Islands
3200 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Village
Manhattan Beach, CA
310-546-4456

When you want to meet friends for food and drinks in a casual atmosphere, any one in the chain of Islands restaurants fits the bill. Just envelop yourself in the goofy tropical tiki theme and stop counting calories. The burgers are on the large side. In fact, all the dishes are bountiful. Try the cheese fries or one of the entrée salads, which some might classify as wholesome junk food. You'll even find low-calorie dishes on the menu if you must maintain your waistline but don't want to miss out on the fun. It's a family-style atmosphere with a college bar scene and lively happy hour crowd mixed in.