Dining Alone Restaurants

Veterans of the Los Angeles dining scene since 1981, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger have garnered national acclaim and multimedia stardom with their modern approach to Mexican cooking. Throughout their ascension, the duo has managed to keep their Santa Monica flagship vital. A magnet for both tourists and locals, Border Grill showcases colorful murals and plentiful portions of equally vibrant Mexican cooking. With encyclopedic menus and daily specials, ordering can be daunting, but regardless of the selection, the dishes are consistently flavorful. The duo’s attention to detail lasts through dessert, with house-baked cakes and strong, spice-infused café de olla.

With nearly every new restaurant offering some sort of fusion cuisine today, Sam’s by the Beach rises above the rest and delivers fresh, smart food in an intimate neighborhood setting just off Pacific Coast Highway. The seasonal menu includes traditional California basics that seem familiar until the taste reveals unique Mediterranean details. The unassuming outside belies the quiet romance waiting inside. Dedicated staff members cater to your every dining need, implementing a special menu if requested and treating each patron as a regular. Visit this surprising getaway to relearn all your old favorites.

La Taquiza No. 2 on South Figueroa and West 30th Street, serves authentic Mexican cuisine just one block from the campus of the University of Southern California. La Tqquiza No. 2 delights students and neighborhood locals alike with its fresh, south of the border cuisine. The originator of the Mulita, which is like a combination taco and quesadilla, this tasty treat features two handmade corn tortillas with the diner’s choice of meat, melted jack cheese, and guacamole. The fresh salsa bar offers a wide range of sauces and accouterments, including avocado sauce, an orange sauce, as well as roasted garlic …

For sharp and flavorful Asian dishes that render a taste of the east, Pearl Dragon can offer something special for everyone. The sleek, dramatic decor and chic bar scene draw a stylish crowd to this industry hangout, which offers the only full bar in Pacific Palisades. The Pearl Dragon's elegant yet laid back atmosphere, with potted bamboo and gleaming wood tables, is well suited for crowds coming for the lobster specialty dishes, sushi and Pan-Asian entrees. This elegant and modern décor enhances the fine dining atmosphere, and when paired with Pearl Dragon’s entrees and appetizers, a little taste of the …

For delectable fusion cuisine, blending flavors of the Pacific Rim, Provence, and Tuscany, travel no further than Restaurant Christine. Chef and Owner Christine Brown created an eclectic menu that is both unique and flavorful, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and French influences to offer a wide variety of tastes. Located in Torrance near the foot of Rolling Hills, Restaurant Christine feels like a cozy Mediterranean villa, and provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal with friends and family or perhaps celebrate a special occasion. A reasonably priced wine list, friendly service, and excellent fare make Restaurant Christine an experience worth repeating.

Hidden from the desert heat the Steakhouse at the Spa Resort Casino in Palm Springs is a carnivore’s oasis. Dimly lit, The Steakhouse contrasts against the vivid sunshine of the surrounding environment, and brightens diner’s palates with succulent meat and seafood entrees. From the first glance of the backlighted menu, The Steakhouse at Spa Resort Casino lives up to its name as a meat eater’s paradise. The list of appetizers covers dishes from the earth and the sea, with options like Jumbo Sea Scallops to Escargot with garlic butter, Brie and sourdough bread. The main entrée selection boasts traditional cuts …

After seven years of success in the North Hollywood Arts District, Paul Hibler and David Sanfield took their Pitfire Pizza concept downtown in 2005. Across from St. Vibiana’s Cathedral and in the shadow of skyscrapers, office workers flood this modern Italian café at lunch for thin-crust pizzas, hearty pastas, and market-fresh salads. At night and on weekends, the rush subsides and Pitfire offers a more relaxed dining experience with the same value. Order at the counter, where a board lists seasonal specials and fresh-baked desserts are on display. To drink, there’s fresh sangria and watermelon lemonade, plus wine and beer.

The Orange County Mining Co. is located in the hills, boasts a panoramic view of Orange County. In the tradition of the mining days of Silverado Canyon, the restaurant is patterned after the steak houses and saloons frequented by the prospectors of old. The Orange County mining Co. sits upon the old silver mine sites of the canyon. Relics displayed within the restaurant's interior are genuine artifacts of the mining era. The kitchen serves hearty American fare such as steaks, grilled chicken, and seafood. The full bar refreshes guests thirsts with traditional cocktails as well as bottled and draught beer …

Once surrounded by an enormous orange grove, this landmark jewel was built as a family home in 1909. The Victorian decor exhibits extravagance and splendor; with warm tones accented by soft lighting and tapestries exude elegance. The atmosphere is only outdone by the kitchen’s French-influenced Northern Italian fare. The menu is peppered with fame and glamour, with playfully-named dishes such as Sophia Loren Caviar and Cartier Calamari. With 12 private rooms, the White House is ideally suited for private parties and groups; while the elegant ambiance makes the White House an excellent destination for any special occasion, large or small.

The First Cabin, located in the Balboa Bay Club and Resort, perfectly captures the essence of the Newport Harbor with its panoramic bay views. The menu offers classic Californian cuisine, with dishes such as creamy lobster bisque and beef tenderloin. Complimented by a wide selection of more than 600 wines, including vintages from around the world, The First Cabin received praise for its wine collection with awards from both Wine Spectator and the Distinguished Restaurants of North America. Chef Josef Lageder uses only the freshest ingredients the season has to offer for the menu, and even offers a special wellness …

The Golden Truffle is a unique bistro known for its innovative fusion menu, which includes a mixture of Asian, French, Spanish, and Caribbean-influenced dishes from Chef Alan Greeley. The menu changes daily with whatever the freshest ingredients available are, but favorite items include Jamaican Jerk Chicken Salad and Rosemary Roasted Spring Lamb Loin with Vegetable Soufflé and Mushroom Meat Juices. With such a wide array of dishes to choose from, The Golden Truffle keeps its clientele curious. An extensive and award winning wine list featuring French and Californian selections to compliment the exciting menu.

Located on Alamitos Bay, McKenna’s is scenic and serene as diners overlook the peaceful Pacific while delighting in fresh seafood and succulent prime steaks. Although it resides in the midst of bustling Los Angeles, the tranquil eatery allows guests to experience the al fresco ambiance of sailing lofts as the fresh breezes roll in from the picturesque horizon cooling the grand deck. Lighting up the stage five nights a week, eclectic vocal, guitar, and jazz add smooth harmonic vibes to the relaxed atmosphere, entertaining patrons as they choose from a diverse menu with dishes such as the delicious Hawaiian Ahi …

Gemell’s Restaurant has been serving the citizens of Dana Point fine French cuisine for over a decade. Owner and Executive Chef Byron Gemmell is one of Orange Counties culinary elite, and his namesake restaurant reflects his depth of experience and knowledge with the dishes the serves that keep guests returning time and again. Patrons rave about the Lobster Bisque, Lamb, and Chocolate Soufflé, but with a full lunch menu, and Sunday Brunch as well, the dinner menu is not the only star in Gemell’s sky. The cozy dining room is the perfect venue for a meal with that special someone, …

Nestled in Dana Point Harbor overlooking the yachts and docks is Harpoon Henry’s. This seaside restaurant provides diners with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean while offering classic seafood entrees. Many Dana Point locals enjoy munching on favorites like Beer Battered Fish and Chips or Coconut Shrimp while sitting under the warm California sun on its expansive patio. For more lavish diners, Harpoon Henry’s inside dining warms guests with a fireplace and upscale plates like Mahi-Mahi Macadamia, sauteed with Macadamia Nut Crust under an Orange Mango Sauce. Not only does the surrounding Dana Point Harbor provide ample people watching, but …

Sundried Tomato Café serves fresh café food with a California twist. Nestled in a Laguna Beach shopping center, this classy but casual restaurant provides guests a healthy dose of appetizing treats. True to its name, this American bistro adds a sundried tomato zest to classic dishes. Starting from Sundried Tomato Butter with bread to their signature Creamy Sundried Tomato Soup, diner’s palates are consistently wowed. This bowl of deliciousness can be served a la carte, or part of the “Sundried’s Comfort Combo” complete with Grilled Asiago Cheese and Tomato Sandwich. Heartier options are also available in the form of seafood, …

Every aspect of Oliver Café in Beverly Hills represents top talents in the fields of design, business management, and innovative cuisine. Combining the culinary talents of Chef Francisco Ochoa with the restaurant acumen of Mario Oliver and the genius of interior designer, Dodd Mitchell, Oliver Cafe offers an irresistible and contemporary backdrop for breakfast, lunch, chill-out hour, or dinner. The menu features health conscious dishes, with certain items endorsed by the house “Register Dietician” to fall within a certain specified caloric range. For those in Beverly Hills looking for something light to nosh on, give Oliver Café a try.

Dish in La Cañada Flintridge has been serving up California comfort food to the chagrin of hungry patrons. Weeknight specials included Fried Chicken Tuesday and half-off beers on Monday nights. All items are made in house, including Banana pancakes featuring banana batter, and desserts like the decadent Turtle Bar. The folksy atmosphere, accentuated by the shabby-chic décor, has touches like pop-up toaster ovens on each table so diners can toast their bread to exact taste. With a warm and cozy feel and filling meals, it is no wonder Dish is popular among those looking for something a little different.

Opened in March 2005, Ocean and Vine is located in the gorgeous Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, next to Santa Monica pier. The swanky lobby sets the scene for an upmarket experience. The split-level, low-ceilinged room is attractive; the top level is dominated by a steel chimneyed fire pit, with striking artworks adding to the ‘wow’ factor. The cuisine, from Head Chef Robert Trester under the watch of Executive Chef Gregg Wangard, is Californian; each dish a showcase of local, seasonal ingredients. Dishes are near-faultless, and although prices are high, it’s worth coming here for a splurge or special occasion.

Situated in Manhattan Beach's downtown area, just a block away from the pier, Rock’ N Fish is a local favorite offering a classic New Orleans styled dining room. Surrounded by tall ceilings and hand painted murals, the area appeals to a variety of moods and tastes. Oak grilled fish, signature sandwiches, and Alaskan king crab are some of the menu's highlights. The bar offers the restaurant’s signature "Navy Grog" drink as well as one of the most extensive wine lists in the area. For a fine meal, strong drinks, and a great time, check out Rock’ N Fish!

Mori Sushi exudes an elegance and class that sums up the Los Angeles dining scene, but brings eastern culinary traditions to brilliant life with their selection of dishes. Serving up fresh, quality sushi daily, plus premium lunch specials based on traditional Japanese recipes. Mori Sushi also features a private dining venue for special events and private parties. Though sushi is plentiful in Los Angeles, Mori Sushi boasts a certain simplistic confidence and variety, all of which make this establishment unique.