Boa, Katana & Sushi Roku

BOA
Balboa, the Grafton Hotel's colorful postmodern steakhouse, has been a Sunset Strip favorite since 2001. The latest L.A.-area location--its name shortened to Boa--occupies the former Crocodile Cafe space. Like the original, the newer branch caters to a hip crowd with vibrant decor and sexy lighting, but features its own distinct beach vibe. The nearly identical steak-centric menu includes traditional cuts prepared with the restaurant's signature sauces, plus an expanded selection of seafood and wines by the glass.

KATANA
The team behind Balboa and Sushi Roku has put its muscle into this stylish Japanese restaurant and lounge. The decor verges on "Blade Runner" territory, with ultramodern touches such as steel I-beams substituting for traditional teak rafters, and security grills standing in for Japanese lattice. A swanky patio overlooks the Strip.

SUSHI ROKU
The Santa Monica branch of this ultra-hip sushi chain offers the same sleek design, but surpasses other outposts with a stunning ocean view from the enclosed patio. Most nights, the bar area buzzes with stylish singles, while the dining area is left to sushi-sharing dates.