Masa-Echo Park Bakery & Cafe, Los Angeles

The owners have put so much love into this restaurant that the "comfort style bistro food" is almost too comforting...and just a little fattening. They've combined the flavors of Italy, France, Spain, Cuba and the Midwest to make the menu overwhelmingly satisfying, all at a reasonable price. Some of the local favorites include any of the Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas, which practically burst with tomatoes, and the Manchego salad with granny smith apples, Manchego cheese, and a drizzled-on-top balsamic reduction. The food generally takes a long time to make its way from the kitchen to diners' tables, but the place makes up for it with its overtly attentive and friendly staff. To top it all off, they bake their bread fresh and from scratch...daily! - Michelle Campagna