Now that your career places you among the world of heavy-hitters you want to hobnob with some of those power-hitters. Let’s get started with a place that doesn’t take you beyond your means, but will surely show what good taste you have.

Panache is defined as that unique mix of élan, style and cachet, and Vibrato Grill Jazz … etc., in Bel Air at Beverly Glen near Mulholland, has massive amounts of it. Now open about a year, Vibrato has easily outdone and outrun its competition.

This is the preeminent supper and jazz club in the L.A. area. Though architecturally glossy and contemporary, this big-volume restaurant is convivial and engaging, a throwback to a time when fine dining and fine music were customary.

It is easy to have high expectations for Vibrato since it is partly owned by Herb Alpert – known as an authority and talent of music and sound – who is always looking to exceed his vision. Alpert has created a state-of-the-art sound system, with seats designed in a semi-circle fashion so each guest has a good view of the stage and entertainment. Plus, you can listen to the music while still socializing.

The Smith Brothers, who own Pasadena’s Crocodile Cafe, Arroyo Chop House, Parkway Grill and Smitty’s, are also Vibrato proprietors. These highly recognized restaurateurs have a history of creating superior dining experiences.

While at Vibrato, give credit to much-admired and sought-after Executive Chef Sharon Funt for her contemporary American cuisine.

A new member of this team is General Manager Douglas Wickard, who comes with years of experience in both stimulating and revitalizing top supper and jazz club ventures.

Plan on an exquisite but leisurely evening when you come in to Vibrato. The food is unsurpassed.

For appetizers, we suggest Citrus Gravlox, an anything-but-ordinary potato knish, or the BBQ Braised Short Rib Skewers, which are incredibly tender. Another of their signature dishes, Spanish Garlic Prawns, is one of their best.

For entrees, try getting a better steak than Vibrato’s New York Strip and Filet Mignon. The Wild King Salmon is amazing, as well as the Live Maine Lobster and Double Cut Lamb Chops. The skate is truly distinctive and the duck is delicious. Everything is a la carte, and even the sides are a special treat.

Draw out the evening and forget your hurried life by lingering over coffees, cognacs, brandies, drinks and desserts. Aaaah yes, the desserts. Here are a few to tickle your fancy: Warm Apple Costada, Caramelized Banana Upside Down Cake, Pumpkin Brulee, Smores Soufflé and a few chocolate wonders to make your eyes glaze over with glee.

All styles of jazz will beguile and captivate your senses, from the classics and great American tunes to the more progressive, Latin jazz numbers. A fantastic wrap-around full bar invites intimate chats, but also lures you to either sip a drink, have a bite or indulge with desserts while listening to the music.

The big names also play here – world class artists drawn by Vibrato’s positive vibe, amazing acoustics and classy atmosphere. Celebrities also slip in to eat superlative fare and absorb the harmonies. Stargazing is plentiful at Vibrato, but please do it discreetly. Dress to impress or throw on those tight stretch jeans – the crowd here is sophisticated but very at ease.

Vibrato is open seven nights a week. Food is served from 5 p.m. to about 10 p.m. with music beginning at 6:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. Some nights there are duos until 9 p.m., followed by a featured artist who plays until the wee morning hours. Coming this summer, "Munch" on Sunday mornings at Vibrato from 9 a.m.-noon.

Vibrato Grill Jazz … etc. is located at 2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel Air, (310) 474-9400. For a menu and schedule of upcoming events, visit www.vibratogrilljazz.com.