Charcoal Venice

This modern steakhouse in Venice comes from from Josiah Citrin, the chef behind two Michelin star Mélisse in Santa Monica. Here, dry-aged cuts and well-executed sides take priority over trendy, cool-kid vibes. Charcoal’s signature blackened cabbage is as good as ever; a few pastas, seafood and poultry dishes break up the meatfest for anyone who’s not into steak.  The smoky chicken wings and grilled calamari might not seem like a steakhouse purist’s ideal starters, but they’re delicious nevertheless. Almost everything worth ordering here is kissed with smoke; it’s in the name, after all. During nightly “glass off” (daily 5:30–7pm), sit at the wraparound bar for an excellent $12 burger made with white American cheese and discounted cocktails. While Charcoal’s ambience might run a tad less distinctive than other steakhouses around town, Citrin serves some of the best steaks in the city—especially when chased with the housemade spiced vinegar that graces every table.