Dafür ist die elegante Draußen-Esskultur Kaliforniens berühmt. Für Speisen zwischen Grünpflanzen.
Located right off the beach, the C&O Trattoria always packs a crowd seeking out its hearty portions and festive atmosphere. The twinkling fairy lights at dinnertime surrounded by murals of rustic Italian scenes make for a superb alfresco dining atmosphere. Dishes are served family style and there are freshly baked piping-hot garlic knots constantly being handed out as the waiters make their rounds. As a cute little gimmick, patrons are asked to draw on their paper tablecloths with a crayon. Each hair they draw on a stick figure's head represents one glass of the delicious Merlot, which is served out of a water cooler. Don't worry, it's all on the honor system and just adds to the fun when it's time to settle the bill. If you're lucky to go during the dinner hour, be prepared to sing along with the staff in a lively rendition of "That's Amore!"
The interiors of Melrose Umbrella Co. sparkle with a brown and golden radiance, reminiscent of an imposing and luxurious lounge from early 20th Century America or Europe. Situated on Melrose Avenue, this stylish bar offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Heavy wooden cabinets, wood-decked ceiling and flooring, old oil paintings, tiled columns, printed carpets, and flickering candles and chandeliers infuse an old-world charm. Seated on wooden furniture or bar stools, guests can enjoy cocktails concocted from novel recipes as well as a selection of fresh fruit juices.
The bar/restaurant Trocadero offers a welcome escape from some of the rowdy frat hangouts on this side of Sunset Strip. The seating is lounge style, with plush chairs and squat tables on the inside and tall tables and bar stools on the patio, overlooking a bustling stretch of Sunset Boulevard. Settle in to take advantage of strong drinks, tasty fare and premium people watching. The menu runs the gamut, from inordinately scrumptious bar food, rumored to be the best on the Strip, to substantial plates. Most agree that the crab cake starter and the Cajun chicken sandwich are not to be missed. The wine list sports some great picks at bargain prices. Happy hour is especially popular, with half-off bottles and USD3 drafts. -Kate Sobol
Owner Oscar Hermosillo's idea of giving back to the community takes shape as Venice Beach Wines. A juxtaposition of urban and rustic is the underlying theme at this warm and inviting establishment; evidently executed in the globe-spanning selection of old and new wine, the delectable menu and the appealing interiors. Having fostered relationships with local farmers, Chef Jill Davie plates up a sumptuous variety of sandwiches, snacks, cheese, cured and smoked meats best enjoyed at the cozy candle-lit patio. The ever-evolving wine list featured has oenophiles coming back for more.
One of the most striking features of this warm Italian dining place is the hospitality and comfort that is offered to all diners without any discrimination. The owner personally makes sure that all the guests are happy and satisfied with everything related to the experience. This gesture is enough to make one want to keep coming back, though it is not the sole reason for doing so. The excellent food too deserves a revisit with its fine flavors akin to the traditional Italian recipes. The fried calamari or Calamari Fritti, Mediterranean Crab Cakes, Octopus Salad, Salsicha Pizza and Pasta Pomodoro are fond favorites of many. The bar also offers a decent wine list. There are special offers and promotions on the food on certain nights too. What's more, pets are allowed in the patio, making dining here a good reason to celebrate with the furry friends.