76390 Mon Dec 12 07:39:08 -0800 2005 3 2 Los Angeles Area 0 420991 We have been out of the LA scene for about 4 years but will be back in town for my partner's 30th in a few weeks and need recommendations for dinner spots. An idea on type/level is Joe's in Venice (mains from teens to twenties). We will be dining with his parents (who don't covet food as much) which changes our approach a bit from a blowout meal at Bastide/Sona/AOC etc...but would still like the experience of a good chef. Have seen lots of reviews for Jar and Table 8, think these would fall into out category? Thanks in advance and if anyone's heading to Boston or London let me know, personal rec's available! Mon Dec 12 07:39:08 -0800 2005 0 newtofoodfascination 1 421014 I would say Angelini Osteria or its refined sister, La Terza. Both prepare incredible Italian food (Angelini is arguably LA's finest Italian) and neither would scare off more conservative eaters. Angelini is tiny, cramped, but full of energy and passion of the staff and guests. Also, serious celeb hangout -I've seen Tom Hanks, Jake and Maggie Gylenhaal! La Terza is more sedate, but the staff is equally charming and warm. There's also Grace which is actually right across the street from Angelini on Beverly. Beautiful and calm with wonderful food. Good Luck! Mon Dec 12 12:27:58 -0800 2005 420991 0 Suebee 1 421020 The recommendation of Grace is a good one for a meal with the parents. It's a very comfortable, elegant space with well-prepared, good food. Another thought might be Jiraffe -- although it's been around awhile, according to recent reviews on this board, it's still going strong. http://www.jirafferestaurant.com/ Link: http://www.gracerestaurant.com/ Mon Dec 12 12:45:42 -0800 2005 420991 0 DanaB 1 421341 I actually think you could get out of AOC more cheaply than out of Grace, but maybe that is just me. La Terza is really lovely, and I second the JiRaffe rec, which is on about the same $$ level as Joe's, I think. Campanile is a beautiful building..... Tue Dec 13 14:00:46 -0800 2005 420991 0 srl