Haute Chinese

According to the Chinese zodiac, this 12-year cycle of animals is said to influence an individual’s personality- I am such a Dragon by the way- and according to ancient Chinese wisdom each of the animals is named after one favored by the Buddha. As Chinese New Year arrives on January 31st, it’s time to horse around and if you happen to be one of these four-legged stallions you tend to be clever, possess good communication skills, and are cheerful- yet a bit stubborn. Celebrating the year of the horse in Los Angeles has never more delicious- or chic- as an influx of Chinese fine dining spots has made the food scene here all the more exotic for the Hollywood power brokers and in-the-know-crowd. Here is a guide to some of the best Peking Duck, noodles, and dim sum this side of Hong Kong.

Chi Lin Integrating authentic Chinese cuisine with high energy and sophistication, the latest addition to LA’s Innovative Dining Group’s collection of high-end restaurants offers elegant cuisine– with a recently revamped menu from executive chef Tyson Wong- in a stunningly seductive Blade Runner-esque setting. www.innovativedining.com

Philippe After a year and a half absence, Philippe- a former employee of Mr. Chow- is back in LA…Beverly Hills to be exact. Known for its hand pulled noodles and delicious chicken satay, this temple of luxe-Chinese is a late-night staple for celebrities and all-star athletes. www.philippechow.com

Hakkasan The Beverly Hills outpost of London’s must-see-and-be-seen Hakkasan offers a distinctive experience where modern Cantonese cuisine, world-class mixology and dramatic design converge. Featuring classics such as Roasted Silver Cod and Crispy Duck Salad, Hakkasan is a perfect spot for a romantic night out or just meeting up with your girlfriends to dish. www.hakkasanbeverlyhills.com

Mr. Chow Michael Chow and his late wife Tina defined the glamorous scene in London, New York and Los Angeles decades ago. These days, Chow and his present wife Eva still manage to collect the beautiful people who flock to his chi-chi eateries, including the second California outpost located at the Malibu Country Mart- once home to Nobu- which debuted in 2012. The menu is a combination of old authentic Beijing and original recipes. www.mrchow.com

WP24 Twenty four floors above the Los Angeles skyline in the elegant Ritz-Carlton sits WP24, Wolfgang Puck’s award winning modern interpretation of Chinese cuisine. Singapore Style Chili Prawns, Angry Two Pound Live Maine Lobster and Whole Roasted Peking Style Duckling for Two goes well with breathtaking panoramic sweeping views of downtown LA and the surrounding city. www.wolfgangpuck.com