Chaya Venice

This sibling of West L.A.'s Chaya Brasserie is a microcosm of the new Venice: a hip, casual-but-well-dressed crowd filling a chic, laid-back space decked out in art from around the world. Venice is not only one of the city's hottest dining destinations, but it also boasts an attitude that is quintessentially L.A. The candlelit dining room -- filled with French beverage posters, Pacific Rim images and palm fronds -- complements the sensibilities of an artsy clientele that is sprinkled with designers, industry movers and shakers and hip locals kicking back. Its restrained Pacific-California cuisine has strong French foundations, while an exceptional, eclectic wine list matches well with the imaginative dishes.