It's been a looooong time since I've been to Anna's. But I remember one time my long ago girlfriend and I paid in quarters, dimes and nickels because that's all we had (still in college).

My faves were the veal parmigiana and the tagliatelle they make for you tableside. Rich, creamy and a heart attack waiting to happen!

Fine dining? Perhaps not. But it does have some ol' tyme dishes that satisfy.

Mos

I've not tried any of the above, but did have a great bouillabaise at the Patina group's Provence in Costa Mesa. But that was a few years ago, and probably 3 or 4 chefs back!

The waitress we had said she'd asked the chef had given her the recipe, but after days of boiling shells and fish bones, she couldn't come close.

What is it with Marseilles??? I don't think I'm being nostalgic, but the bouillabaise there was sooooo outstanding. The broth was so rich and layered with flavor.

I'd recommend Onotria in Costa Mesa (not quite LA, I know). Massimo Navarette is an amazing chef, and his new restaurant, though in a strange place, is a great place to try Italian wines along with innovative cuisine. Most menu items have wine tasting recommendations.

Massimo also has special wine tasting dinners often with aged vino.

http://www.onotria.com/

Good luck!