Angeleno Magazine named A.O.C. one of their "Ten for All Time" places for true foodies to dine, and the Los Angeles Times Magazine called it “the star” to look out for. Perhaps that’s a result of the management, which consists of the team behind Lucques, owners Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne. They successfully created a menu and ambiance meant for sharing, as well as admiring.

Once inside you’ll find two dining rooms, two bars with seating, and a rooftop patio; all with subdued modern touches like cream lighting, sleek cobalt leather booths, and crisp white tabletops. There’s a simplistic elegance from designer Barbara Barry that also lends to the convivial atmosphere, and it’s not unusual to see ...