Los Angeles has no shortage of great bánh mì and among my favorites is the one at Bé & U Village. It starts with a crispy baguette that makes an audible crunch without being harsh to the roof of one's mouth. A mixture of matchstick diced radish and carrots in a vinegary pickling liquid is added on top with a generous smear of paté to match. The protein comes next and while Bé & U offers a few options, including tofu, beef, egg, and fried chicken, I tend to stick with the lemongrass pork. A handful of greens and herbs, including cilantro, cucumber, and jalapeno, are then piled between thick slices of pork to complete the sandwich before it's wrapped in blue checkered paper. The resulting dish is more than the sum of its parts, with a strong herbal lemongrass flavor from the meat contrasting with the brightness of the carrots and radish. Since the restaurant is takeout only, this bánh mì is best enjoyed on a picnic blanket in the park. 557 N. Hoover Street, Los Angeles, CA 90004. - Rebecca Roland, associate editor
When it comes to sushi omakase experiences, I prefer progressions that go heavy on nigiri and lighter on prepared dishes. Both styles can be lovely, but for me the more rare and raw fishes draped over well-seasoned rice, the better. For those whose high-end sushi preferences veer in a similar direction, get to Beverly Hills, stat. A meal at Sushi Note Omakase begins with a trio of non-nigiri bites and quickly moves to a parade of dozen-plus sushi. From dry-aged kanpachi to scallops sprinkled with truffle salt and baby shrimp topped with cavié
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