Akasha is one of my favorite spots in the city for fresh, healthy fare that tastes just as good as it sounds when you read the menu descriptions. The quinoa with roasted market vegetables is delicious and healthy, yet still tastes so good, especially with a piece of fresh grilled salmon on top. The avocado salad with its little crunchy bits is also amazing, as is the grilled Little Gem lettuce salad with the meyer lemon. If there is a pie on the menu, it’s a must have for me. I have the biggest sweet tooth of anyone I know, I can eat dessert any time - and pretty much do - and their pies are not to be missed. Honestly, I love chef Akasha and the fact that she's been cooking this type of food in a healthy way before it was cool to do so. Also, the dining room is very nice - chic and modern, but comfortable and not frilly at the same time. Great place for a business meeting, dinner, all the way to a date night.

Love going for an early dinner or a weekend meal at BP Oysterette. The interior is very fresh, crisp and clean, with a nice ocean beachy vibe yet still chic and stylish. The lobster roll might be my favorite version I've experienced in LA. I can't say how it rates against its East Coast competitors, but I will say that this lobster roll was extremely delicious, served on a buttered brioche roll (what’s better than buttered brioche, pretty much nothing besides Compartes chocolates, right?), and done the right way. They have a really nice oyster app, as well as lots of delicious seafood dishes. In a city like LA that’s so close to the ocean, with such an abundance of fresh seafood at our doorstep, I think BP Oysterette is definitely a must try! In fact, writing this right now makes me wish I was eating the lobster roll at this very moment. I might see you there this dineLA week - it’s on their special Restaurant Week menu and a good bargain for all you get! 

First thing about Cafe Pinot is the incredible setting. With the historic Central Library building as the background and their "secret garden," it’s a beautiful spot and one of my favorite places to grab a meal, where I feel like I'm tucked away in a hidden spot. Plus you get gorgeous views of Downtown LA's skyscrapers. Sitting outside in the garden area having lunch is such a beautiful way to spend an afternoon, and at night it’s super romantic. I also like their ever-changing menu, especially their special fish dishes. There is always a decadent fish dish and it’s always my go-to choice. Also, for lunch I love their simple grilled options, which are healthy, light and super affordable. I’m so fond of Cafe Pinot I’m collaborating with them for a Valentine’s Day event, where they’ll be serving special courses paired with special versions of my Compartes chocolates that are themed to different classic love stories.