In the swim

Simon LA

Chef Kerry Simon might look like a rock star, but the guy can cook. Take the lobster roll he does for lunch at his sleek new restaurant in the Sofitel. It begins with lots of chunks of sweet Maine lobster dressed in a house-made mayo accented with dill and tarragon. These are tucked into a warm La Brea Bakery hot dog bun. To accompany? Corn on the cob.

* Lobster roll, $23. 8555 Beverly Blvd., L.A., (310) 358-3979.

Library Alehouse

You don’t have to be a beer drinker to enjoy this beachside sleeper with the charming patio out back. It doesn’t hurt, though, given the 27 beers on draft. There’s also a small but eclectic selection of wines by the glass and an appealing menu of salads and sandwiches. The grilled wild salmon sandwich is served on a soft poppy seed bun with a zingy horseradish aioli.

* Sandwich, $13.75. 2911 Main St., Santa Monica, (310) 314-4855.

Jordan’s Cafe

This casual soul food specialist, little brother to the original Jordan’s in Watts, is best known for breakfast, specifically chicken wings and pancakes. But they also do delicious collard greens, smothered potatoes and mac and cheese. The fried fish sandwich is available with snapper, catfish or sole on white, wheat or sourdough.

* Sandwich, $4.75. 4448 W. Slauson Ave., L.A., (323) 296-2233.

The Island Hotel

You don’t need to be a hotel guest to dine poolside. Among chef Bill Bracken’s offerings is a seared, sesame-encrusted tuna filet on homemade ciabatta. A sweet and piquant pineapple tamarind sauce, caramelized onions and grilled tomatoes add flavor. There’s also a side of crunchy and colorful Asian coleslaw.

* Sandwich, $16.50. 690 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, (949) 759-0808.

Ford’s Filling Station

The first of a host of swell spots to open in Culver City in the last year, Ben Ford’s stylish but comfortable gastropub continues to be a hot reservation. At lunchtime, the menu has a number of sandwiches, including one piled with plump fried shrimp in crunchy semolina jackets along with cool shredded iceberg lettuce, melted tomatoes and a generous lick of herbaceous green goddess dressing.

* Sandwich, $15. 9531 Culver Blvd., Culver City, (310) 202-1470.

*

-- Leslee Komaiko