Los Angeles' food scene has long been a mecca for gourmet gastronomy. But these five hot spots are perhaps the city's best for brunch.
Small-plate haven a.o.c. is a serious favorite among locals. Had to the beloved patio and order Suzanne Goin's most popular dishes, like the Spanish fried chicken and spicy soppressata focaccia. 8700 W. Third St., West Hollywood, 310-859-9859; aocwinebar.com
Executive chef David Codney presides over the kitchen at The Peninsula hotel. The service remains polished, and the wine selection is one of the best in town. A multimillion dollar renovation and new patio ensure ambiance, while menu updates, including twice-baked eggplants and grass-fed lamb tagine with couscous and cumin yogurt and a newly launch Champagne brunch, promise to satiate. The Peninsula Beverly Hills, 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310-975-2736; beverlyhills.peninsula.com
Chef Travis Lett serves uncompolicated rustic American fare, including thin-crust pizzas from a wood-burning oven. Ask for a table on the patio, where you can hear yourself think. 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 310-450-1429; gjelina.com
The all-day bistro at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows takes its name from the 120-year-old tree out front and draws daily inspiration from the famous farmers market around the corner. New chef Jason Prendergast is including more heritage-inspired dishes, shareable plates and tableside offerings, while continuing the restaurant's tradition of offering ingredient-driven food in a relaxed Santa Monica setting. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, 101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310-319-3111; figsantamonica.com
Like a true Angeleno, acclaimed Nobu Matsuhisa scored a second home in Malibu. The indoor-outdoor space abuts the Pacific, and signature dishes about, with the yellowtail sashimi and chocolate bento box making perfect bookends to a thrilling meal. 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 310-317-9140; noburestaurants.com
Photography by: Photography by Rob Stark; courtesy The Belvedere; Steven Freeman
