Get Outta My Belly: 6 Labor-Inducing Dishes

4346 Tujunga Ave, Studio City, CA 90046 (map)

The "Maternity Salad" (yes, that's its real name!) at this Studio City pizzeria has become almost as legendary as the restaurant's chef-owner, Ed LaDou (of Spago fame). Dive into the leafy dish with Gorgonzola and walnuts but don't skip the balsamic vinaigrette dressing; it's the kicker that gives the salad the name. So (supposedly) fool-proof that they even sell portions of the stuff all by itself.

8048 W Third St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

Ring the alarm. Spicy food is one of the most famous foods that bust out baby. But it's also becoming one of the more controversial cuisines, too. Some say having spicy food right before giving birth makes it more painful. In that case, ask your doc before dining on the red-hot Indian delicacies at this bright and bustling mainstay.

4002 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 (map)

Get it on good authority--because we say so--that the eggplant parmesan at this strip-mall Italian restaurant is, suprisingly, the city's best. Our mommy sources say that it's not the eggplant that does the trick; rather, it's the basil and oregano in the dish. These spices aren't recommended during pregnancy specifically because they have a tendency to bring about baby. So if it's time ...

362 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (map)

Another spicy and exotic offering: Chinese food is--reportedly--responsible for many a broken water. We like this sleek, spacious Beverly Hills Chinese restaurant for a mother-to-be's last pregnant meal.

6333 W Third St, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

Okay, not to get all up in your lady business, but pineapple is said to be a prime stimulant for the body's prostaglandins. Those lil guys play a part in contractions. So when you're ready to rock 'n roll, pop by this crowded market for some fresh produce. Here, you're never more than a few yards from a stand serving the Hawaiian favorite.

8859 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035 (map)

No wonder kids dig the candy! The black licorice here, chock full of anise oil, is another stimulant of prostaglandins. Since this kosher sweet shop has nearly a dozen licorice varieties, you'll certainly feel like a kid in a candy store. With enough black licorice you may actually find yourself having a kid in the candy store, too.