Water Grill

If it ain't broke, don't fix it: Quality and consistency have kept this upscale chain around for over two decades. Even today, Water Grill delivers on all fronts: There’s delicious, straightforward preparations of classics like cioppino, lobster rolls and clam chowder; the family-friendly atmosphere is polished yet unpretentious; and best of all, the service is great. (The same could not be said of “cooler” seafood restaurants like Found Oyster.) The original is right in Downtown L.A., with another beachfront outpost on Santa Monica’s Ocean Avenue. In addition to an exceptional oyster selection, Water Grill sources seasonal delights like Columbia River king salmon on my most recent visit to Santa Monica, I enjoyed the simple yet deftly prepared spiny lobster (available only in the fall), caught right here in Southern California.