Blair's Restaurant   

Funky, trendy Silverlake is the perfect home for this intimate New American bistro --especially since, food-wise, there's not much in the way of competition nearby. This is one of a handful of destination restaurants on LA's artsy but unkempt East Side. Marshall Blair, formerly of Water Grill, brings gourmet sensibilities to the kitchen and a friendly, personalized approach to customer service. He's created a handsome, inviting venue where you can celebrate a birthday, play tour guide to out-of-town visitors, or bring your sweetheart for a dressed-down, spur-of-the-moment dinner date. With its white tablecloths, brickwork and warm, persimmon-toned walls, it strikes the perfect balance between casual and chic. Denim-clad, henna-haired locals brush shoulders with well groomed, black-clad hipsters. Signature menu items include braised beef short ribs, tuna tartare, and any of the expertly executed seafood entrees. In addition to a compact but interesting wine list, there's a full bar, a wide range of Belgian and German beers and a selection of specialty teas.