Like so many buildings in Los Angeles, Lucques might look nondescript on the outside, but it boasts a storied past, having once been the carriage house of silent-film-era actor and producer Harold Lloyd. With an interior reimagined by designer Barbara Barry, Lucques retains its brick walls and its sense of history, even as a posh, minimalist space with warm, chocolate leather booths. Reservations are hard to come by, but when you finally score one, you’ll be glad you waited for a taste of co-owner and chef Suzanne Goin’s simple and absolutely delicious dishes, like Colorado lamb carpaccio with fried potatoes, romesco and scalion aïoli; followed by braised Niman Ranch short ribs with sautéed greens, cippolinis and horseradish cream—this house signature alone will ensure that Lucques will have its own entry in the history books.

Lucques Information:

• Californian menu. Lunch (Tuesday-Saturday), dinner. Bar. Reservations recommended.