Simon L.A.

In a trend reversal, Las Vegas chef Kerry Simon brings his brand of fanciful comfort food and fun to Los Angeles. Go ahead, invite your inner child. Simon L.A., which debuted in the newly glamorized Sofitel Hotel at the corner of La Cienega and Beverly boulevards in June 2006, injects a bit of fun into the local dining scene with Simon's irreverent and mostly irresistible take on American comfort food – think braised shortribs, meatloaf, and brick roasted chicken. It's a concept that's a big hit at his first restaurant Simon Kitchen and Bar in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Rande Gerber owns the adjacent Stone Rose Lounge, and the full Simon L.A. menu can be had at the bar. It’s a fitting end to a spree of consumption at the Beverly Center across the street.

TIPS:  For dessert, the junk food sampler is something to be attempted at least once, with lots of help – you’ll get to try Simon’s versions of Cracker Jacks, Rice Krispie treats, Hostess Sno Balls and Hostess Cupcakes, with doughnut holes, cookies, and a vanilla milkshake for good measure.