WHY Superb steaks and chops, succulent side dishes (duck fried rice, Japanese purple yams with crème fra’che) and comfort foods (pot roast, coq au vin). Oh, and a Sunday brunch that Los Angeles Magazine has twice declared the city’s best.

WHAT This retro-contemporary (think Mad Men) chophouse run by star chef Suzanne Tracht delivers a superior dining experience in a civilized yet comfortable setting. Entrées can be pricey, but the meltingly tender coq au vin and the chopped sirloin burger with a fried egg and green peppercorn sauce are both bargains at $21, and you can sample small dishes at the bar for less. Side dishes are exceptionally good.

WHO Well-dressed residents of the nearby hills, who consider Jar their country club, along with younger hipsters who like the cocktails and the cool vibe.