555 East

In Short
Who says you can't be south of the 710 freeway to conjure up a truly Old Hollywood experience? Like a blast from the past (in a good way), this laidback haunt has been playing host to the local power scene since 1984. Reminiscent of a posh men's club, the vibrant brass bar--replete with a black-and-white checkerboard floor--is where in-town movers and shakers throw back a cocktail (or two) while dishing on the stock market or their latest golf handicap. Anchoring the space--which includes three private dining rooms--is the piano; coupled with the din of celebrating families and boisterous businessmen, the space can get a bit noisy, but what better excuse to cozy up closer to your date in one of the barely-lit booths? Intent on providing ''the best beef experience every day,'' the kitchen uses USDA prime, corn-fed beef that's aged to its specifications. Steak cuts like top sirloin, New York strip and rib eye are all seared to perfection by a 1,600-degree broiler while the rest of the menu features seafood options and hearty helpings of garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus dijonnaise and salads. If there's room for dessert, go for the molten-center chocolate souffle--just make sure to order it at the beginning of your meal.