LA Restaurants

India's Tandoori offers an extensive menu of northern Indian specialties for dining in or takeout. Cooked in the traditional clay tandoor oven, the tandoori chicken, marinated in yogurt, is both crisp and tender ($6.50 half, $10.85 whole). A tempting assortment of fragrant vegetarian specialties include gobhi alu, fresh cauliflower and spicy potato curry ($5.25) and bengan bhartha, roasted eggplant cooked curry style with tomatoes ($5.50). Don't miss the Sunday champagne brunch featuring curries, vegetables and delectable Indian flatbreads ($8.95). Lunch and dinner seven days, brunch Sun. Beer and wine; takeout; catering; parking. AE, DIS, MC, V.

The offshoots of Joachim Splichal's acclaimed Patina Restaurant on Melrose Avenue, Pinot restaurants truly impart the air of la belle France, delivering a signature twist on classic French bistro fare. Situated all over L.A., these premier restaurants provide memorable meals in hip, sophisticated settings, as well as special events including cigar and martini nights, and wine-tasting dinners. Check individual locations for days and hours. Full bar; beer and wine (Patinette); takeout; delivery (Patinette); catering. AE (Patina), DC, DIS, MC, V.

Amid the hustle and bustle of the Sunset Strip lies a restaurant that will take you south of the border. Just how far South you might ask--well, how does Argentina sound? The flavorful gusto of traditional Argentine steak dishes (prices vary) and European classics like Dijon chicken ($8.95)--as well as inventive vegetable dishes and salads--please palates of all persuasions. All generously portioned dishes come with freshly prepared sides like fluffy mashed potatoes or fresh, seasoned zucchini. Lunch and dinner seven days. Beer and wine; takeout; delivery; catering; valet parking. AE, CB, DC, MC, V.