Contemplating a short trip to L.A., the first in years

I may be spending a few days in L.A., and would love some input.

I'd mostly be in the West L.A. area - Brentwood, Westwood, Beverly Hills. So, roughly, Bundy to Fairfax, maybe? And this would be with public transit, so particularly interested in something not too far from buses.

1. Looking for cheap pleasant places, especially ones that are quiet, since one of the people I'm visiting is hard of hearing. American, Italian, Chinese - just not Mexican. Doesn't have to be hot or trendy.

2. How about hamburgers these days? I gather Hamburger Hamlet has pretty much disappeared?

3. Classic old-timey places? I see The Apple Pan still exists. I have vague memories of gong to Canter's, but can't remember it it's any good.

4. And brunch?

5. And while we're at it, any suggestions for rock-bottom motels? I mean, like under $80. I know there used to be some little places along Santa Monica Boulevard in Westwood.