Cha Cha Chicken
Photo: Courtesy of Cha Cha Chicken
If vacationing in another country seems like an impossibility given these tough economic times, why not try a foodie staycation instead? Forget the luggage and passport – there are plenty of restaurants with food and atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re thousands of miles from home. Following are some options.
1712 Colorado Blvd., Eagle Rock; 323-255-5111
At this unpretentious French bistro in Eagle Rock, everything from the food and decor to the waiters’ accents has an authentic feel.
1906 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica; 310-581-1684
For a mini Caribbean vacation, just reggae your way to this Santa Monica shack by the beach with outdoor seating, an enclosed patio and jerk chicken. It’s BYO, so remember the Red Stripe.
422 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach; 310-376-7878
Son of a gun you’ll have big fun on the bayou at this funky, festive Hermosa Beach Cajun, where the authenticity extends to the owner’s roots in Lafayette, Louisiana.
2980 Los Feliz Blvd., Atwater Village; 323-664-0228
This circa-1922 Atwater Village throwback set in a Tudor building has the Scottish act down pat – all that’s missing are diners in kilts.
3009 Main St., Santa Monica; 310-399-1843
Romantic Tuscan-style room? Check. Superb pastas? Check. Italian-speaking staff? Check. It sure feels like Italy, but in fact it’s a family-run trattoria in Santa Monica.
– Jeff Freier