One of LA's most intense power-meal spots is also one of its prettiest.

The utterly charming patio, bordered by a white picket fence, is just one of the down-home design elements, created by co-owner/designer Lynn von Kersting, masquerading the fact that this is anything but a casual joint. Celebs come here to be photographed by the always-lurking paparazzi; Industry folks cut deals that they want everyone in town to know about. Roses bloom everywhere, the chintz upholstery is lovely and the plates are hand-painted. From the kitchen come large, pricey portions of California-ized Americana—Caesar salad, crab cakes, savory meatloaf, succulent Cajun prime rib, black-pepper shrimp, lobster omelet, Louisiana soft-shell crab and even a bang-up burger. The lobster omelet Co-owner Richard Irving, who also owns L.A. Desserts, started out as a patissier; his desserts, from the chocolate-chip cookies and homemade ice cream to the tarte Tatin, are divine.