VENICE. There aren't a lot of frills at this pizza place, which locals declare serves up some of the best pizza they've ever eaten. Enjoy oven-fresh pies topped with classic toppings or more interesting pizzas with pesto sauce and an assortment of mushrooms or tequila-marinated chicken. Although toppings get their due, the bagel-like crust is what really puts these pizzas over the edge on the tastiness scale. Casual dress and friendly atmosphere.

CULVER CITY. With a dining area that's on the small side, Beacon makes the most of its limited space with modern, Zen-inspired decor and two streetside patios. The pan-Asian spot keeps busy thanks to upscale fare and friendly prices. Try a small plate of black edamame for under $3 before sampling dishes like chicken pad thai (which arrives with rice noodles and tofu) and yaki udon, both around $10. Should you choose to indulge, a decent by-the-glass wine selection gets raves for the way it enhances the food.

NORTHRIDGE. Although the location is unassuming, this is <i>the</i> deli in Los Angeles, according to aficionados. If plain brick walls, green booths, and framed pictures don't wow you, the food certainly will. Sky-high reuben sandwiches are rumored to be the best this side of New York, and eggs Benedict at breakfast and meatloaf at dinner win raves as well. Brent's doesn't serve alcohol, but if you desire a frosty brew, just eat in the pub next door ­ your food will be passed to you through the "beer window."

EAGLE ROCK. In existence for over five decades, this local legend is renowned for its old-fashioned pizza pies ­ crispy, thin-crusted, and topped with plenty of garlic. Red-checkered tablecloths and shakers full of pepper flakes and grated parmesan add priceless retro atmosphere to an already fantastic meal. While pizza is unquestionably the star of the show, several pasta dishes are also on offer, including spaghetti carbonara, linguini with pesto, and vegetarian lasagna. Take note ­ the wait can be long, and only cash is accepted.

WILSHIRE. Topped with homemade mayonnaise and accompanied by mounds of tasty potato salad, the hamburgers at Cassell's are some of the best you will ever taste. Choose your own combination of goodies from the toppings bar to customize a patty your way. Vegetarians, don't despair ­ the joint offers garden burgers too. Wash everything down with a glass of their fresh lemonade. A casual, no-frills environment complements the tasty burgers and reasonable prices.