Dining

Some days in Los Angeles just feel charmed. Before heading to a matinee of Beethoven at Walt Disney Concert Hall, I met some friends for brunch at San Laurel, and it turned out to be the perfect beginning to an already beautiful afternoon.

Located inside the Conrad Los Angeles, directly across from Disney Hall, San Laurel is ideally situated for anyone making a day of downtown culture. You can feel the energy of the Arts District the moment you walk in — modern, airy, and sophisticated, yet warm. The soaring ceilings, the suspended bar glowing above us, the light pouring in through tall windows — it all feels polished but completely relaxed. It’s elegant without trying too hard.

I ordered the avocado toast and a seasonal salad, and both were outstanding. The avocado toast was layered generously, topped with fresh herbs, seeds, and just the right drizzle of brightness to lift every bite. It was vibrant, clean, and satisfying without being heavy. The salad was beautifully composed — crisp greens, thoughtful textures, and ingredients that actually tasted like themselves. Simple, but done perfectly.

My friend ordered the fried chicken, golden and crisp with creamy, tangy accompaniments that made it feel indulgent yet refined. We also shared house-made crab croquettes that were crisp on the outside and delicate inside — the kind of detail that tells you the kitchen truly cares. Check it out!

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Did somebody say catfish and grits? Stevie’s Creole Cafe on Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles brings authentic New Orleans flavor right to the City of Angels. From the moment you walk in, the southern charm is there! We were greeted warmly at the door and seated within five minutes. Stevie himself stopped by our table, charming and genuine, thanking us for coming. That personal touch set the tone for the entire meal.

The food is fresh, generous, and packed with flavor that transports you straight to the French Quarter. We ordered the Stevie’s Sampler with catfish, shrimp, and oysters, all perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection. The gumbo was loaded with seafood and meat, rich and satisfying. The catfish and grits are a must-try, along with the honey hot shrimp that keeps you coming back.

The fried pickles were delicately battered and thinly sliced, a wonderful starter. The Creole pasta, and fried chicken taste excellent. Don’t skip the cornbread or beignets, super yummy!

The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, a cozy hole-in-the-wall that oozes charm. Whether you dine in or take out, the service is quick and friendly. I’ve been a fan since their Sherman Oaks location in 2003, and this spot continues that legacy beautifully. A true taste of the South.

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Honey, you better go on down to Fixins Soul Kitchen at LA Live in Downtown LA serves soul food with actual soul in it. Soul Food at its finest! The atmosphere is lively and energetic, filled with positive vibes from both staff and customers. Soulful music welcomes you the moment you walk through the door.

Located next to Crypto.com Arena and The Novo, this spot attracts musicians, athletes, and celebrities. Legends like Stevie Wonder have dined here, adding to its reputation as a destination for anyone working nearby gigs or games.

The menu balances classic soul food with health-conscious options. The blackened tofu is smoky, spicy, and incredibly flavorful. I’ve enjoyed the “down home” collard greens with tasty turkey necks, sweet candied yams, and gooey macaroni and cheese, all seasoned to perfection and tasting like true comfort food made with love. The fried chicken and catfish are crispy and flavorful with every bite.

The decor features modern rustic style with wooden tables, chairs, and neo-farmhouse fixtures. Walls display subtle art creating a spacious yet intimate atmosphere with excellent lighting and warm colors.

Service is fast, friendly, and accurate. Reservations are encouraged as waits can reach 15-30 minutes during busy times. Parking is available for a fee behind LA Live. Whether it’s a pre-game meal or group dinner, Fixins delivers every time. 

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Located in The Village at Woodland Hills, Saint and Second is a beautifully decorated restaurant that offers a modern, upscale dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating plus a stylish bar area. The interior is aesthetically pleasing, making it perfect for brunch or casual celebrations.

The menu features modern American cuisine with Asian influences, and the plating is top-notch. We celebrated a birthday lunch and tried the ricotta meatballs with Bellwether Farms ricotta and San Marzano tomatoes on grilled bread, the spicy tuna on crispy rice, smoked and glazed pork chop with grilled Asian pears, Brussels sprouts, aged cheddar grits, candied pecans, and avocado honey, plus the pork belly. Everything was delicious and high quality.

The fried chicken burger was absolutely amazing, and the Parker rolls are a must-try. We were pleasantly surprised with a complimentary marshmallow brownie dessert for the birthday which added a thoughtful touch to the experience. The full bar offers an impressive array of premium spirits, creative signature cocktails, craft beers, and wine. The restaurant is spacious with a covered outdoor patio featuring a glass wall that separates diners from the outdoor mall area.

We attended for lunch but the weekend brunch menu looked equally appealing. This is a solid choice for high-quality food, drinks, and conversation in a trendy, upscale environment. Highly recommended, and I’m eager to return to explore more menu items.

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