Legend has it that Philippe’s originated the French dip sandwich in 1908, a happy accident created by a French roll dropped in a drippings-filled roasting pan. Whether this is fact or urban legend, Philippe’s signature French dips – available with beef, pork, lamb, ham or roasted turkey – are truly special. At its present location since 1951, Philippe’s is rarely without a crowd. A favorite pre-Dodgers game eating spot, the restaurant is truly a Los Angeles institution. The open, friendly dining area features sawdust-strewn floors and long family-style tables that coax customers to share a sense of camaraderie. In addition to the dip sandwiches, a variety of soups, salads and sides are available. Sliced pickles and creamy potato salad are an excellent compliment to any menu option. Unusual options such as pickled eggs, beets and pigs feet are available for daring customers. And don’t forget the famous ten-cent cup of coffee, which has remained incredibly cheap since 1977.

Owned and operated since 1976 by the Herrera family, Yuca’s draws raves for its delicious Mexican cuisine served up fast and fresh from a little stand on Hillhurst Avenue. Indeed, it’s not much to look at, and there are only a few tables – most of which are always spoken for. But it’s consistently rated one of the best Mexican restaurants in L.A. and received a James Beard Award designating it one of “America’s Classics.” You don’t have to tell that to the loyal throngs who line up on Saturdays for the Yucatan-style tamales. The small menu includes Mexican classics like burritos, tacos and tortas, along with hamburgers and hot dogs for the occasional unadventurous diner.

TIPS: The beverages are limited to a few juices, milk and coffee, but there’s a liquor store next door if you need a cerveza to wash it all down. If you insist on a more upscale Mexican experience head down the street to trendy Mexico City.

It's hard to say exactly what's Greek about Elena's Greek and Armenian Cuisine. It does have gyros, but that sort of kebab sliced from a vertical spit is not unknown in Armenian (or Lebanese) cuisine, and neither are stuffed grape leaves. Maybe it's just the copies of classical statuary that adorn this otherwise plain, institutional-green room. The food is quite good--the luleh kebab rather spicy, the beef kebab very tender. You get a little plate of pickled cabbage along with the usual rice and grilled vegetables.

Healthy Lebanese cooking.

Popular food: Chicken shawarma; arayes plate (grilled bread stuffed with beef and lamb); excellent hummus, eggplant, stuffed grape leaves, and Middle Eastern salads -- these guys know what they're doing!

Drinks: Than (yogurt drink), soft drinks, juices.

Seating: A few simple tables.

Ambience: Your average nondescript small take-out joint.

Parking: Strip mall lot or street.

For more reviews like this, get your own copy of Hungry? Los Angeles.

The beauty of the dishes is only exceeded by the kindness of the staff.

Popular food: Masala dosa, super pancake, Indian thali (platter of perfectly spiced small dishes eaten with poori bread).

Unique food: South Indian carbs you won't find at Northern restaurants: idli, uppama, and bonda -- love the paratha (potato-stuffed flat bread).

Drinks: Sweet or salted lassi, Bombay punch (mango lassi), chai, wine, Indian beers.

Seating: Booths and tables inside for 40; lovely tree-filled patio with tables for 50.

Ambience: Dripping with tapestries and plastered with photos of Yogananda and Sai Baba; mix of Indians and non-Indians.

Extras/Notes: Completely vegetarian and mostly vegan, this gem is run by the ever-gracious Kannan Natarajan, his family and staff. You need to be buzzed in from the street, but don't worry about walking back to your car -- the street is well-lit and safe.

Parking: Easy street parking.

For more reviews like this, get your own copy of Hungry? Los Angeles.