‘Vampire Diaries’ star loves L.A.’s many bites to eat

Katerina Graham’s Thursday night series on the CW, “The Vampire Diaries,” seems to have something for everybody.

“It’s a must-see for anyone who loves excitement, romance, danger, betrayal, love, death and sex,” the actress says. “I play Bonnie Bennett, who has psychic abilities. She’s also a witch.”

Almost as intriguing is Graham’s own background. The singing, dancing 20-year-old, who was born in Geneva and speaks four languages, has several films coming up, including “Bleachers,” a remake of “The Breakfast Club,” and “The Roommate” with Leighton Meester and Minka Kelly.

Her marital/dating status?

“Just say I giggled,” she said.

Which she did. Thank goodness, she was more forthcoming about her weekends.

Morning glory

One of my favorite ways to start the day is at the Vienna Cafe on Melrose. They have these awesomely delicious big breakfasts that I adore, and I always get the huevos rancheros. It’s got a great Spanish twist to things, and you can sit outside in front and watch all the people go by. It’s a little upscale, but not with regard to prices. I just love it, everyone has to go try it out.

The Griddle is also a good place for breakfast, and you can get some mean pancakes there.

Afternoon delight

There’s a great hamburger spot called 8 oz. Burger Bar on Melrose that’s perfect for lunch. If you’re craving one of the best burgers in L.A., go there. I like their Melrose burger with bel paese cheese and a peanut butter and jelly milkshake. You can customize the burgers however you want with different sauces and cheeses. I only order one, but it disappears pretty quickly, I’m embarrassed to say. And if someone I’m with orders something different, I’ll try theirs too.

I stay on a pretty healthy regimen from Monday through Saturday, but on Sunday I eat whatever . . . I want.

Shades of ‘Seinfeld’

I just have to mention Sushi Nozawa. [Magician] David Blaine took me there the first time, and I’ve never had better sushi. My mouth is watering just talking about it. The chef is very strict, though, and I won’t even say what his nickname is because I’m half-Jewish and I don’t like to use the term lightly, but I heard he once kicked out Charlize Theron for talking on her cellphone. But his rolls are incredible -- David and I got the crab roll in soy paper, but the best thing is to just take what he gives you. I love the discipline of it.

Bargain hunting

I shop mostly vintage stores, and there’s a place on La Brea called Jet Rag, and they have the most amazing finds. They have this thing called $1 Sundays, and you show up at 9 a.m. and dig through piles of clothes, every man for himself. You’d be surprised what you find. I also like the Fairfax Flea Market and Joyrich on Melrose, which is new clothes but with a 1990s, late-’80s vibe.

On Saturday night, I like going to shows at the Avalon because of the size of the venue, and I also love Cherry Pop at Ultra Suede. I’ve performed there, but they always put on a great show. One time I shared my backstage room with a 10-foot boa constrictor.

mark.sachs@latimes.com