I liked my brunch at Suzanne Tracht’s Jar (steakhouse) restaurant in Hollywood. I heard they opened an LAX Terminal concept called Tracht’s. I haven’t been yet though.

The nicer fares I know of near the Torrance/PV border are H.T. Grill, Chez Melange and Christine's. I know, they’re not “perfect”.

I think every person has their choice. When I want to lose weight I try to avoid temptation, and go for lighter fare. In the South Bay, that entails:

Santouka for Ramen
I-Naba for Soba
Baja Fresh for their salads (yes, I was that desperate)
Cho-Dang Tofu for Bi-Bim Bop (yay for lots of small side dishes)
Pho-Hana for their Bun/Pho/Rolls
Shin for their Yaki (ordering a handful of little things)

2nd City is aight. Wouldn't say it is much better than average though.

Salt Creek Grille - for Americana
Fleming's is aight (bit pricey).

Is there a target $$$ figure?

their sunday brunch prices/portions were a good intro to the menu imho.

I searched, and couldn't find it. Can someone link the Providence Restaurant (on Melrose) review?

I admit, I saw the restaurant mentioned on the last episode of Top Chef, when Michael Cimarusti was "backstabbed" by another executive chef.

http://www.providencela.com/

Is their website.

Yelp had ridiculously rapt reviews, as did Open Table. Can someone give a review that doesn't sound like they're "getting some" under the table?

Does anyone have any recommendations on Japanese Steakhouses in the South Bay/Torrance area?

3 of us are looking for a mid-price range, but still enjoyable meal.