MARINA DEL REY. Located in Marina Del Ray, Ballona provides diners with an ever-changing menu of interesting International cuisine. Most who've visited here find themselves returning again and again for dishes like striped sea bass accompanied by a tasty fig-fennel salad. While dining, take notice of the masterpieces adorning the walls as they are all from local artists. Smart casual dress appropriate.

MALIBU. The consummate California beach shack, this cozy, oceanside eatery is a Malibu legend, the kind of laid-back place where regulars head each night for a few Heinekens and an order of lobster spring rolls or a bowl of sherry-laced lobster bisque. Featured entrees include Maryland-style crab cakes, Australian lobster tail with gremolata butter, and macadamia-crusted mahi mahi. Perched high above the shore and decorated in marine hues - faint blues, greens, and teals - Chart House has become a popular late afternoon gathering place to sip cocktails and watch the sun set over the Pacific.

BEVERLY HILLS. "Bon Appetit" meets "Town & Country" at this trendy Euro-Asian seafood restaurant and bar. A two-level re-enactment of a Vietnamese dinner club, it's where beautiful people meet beautiful food. Dungeness crab with An's secret garlic sauce or sake-simmered crab will make you salivate on the spot. Garlic noodles are justifiably famous, and every Asian tapas is carefully prepared and presented. For dessert, try the Music Box or the special trio of sorbets ­ they're a perfect ending to a memorable meal. Reservations are required, and the trendier you look, the better your table.

BEVERLY HILLS. This popular seafood spot is like a much-loved club, complete with deep leather booths and low lighting. As the name suggests, seafood rules the day. Try Alaskan king crab legs, potato-crusted sea bass, surf-and-turf, or zuppa alla pescatore ­ lobster, shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, and fish in a saffron broth served over angel hair pasta. Fried seafood platters and osso bucco are also specialties of the house, and hearty steaks and chops are certain to satisfy the carnivores in your party.

ENCINO. As the name promises, Delmonico's is the spot to visit if you're in the mood for lobster. Among the myriad ways the kitchen prepares the crustacean are as risotto, as cakes, as a cocktail, and stuffed. Craving something different? Linguine and clams, succulent veal dishes, and seared steaks satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Be sure to ask your server for a wine to complement the meal ­ the staff are well-trained and are sure to suggest an excellent vintage.