Cicada: Northern Italian Cuisine

Located in a former men’s clothing store in the historic Oviatt Building downtown, Cicada is an Art Deco dream, with 30 foot gold ceilings, Lalique glass, lustrous wood surfaces and classic 1920s character that’s the perfect foil for their northern Italian menu. Dishes include Fettuccini with Filet Mignon, Lobster Linguini, and Smoked Chicken Ravioli, plus entrees like Grilled Dover Sole, Chicken Fricassee, and Filet Mignon. On Sunday nights, the restaurant throws an old style Hollywood dance party where you’re encouraged to dress up in your best tux and tails or flapper dress and hit the floor to cut the rug to a dance band or crooner. Whether you dress up and dance or just stop in to dine, you’re in for memorable experience.

Cicada Restaurant
617 S. Olive Street
Suite 911
Los Angeles, CA 90014

Il Cielo: A Country Restaurant In The City

Often called the most romantic restaurant in Los Angeles, Il Cielo (Italian for “the sky”) actually manages to live up to that lofty praise. Owner Pasquale Vericella bought the building in 1986 after eyeing it for years, and proceeded to open a gorgeous dining space that offers tranquility and fine food in a lush garden setting. Using the cuisine of Tuscany as a base, Il Cielo delivers high-quality fresh Italian food, with pasta, bread, and desserts made in the kitchen each and every day. Fish and seafood dishes are especially good, with fantastic scallops often available. Prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food more than makes up for it. The service is exceptional, with courteous, informed waiters always there when you need them and absent when you don’t. If you can, sit outside on the patio—the real magic of Il Cielo happens under the stars.

Il Cielo
9018 Burton Way
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
(310) 276-9990
www.ilcielo.com

Drago Centro: Italian Fare

Sleek modern décor, large light-filled windows, and a dazzling wine tower are only part of the reason to be impressed with Drago. Visit for lunch or dinner and sample the chef’s updated take on traditional Italian fare and you’ll see why the restaurant gets rave reviews. Papillote of Dover Sole, Butternut Squash Agnolotti, Lobster Carbonara, and NY Strip are good enough to leave you clamoring for more, but save room for the Toasted Bread Pudding drizzled with salted caramel cream. Three words describe it: to die for. Stop by the bar for the all-day happy hour, where you can partake of wine, beer, and cocktails for a mere $5 and grab a nosh from the tasty bar menu.

Drago Centro
525 S. Flower Street
Suite 120
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Neighborhood: Downtown
(213) 228-8998

Patina: Seasonal Fare

Shine up your Patina with a trip to this outstanding restaurant in the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Radiant reviews are the norm when it comes to Master Chef Joachim Splichal’s ability to transform a mere meal into ambrosia. The menu continually changes to make use of the freshest seasonal ingredients, so try not to fall in love with one particular item, like the Butter Poached Lobster, the Butternut Squash Veloute, or the Warm Mango Cardamom Flan. Seasonal tasting menus, an impressive array of artisanal cheeses, a spectacular wine list and impeccable service make this a dining experience that will take up a prominent place in your epicurean memory bank.

Patina
141 S. Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Neighborhood: Downtown
(213) 972-3331
 

Susina Bakery & Cafe: Sweet Treats For Any Time

In 2001, Jenna Turner opened a bakery that has since become a fantastic spot for Los Angeles natives to hang out and enjoy sweet treats. Susina is filled with absolutely fantastic sweets of all kinds, from glass jars lining the walls holding imported candy, to the absolutely decadent cakes. Regulars rave about the lush, velvety chocolate mousse cake, as well as the Berry Blossom, made with fresh fruit. Pies, cookies, brownies, and more are also fantastic. If you’re thirsty, many hold the belief that Susina makes the absolute best chai latte in Los Angeles—mixed with almond milk—it’s a fantastic, comforting drink that boasts amazing, robust flavor. If you’re looking for something a little more savory, they have croissants and Panini sandwiches on tap as well.

Susina Bakery & Café
7122 Beverly Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 934-7900
www.susinabakery.com

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