Charbel Hayek’s LA: Burgers, Bistros, and Beyond

It’s so hard in this city because there are so many good restaurants. I believe one of them should be In-N-Out. It’s very fast food, but it’s such a classic. I eat it almost every other week. It’s so great.

I really love Anajak. It’s Thai. I know the chef, too—Justin— he’s amazing. It’s great food, food that comes from the soul.

Recently I dined in West Hollywood at a place called Amour. It’s a French spot, and I heard they had also changed the chef. Before, I’d heard not-great things, and when I went, I was surprised. It’s very classic French, and I met the chef—he’s also French—and I had a great meal, so I’ve got to give him props. It’s a beautiful setup. It’s great for a date, and it’s so French. I feel like they nailed every part of it. I’ve heard mixed opinions, but I’ve got to be honest, I had a great meal.

It’s great, and I’m friends with the chefs and the owners. Honestly, I had a great dinner. It’s not traditional food, but it impressed me, to be honest.

I used to go a lot to Bavel and Saffy’s, and I feel those are classics in LA. They’ve been there forever, and their food is different from Lebanese cuisine. You know, Israeli and Lebanese are completely different. There is no right or wrong.