After weekday breakfasts consisting of little more than harried bites before work, the leisurely, decadent weekend brunch seems a just reward. With more than 100 nationalities living in and around Los Angeles, the selection includes a mesmerizing variety from an international menu. Shanghai-style leek cakes, better than many in China, turn up in obscure lunchrooms. Spicy Cuban picadillos at a neighborhood cafe outshine most island versions. On the weekend, the landscape changes.
Many restaurants go all out to make blowout meals filled with nostalgic favorites.
So when you next hanker to break with your usual routine, you might keep these places in mind. Like an enchanting country house in Mexico's heartland, Gallo's Grill sets the tone for relaxing meals. Sizzling platters blanketed with steak are the primary focus at this primo Mexican grillery, but on weekends, Gallo's prepares an entirely different menu for breakfast. Sopes, unlike the usual thick, oil-soaked fried masa bowls, are thinner, larger and grilled. No shortcuts are taken.