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Photos: Critic’s choice: holiday shopping

If you're in need of a restorative lunch, try to get a table on the garden patio at Gjelina.

If you’re in need of a restorative lunch, try to get a table on the garden patio at Gjelina.  (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)

Holiday shopping is not for wimps. Given that it’s among the most strenuous activities, you will need sustenance. Sometimes a quick bite is all that’s needed. Other times, you’ll want to relax into a luxurious lunch. We’ve got you covered, at least at a handful of shopping destinations.

Abbot Kinney Boulevard: Gjelina

At Gjelina, chef/owner Travis Lett’s salads are beautifully composed, such as this arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, sweet corn and pecorino.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Abbot Kinney Boulevard: 3 Square Cafe + Bakery

If you just want a quick bite and then back to shopping, you can grab a pretzel burger at 3 Swquare Cafe + Bakery.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

Abbot Kinney Boulevard: 3 Square Cafe + Bakery

The light-filled 3 Square Cafe + Bakery is also known for its holiday decor, adding to the gift-giving mood.  (Michael Robinson Chavez / Los Angeles Times)

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Westfield Century City: Obicà Mozzarella Bar

At Obicà, the bufala mozzarella and burrata is flown in fresh from Italy every day. Get some on its own or with a plate of salumi for extra energy while shopping at Westfield Century City.  (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)

Westfield Century City: Craft

If you’re in need of a fancier lunch, chef Tom Colicchio’s Craft is just a couple of blocks away.  (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)

Westfield Century City: Craft

At Craft, you can enjoy oysters, calamari salad, flat iron steak or the Ellensburg lamb, pictured here.  (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)

The Americana at Brand: Din Tai Fung Dumpling House

At the Americana, Din Tai Fung is the perfect stop for tender steamed dumplings with a variety of fillings.  (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)

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The Americana at Brand: Din Tai Fung Dumpling House

Juicy steamed pork dumplings at Din Tai Fung.  (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)

Westside Pavilion: The Apple Pan

A wedge of cinnamon-scented apple pie from the Apple Pan is the perfect follow-up to a great burger.  (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

Westside Pavilion: Westside Tavern

Westside Tavern is a friendly place to refuel, especially if you’re in need of a beer or glass of wine in addition to a full dining menu.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The Original Farmers Market: Short Order

At Short Order, you can have a cocktail with your burger. The hamburgers are based on chef Nancy Silverton’s recipe.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

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South Coast Plaza: Marché Moderne

Orange County’s top French bistro, Marché Moderne, gives shoppers an excuse for a long lunch break.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

South Coast Plaza: Marché Moderne

The scallop tagine appetizer at Marché Moderne includes cumin-roasted eggplant, zucchini, chermoula, raisins, almond, lemon confit and harissa.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

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