Welcome to the heart of culinary innovation, where food trumps all — Los Angeles, California! This city is a melting pot of cultures, where every street corner entices you with mouthwatering aromas and unique flavors. They say Los Angeles is the city of dreams. Well, we’re here to tell you that it’s also the city of dreams for food lovers. From the sizzling food trucks serving gourmet tacos to high-end establishments boasting Michelin stars, the city of angels will have your taste buds in a perpetual state of euphoria.
As a relentless food adventurer and blogger, I’ve traversed the city’s myriad gastronomical landscapes – trendy pop-ups, legendary food stalls, atmospheric cafés, and elegant dining rooms – to bring you the crème de la crème of Los Angeles’ food scene. Be ready because this city’s food landscape is as diverse and creative as its vibrant population. So, loosen your belt a little, keep an open mind, and join me as we embark on a glorious food journey in the city where the food is as much part of the culture as Hollywood, beach vibes, and breathtaking sunsets.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new gastronomic haunt or a traveler eager to taste the culinary delights that LA has to offer, this comprehensive guide to dining in Los Angeles has got you covered. From the burst of flavors in the traditional Thai Town to the irresistible aroma in the historic Grand Central Market, we’ll explore the best dining spots in LA that are too good to miss!
Most Popular Restaurants in Los Angeles
First up on our foodie adventure is none other than the famed Gjelina. Situated in the heart of Venice at 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, this upscale New American restaurant is a must-visit. With its rustic interiors and charming outdoor patio, Gjelina boasts a menu that is as diverse as it is exquisite. They serve exquisite pizzas, innovative vegetable dishes, and delicious homemade desserts. Their lamb sausage pizza and the mushroom toast are particularly noteworthy.
Next stop, we’re heading to the celebrity hotspot – Sugarfish. Located at 600 W 7th St #150, Los Angeles, Sugarfish is renowned for its exceptional sushi prepared in the traditional ‘nigiri’ style. The freshness of the fish, combined with their warm, loosely packed rice, creates a melt-in-your-mouth sushi experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the city. Try their ‘Nozawa Trust Me’ menu for a well-rounded sampling of what they have to offer.
Continuing our journey down the city’s culinary landscape, let’s stop by Republique nestled at 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles. This trendy French restaurant with its stunning interior design is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. The menu here combines classic French techniques with contemporary flavors. Their Kimchi Fried Rice, Baguette and Croissants, and Escargot en Croute are standouts worth trying.
For those seeking flavors from the Mediterranean, Mama Shelter at 6500 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, offers a delightful selection of international dishes. From kebabs and falafel to burgers and pizzas, their rooftop restaurant provides a view of Los Angeles that perfectly complements the food. The mouthwatering Mediterranean Chicken and the Shakshuka are dishes you cannot pass up.
Lastly, for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles, Gracias Madre at 8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood is the place to be. This vegan Mexican restaurant serves up delicious plant-based dishes without compromising on the bold flavors Mexican cuisine is famous for. The Grilled Tofu, Crab Cake, and the Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos are a must-try.
Each of these popular LA restaurants offers a unique dining experience and a genuine taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene.
Most Unique Restaurants in Los Angeles
If you are a food enthusiast, Los Angeles is a paradise where you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes from around the world. The city is a melting pot of cultures and boasts some of the most unique restaurants in California, if not the whole USA. Let’s dive into this culinary journey through Los Angeles and discover some of its most unique food destinations.
First on the list is The Stinking Rose. Located at 55 N La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills, this place is a dream come true for garlic lovers. They serve “garlic in all its glorious forms” and their house specialty, Bagna Calda (garlic soaking in a hot tub), is loved by the patrons. Even their dessert menu includes garlic ice cream, which is an unexpectedly delicious treat.
Next, we have the Cicada Club at 617 S Olive St, Los Angeles. Stepping into the Cicada Club is like stepping back in time. This restaurant and club is situated in an Art Deco-style building that was built in 1928 and has been restored to its original grandeur. The opulent space serves Italian and American dishes from the Great Gatsby era. But, most importantly, they offer live music and swing dancing, making for a fun and unique gastronomic experience.
Another unique restaurant to check out is Malibu Wine Safari located at 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu. This is a safari-themed winery that offers wine tasting tours on a safari truck and the chance to meet and feed exotic animals. It’s an incredible combination of a zoo and vineyard that makes for a truly memorable food and wine adventure.
For those who are into healthy, organic food, Cafe Gratitude, located at 639 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, is a must-visit. This restaurant gives a truly unique dining experience by serving plant-based dishes in an affirming environment. Dishes are named affirmations like “I am energized” or “I am grateful”. So while you’re enjoying delicious food, you’re also rehearsing positive affirmations.
Lastly, you wouldn’t want to miss Clifton’s Cafeteria at 648 S Broadway, Los Angeles. This place is rightly described as a ‘cabinet of curiosities’. The multi-level restaurant is home to not only a cafeteria-style dining experience but also a tiki bar, taxidermy displays, a towering faux redwood tree, and a hidden speakeasy. The eclectic nature of Clifton’s Cafeteria offers you a dining experience like no other.
These are only a few of the unique restaurants that Los Angeles has to offer, but they encapsulate the spellbinding diversity and creativity of the city’s food scene. So next time you’re in Los Angeles, don’t miss out on these offbeat dining experiences.
Best Casual Restaurants in Los Angeles
If you’re ever on the West Coast and you’re looking for a place to chill, eat, and just have a great time, Los Angeles is the place to be. The city is bursting with diverse culinary gems that offer a wide range of cuisines – catering to every palate and preference. Whether you’re a local, a tourist passing through, or planning a foodie tour, here’s a list of some of the best casual dining spots you don’t want to miss out on in LA.
First up, let’s dive into the world of Tacos! Sonoratown is a stellar spot located at 208 E 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014. They specialize in Northern Mexican style tacos, and their flour tortillas made from scratch are hands down, the star of their show! They offer tacos filled with grilled beef, marinated chicken, roasted chiles and more. Don’t forget to pair it up with a Mexican Coke or a Topo Chico for an authentic experience.
Next, we head to Howlin’ Ray’s located in the heart of Chinatown at 727 N Broadway #128, Los Angeles, CA 90012. This Nashville-style hot chicken restaurant boasts long lines of food enthusiasts waiting to experience their mouth-watering, juicy fried chicken. Their spice level ranges from Country (no heat) to Howlin’ (10++), promising an adventure for your taste buds.
For the pizza lovers, Apollonia’s Pizzeria at 5176 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 is a treasure trove. They are well-known for their square-shaped, Sicilian-style pizzas with crust that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Their pepperoni pizza, loaded with a generous amount of Italian cheese, is a crowd favorite.
If you’re in the mood for some comfort food, Huckleberry offers delightful options. Located at 1014 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, this quaint cafe serves incredible pastries, along with a delicious selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups. Their breakfast options like Green Eggs and Ham are also highly recommended.
And for the salad enthusiasts, a trip to Sweetgreen is a must. With various locations across the city, their mission to build healthier communities is reflected through their fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Their salads are customizable, ensuring there’s something to suit everyone’s unique tastes.
Los Angeles’ gastronomical scene has a lot more to offer, but these are just a few of the best casual restaurants to get you started on your LA culinary adventure!
Best Family Restaurants in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, known for its star-studded lifestyle, warm climate, and culinary melting pot, offers an array of amazing family-friendly dining experiences that aren’t just about coloring books and crayons. Here are some of our top picks for the best family-friendly restaurants:
Farmer Boys is a fast-casual restaurant chain that serves high-quality, farm-fresh food in a kid-friendly, rustic setting. Their menu boasts of award-winning burgers, cooked-to-order breakfasts, and a variety of dishes that even the picky eaters will love. It’s located at 5519 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028.
Next on the list is Panini Kabob Grill, which offers a Mediterranean-style dining experience that is a hit for families. They offer healthy, freshly made, and delicious meals that are filling yet affordable. They cater to everyone’s taste buds with a variety of options like kabobs, paninis, salads and more. You can find them at 600 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015.
For those families who love their seafood, The Lobster offers a fantastic ocean-front dining experience. Located at 1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, the restaurant serves fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood dishes that come in kid-sized portions too. With its breezy patio, stunning views, and excellent service, eating here feels like a mini-vacation.
The crepe lovers out there will adore The Crepe Vine. Situated in the heart of Long Beach at 6560 Del Amo Blvd, this cute little eatery does some of the best crepes in town. Their sweet and savory crepes are sure to please everyone. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options and are known for their friendly service.
If your family is into Italian cuisine, then Osteria La Buca should not be missed. Renowned for its handmade pasta, farm-to-table philosophy, and the rustic, cozy ambiance, this restaurant is a big hit with the families. It is located at 5210 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038.
Moving onto a different cuisine, for families who enjoy flavorful Mexican food, then Guelaguetza is the place to go. Often referred to as the ‘Best Oaxacan Restaurant in the U.S’, it offers authentic, richly flavored dishes, live music, and a warm, vibrant atmosphere that caters to all ages. It can be found at 3014 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006.
With its vast menu and family-friendly approach, these restaurants offer a wonderful family dining experience that goes beyond the usual kids’ meal.
Best Takeout Food in Los Angeles
After careful culinary exploration, I couldn’t help but share my experiences with some of the best takeout spots in Los Angeles. The City of Angels is known for its diverse food scene, showcasing a vast array of culinary delights that can satiate virtually any palate, and its takeout options are no exception.
Firstly, Howlin’ Ray’s, located in Downtown Los Angeles at 727 N Broadway #128, is a must-try. This Nashville-style hot chicken joint tends to have lines wrapped around the block, yet people willingly queue for their incredible chicken. Whether you choose the sandwiches or the chicken plus sides, the flavors here are unparalleled. The spice blend gives depth to the crunchy fried chicken, and it melds beautifully with the pickles and bread it’s served with. Hot chicken here ranges from country (no heat) to howlin’ (extremely hot), so there’s something for everyone.
Moving on, we savor the best of Mexican in LA at Sonoratown. Located at 208 E 8th St in Downtown Los Angeles, this spot is renowned for their delectable flour tortillas. Order takeout of their tacos, chimichangas or quesadillas and enjoy the authentic Sonoran flavors from Northern Mexico. One standout dish is the chivichanga, a grilled steak stuffed into a flour tortilla with all the fixings, making for a perfect bite.
For sushi lovers, SUGARFISH offers marvelous takeout options. The restaurant, located at multiple locations, including 600 W 7th St #150 in Downtown Los Angeles, is well-known for its “Trust Me” boxes — chef-selected assortments of sushi that offer the best of what’s fresh and what the chef feels like making that day. They always feature warm, loosely packed rice and high-quality fish.
Next, we delve into delicious Thai cuisine at Jitlada. Situated at 5233 1/2 Sunset Blvd in Hollywood, Jitlada is famous for its southern Thai dishes. Order their jungle curry, morning glory salad or the crying tiger pork — all packed with incredible flavor and spice. A favorite is the spicy mint noodles: flat, wide noodles stir-fried with a lot of chili, basil, bell peppers, and your choice of meat.
Finally, one can’t forget the famous Republique, situated at 624 S La Brea Ave. This French bakery and cafe offers stunning takeout options for every meal of the day. Start your morning with a Kimchi Fried Rice or a Croque Madame. Lunch and dinner options include mouth-watering pizzas, sandwiches and main courses like Mary’s Organic Rotisserie Chicken. A thorough exploration of their extensive menu is definitely in order.
A trip through the best takeout food in Los Angeles would be incomplete without experiencing the culinary delights these places offer. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants are guaranteed to impress.
What Foods is Los Angeles Known For?
Ever heard of the term ‘melting pot’? There’s no place else that manifests this term better than Los Angeles, especially when it comes to food. From the scrumptious street tacos to extravagant sushi rolls, LA truly represents a diverse culinary landscape.
First on this heavenly food journey is the legendary In-N-Out Burger. There’s nothing quite like their Double-Double burger, a mouthwatering assembly of two beef patties, two slices of cheese, lettuce, tomato, with or without onions, and their secret-sauce, served on a freshly baked bun. Located at 9245 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90232, In-N-Out is an absolute must-visit for every burger enthusiast out there.
Next up is the famous Musso & Frank Grill, nestled at 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Known for their classic martinis and steak dishes, Musso & Frank takes you back in time. Their signature dish, the Flannel Cakes, is a pancake variant you wouldn’t find anywhere else.
Moving on to LA’s core, the ethnic neighborhood foods. Starting with Guisados. With their location at 2100 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033, they offer an assortment of homemade Mexican tacos, filled with braises on handmade tortillas. Their Cochinita Pibil, a slow-roasted pork taco, is a crowd favorite.
For the sushi lovers, LA has got SUGARFISH. Located at 600 W 7th St #150, Los Angeles, CA 90017, SUGARFISH offers an exquisite sushi experience. Their ‘Trust Me’ set menu includes a range of sushi and sashimi, featuring their famous Toro hand roll and Blue Crab hand roll.
Finally, there’s LA’s iconic dessert – Donuts. The city takes its donuts seriously and the best example is Randy’s Donuts. Situated at 805 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90301, Randy’s Donuts has been serving world-class donuts for over 60 years. From classic glazed donuts to fancy sprinkle ones, their variety is enough to satisfy any sweet tooth!
LA’s food scene paints a picture of its diversity, a blend of cultures and cuisines, and a fusion of classic and fusion eats. If you find yourself in this wonderful city, take the chance to explore – your taste buds will thank you.
Eating Your Way Around Los Angeles: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1
Start your LA food journey with a breakfast at Republique. This French-inspired bakery, café, and restaurant is located at 624 South La Brea Avenue. Their pastries are to die for, and the Kimchi Fried Rice is a must try main course.
For lunch, head over to Guisados. Situated at 2100 East Cesar E Chavez Avenue, this LA gem serves a mean variety of homemade Mexican-style braised meat tacos. Their Cochinita Pibil and Tinga de Pollo are not to be missed.
Dinner would be at Providence. Found at 5955 Melrose Avenue, this 2-Michelin Star restaurant is known for their dishes that highlight the finest seafood ingredients. The Chef’s Menu is the best way to experience their culinary artistry.
Day 2
Begin the second day with breakfast at Huckleberry Café and Bakery. Located at 1014 Wilshire Boulevard, this Bakery serves some of the best Quinoa Bowls and Fried Egg Sandwiches in Santa Monica.
For lunch, visit Zinc Café, a vegetarian-friendly restaurant located at 580 Mateo Street. They offer a variety of salads, sandwiches, pastas, and pizzas. Their Avo and Havarti Sandwich is a must-try!
Cap off the day with a dinner at n/naka. Found at 3455 Overland Avenue, this establishment by Chef Niki Nakayama offers an exquisite modern kaiseki dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended.
Day 3
Begin your day with an amazing breakfast at The Rose, located at 220 Rose Avenue. Their Brioche French Toast and Shakshuka are a must try.
For lunch, head over to the Howlin’ Ray’s at 727 North Broadway #128. Known for their Nashville Hot Chicken, this place has a cult following and is worth the wait.
End your trip with a memorable dinner at Spago. Located at 176 North Canon Drive, Chef Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant is an institution in Beverly Hills. Their Tasting Menu is the perfect way to experience their innovative dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A1: Los Angeles is a food lover’s paradise, with a plethora of local dining spots offering a variety of cuisines. Some of the top local spots are Bestia for Italian, Howlin’ Ray’s for Nashville-style hot chicken, Guelaguetza for Oaxacan cuisine, Park’s BBQ for Korean barbecue, Ink Sack for sandwiches, and Guisados for tacos.
Q2: Where are the best places to eat for vegetarians or vegans in LA?A2: LA is known for its health-conscious dining, so there’s an abundance of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. Cafe Gratitude, Crossroads Kitchen, Shojin, Little Pine, and Real Food Daily are just a few of the best places. For vegan fast food, try Veggie Grill or Doomie’s Home Cookin’.
Q3: Where can I find the best sushi in Los Angeles?A3: Known for its high-quality seafood, LA offers excellent sushi restaurants. Some of the top sushi spots include Sushi Gen, Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa, Shunji Japanese Cuisine, and Sushi Zo. For a unique sushi experience, try the omakase (chef’s choice) at Urasawa or Q Sushi.
Q4: Are there any food festivals or food-related events in LA?A4: Yes, LA hosts many food festivals and events throughout the year. LA Food Fest, Taste of LA, Los Angeles Taco Festival, and the Vegan Beer and Food Festival are all worth checking out. Be sure also to look into the numerous farmers markets throughout the city, such as the one in Santa Monica or Hollywood.
Q5: Where are the best food trucks in Los Angeles?A5: LA is famous for its food truck scene. Some of the best ones include Kogi BBQ, The Grilled Cheese Truck, Mariscos Jalisco for Mexican seafood, and Leo’s Tacos Truck for al pastor tacos. Tracking down these trucks can be part of the fun, with many of them regularly updating their locations on social media.
Q6: What are some iconic food items that I must try in LA?A6: When in LA, you must try the French Dip Sandwich at Philippe the Original, the Dodger Dog at Dodgers Stadium, animal-style burgers and fries at In-N-Out Burger, sushi rolls everywhere, and a variety of tacos from various taco trucks. Don’t miss the cult favorite – Pink’s Hot Dogs.
Q7: Where can I find the best desserts in Los Angeles?A7: LA is a sweet tooth’s haven. Try the famous donuts at Randy’s Donuts, the pastries at Republique, gelato at Grom, macarons at Bottega Louie, and the pies at Pie Hole. Also, venture to Little Tokyo for some unique Japanese desserts.
Q8: Any recommendations for best rooftop dining in LA?A8: For a city with such beautiful weather, rooftop dining is a must in LA. Some of the best spots include Perch, a French bistro with panoramic city views; the Rooftop by JG at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills; and E.P & L.P with Asian-inspired street food and stunning views of the Hollywood Hills.
Q9: What are some high-end dining options in Los Angeles?A9: For a splurge or special occasion, LA has numerous high-end dining options. Try Providence for seafood, Spago Beverly Hills for Californian cuisine, The French Laundry for French, n/naka for Japanese Kaiseki, and Osteria Mozza for Italian.
Q10: Are there any good late-night food spots in LA?A10: Yes, LA is a city that never sleeps, and that includes its restaurants. Some great late-night spots include The Original Pantry Cafe, open 24 hours for American diner classics; Canters Deli, for deli favorites like Reuben sandwiches; and Bossa Nova, for late-night Brazilian fare.
Are you a globetrotter with a passion for discovering unique culinary delights? Do you yearn to uncover the flavors and foodie hotspots that are hidden in cities around the world? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve crafted an array of travel food guides that dive into the gastronomic treasures of many fascinating cities. From the pizza havens of New York to the tapas trails in Barcelona, we’ve got it all covered. So why not take your taste buds on an adventure and check out our collection of food travel guides? You can explore them right here. Bon Appétit!
