Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Los Angeles

Still commonly known as the "Rainbow Room," this fabled Sunset Strip institution continues to deliver a good time with live rock shows, fun finger food and late-night dining. The roomy interiors consist of a dining room, several bars, upstairs dance floor and patio decorated with kitschy rock 'n' roll memorabilia, Christmas lights, burgundy leather booths and even a vintage arcade game. The food offered is an Italian-American fusion of popular munchies such as pizza, sandwiches, steaks and a diverse vegetarian selection. Keep in mind that it is possible to reserve special seating above the stage.

Established in 1946, only a well-worn spot could offer such specialties like steak with all the trimmings. Forget the diet, you're eating well tonight. Right across from the Warner Bros Studios, the most famous item on this menu isn't meat related—it's the cheesy garlic bread. Try the early bird specials for a great discount. No matter when you arrive, however, you'll get a great meal that is worth the price.

Since 1928, this L.A. standby has been offering 24-hour casual dining in the heart of the Fairfax district. You'll find the food here authentic and the people-watching amazing. Everyone from The Wallflowers to K.D. Lang and Madonna has stopped in to eat here. Favorites include the in-house pickled corned beef pastrami, the hot corned beef, the tender beef brisket and the many offerings from the in-house bakery. Next door is the Kibitz Room, where there's live music most nights. A full bar and decent wines work well with the food.

Located inside the Beverly Hills Hotel, this long-time favorite of the 90210 crowd (the city, not the show) is a great place to people watch. Celebrities and other well-heeled people hang out here and enjoy its rich atmosphere. The room inside is lovely and tasteful, and the outside patio is tree lined and great for smokers who can't do without their fix. Not for the T-shirt set - gentlemen are required to wear jackets.

Starting with the authentic Argentine wine, Carlitos Grandel leaves no stone unturned to entice and delight its diners. Steeped in Argentine traditions, the menu offers recipes like Papa Fritas, Chorizo, Provolone, A La Florentina and Ravioles de Porcini Al Burro which are delicacies. The steaks are famous too. While live piano music serenades the diners, the delicious aroma of the food engages the taste-buds in gustatory pleasure. A dreamy venue, the dining room is decked with trinkets and memorabilia from Argentina, transporting one into memories of that region. Dine here to experience the delight of Argentine cuisine for yourself.

Perched atop the imposing Pershing Square Building, Perch is a gem of a French bistro. The splendid alfresco setup accentuated by a fireplaces and fire pits sets you up for what's in store in the kitchen. The restaurant serves delicious classic French cuisine in LA's scintillating atmosphere. Featuring separate menus for brunch, dinner, and late nights, it offers an unforgettable culinary journey. The regular delicacies like Ahi Tuna Tartare and Caesar Salad are dished out with flair, and so are the traditional dishes like Bouillabaisse and Duck Confit. In the end, a glass of Armagnac or Calvados from its bar is enough to round off a fine dining experience.