Three years ago, I discovered Lou Amdur and his eponymous wine bar. After one visit and many glasses, I was hooked. First, by Lou's infectious love & knowledge of all things oenological and the esoteric wine list (with non-traditional, yet evocative descriptions like "unfucked up" and "ephemeral"). Then, the seasonally-driven menu of DJ Olsen, a chef who frequents the Santa Monica Farmers Market so often he's a regular on KCRW's Good Food. An awesome waitstaff and friendly regulars create a convivial vibe. At Lou, one is never lonely dining alone; one night, a conversation amongst strangers at the communal table lead to a Seder invitation.