Letter of Recommendation

You know that one restaurant that’s just right because of that one special thing? Yeah, us too. That’s why we’re introducing our newest franchise: Letter of Recommendation. These are tributes to spots that offer something unique — restaurants we can’t live without. They may not be the most buzzy, but they provide something essential.

Header illustration by Pamela Chen

The Sunset Tower Martini Is an L.A. Icon for a Reason

In which we walk you through the steps to have a perfect night at Sunset Tower’s landmark bar.
By Hillary Eaton July 23, 2026

Restaurants Were My First Love. Chicago Helped Me Share Them With My Kids.

A restaurant veteran reflects on the changing nature of her relationship with the industry, and where she goes with her kids in Chicago.
By Hannah Howard July 16, 2026

Jitlada Showed Me Just How Good Life in L.A. Could Be

Our editor revisits one of the first restaurants that drew her to the L.A. — and remembers what made her fall in love with the city to begin with.
By Jamie Feldmar July 15, 2026

Over Countless First Dates, My Love for This Coral Gables Classic Has Only Grown

I’ll always have Le Bouchon du Grove, and for that I’ll always be thankful.
By Olee Fowler July 13, 2026

Take the First-Time Korean BBQers In Your Life to Quarters

The festive Koreatown staple is a classic for a reason.
By Patricia Kelly Yeo July 9, 2026

There’s Much More Than Just Cocktails at Employees Only

And it remains a place for “firsts” after all these years.
By Jetty-Jane Connor July 6, 2026

Farewell to Loring Place, My Favorite Neighborhood Spot in New York

Loring Place in New York’s Greenwich Village has always been my neighborhood restaurant. And after a decade, it’s sadly closing.
By Chadner Navarro June 26, 2026

The Best Brunch in the Valley is Hiding in a Dimly Lit Margarita Bar

How Daisy in Sherman Oaks has quietly crafted one of the most compelling midday meals in L.A.
By Hillary Eaton June 23, 2026

10 Years In, HaiSous Continues to Serve Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine in Pilsen

How Thai and Danielle Dang created an award-winning neighborhood institution, and where they’re going next.
By Ari Bendersky June 5, 2026

Henrietta Is The Day-to-Night Restaurant Every Neighborhood Deserves

The Echo Park sandwich-counter-by-day sit-down-bistro-by-night newcomer nails the fine line between neighborhood spot and destination restaurant.
By Caitlin White May 15, 2026