Glendale

Located in the sprawling Americana mall, this Taipei export is famous for its steamed dumplings—and all the requisite extras like green beans with sauteed garlic, Shanghai rice cakes with shrimp, and noodle soups.

With over 150 acres of botanical splendor including a rosarium, a Japanese tea garden, bird sanctuary, and more, this is a wonderful place to escape to with the whole family to get a dose of nature in the city. Easter is particularly fun here for the little ones, when an egg hunt takes place on the central lawn amidst the blooming tulips.

While its location is perfect if you work at the studios (or have just landed at the Burbank airport), an idle weeknight works for a trip here, too. When you arrive, the hostess will tersely explain that this is an omakase only place. "No California Rolls." In case that isn't clear enough, there's a large sign right behind the bar that reiterates: Omakase Only. Once through the gauntlet, an incredibly jovial sushi chef compensates. Sit as close to him as possible, as the restaurant doesn't offer much in the way of ambiance, and he will walk you through your meal, explaining the provenance of the fish, and exactly how to season it. Photo: uchinabaker