The Original Cha Cha Cha
656 N. Virgil Ave.
L.A., CA
323-664-7723

Lively, Caribbean-themed explosion of color and cuisine.

Popular food: Anything with their famous negro sauce, a spicy black pepper concoction that's served at breakfast with eggs and at dinnertime with salmon.

Unique food: Try the jerk chicken omelette.

Drinks: No hard alcohol, good wines by the glass, excellent sangria (get a pitcher!), and lemonade; if you have an aversion to flavored coffee, steer clear of their house blend -- a grim hazelnut brew.

Seating: A dozen tables on the patio; eight small tables inside.

Ambience: Secret's out on this place, so expect a requisite amount of scenesters tucked in with your hipsters; also, while they don't advertise it, it's a great place for kids.

Extras/Notes: Owned and operated by the family restaurateurs Prado (as in Prado in Larchmont Village and Cava on Third Street). Their breakfasts can be downright affordable -- and really delicious. Ask to be seated in Angel's station for a truly authentic experience.

Parking: Small lot with valet; street can be dicey, at night -- try to park on Virgil Avenue.

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Hours: Daily, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

Fax: 323-664-7769