Kirsten Anderberg's URBAN ADVENTURES: Places to Eat in Los Angeles

I grew up in the Los Angeles area and have been to restaurants all over the region for the last 4 decades. This is my list of some of my favorite restaurants that offer unusual dining experiences in L.A.:

Paradise Cove in Malibu
I only know about Paradise Cove because we went there as kids. Our family used to load up the station wagon with kids and then we would go to Paradise Cove. The parents went into the restaurant/bar and the older kids watched the younger ones on the beach. Paradise Cove is a private beach, and there are lifeguards on the beach provided by the restaurant. The restaurant also delivers "to go" orders from the restaurant to you on the beach on your blanket! You buy 4 hours of free parking and beach use with a receipt of $25 or more from the restaurant. You can also eat on tables, in chairs, on the beach, during the day or at night, dine on the sand while listening to the crash of the waves! What could be nicer than that?!

The Rose Cafe in Venice
The Rose Cafe, in Venice, is a combined space with an informal cafe, and an enclosed outdoor patio eating area. The outside seating is quite nice, even during the winter months. I was there most recently in January 2008, and it was warm and sunny outside as I ate breakfast. At the Rose Cafe, you can either sit down for a pastry and cup of coffee or sit down for a full meal, such as their delicious Huevos Rancheros for breakfast. This cafe is a common meeting place for locals. There is free parking with meals behind the cafe.

Afternoon Tea at the Hotel Bel Air
If you are looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, why not take some time out for the afternoon tea at the Hotel Bel Air? This wonderful tradition includes a glass of champagne, with an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire Cream and fresh preserves, pastries, cookies and tea, enjoyed by a lake with swans. Seating begins at 3 PM and ends at 4 PM. You may also enjoy their Sunday Brunch, which is a great way to treat your mother to breakfast! For more information, call (310)472-5234.