Hungry Cat, L.A.

This seafood-focused restaurant resides in a courtyard of the Sunset & Vine mixed-use development complex. This original location helped propel chef David Lentz to outposts in Santa Barbara and Santa Monica. The dining room has curved white walls and dark-wood accents; seating is also available on the patio, where there is a pair of stainless steel bars, one serves cocktails made with fresh-squeezed juices, and the other specializes in raw seafood. A blackboard lists the day’s specials, which might include Florida stone crab claws or Rhode Island clams. Popular dishes include steamed mussels with lamb bacon and curry, and pancetta-wrapped sturgeon with grits and mustard aioli.