Set in one of the oldest buildings in Westwood, this brick-walled restaurant filled with 50-feet ficus trees reaching over terra-cotta floors is like a garden turned inside out.

Because of its close proximity to the Westwood movie theaters where star-studded blockbusters premiere, the Gardens often hosts parties for entertainment honchos. Any other time, it's a leafy, casual setting for business lunches and quiet dinners. Service is affable and quick; the menu filled with classic California cuisine like tuna tartare, lemon chicken and comfort food faves like meat loaf and short ribs. The Sunday champagne brunch is lovely. —Lesley Balla