WHY Good last-minute party food from the freezer case—spinach-pesto puffs, gorgonzola-fig phyllo rolls—as well as lovely order-in-advance party platters (cheeses, crudités, caprese, caviar). Intelligently filled gift baskets, too.

WHAT A friendly and convenient spot for all your high-end culinary essentials, from roasted-pepper-and-pesto sandwiches to chicken-apricot salad. Good lunch salads and sandwiches, party foods and prepared foods, both fresh and frozen. The wine and cheese selections are smart, though not cheap.

WHO Regulars picking up some lasagne or frozen pasta for dinner, and special-occasion folks putting together Hollywood Bowl picnics.