LONG BEACH. This steak and seafood restaurant provides all the extras you'd expect from a New York-style establishment ­ a large, roomy bar, an award-winning wine list, and some of the best prime cuts in the area. For dinner, start with crab bisque, and then take your pick of every prime cut imaginable, from top sirloin and culotte (also known as a tri-tip) to a rib-eye and Kansas City strip. The wine list literally boasts hundreds of selections, so don't neglect its riches.

BEVERLY HILLS. Morton's is an upscale chain steakhouse (part of the Chicago-based dynasty) that serves a lot more than just American Angus. The decor is masculine; the atmosphere, classy. Expect to be treated well by the friendly waitstaff, who present dinner selections by bringing out a cart of options and telling you stories about each dish. Favorite entrées include blackened swordfish, fresh Maine lobster, and, of course, the 24-ounce porterhouse.

PASADENA. Locals and critics alike regard this upscale steakhouse ­ a Craftsman-style place with cushioned booths and dark wood accents ­ as one of Pasadena's best. The food here is first rate all the way ­ the beef is prime grade, and the shoestring potatoes crispy and delivered in huge portions. Memorable desserts and great drinks round out the total picture. And if you can't finish don't be ashamed ... most people walk out with a doggy bag that the dog never sees.

BEVERLY HILLS. A far cry from the dark, clubby ambience usually associated with top-notch steakhouses, Wolfgang Puck's CUT is clean and modern, thanks to an interior designed by famed architect Richard Meier. Only the finest cuts of meat make their way to the table, including a 6-oz. Wagyu filet mignon and a Kobe-style 10-oz. New York sirloin. A double thick Kurobuta pork chop and a sashimi-quality Big Eye tuna steak also demand attention. Sides are ample ­ choose something to share, from buckwheat polenta with caramelized sweet corn to sautéed chanterelle mushrooms. Finally, desserts this good can't be passed up, especially the "short stack" of crêpes with blackberry marmalade and caramel cream.

PICO RIVERA. This old-style restaurant has a supper-club feel, thanks to classic American fare and the staff's familiarity with return customers. The delightful establishment offers great steaks, oysters Rockefeller, lobster Thermidor, hefty salads, fresh fish, and even traditional favorites like chateaubriand for two. After dinner, enjoy cocktails and dancing in the lounge, where a pianist plays every night. As a perk, service is like your grandfather used to enjoy back in the "good ole days." A real dining pleasure.