Los Angeles, a city of dreams and endless possibilities, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. My journey through this culinary paradise has led me to some extraordinary dining experiences. While I’ve already shared some must-try dishes in Los Angeles, there’s so much more to explore. Each dish and restaurant has its own unique story, flavor, and charm.
République: A Brunch Haven
I stumbled upon République while searching for a brunch spot, and I was instantly captivated by its European-inspired charm. Located in a beautifully restored building that was once the home of Charlie Chaplin’s studios, République offers an elegant and welcoming ambiance.
The Dish: Brunch at République is a culinary adventure in itself. I indulged in their famous Brioche French Toast, a masterpiece of fluffy brioche topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and Vermont maple syrup. The combination of textures and flavors was pure bliss.
Location: République is situated on La Brea Avenue, making it easily accessible and a great starting point for a day of exploration in Los Angeles.
Price: The Brioche French Toast is priced at around $15, a reasonable cost for such a delectable dish in an upscale setting.
Pro Tip: The bakery section of République is a treasure trove of pastries and artisanal bread. Don’t leave without trying some of their baked goods.
Pizzana: Pizza with a Twist
Pizzana redefines the pizza experience with its creative and unique toppings, all while staying true to the essence of traditional Italian pizza. Located in the Brentwood neighborhood, this restaurant is a gem for pizza enthusiasts.
The Dish: Pizzana’s Burrata, Speck, and Pistachio Pizza is a symphony of flavors. The combination of creamy burrata, savory speck, and the delightful crunch of pistachios is a taste sensation. It’s a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to crafting innovative yet delicious pies.
Location: Pizzana’s Brentwood location offers a modern and comfortable atmosphere. The outdoor patio is a great choice if you prefer alfresco dining.
Price: The Burrata, Speck, and Pistachio Pizza is priced at around $22, providing excellent value for the quality and creativity of the dish.
Pro Tip: Pizzana also offers an array of classic and signature cocktails that pair perfectly with their pizzas. Explore their drink menu for a complete dining experience.
Guelaguetza: Oaxacan Delights
Guelaguetza is a culinary journey to the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico, right in the heart of Los Angeles. The restaurant’s commitment to preserving the traditions of Oaxacan cuisine shines through in every dish.
The Dish: One cannot visit Guelaguetza without trying their Mole Negro. This rich and complex sauce is the result of a labor-intensive process and is used to smother tender pieces of chicken. The depth of flavor in this dish is truly exceptional.
Location: Guelaguetza is located in the vibrant neighborhood of Koreatown. The restaurant’s decor and ambiance capture the essence of Oaxacan culture.
Price: The Mole Negro is priced at around $18, offering a taste of Oaxaca in a warm and inviting setting.
Pro Tip: Guelaguetza also offers a diverse selection of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations to complement your meal.
Bestia: A Culinary Marvel
Bestia is a restaurant that consistently earns its place on lists of the best dining establishments in Los Angeles. Located in the Arts District, this Italian gem offers a truly memorable dining experience.
The Dish: Bestia’s Cavatelli alla Norcina is a dish that has achieved legendary status. The hand-rolled pasta is paired with house-made pork sausage, black truffles, and grana padano. The result is a decadent and unforgettable pasta creation.
Location: Bestia’s location in the Arts District adds to its appeal, with a contemporary and industrial-inspired interior. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Price: The Cavatelli alla Norcina is priced at around $25, which is reasonable for the quality and sophistication of the dish.
Pro Tip: Reservations at Bestia are highly recommended, as the restaurant tends to be quite busy. Plan ahead to secure your table for this exceptional dining experience.
Tacos Al Pastor at Guisados
Nestled in the heart of the city, this unassuming gem offers an array of Mexican-inspired tacos, each with its own story and flavor profile.
The Dish: Tacos Al Pastor is the crown jewel of Guisados. The dish features marinated and slow-cooked pork, prepared on a vertical rotisserie for an authentic touch. The flavorful meat is thinly sliced and served in a warm corn tortilla, garnished with fresh pineapple, cilantro, and onions. The blend of savory and sweet, with a subtle smokiness, creates a harmonious and unforgettable flavor profile.
Price: Prices at Guisados are budget-friendly, making it an accessible choice for all. Tacos are typically priced between $2.50 and $3.25 each, and a sampler platter is available for those who want to taste a variety.
Location: Guisados boasts multiple locations across Los Angeles, each with a charming and welcoming atmosphere. My personal favorite is the Echo Park spot, a cozy and vibrant setting.
Pro Tip: Guisados offers a variety of taco options, so consider ordering a taco sampler to experience a range of flavors. Don’t forget to pair your tacos with their homemade aguas frescas, refreshing fruit drinks that complement the spices.
Korean BBQ at Genwa Korean BBQ
Stepping into Genwa Korean BBQ, I’m greeted by the inviting aroma of grilling meat and the cheerful buzz of diners enjoying their meals. The interactive nature of Korean barbecue, where you get to cook your own meat at the table, is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
A Sizzle of Delight: Los Angeles, known for its diverse Asian cuisine, is home to Genwa Korean BBQ, a haven for enthusiasts of the smoky and savory world of Korean barbecue.
The Dish: Genwa’s Korean BBQ experience is a communal and interactive one. Diners select from a variety of meats, including marinated bulgogi and succulent pork belly, and grill them at the table. The meal is accompanied by an assortment of banchan, a delightful variety of side dishes like kimchi, pickled vegetables, and bean sprouts. The juxtaposition of smoky, charred meats with the vibrant flavors of the banchan creates a harmonious explosion of tastes.
Price: Genwa offers an all-you-can-eat menu at a fixed price. The weekday lunch price is around $15, while dinner costs around $25. Weekend and holiday pricing may vary.
Location: Genwa Korean BBQ is situated in the heart of Koreatown, a neighborhood celebrated for its thriving culinary scene. The restaurant’s modern and stylish interior sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to Korean BBQ, the friendly staff at Genwa is always ready to assist with the grilling process. Additionally, be sure to arrive with a hearty appetite, as the portions are generous.
California Roll at Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa
The California Roll, an iconic American sushi creation, finds a refined and artistic representation at Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa.
The Dish: Sugarfish’s California Roll is an ode to simplicity and the essence of sushi. The roll typically features imitation crab, cucumber, and avocado, wrapped in seaweed and sushi rice. The straightforward ingredients allow the flavors to shine, with a touch of sweetness from the crab and creaminess from the avocado.
Price: Sugarfish offers a fixed menu with pricing that starts at around $25 for “Trust Me” options, which include a variety of dishes.
Location: Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa has several locations throughout Los Angeles, each designed with minimalist elegance. I’ve often frequented their Santa Monica outpost, which offers a relaxed coastal ambiance.
Pro Tip: At Sugarfish, the emphasis is on the purity of flavors, so the menu is prix-fixe, and the chef’s selections are served in an order that enhances the dining experience. Be prepared for a delightful journey that showcases the essence of sushi craftsmanship.
In-N-Out Burger: A Fast-Food Legend
A Burger Beyond Compare: In-N-Out Burger, a legendary fast-food establishment, stands as a testament to the allure of simplicity in a city known for its culinary diversity.
The Dish: The In-N-Out Burger is a straightforward yet iconic creation. It features a fresh beef patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, American cheese, and a signature sauce, all embraced by a toasted sponge-dough bun. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the restaurant’s commitment to quality, results in a burger that’s pure and delectable.
Price: In-N-Out Burger maintains an affordable pricing structure. Their classic burger typically costs around $2.50, making it a budget-friendly option for a quick and delicious meal.
Location: In-N-Out Burger has numerous locations throughout Los Angeles, each showcasing a vibrant and retro-inspired dining space.
Pro Tip: In-N-Out Burger offers a “secret menu” with various modifications and customization options. For instance, you can order your burger “Animal Style” to enjoy it with extra sauce, grilled onions, and mustard-grilled patties.
Churros at Mr. Churro
A visit to Mr. Churro is a journey into the world of sweet and crunchy indulgence. As I take my first bite of the churro, I can’t help but admire the perfect contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, warm interior. Mr. Churro’s filled churros, especially the Nutella-filled variety, is a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.
A Sweet and Crunchy Delight: Mr. Churro is a testament to how global flavors find their place in the multicultural mosaic of Los Angeles.
The Dish: Mr. Churro specializes in delectable churros, deep-fried until golden brown and coated generously with cinnamon and sugar. The exterior is wonderfully crispy, while the interior remains delightfully soft. You can enjoy them plain or opt for a filled churro with luscious options like chocolate, caramel, or sweet cream.
Price: Mr. Churro’s pricing is wallet-friendly, with churros typically costing around $3 to $4 each. The filled churros may be priced slightly higher.
Location: Mr. Churro has several locations in Los Angeles, including a charming shop in Koreatown with vibrant red and yellow decor.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of indulgence, try their filled churros, which come in various flavors. The Nutella-filled churro, in particular, is a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.
Fish Tacos at Ricky’s Fish Tacos
Ricky’s Fish Tacos embodies the essence of a coastal Californian experience. The food truck’s offerings are simple yet irresistibly delicious. As I bite into a fish taco, I can taste the crunch of the crispy batter, the freshness of the cabbage, and the creaminess of the crema, all perfectly balanced. The addition of a squeeze of lime adds a zesty kick that elevates the flavors.
A Taste of the Sea: When you’re in Los Angeles, especially on a sunny day, nothing quite hits the spot like fish tacos. Ricky’s Fish Tacos, a beloved food truck, has garnered a dedicated following for its delectable offerings.
The Dish: Ricky’s Fish Tacos offers a mouthwatering plate of Baja-style fish tacos. The dish features crispy battered fish, a delicate balance of flavors and textures, topped with cabbage, crema, and a squeeze of lime, all nestled inside a warm tortilla. It’s a burst of freshness with every bite.
Price: Ricky’s Fish Tacos keeps its pricing budget-friendly, with each fish taco typically costing around $3 to $4. The generous portions make it an excellent value for seafood lovers.
Location: Ricky’s Fish Tacos operates as a food truck, which means you can enjoy this culinary delight on the move. Their location may vary, so it’s a good idea to check their social media for daily updates on where to find them.
Pro Tip: Be prepared for lines at Ricky’s Fish Tacos, as the popularity of this food truck means you’ll likely encounter other food enthusiasts eager to savor this delightful dish. The wait is absolutely worth it.
Dining in Los Angeles isn’t just about satisfying your appetite, it’s about exploring a world of diverse flavors and experiences. As you venture into the city’s neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems and iconic dishes, remember that every bite tells a story of creativity, passion, and the vibrant culture that defines Los Angeles.
