Come to the casbah, on Beverly Boulevard but half a world away from the string of New American–Italian places that are Cayenne Café’s immediate neighbors. Inside this small room, made festive by strands of twinkling lights, you’ll find a blend of North African, French, and Greek influences in authentic dishes that—as the name implies—pack a spicy punch. One sip of the Moroccan chicken soup and you’ll get the picture. The Garden of Eden platter comes with falafel and tabbouleh and is a great way to sample a little of everything; the Couscous Royal is a sumptuous pile of grilled chicken and merguez sausage. You’ll also want to try the tzatziki, Grapes of Wrap (classic dolmas), and spanakopita—so go with friends and make them share. Fragrant organic apricot brandy tea, with hints of vanilla, will warm you through and through, and you can drink as many cups as you like, since the brandy isn’t alcoholic. Like everything else at Cayenne, it’s all about flavor.

Hummus
Moroccan chicken soup
Chicken pomegranate, walnuts and rice pilaf
Couscous Royal with grilled chicken and merguez sausage
Rice flan, orange blossom, pistachios
view full menu here

Grab the corner seats with views of the entire dining room. (The bench seats with pillows are ideal for snuggling on the first or hundredth date.) And the patio can’t be beat.

Bring Fido to brunch: Cayenne Café has a doggie menu, with items ranging from turkey bacon ($1) to beef and rice ($6)—patio only.

Mon.–Fri. 11 AM–10 PM; Sat.–Sun. 9 AM—10 PM
brunch: Sat.–Sun. 9 AM–4 PM

$16 (chicken pomegranate) to $22 (lamb tangine)