Because every Angeleno loves to eat, even if he has to valet, we bring you Table Stakes: a series that answers man’s eternally recurring question (“Uh, what’s new?”), and recurs once every lunar cycle or so. Bon appétit.
Tinfoil
Highland Park
You’re here for: A home bar reup in front and then a deli sando in the back, which you’ll find behind the employees-only door.
You’re dining on: Roasted chicken and arugula and shaved parm on a flaky baguette — and a bottle of Golden Road 329 for later.
5900 N. Figueroa St. (map)
Website
Bianconi Restaurant
West 3rd. St.
You’re here for: A client meeting or a family dinner (bring the in-laws here). The dark dining room means business.
You’re dining on: Tomahawk steak, 34 oz., served Tuscan style with a Super Tuscan. Do order some of the housemade pasta to share.
Angelini Alimentari
Beverly Grove
You’re here for: Lunch, be it on a break or while on one of those holiday shopping jaunts.
You’re dining on: Depends on what you have next. If you’re busy, go with the smoked salmon with avocado on toast. If you’re going home to watch football, Gino’s Meatballs will do the trick.
7317 Beverly Blvd (map)
Website
Terra Cotta
Koreatown
You’re here for: Either pre-game before hitting the Wiltern, post-show drinks or a rowdy party night with friends.
You’re dining on: BBQ ribs, crunchy fried cauliflower and a sizzling steak.
3760 Wilshire Blvd (map)
Website
Nerano
Beverly Hills
You’re here for: A romantic dinner. Hit their sidebar — BG Lounge — before or after.
You’re dining on: Pretty much anything. These guys also run SK Kitchen in Santa Ynez and are great at making food with subtle flavors that compliment wine and vice versa.
9960 South Santa Monica Blvd. (map)
Website
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
Highland Park
You’re here for: Dessert or a snack, and/or a tasty treat for your office or dinner party.
You’re dining on: Flaky pastries filled with savory combos like bacon and onion, or the sweeter combo of strawberry and jalapeño.
This article was featured in the InsideHook LA newsletter. Sign up now for more from the Southland.