From celebrity chef Joachim Splichal, this hotel is tucked into the garden of the L.A. Public Library and has glass walls to take advantage of the leafy setting. It’s more casual, less expensive, and more kid-friendly than Patina but also serves contemporary California-French dishes, based on farmers market finds and the kitchen’s huge rotisserie. Otherwise impeccable service can falter during the crowded lunchtime, and flavors don’t always pop; the yellow corn and bay scallop risotto with grilled baby corn is a reliable choice. The best tables are on the shady patio; the top meals are from the rotisserie—chicken with whole-grain mustard juice is always a good bet. A happy hour menu kicks in after 2:30pm weekdays and 5pm Saturday, with small plates as well as lower-priced drinks.

-Christine Delsol