Spriz Bar at All' Angelo

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By all accounts, All' Angelo hardly needed improving. It was, after all, the only L.A. eatery to make Esquire’s list of the best new restaurants in America in 2007. But owner Stefano Ongaro couldn't resist. He recently added a small lounge in the front of the house; it's outfitted with an elevated chocolate-brown banquette, three communal tables, delicate hanging lamps and a beautiful vase of white flowers. The idea was to create a relaxed after-work space for people to unwind over bubbly and cichetti (small Italian appetizers)—just as you would find in Italy. The result is a stylish bar that begs a visit from Lapo and John Elkann, the heirs to Italian automaker Fiat.

Spriz is not inexpensive, with premium Prosecci and Champagnes like Perrier-Jouët costing about $15 a glass. But since the bar is a pre-dinner spot, you're better off with an aperitif anyway, like the $9 Spriz Classico, made with Foss Marai Prosecco and San Pellegrino’s Sanbitter. It's less bitter than a Campari and soda, but no less refreshing.

As we've raved before, the cichetti are irresistible, from the fritto misto (lightly fried seafood and zucchini), oysters and sea urchin to the plate of cured Italian meats. At about $9 a pop, it's cheaper than the $30 entrees in the restaurant, and though the portions are tiny, the waiters make it easy to fill up on bread and olive oil.

Still thirsty? The Champagne cocktails—made with fresh fruits such as mango, strawberry, bluberry and peach—are a sweet way to transition your evening into night.

—Alexandra Le Tellier

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