The Terrace Cafe

LA isn't a late-night kind of town (it's too busy working to stay up), so places like the Terrace are prized by locals. This funky café serves very good American and Russian specialities until late: try the fried grouper, the roast duck or just a good burger, and watch the arty crowd from the patio. Alternative late-night eats are offered nearby, until 3am, at vintage Mexican spot La Cabaña (738 Rose Avenue, 1-310 392 7973, www.lacabanavenice.com).