10 New Restaurants in Los Angeles

6611 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (map)

The first dining venture from nightlife giant David Judaken (the guy behind MyHouse, Opera/Crimson, Mood), this dreamy space is a far cry from its past life as a parking lot. The multi-roomed dining hideaway is a cross between a monastery and the Bat Cave, with Asian-inspired small plates that'll have your tastebuds dancing all night long. Think uber-fresh seafood like raw scallops on the half-shell, flown-in-daily Hawaiian walu, skirt steak with organic rapini and probably the most deliciously buttery bread pudding you'll ever have.

9400 West Olympic Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (map)

Avalon Hotel's indoor/outdoor space formerly known as Blue on Blue has been rechristened as Oliverio, an ode to modern Italian cuisine--handmade pasta (everything from potato gnocchetti to ravioli and tortelli), fried-crust pizzettas and entrees like a 14-ounce bone-in ribeye. But don't worry, the relaxed mid-century modern vibe and poolside cabanas are still in tact; they've just got an added dash of Italian swank.

7469 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

Culver City's popular wine bar has found chic (and spacious) new digs right on Melrose Avenue. The outdoor patio, flanked by chef Jerry Opong's organic herb gardens, has become a prime spot for foodies and oenophiles to gather. Driven by French technique, the sophisticated small plates range from fresh oysters and housemade gnocchi with crispy sage to kampachi with piquillo pepper, all of which can be paired with your choice of some 300 wines, of course.

8284 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

Watch out, Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills: Another glossy temple to haute Chinese cuisine is making a play for L.A.'s spendy and trendy set. Expect favorites like crispy beef, chicken lettuce wraps, outrageously delicious seabass (try the garlic version), nine seasons spicy prawns and of course, those potent cocktails. Just don't expect to leave without spending your entire paycheck. Recession? What recession?

1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291 (map)

After a brief stint as AK, this bustling Venice space is now home to the Tasting Kitchen, a concept based on a daily-changing, farmer's market-driven menu. (Yes, that includes the drinks, too.) Halibut with cranberry, beans, carrots and onions, burgers topped with cheddar and heirloom tomatoes, and oyster po' boys are just a few samples of the many dishes served up. And the service is just as warm and toasty.

8000 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

Our favorite vegan mini-chain has finally made its way to Crescent Heights and Sunset in the middle of the big CB2 and Trader Joe's complex. Even carnivores can't resist all the tasty fakery like the rich Caesar "chicken" wrap and the I-can't-believe-it's-vegan carrot cake. Oh, and did we mention nothing on the menu is over $10? 'Nuff said.