Zinc Cafe & Bar

This vegetarian-friendly SoCal mini-chain with locations in the Arts District and West Hollywood takes a page or two from the Alice Waters playbook with market-driven, all-day fare that changes with the seasons. The lush prepared salads offer a bounty of flavor in every bite, and the larger entrées and wood-fired pizzas deliver satisfying vegetarian riffs on enchiladas and burgers that satisfy come dinnertime. The charming hidden patios at both outposts play particularly well at brunch, however, and the lighter, health-conscious fare makes it possible to enjoy weekday lunch at Zinc Cafe without the risk of feeling sluggish all afternoon.