Restaurants in Los Angeles

Pronounced 'AHHgo', this Tuscan-style restaurant co-owned by Robert de Niro attracts its fair share of stars. Delivered to your table by handsome Italian waiters, typical dishes include brick oven pizzas, bistecca (Italian steak) and porcini mushroom risotto, while the wine list is second to none. The extensive dessert menu includes a delicious ricotta cheesecake.

One of LA's coolest new openings, POT sits within the ultra-hip Line Hotel and is the brainchild of local celebrity chef, Roy Choi. As the name suggests, food comes served in giant pots (although there are plenty of smaller accompaniments to be had), served to a seriously loud hip-hop soundtrack.

Since opening in 2005, Providence can boast two Michelin Stars and local acclaim for its seafood-focused menu and service that's almost unparalleled in the city. Chef Michael Cimarusti's tasting menu with wine pairings is worth every bit of its $325 price tag.

Despite being fiendishly hard to book, and deliciously over-the-top within, Wolfgang Puck's Spago is still well worth a try – and that's entirely because the food is so good. It also attracts a seriously starry clientele and has a gorgeous central courtyard, complete with gnarled olive trees and a fountain.

A combination of Mediterranean and Asian fare, Chaya Brasserie is loved by Angelinos for its cool décor and (mostly) healthy menu. Tucked away in Venice Beach, it boasts a hip crowd pulled in by the lure of fresh fare and the odd bit of comfort food – the lobster and rock shrimp ravioli is worth the trip alone.

On a bustling corner, a stone's throw from Rodeo Drive, Il Pastaio is a favourite celebrity haunt, especially at lunchtime. Part of a small, family owned group of Italian restaurants in LA, it offers a mouth-watering array of handmade pastas, risottos and fish dishes. Tables are tightly packed but you can dine outside.

Not, as the name suggests, an agricultural establishment but instead a seriously pretty café perched on the end of Malibu Pier. The apogee of California's healthy living ethos, all food is organic and sourced directly from local producers. The stunning Pacific views are worth the visit alone.

One of LA's oldest Mexican establishments, El Cholo first opened its doors in 1927 and has since grown to become a mini franchise, with other branches in Santa Monica and Anaheim Hills. Food, however, remains traditional so expect expertly-cooked tamales, enchiladas and other Mexican specialities.

A pebble's toss from the beach, this casual but classy Italian restaurant is adored by locals thanks to its excellent Happy Hour at the bar and prix fixe lunch menu. Don't expect delicate Mediterranean style eats though, La Veccia Cucina specialises in robust Tuscan fare – all served in sizeable portions.

Opened in 1963, Pie N' Burger is something of a Pasadena legend, and although it is pretty lo-fi, it remains enormously popular thanks to its expertly cooked burgers. As the name suggests, pie is also a menu staple but there is a decent selection of salads for those after something a little lighter.