La Serenata   

Fresh fish gorditas and grilled mahi mahi are the order of the day at Serenata de Garibaldi, an inexpensive east-side alternative to the LA dining scene's bigger fish. Quesadillas stuffed with poblano peppers and mushrooms bring crowds, as do the generous plates of seafood tacos and huevos rancheros, all seasoned with salsa, avocado, chipoltle, and an epezote-spiced moicatejete. For the culinary purists and less adventurous brunchers, there's the classic Belgian waffle, as well. The original Serenata de Garibaldi popped up eons ago in Boyle Heights, and has since spawned West LA and Santa Monica offshoots, but the Rodriguez family hospitality remains. The earth tones and natural wood interior give off elegance, but the cuisine is no less authentic. Fans of the original downtown eatery can now indulge in its Mexican elan a few steps closer to the beach. -- Jeremy Horelick