WHY Local microbrews, good wine by the glass and tasty, affordable modern pub chow. Try the quick-fried garbanzo beans, the soups, the shrimp bruschetta and the fish ‘n chips.

WHAT A high-ceilinged old brick building in gentrifying Highland Park is home to this simple but stylish pub, a pioneer in L.A.’s gastropub movement. Order your homemade soup, Caesar salad, Cuban pulled-pork sandwich, very good burger or cheese platter from the bartender, and someone will deliver the food (and drink) to your table. We wish it was as uncrowded as in the early days, but we’re happy for the York’s success.

WHO The hip and savvy of Highland Park and Eagle Rock, along with slummers from Pasadena and Los Feliz.