It doesn't necessarily need to be a swanking, but I do recommend Chili John's Restaurant in Burbank if you are local (about half way down on this page).

LaFonda has reopened, apparently

Amazingly, I've been to several spots, still not yet to Pink's or Pig N Whistle.

Wonderful! I've been to:

Anna's Italian Restaurant
The Apple Pan
Bob's Big Boy
Canter's Deli
Dresden Room Restaurant
Dupar's Restaurant
El Cid
El Coyote Mexican Restaurant
Frank's Steak House
Formosa Cafe
Gallery Restaurant
Grand Central Public Market
Norm's Restaurant
Original Pantry Cafe
Philippe The Original French Dipped Sandwiches Restaurant
Pink's Hot Dogs
Red Lion Tavern
Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles

No time to review the bar list; must get ready for the Farmer's Market.

Definitely up for swanking these places out. :)