut

Burgers - Father's Office (not your typical burger)

-----
Father's Office
1018 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Cut
9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Mastro's Steakhouse
246 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Monte Alban
11927 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Father's Office
3229 Helms Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90034

The Penthouse
1111 2nd Street, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Copa D'Oro
217 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401