Editor's Picks: Cadien Clark

2128 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

If I lived on the Eastside, I would break bread here at least twice a week. I love the way it looks, the lighting (a soft, pinkish orange), the scene and the stellar drink offerings. The booths by the bar are best. Perfect for sipping a Kir Royale, conversing with your friends and eyeing Scott Foley at the bar simultaneously.

2006 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 (map)

Normally, I don't go for the idea of ponying up for small plates. I know the buzz phrase is "promiscuous dining," but I think that's just code for "these vittles should be dripping with gold at these prices," and communal eating puts me on edge. "You first, no you ... Oh, sorry, no, you go ... " But this ever-popular Sawtelle gem serves Asahi Black (pretty rare) in a glass you can have all to yourself, hearty ravioli in a mushroom sauce, really tasty red snapper carpaccio and loads more good stuff. You can always head down the street to Beard Papa for dessert, or hit up Nijiya market for Technicolor treats if you were being too polite at dinner.

7383 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

I love this place. I went not long after it opened, sadly after I had relocated from an apartment practically down the street, and asked if I could have my 30th birthday party there. (They weren't into it.) Still, the fare is spot-on, the beer selection is stellar, as is the decor--the black-and-white photos of the London riots are especially noteworthy--and the sleek, coveted window booths make this a very well-designed neighborhood bar. Losing my shot at being "Norm" here is pretty much the only reason I regret leaving the neighborhood. Sidenote: It's really freaking loud on big nights out--don't bring the gaggle here for "catching up" and talking about feelings Thursday-Saturday nights. Come to drink.

2838 Rowena Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039 (map)

I'm not sure what makes this shotgun-style bar so special, but it's downright twinkly in here. I saw musical genius "E" of the Eels once sitting with a group of friends (OK, so my friend spotted him), but that's kinda the best way to describe the clientele as far as I can tell. The bartenders are nice, too.

7617 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90046 (map)

I'm clearly a pub person, but even if you're not, you'd have to make it your business not to have a good time here. I love the jukebox, the bartenders, the fact that everyone looks like they know how to take care of themselves and that something really weird always happens. The screaming, disheveled gentlemen you pass on your way in are not mentally ill street urchins, but beloved, paying customers who will continue to bellow once inside. Never a dull moment.

1534 N McCadden Pl, Hollywood, CA 90028 (map)

I've spent two birthday dinners in a row at this lush Hollywood Frenchie. The only downside is that they don't have round tables, which is rough in terms of the convivial group dynamic. I'm thinking of importing one next year. In any case, the waiters are a little embarrassed for you when you order, which seems very French and fitting to me. Especially since I usually order paella.

7458 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

While this cozy Beverly Boulevard notable does seem to suffer slightly from the "bad acoustics" disease that has apparently swept the Southland, the last meal I had here was one of my favorites of the year. "Croque Madame" with prosciutto and quail egg? Yes, sorry vegan brothers and sisters, but it is amazing. So is the wine list.

9411 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 (map)

Culver City is one of my favorite neighborhoods in general, and Fraiche is one of my favorite restaurants in particular. Not only is it exceedingly appealing from the street--again, with the French food, wine and white lights (I know what I like)--it's widely renowned entrees, like the monkfish, do not disappoint. The much-discussed wine selection is super-impressive, and the staff is incredibly friendly.

700 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90071 (map)

Downtown's sparkling garden patio in the shadow of the library got my attention before I knew you could actually eat and drink there. Maybe it's the white lights, or the leafy, urban backdrop, but the food, service and wine wouldn't even have to be as good as it is for me to want to be there. But it is. That was confusing.

8640 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

I gift myself with a scarf from this fantastic French fashion force every season. Yes, fall and spring--you can do that in L.A.--where it's always all about layering. And these people are the experts when it comes to that hard-to-achieve mess of perfection.

8580 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

The best of the basics--from black T-shirts to brown hairclips and gold hoop earrings. I can't handle the Beverly Center crowds, but the one on Sunset is shiny and spacious, and it saves my ass pre-vacay every time.

8646 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

West Melrose's fancy paperie is not new, but for a million reasons, it's still my favorite place to be. And shopping for others is a good excuse. It's eco-friendly, it's original, the materials used are gorgeous, the cards are seriously clever, and it's used as a sort of design studio for staff members who get to work their own pieces into the store's stock. No surprise, there's a booming wedding invitation biz, and an extension with apparel and housewares called "Soolip Bungalow" out back.

143 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004 (map)

Larchmont has been on of my favorite strips of street since I moved here. It's a lot more eclectic than it used to be, and all the new kids on the block are causing the rents to skyrocket. One of the bright sides: Kicks Sole Provider opened up a sister store run by real French people with refreshingly chic accents--one-of-a-kind jewels, bags and more--all within the reach of almost any budget.

8125 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90046 (map)

Loves. It. Years before all the Bravo programming, way before L.A. had two outposts, one of my best friends was obsessed with Adler. I eventually followed suit after visiting his San Francisco store a while back. I will probably never actually own the famous boob lamp, but I do have his book, and I just have to find items to make sure the shiny, happy home design mantra works for me.

436 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

Fairfax's cool-kid central is home to this glorious alternative bookshop with music, memorabilia and tons more wares guaranteed to make you feel cooler simply for having been.

409 N Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90048 (map)

Jordan's seen me through three intense years and as many hair colors. One of my best friends recommended him back when the salon was "Jordan's Enchanted Cottage," and I've been spending Saturdays at this little jewel on North Robertson (yes, everyone's really nice despite the fame factor) ever since. He's the only non-blood relative I'm fully committed to at this point in my life, and I do pretty much whatever he says.

8408 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

I don't have the time or money for a lot of massages, facials, whatnot, so when I do spend dough on upkeep, it's on my paws. Recess is super-pretty and luxurious-feeling without being ridiculously overpriced. Not to mention it's the only entirely eco-friendly spa in L.A. Nidhi, the owner, is incredibly nice and there are tons of weekly and seasonal specials.

239 N Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (map)

This is THE solution to the how-shall-I-get-manicures-without-going-broke-or-getting-a-fungus dilemma. They use the best equipment, it's fast and easy, and the price for a mani/pedi hovers around $40.

930 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024 (map)

There's a reason this brand is both a retail giant and a spa sensation--they have it down to a science. Everything is cool-looking, clean and professional, and the staff is very friendly. It also enhances the experience to feel like you've had a day at the W, so it may be worth stepping into "The Backyard" for a beverage afterward.

1638 N Cahuenga Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 (map)

I generally eschew Hollywood clubbing, anything that involves a line, and anything that involves planning ahead or paying more in order to dodge a line. So, when I still feel I need to take people into the center of hell, this packed bar on "The Corridor" is always a fun alternative to US Weekly's featured Hollywood watering holes. It's a little hot and sweaty, so if you're group is precious, it might be worth knowing that the cavernous Velvet Margarita is nearby for backup.

113 N Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

I feel like I'm gonna lose what little street cred I have with this one. Here's the deal: People want to be taken here. So, just do it. The famous chopped salad is obviously not worth its $30 price tag, and the rest of the food ... Meh. Save yourself by hopping on the sumptuous "Ivy Gimlet" train to nurse yourself through the uncomfortable seating, the uncomfortable staring and the uncomfortable tourist-meets-stalk-arazzi-meets-valet-melee factor. Their classic gin concoction is tops. This also enables you and your wallet to take part in the inevitable Robertson shopping to follow.

7450 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

Location, location, location. This is a great lunch destination if you're taking touristas crosstown--sigh, Hollywood and Highland to PCH, etc.--and you want a quick gourmet bite. Dinner's good, too, but the Angus burger will satisfy many a picky palate, and the salad selection is very nice. I like the simple butter lettuce one. Also, the bartender here shamed me into my now-favorite drink--a Hendrix and tonic--after I egregiously ordered Tanqueray. They know their stuff.

1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405 (map)

I had a really good experience at Catch, the seafood restaurant on the premises of Casa, but it's the gorgeous bar that motivates me to cruise over to Santa Monica's loveliest cul-de-sac to scrounge around for parking spots after a long day of tourguiding. Shutters is certainly something to see, but this spacious, old-world bar is one of the area's best views. With its proximity to Main Street and Venice, and its perch adjacent to Ocean Avenue, the Santa Monica Pier, and eventually onto PCH, it's a good starting point or finish line.

411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105 (map)

A little Impressionism goes a long way at Pasadena's gem of a museum. From the fantastic sculpture garden to the easy-to-navigate collection of pretty pastels and dreamy landscapes, this is one of the most enjoyable--and easiest--art experiences around.

701 Stone Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90077 (map)

The first time I arrived at this breathtaking retreat, a flamingo crossed my path on the way to the restaurant. 'Nuff said.

Franklin and Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (map)

I'm not claiming that Runyon is the best way to experience the great outdoors in the City of Angels. I am also not saying that getting there and parking is always easy, though I do actually find myself digging the ride up to the Mulholland entrance. But the fact that you can be at a stoplight next to a West Hollywood strip mall one minute, find yourself shooting up (when traffic is light-ish anyway) Laurel Canyon the next, pass the haunts of Joni Mitchell and Jim Morrison along the way, wind through what seems like private driveways to Hollywood hillside homes, and, finally, find yourself on a trail with sweeping views of the city, is pretty phenomenal. Sure, there are tons of attractive people and cute dogs, and all the chaos that goes along with that, but it's still a do-able way to feel outdoorsy.