Brian McKnight Shares his Haute Secrets to Los Angeles

With over 20 million albums sold worldwide, 16 Grammy nominations, and having collaborated with everyone from Christina Aguilera to Celine Dion to Justin Timberlake, Brian McKnight is not only getting better with age, but also with life, love and music—all of which he explores on his most heartfelt album to date, Better. The R&B icon is taking it back to basics with his 13th studio album, which he explains is “creating music like we did 20 years ago—completely organic, all real instruments, zero auto tune.” The soulful new album, which will be released on Feb. 26, refreshes the tender R&B vibe that made McKnight a household name and features a modern mix of genres and collaborations. Even better, given that the album will be released just after Valentine’s Day, Better is inspired by McKnight’s long-time girlfriend and love of his life. Here, the R&B crooner shares his haute secrets to Los Angeles.

Where were you born: Buffalo, New York 

How long in LA:  26 years 

Neighborhood: San Fernando Valley  

Occupation: Entertainer 

Favorite Restaurant: Mastros Ocean Club Malibu 

Best Sushi: Katsuya at LA Live

Best Italian: Il Tiramisu Studio City 

Best dessert: Portos Glendale 

Best place for a romantic date: Mastros Ocean Club Malibu   

Best Sunday brunch: Wood Ranch Country Club 

Best place for a power business meeting: Wood Ranch Country Club 

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? L’Ermitage Beverly Hills 

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Westfield Topanga  

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Online 

Favorite Charity Event: Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys 

Best Steakhouse: Mastros Ocean Club Malibu 

Best Pizza: Uncle Ernies in Chatsworth 

Best Lunch: Country Deli in Chatsworth  

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Equinox Woodland Hills 

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Uber

Best Museum/Exhibit:The LA Car Museum 

Describe your city in three words: Something for everyone 

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Hollywood Walk of Fame 

All-around favorite spot in Los Angeles: My house

Best Aspect of Los Angeles: The weather