Genghis Cohen Restaurant   

Since 1983, the Hollywood staple has offered diners a hip alternative to the storefront Chinese takeouts that litter the city. A dimly lit interior adorned with local artists' work welcomes patrons who don't mind paying an extra few bucks a plate for atmosphere. However, the true allure of Genghis Cohen lies not in the purported New York-style cuisine but in the caliente Szechuan zing of nearly all the dishes. While other local restaurants specialize in more mild Cantonese specialties, Genghis Cohen throws a little fire on the palate with such dishes as Szechuan green beans and chipotle chicken. Regulars know that the New York eggrolls come only in the meat-filled variety, while the vegetarian version is little more than a glorified burrito-sized spring roll that lacks the oft-copied, never duplicated outer layer of its East Coast brethren. Unlike many other restaurants of its ilk, Genghis Cohen offers a wide range of alcohol beverages and prides itself on fast, attentive service. Make an evening of your visit by taking in live music in the adjacent room. Visit their Web site for calendar information and sound bites of upcoming artists.