L.A. restaurants that really get you movin'

Carney's

One and a half Union Pacific train cars were fused together to build the shell for this 32-year-old Sunset Strip dog and burger specialist. The metal luggage racks, heater vents and windows are original, as is the ladies' room. We're fond of Carney's tradition of giving each kid who walks in the door a single French fry. Of course, you can't eat just one.

Chili dog, $3.20. 8351 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 654-8300.

Café Rodeo

If Ferraris, Maseratis and Porsches are your thing, grab one of the sidewalk tables. There's a constant parade of all of the above up and down this chichi thoroughfare. So expect plenty of distraction as you nibble on that arugula, watermelon and goat cheese salad or the mac and cheese.

Arugula salad, $12. 360 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, (310) 273-0300.

Traxx

Housed in striking Union Station, Tara Thomas' sophisticated American restaurant gives railroad dining a very good rep. In fair weather, there are few prettier spots than the jacaranda-shaded patio, just the place to enjoy tender little grilled lamb chops with cannellini beans, olive tapenade and fire-roasted tomato sauce.

Lamb chops, $28. 800 N. Alameda St., downtown L.A., (213) 625-1999.

Spitfire Grill

Newish owners, an even newer chef and a major patio expansion look to bring fresh excitement to this aviation-themed eatery, a favorite with pilots flying in and out of Santa Monica Airport. You can't see the runways. But you can watch the private jets take off and land between bites of fish and chips, done in a tempura batter, or one of the burgers.

Fish and chips, $16. 3300 Airport Ave., Santa Monica, (310) 397-3455.

Bob's Big Boy

On Friday night, there's an unspoken rule at this temple to the burger that the parking lot is reserved for cherry, classic cars. Proud owners park their babies and often put up "before" and "after" images. Car aficionados admire the goods, then join the crowd inside for Big Boy Combos, a burger served with a dinner salad and fries.

Big Boy Combo, $6.65. 4211 Riverside Drive, Burbank, (818) 843-9334.