So you can't afford a trip to Napa to go to Thomas Keller's French Laundry. So what? Not only is Keller the genius behind Beverly Hills' Bouchon but he also has helpfully provided a less formal, less expensive option right underneath it — and right near that free parking garage on North Canon Drive. (Score!) Whether you're outside on the sun-dappled patio or inside at the nickel-plated bar, Bar Bouchon has a low-key vibe and the prices to match up until 7 p.m. Oysters are $2 each; the house white and red wines are just $5 each; and there are several small plates (sliders, crostini, salmon tartare). It's hard to find a place in Beverly Hills that's not swimming with rich old people or clueless tourists — thanks to Keller's pedigree and the primo location, Bar Bouchon feels like a bar you could actually hang out in. 235 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills. (310) 271-9910, bouchonbistro.com.

—Sarah Fenske

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