Locanda del Lago

In a sea of mediocre restaurants along Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade this corner trattoria is a breath of fresh air. Locanda del Lago (Inn of the Lake) specializes in cuisine from Northern Italy's Lombardy region. On sunny days, there's no better place in L.A. to people-watch than at the trattoria's outdoor patio, savoring a glass of chianti while tucking into the house specialty -- osso buco alla Milanese, a veal shank slow-cooked in white wine and vegetables, topped with traditional gremolata (a parsley, garlic, and lemon zest mixture) and served with saffron risotto. Better yet, visit during happy hour for deep discounts on drinks and select appetizers, like the farmers market vegetables baked in Fata Paper (which helps them retain their natural flavors) and presented tableside,

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.