This is one of those classic Hollywood landmarks that every Angeleno should see at least once. Why let the tourists have all the fun?

Built in 1914 as a replica of a Kyoto palace, the restaurant, its lush gardens and 600-year-old pagoda sit high in the hills with views of twinkling lights below. Like any Hollywood icon, the building has a storied past, having been a celeb hangout in the '20s, a military boys school during WWII, and an apartment building. After a new owner discovered the ornate woodwork and silk wall coverings that were buried under paint, a restoration of the property began in 1948. First-time visitors usually need a couple of cocktails to get past the beauty and focus on the extensive and varied Cal-Asian menu. The coconut curry shrimp with pineapple-lemongrass salsa or tuna carpaccio with tangerine and watercress are good snacks; entres include maple teriyaki chicken with buckwheat waffles and corn-currant coleslaw, or pink peppercorn filet mignon. And, of course, there's sushi. Interesting-combo desserts like lychee-rhubarb pie and green-tea tiramisu complement the selection of specialty teas. —Lesley Balla