It can be hard to convince less adventurous eaters to take the plunge into Japanese food—the concept of eating raw fish can be just too much for some to handle. Those in the know, however, understand that Japanese cuisine is about more than just sushi, and Valencia’s Kabuki does a great job of representing the diversity and excellence of the country’s culinary traditions. This popular chain has branches throughout California and Arizona, serving up not only sushi but cooked foods that have regulars raving. Some of the hottest dishes on the menu include the tonkatsu, a breaded cutlet of pork served with a savory sauce, as well as the variety of tempuras. Classic Japanese noodle dishes like udon and ramen are also well-represented. And, of course, if you have a yen for sushi there is a wide variety of rolls on the menu to nosh on. The Lotus on Fire roll is a particular favorite.

Kabuki
24045 Newhall Ranch Road
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 799-8655
www.kabukirestaurants.com

Voted the most romantic restaurant in the Santa Clarita area, Le Chene serves spectacular, authentic French food in a gorgeous location surrounded by a glade of oak trees. The restaurant’s architecture will remind you of a small castle, with a fantastic patio, wine cellar, and a fine bar. The wine cellar is deserving of some special notice—housing up to 32,000 bottles, it wins the restaurant special recognition from Wine Spectator for their vast range of vintages available. Owner Juan Alonso bought the building in 1980 and renovated it into its current state, in addition to planting a vineyard next door. The food is uniformly excellent, with diners praising the lobster, wild boar, and what some have called the best duck anywhere in California. The drive can be a bit much, but once you get there, it’s like a peaceful oasis that will reward your dedication.

Le Chene
12625 Sierra Highway
Santa Clarita, CA 91390
(661) 251-4315
www.lechene.com

If you’re hankering for East Coast Italian food, Frank Competelli has you covered. The Big Apple transplant relocated to California two decades ago and decided to bring the food he grew up with to a new audience, which has received him with open arms. At Frankie’s New York Italian Restaurant, you’ll get the classics prepared with great ingredients and fine attention to detail. Regulars rave about the many lobster preparations on the menu, including a tender stuffed tail and a spicy, hearty lobster fra diavolo. The linguini with clams is also excellent, as are the black Angus aged steaks and the tender osso buco.  Portion sizes are large, as you'd expect from an Italian place, and prices are fair. And just like dining in the city that never sleeps, Frankie's is open late—the kitchen doesn't close 'til midnight.

Frankie’s New York Italian Restaurant
24025 Newhall Ranch Road
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 799-8888
www.frankiesonmelrose.com