5 To Try: French Brasseries in Los Angeles

8479 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

The one that started it all, David Myers' stylish WeHo spot dishes haute French classics like coq au vin and strong drinks to a chic Hollywood crowd. Just be forewarned: Waiting for a table can be an all-night affair and once you actually do get seated, expect high-decibal conversation and elbow-rubbing with the person at the table next to you.

3932 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029 (map)

This Sunset Junction standard is the Eastside's answer to the mostly Westside-centric brasserie bunch. Expect to see shaggy scenesters and ageless oldies crammed in the courtyard for heavy old-school French faves like steak au poivre and lamb chops.

8741 Alden Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

Just a paparazzo's camera throw away from flashy Robertson Boulevard, this Asian-inspired mainstay reels in its own share of celebs with Japanese standards like sushi and lighter takes on French classics like brioche French toast and grilled filet mignon with black truffle sauce.

8465 Holloway Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

Located inside WeHo's posh Palihouse hotel, the indoor/outdoor brasserie here gets a New Orleans twist in decor, but the menu remains resolutely classic--think tomato tarts, moules frites and French onion soup.

225 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (map)

Bastide's original chef Alain Giraud has opened an authentic brasserie (antique mirrors and zinc bar included) in Santa Monica's historic 1920's Clock Tower Building. The sprawling space offers gussied-up (read: pricey) French favorites like sweetbreads, steak tartare and a bustling brunch on weekends.