Fonz's @ Manhattan Beach, CA

Went here with a large group last weekend.  I haven't been here for a while as my husband & I weren't impressed.  It was much better than the past.  I had the Lobster salad which was very good and the Seafood Risotto, also good.  It likely helped that we brought very nice bottles of wine in and just paid for corkage vs. off the menu.  That may have lifted my spirits to enjoy the place more.

All in all, I'll give Fonz's another try.

Union Pizza @ El Segundo, CA (next to Bristol Farms)

Went here on a suggestion and waited for a Chicago Deep Dish.  I thought this was very good, although I haven't had true Chicago deep dish much.  I will definitely order from them again.  You can call ahead and order, sit outside with your own beer/wine (no corkage), or have them deliver. 

All in all, this may be my new pizza place.

Cliff's Edge on Sunset @ Silver Lake, CA

Went here last night and unfortunately, it was raining.  This place has a large uncovered patio that I'm sure everyone wants to be seated in.  While some seating was covered, we opted for inside.  Place had a ski cabin feel to it and we were seated at 2 tables for 2 pushed together.  Both tables were unbalanced and their solution was to wedge the 2 table tops together, something that eventually came undone.

We had a smattering of items and all were good, not great.  Some were just OK.  The Roasted Brussels Sprouts were under cooked and very hard; the Chickpea Fritters were good but a bit gooey/doughy in the middle, and the Squash Blossoms had too much cheese to even notice there was a Squash Blossom.  For entrees, which we shared, the Flat Iron Steak was good but nothing special, the Skate Wing was good, and the Crispy Polenta was the star of the night.  Also had the Bread Pudding which was classically good. 

Reviews on some sites have been negative, but we thought it was fine for the price ---- $200 for 4 people and we all had drinks. 

All in all, I'll go back again and likely order other items to give them a try.