The Tam O'Shanter

Step through the doors of The Tam O’Shanter and you’ll feel like you’ve tumbled into a Scottish fairytale. This Atwater Village institution, which opened its doors in 1922, transports guests to another era entirely. With wrought-iron chandeliers, crackling fireplaces in every room, and a labyrinthine layout of cozy dining rooms, the modern world fades away the moment you’re seated. Walt Disney himself was a regular here, and it’s easy to see why this enchanting spot captured his imagination.

The menu reads like something from an old Edinburgh tavern, and the kitchen delivers surprisingly well on these classic British preparations. Start with the Scotch Rarebit—a rich, funky cheddar sauce that’s so decadent you’ll abandon the bread and reach for a spoon. The Toad In The Hole features tender chunks of filet mignon swimming in savory gravy atop an impossibly light Yorkshire pudding. Of course, the star attraction is the prime rib: the signature Tam Cut arrives as an inch-thick, bone-in slab so tender it practically melts onto your fork.

Dining here is as much about the atmosphere as the food. Servers clad in tartan weave between tables, an impressive wall of rare Scotches beckons from behind glass, and the cocktail menu playfully warns you about ordering a “Glasgow Kiss.” The tea service deserves special mention—boozy cocktails arrive in an ornate tea set that looks plucked from a period drama, making it the perfect choice for celebrations or holiday gatherings.

The Tam O’Shanter isn’t trying to be a trendy modern restaurant, and that’s precisely its charm. It’s an experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles—a place where prime rib, whisky, and old-world hospitality reign supreme. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday with a big group or simply craving a meal that feels like an adventure, this century-old gem delivers something truly special.