Sweet Potato Fries on the Westside

1018 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403 (map)

The distinctive miniature shopping carts that used to hold orders of fries at this small gastropub are gone; they now come in small silver fryer baskets instead. But not to worry--the deliciously crispy sweet potatoes are still cut thicker than those at many other restaurants, and the sprinkle of sea salt adds just enough flavor. The accompanying blue cheese-garlic aioli isn't to everyone's taste, but those hoping to opt for ketchup are out of luck: The notorious no-substitutions ordering policy means no ketchup (housemade or otherwise) is available.

2901 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405 (map)

Known for its custom build-your-own burgers, The Counter serves well-seasoned SPFs that pair perfectly with the exotic toppings available for the veggie, turkey and beef burgers on the menu. Order "The Fifty-Fifty" and get a bowl filled with half sweet potato fries and half French fries or onion strings, a good combination that balances the sweetness of the taters with the savory onions or French fries.

1415 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (map)

The addictive sweet potato fries served at this tiny Montana Avenue eatery are of the shoestring variety, and while some people prefer their fries with a little more bulk, these skinny ones pack a lot of punch in a slender package. They're cut into long, super-thin strips, fried until perfectly crispy and served with a spicy aioli for dipping.

2911 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405 (map)

Beer-loving foodies flock to The Library for the delicious upscale bar fare, and the sweet potato fries are no exception. While they're not actually listed on the menu, you can choose the addictive SPFs (that's sweet potato fries) as a side for your burger or sandwich. Wash them down with a pint from the wide selection of international beers and you've gone to bar food heaven.

822 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292 (map)

The thin SPFs at this Venice restaurant and bar come with a trio of house-made dips--garlic aioli, spicy ketchup and a tangy barbecue sauce--and are served on an enormous platter ideal for sharing with a group on the outdoor patio. You can also mix it up and order a combination of sweet potato, quarter-inch and shoestring fries.