Every Friday our editors compile a trusty list of recommendations to answer the most pressing of questions: “Where should I eat?“ Here now are four places to check out this weekend in Los Angeles. And if you need some ideas on where to drink, here’s our list of the hottest places to get cocktails in town.

For a throwback Jewish deli vibe in Highland Park: Belle’s Delicatessen and Bar

Matthew Kang

I’ve been on a bit of a tear going through the Jewish delis in Southern California, visiting Uncle Bernie’s and Art’s out in the Valley in recent weeks. Belle’s Delicatessen takes over a towering space with an exposed wooden ceiling along York Boulevard creating a kind of pastiche of Jewish deli design tropes. The wood paneling channels a vintage ‘70s hangout with whiskey sodas and pickle brine martinis. The tightly packed booths give a diner vibe, while the ordering counter feels like a New York City neighborhood deli. I’m smitten, to say the least. The food is excellent too, including the OJM (Old Jewish Man) sandwich with mustard, plush rye bread, and thick-cut RC Provisions pastrami. I wish you could pay a bit more for a thicker, more generous portion, but I’ll settle for this nice balance of peppery brisket and a thin smear of mustard. The chicken schnitzel sandwich is even better than the simple hot pastrami sandwich (a thing I’d never confess in a Jewish deli). The pickle-brined chicken gains a crisp, sesame seed crust, marinated cabbage, and fresh herbs between toasted challah slices. I’ll come back soon for the homage to Langer’s, the Reuben, and Belles’ signature bagels. 5022 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90042. — Matthew Kang, lead editor

For delectable chowder on a boat: Chowder Barge

Brian Addison

South Bay and Harbor Cities residents know that one of its most beloved restaurants exists on top of the water, specializing in one thing: clam chowder. Eater’s regular contributor, Brian Addison, wrote about the Chowder Barge more extensively, sharing its confirmed and unverifiable folklore. Ask staff about whether or not the boat was used during the filming of the 1935 classic film Mutiny on the Bounty. The Chowder Barge may, or may not be 100 years old. What’s certain is the menu with its signature dish: a double clam chowder bowl with fried clams on top. The Barge’s garlic bread always satisfies, as does the fried fish sandwich, tuna melt, burger prepared with freshly ground beef, and fish and chips. Quenching one’s thirst is easy here with Jarritos soda, beer, wine, and Micheladas on hand. 611 N. Henry Ford Avenue, Wilmington, CA, 90744. — Mona Holmes, reporter

For a Texas take on red sauce Italian: Mama’s Boy at Winston House

Cathy Chaplin

Every Friday and Saturday evening starting at 6 p.m., Winston House in Venice transforms into a red sauce residency called Mama’s Boy. Masterminded by chef Wes Whitsell, the supper club features live DJ sets and a nostalgic menu chock-full of Italian American fare with a Texas twist. It’s hard not to bop one’s head to the music while diving head-first into crisp-golden arancini with molten pimento cheese centers, fresh slivers of kingfish crudo dolloped with passion fruit, and late-season tomatoes served with cheesy Texas toast that is miraculously gluten-free. The pasta lean classic with rigatoni alla vodka, baked manicotti inspired by Whitsell’s mom, and smoked brisket agnolotti that perfectly blends Texas traditions with Italian ones. A round or two of cocktails is a must, along with a strawberry shortcake for dessert. 23 Windward Avenue, Venice, CA 90291. — Cathy Chaplin, senior editor

For tacos hidden in an Arts District alleyway: Ditroit

Wonho Frank Lee

While Enrique Olvera’s Damian is always an excellent choice for dinner, sometimes an evening splurge just isn’t in the cards. Luckily, Damian is home to a taco window in its back alleyway where one can get a taste of Olvera’s cooking in a more casual setting. Though tacos run a little more expensive than what would be found at other taquerias (around $8 each), they are well worth it. Fresh corn tortillas are topped with heaping piles of salty suadero, or rich pork carnitas, balanced by cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime. The crispy fish flauta is a popular choice, along with the daily vegetarian taco, and rotating tamale. Cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages are available to enjoy on-site at a handful of shaded tables. 2117 Violet Street, Los Angeles, CA 90021. — Rebecca Roland, associate editor