You've taken pride in avoiding the frat-like, Euro-trash "scene" of the Sunset Strip. But we dare say, the west end of the Strip is shaping up as a likable alternative to Chateau Marmont (with Johnny Depp's long-ago-owned Viper Room and all). Finally, the Strip is for adults again -- and it's sexier this way.
Night + Market at Talesai: For years and years, Sunset Strip shakers would sate their craving for Thai fare at Talesai. But something else, something almost clandestine, is happening inside of Talesai -- behind a curtain by the bar -- that is attracting a new breed of Strip goers. What's cooking at Night + Market, Talesai's back-kitchen lovechild, is reinvigorating the Sunset Strip as a dining destination. Begin your night on the west end of the Strip with a Southeast Asian ode to the pig: satays of grilled pork, fried pig tails and pork toro (grilled fatty hog collar).Night + Market at Talesai, 9041 Sunset Boulevard, at Palm Avenue (310-275-9724 or thenightmarket.blogspot.com)
Eveleigh: Among all of Sunset Strip's restaurants, Eveleigh is easily leading for "Most Attractive." But in addition to the impressive architecture, the menu is quite the looker, too. You might enjoy the pot-roasted mussels, which are plump and supple, or the house-made duck rillettes, gorgeously smooth and fatty. To warm up from LA's evening breeze, snag a seat by the fireplace with an artisanal cocktail in hand (we like the Scotch-and-bourbon drink aptly called "A Good Prick").Eveleigh, 8752 Sunset Boulevard, at Palm Avenue (424-239-1630 or theeveleigh.com)
The Rooftop at The London: To move up in elevation, ride the elevator of The London Hotel, and enjoy a post-dinner libation on the 10th floor rooftop. The London arguably provides the best 360-degree view of Los Angeles on the Sunset Strip; sneak over to the pool, procure a cabana, and canoodle the night away.The London, 1020 North San Vicente Boulevard, at La Cienega Boulevard (310-854-1111 or thelondonwesthollywood.com)
More Date Night: The Intersection of Hollywood & Vine