Where the Chefs Eat is an ongoing series in which we ask a local chef to give us his or her favorite dining options. This week, David Lentz, chef and owner of The Hungry Cat, tells us his favorite spot to eat these days.

Like many chefs we speak to for this series, David Lentz is pressed for time. “I don't really get out too often,” he says. “My wife and I have three small children, so our days of restaurant hopping are definitely numbered.” For the uninitiated, Lentz is married to Suzanne Goin (Lucques, Tavern, AOC, The Larder at Maple Drive).

With kids in mind, Lentz recommends 101 Coffee Shop. “During the summer we found ourselves going there quite frequently, for breakfast with our children of course. The vibe is Hollywood diner and the service is very good — we actually had the same server several times and she was so good that we told the owner. It's child friendly and the food is very consistent.”

With grazing in mind, “L&E Oyster Bar. I like the layout of this place, it's cozy. The oysters are top notch, and their wine list is good. I like the fact that there are a lot of somewhat smaller items on the menu. I like to graze and generally go more the appetizer route rather then entree so I can try as much as possible.”

In Atwater Village, “Canele. It's one of my favorites, although its tough to get over to Atwater on a regular basis. I love the feel of the place and the food is top notch. I would recommend both brunch and dinner. The wine list is very good and I often wonder how they charge such low prices!”

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