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$$ | Downtown |
This James Beard Award winner not only has the look and feel of a no-frills Jewish deli from New York, it also has the food to match. The draw here is the hand-cut pastrami: lean, peppery, robust—and with a reputation for being the best in town. Other classics include the #19 (pastrami with Swiss and coleslaw piled high on twice-baked rye), but purists prefer it straight up with Russian dressing. The neighborhood is a little rough around the edges, but if you're in search of a classic deli, it would be wise not to worry and dive in for blintzes, matzo ball soup, and a take-home order of rugelach.
704 S. Alvarado St., Los Angeles, California, 90057, USA
Known For
- #19 sandwich
- Jewish deli classics like matzo ball soup and rugelach
- No-frills atmosphere
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No dinner, Reservations not accepted
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$$$$ | Downtown |
You would never just stumble upon this out-of-the-way spot in Chinatown, but world-famous celeb chef David Chang likes it that way. The beautifully designed minimal spot with spacious patio, an exposed-duct ceiling, and elongated wood bar has a cuisine style that defies any singular category. Can't-miss dishes include the mac and chickpea, the crispy pork belly, and the whole plate short rib with beef and rice—a dish you'll dream about for years. Reservations are hard to come by, but the bar is first come, first served, and a great way to sample the unique menu.
1725 Naud St., Los Angeles, California, 90012, USA
Known For
- Chuck short rib
- Rice-based drinks
- Hard-to-get reservations (try to eat at the bar)
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues.
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$$ | Mid-Wilshire |
In a tucked-away stretch along Fairfax Avenue is Little Ethiopia, where Angelenos of all stripes flock for the African country’s signatures like tibs, wat, and kitfo. And while there is a plethora of Ethiopian options, no one does the cuisine justice quite like Meals by Genet. At this spot helmed by chef-owner Genet Agonafer, visitors will discover a level of authenticity that will transport them straight to Addis Ababa, but keep in mind, this is takeout only.
1053 S. Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90019, USA
Known For
- Authentic Ethiopian cuisine
- Jovial atmosphere
- Unreal tibs
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon.–Wed.
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$$$$ | Santa Monica |
It's a gem tucked within a treasure box: hidden within Citrin, a one-Michelin-star restaurant, is Mélisse, a two-Michelin-star restaurant. Chef-owner Josiah Citrin entrusts chef de cuisine Ian Scaramuzza to blend his modern French cooking with seasonal California produce at this Santa Monica institution. On any given night, the rotating,18-course tasting menu might feature Santa Barbara uni cromesquis, Kagoshima A5 Wagyu beef or a crab sabayon. The cheese cart is packed with domestic and European selections, and the dining room is contemporary yet elegant, with well-spaced tables and fine china.
The tasting menu can be tailored for vegetarian diners.
1104 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90401, USA
Known For
- The epitome of freshness and inventiveness
- Only 14 seats
- Contemporary and elegant decor
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun.--Tues. No lunch, Reservations essential
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$ | North Hollywood |
Mofongo’s small storefront represents one of the best and only venues to get authentic Puerto Rican food in L.A. Stop by and try the namesake dish (a delectable mash of fried plantains), but stay for the pasteles (cakes) and rellenos de papa (stuffed potatoes). For those familiar with Puerto Rico, you'll find yourself lost in nostalgia here; for those who have not yet gone, you'll be ready to pack your bags before you even have time to digest.
5757 Lankershim Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 91601, USA
Known For
- Mofongo de Pollo Guisado (fried mashed plantains with chicken stew)
- Hard-to-find Puerto Rican food
- Flan de queso (cream cheese flan)
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Recommended Fodor’s Video
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$$$ | Beverly–La Brea |
A trio of restaurants by star chef Nancy Silverton, MozzaPlex consists of Pizzeria Mozza, a casual pizza and wine spot; Osteria Mozza, an upscale Italian restaurant with incredible pastas; and chi SPACCA, an Italian steak house with succulent cuts of steak. The restaurant complex is one of the most beloved in the whole city and if you're craving any kind of Italian food, you'll want to get yourself inside.
641 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90036, USA
Known For
- Great pizzas
- Intimate atmosphere
- The chi SPACCA burger
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$ | |
There are a lot of Thai restaurants in Los Angeles, but none have quite reached the level of cult status of Night + Market Song. Tucked between a free clinic, a small clothing store, and a tax office, this second rendition of chef Kris Yenbamroong’s popular WeHo restaurant might be easy to miss, but keep an eye out, as its authentic (and properly spicy) Thai dishes are practically mandatory when you’re in the neighborhood.
3322 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90026, USA
Known For
- Moo Sadoong ("startled pig")
- Khao soi
- Long weekend lines
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Wed., No reservations
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$$$$ | Malibu |
At famous chef-restaurateur Nobu Matsuhisa's coastal outpost, superchic clientele sails in for morsels of the world's finest fish. It’s hard not to be seduced by the oceanfront property; stellar sushi and ingenious specialties match the upscale setting. Exotic species of fish are artfully accented with equally exotic South American peppers, seared toro (tuna belly) with truffle teriyaki, and a broth made with matsutake mushrooms. The chef's tasting menus are also a solid bet. Order the bento box Valrhona chocolate soufflé and enjoy the ocean from every seat in the house. If you want to eat here, you'll need to make reservations exactly one month in advance.
22706 Pacific Coast Hwy., Los Angeles, California, 90265, USA
Known For
- Exotic fish
- A-list celebrity chef
- Exceptional views
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: reservations essential
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$ | Koreatown |
One of the newer (and better) additions to the Koreatown dining scene, Open Market is part restaurant, part corner store, specializing in sandwiches, coffee, and a meticulously curated selection of wines, chocolates, tinned fish, and more. Run by husband-and-wife team Brian and Yoona Lee, the minimalist market attracts everyone from midday construction workers to oenophiles looking for the next best thing. But the star of the show here is the sandwiches like the Hill St., a fried pork chop sandy with cabbage slaw and Serrano ham on pain de mie, or the Olympic, a lemongrass Jidori chicken sandwich with pickled radish, mint, and crispy chicken skin. Come for lunch and then stock up on specialty items that can't be found anywhere else.
3339 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90010, USA
Known For
- Excellent sandwiches
- Locally made chips, hot sauces, and snacks
- L.A. goods and gifts
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
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$$$ | Hollywood | Italian
How close do you think you can get to divinity? At chef Nancy Silverton’s passion project–slash–culinary masterpiece, you’ll come pretty damn close after sampling a few of its celestial dishes. It’s hard to find fault in Osteria Mozza's posh plates when they’re made with such true dedication to the culinary craft that the team will find impossible ways to ship an important ingredient from across the Atlantic even if a decent alternative is on hand. The best part—you know, besides the blissful mozzarella bar, the restaurant's commitment to sustainability, and its support of California growers—is that while everything about it looks incredibly upscale and expensive, the restaurant doesn’t turn its nose up at the masses. You can easily find your happy spot here thanks to the relaxed dress code, warm and attentive servers, and three-course Sunday tasting menu that’s easy on the pocket.
6602 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90038, USA
Known For
- Ricotta-and-egg ravioli
- All-Italian wine
- Artisanal spirits
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$ | Downtown |
First opened in 1908, Philippe's is one of L.A.'s oldest restaurants and claims to be the originator of the French dip sandwich. While the debate continues around the city, one thing is certain: the dips made with beef, pork, ham, lamb, or turkey on a freshly baked roll stand the test of time. Join locals as they chow down at communal tables while debating Dodgers games and politics. Orders are taken at the counter where some of the motherly servers have managed their long lines for decades, doling out huge breakfasts, chili, pickled eggs, and a generous pie selection. The best bargain: a cup of java for 50¢.
1001 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, California, 90012, USA
Known For
- 50¢ coffee
- Communal tables
- Post–Dodgers game eats
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations not accepted
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$ | Hollywood |
Since 1939, Angelenos and tourists alike have been lining up at this roadside hot dog stand. But Pink’s is more than just an institution, it’s a beloved family-run joint that serves a damn good hot dog. The chili dogs are the main draw, but don’t shy away from themed and celebrity-inspired specials. Day or night, the lines are long, but the dogs are worth the wait.
709 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90038, USA
Known For
- The famous Brando Dog
- Late-night dining
- Chili fries
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations not accepted
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$ | Brentwood |
Certainly (and deservedly) on any short list for the best pizzaiolo in Los Angeles, chef Daniele Uditi's secret is his family's 65-plus-year-old sourdough starter, which he transported from Italy and still keeps alive. The sizzling pies here will remind you of Naples, with their crackling crusts and inventive toppings. The restaurant was co-founded by the creators of Sprinkes Cupcakes (no strangers to buzzy food trends) and actor Chris O'Donnell. In addition to the perfect pizzas, the shop offers weekly sandwich specials and a bevy of healthier salad-loving sides. Devotees order Pizzana pizzas online to have shipped to their homes in other states, so keep that in mind as you chow down.
11712 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90049, USA
Known For
- Excellent Neapolitan pizza
- Sandwich specials
- Laid-back atmosphere
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$$$$ | Hollywood |
This is widely considered one of the best seafood restaurants in the country, and chef-owner Michael Cimarusti elevates sustainably driven fine dining to an art form. The elegant space is the perfect spot to sample exquisite seafood with the chef's signature application of French technique, traditional American themes, and Asian accents. Pastry chef Mac Daniel Dimla’s exquisite desserts are not to be missed. Obsessed with quality, Cimarusti maintains a network of purveyors who often tip him off to their catches in order to ensure that the fish on your plate is the freshest in the city.
5955 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90038, USA
Known For
- Fresh seafood
- Honey and zero-waste chocolate programs
- Exquisite dessert options
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon., Reservations essential
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$$$ | Beverly–La Brea |
This stunning expansive space, originally built for Charlie Chaplin back in the 1920s, serves French delicacies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. The scent of homemade croissants wafts through the building in the morning; steak frites can be enjoyed at night. A full bar keeps things buzzing throughout the evening.
624 S. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, California, 90036, USA
Known For
- French classics
- Unbeatable pastries
- Nice bar menu
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner Sun. or Mon.
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$$$ | Beverly Hills |
Wolfgang Puck's flagship restaurant is a modern L.A. classic. Spago centers on a buzzing redbrick outdoor courtyard (with retractable roof) shaded by 100-year-old olive trees, and a daily-changing menu that offers dishes like smoked salmon pizza or off-menu schnitzel. Dessert is magical, with everything from an ethereal mango soufflé to artisanal cheeses. Opt for the tasting menu as it comes with a personal tour of the kitchen, and if you’re lucky, a meet and greet with Wolfgang Puck himself.
176 N. Canon Dr., Los Angeles, California, 90210, USA
Known For
- Great people-watching
- Off-menu schnitzel
- Sizzling smoked salmon pizza
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon., Reservations essential
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$$$ | Santa Monica |
This small and dimly lit, romantic spot in Santa Monica is full of adventurously global options, like Singaporean chili crab cake or black cod with a fermented black bean marinade. The new American cuisine, which is centered on the restaurant's wood-fired oven, also features standouts like braised lamb shank with sweet potato, pomegranate, labneh, zhough, and flatbread. Another option for groups of four or more: the restaurant will craft a custom T&R Supper family-style menu with off-menu dishes like wood-fired goat with Moroccan accompaniments or a dry-aged standing rib rack. Book T&R Suppers at least seven days in advance.
602 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90401, USA
Known For
- Phenomenal oxtail dumplings
- Global inspirations
- Ever-changing menu
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$$$ | |
This local secret is as close to the beach—Zuma Beach, in this case—as you can get for a meal without getting sand in your drink. Stop in at this friendly spot for a cocktail, selections from the raw bar, a meal from the extensive menu, or one of the unique salads. From here you'll get a view of the water, dolphins, surfers, and celebrity locals taking a break on the wind-protected patio. The extensive happy hour on Monday through Thursday offers good deals on appetizers, beers, and cocktails.
6800 Westward Beach Rd., Malibu, California, 90265, USA
Known For
- Close to the beach, off-the-beaten path location
- Beautiful views
- Good happy hour
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$$ | Hollywood |
Despite being set in the middle of Hollywood’s mad dash, the surprisingly serene oasis that is the Tropicana Pool and Cafe is where California fare meets refreshing tropical cocktails in a vintage Hollywood setting. While the poolside loungers are technically restricted to hotel guests, visitors are welcome (at the hotel's discretion) to take advantage of the bar and kitchen service in view of that glorious heated pool with its David Hockney mural. Summer events include movie nights and daytime DJs, so plan accordingly if visiting during the warmer months. The menu does change seasonally, but its delicious tacos and sliders are crowd favorites and always on hand.
7000 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90028, USA
Known For
- Small bites
- Creative cocktails
- Poolside dining
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$ | West L.A. |
Ramen lovers have no shortage of choices across Los Angeles, but if you want the best, head over to this Sawtelle Japantown hot spot. Lines typically bend around the corner as hungry Angelenos drive from far and wide to have Tsujita’s signature tsukemen (a type of ramen where the noodles are served to the side of the broth and you dip each bite individually). Whether it’s cold or hot outside (it’s L.A., so usually hot), this little corner shop will sate your appetite for soup.
2057 Sawtelle Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90025, USA
Known For
- Signature tsukemen ramen
- Lots of ramen options, including vegan ramen
- Long lines
