Dining in Los Angeles: A Culinary Guide

Los Angeles is an international city whose population rivals most US states. With more than 33,000 restaurants to choose from, condensing the list to the very best is a daunting task. Get (re)acquainted with “La La Land” and make the most of your vacation with some of these inspiring meals.

High-end Dining for Special Occasions

Fellow

Enter through an art gallery in Westwood for this Michelin-listed dining experience in a 1930’s building with ornate high ceilings. The coursed menu from Chef Chris Flint is presented in intimate artful bites. Share dishes like hamachi crudo, tempura fried maitake mushrooms, glazed lobster, and grilled wagyu.

An expert sommelier provides insight into the 2500+ labels in their wine cellar or can pair your meal with an exciting cocktail like the Miami Vice Milk Punch or El Camino (Mezcal, sherry, tropical fruit, and spice). Save room for a dessert finale consisting of bites of decadent chocolate layer cake with roasted squash ice cream and poached apple with miso caramel.

Grandmaster Recorders

Fine dining in Los Angeles does not necessarily mean white linen table cloths and stuffy attitudes – California has always been about a relaxed dining environment. Combine exquisite inventive Italian food in a building that was once a former recording studio from 1971 until its closure in 2016, and you have Hollywood dining at its best in 2022. Arrive at a chic gold entrance donned with old-school cassettes and vinyl record memorabilia and head to the rooftop for sunset cocktails with a view of the Hollywood sign. Then impress your date at the soaring restaurant space inside for extravagant flavor hits – caviar cannolis, marinated white beans and anchovies, and mortadella begging to be rolled around the cacio e pepe churros.

Laid out like a traditional multicourse Italian menu, Australian chef Monty Koludrovic’s creations are inspired by the history of the building as he reminds us, “During these times we all need a bit of fun.” Admire the chefs’ work in the exposed lengthy open kitchen while you feast on ink cavatelli and crab and gnocchi with slow-cooked lamb. For high rollers, order the infused olive vermouth Dirty Martini that arrives with a bump of Petrossian caviar laid on your hand by the server. Round out your evening under the disco ball from Dancing with the Stars in the sexy Studio 71 lounge for more cocktails and dancing, but not before cracking open the tiramisu – shaped and imprinted like a real record. The scene gets even buzzier for the weekly Sunday Aperitivo party.

Nozawa Bar

This intimate sushi bar tucked behind the famed SUGARFISH in Beverly Hills is led by Chef Fujita and is known for its high-end omakase experience featuring over 20 courses of primarily nigiri sushi, plus sashimi and handrolls. Adventurous eaters can expect surprises like clear Japanese jellyfish and monkfish liver.

There are only ten seats available, and guests must arrive on time as every course is served to all diners at once. Savor rare cuts of kama toro (bluefin tuna’s fatty collar meat), Santa Barbara uni, oysters, and more. There is a reason Nozawa Bar earned a Michelin Star; splurge on a special night here.

Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air

The 1950s hotel, set on a 12-acre plot surrounded by wooded hills, is notable for its gorgeous setting. Cross the bridge and admire swans before dining in the elegant modern garden setting. For a remarkable experience, choose a private alcove or booth. Enjoy modern California fare with European and Mediterranean influences. Indulge in tagliatelle with truffles, Nancy Reagan chopped salad, and veal wiener schnitzel.

The Restaurant at Mr. C Beverly Hills

Mr. C’s glamorous European restaurant is renowned for its formal dining experience outdoors, featuring pink linen tablecloths or poolside seating. Start with the signature Bellini, then delve into Italian classics such as prosciutto with melon and beef carpaccio. Highlight your meal with pasta like bucatini with guanciale and homemade potato gnocchi.

Jean-Georges Beverly Hills and The Rooftop by JG

The Waldorf Astoria offers stunning views from the hotel’s Rooftop by JG. Immerse yourself in the glamor and celebrity scene in the elegant dining room, paired with seasonal tasting menu options. The artistry of the dishes is a treat for the eyes as well as the palate, featuring ingredients like sea urchin, caviar, buckwheat crepes, and Passion Fruit Flower dessert.

Cultural Icons of Dining in LA

If a restaurant can survive a year in LA, it’s considered a winner. However, some classic establishments have managed to withstand decades. With iconic experiences including In-N-Out, Dan Tana’s, and Bestia, here are longstanding favorites you shouldn’t miss.

Musso and Frank Grill

Step into this legendary venue that hasn’t changed in over 100 years. The atmosphere harkens back to the days when stars like Frank Sinatra and Bob Dylan dined here. Sip the famed Perfect Martini while enjoying signature dishes like lobster bisque, chicken pot pie, and ribeye steak, which remain wildly popular with both locals and tourists.

Jitlada

This LA institution specializes in spicy Southern Thai fare. With over 200 menu items, patrons are sure to find delightful surprises. From traditional pad thai to unique offerings like spicy mango softshell crab, there is something for everyone.

Park’s BBQ

You can’t visit LA without trying Korean BBQ. Let the meat sizzle on your tableside grill while enjoying high-quality cuts accompanied by an array of banchan (small side dishes). Sample a combo platter with bulgogi, ribeye steak, and more, and anticipate an unforgettable meal.

Yamashiro

Completed in 1914, this hilltop mansion offers stunning views of Los Angeles. Dining options include sushi boats or the extravagant 36-ounce Cowboy Steak marinated in garlic smoked shoyu sauce. Experience a magical atmosphere in the courtyard gardens alongside delectable offerings from the menu.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options in LA

Margo’s Bar and Kitchen

This new 100% plant-based casual café on Montana Ave serves delightful vegan options. Enjoy healthy California ingredients in salads, burrito bowls, or tacos, including innovative dishes like an Impossible Burger and Breakfast Pizza.

Sage Vegan Bistro

With multiple locations including Pasadena and Culver City, this place specializes in delicious comfort food. From cauliflower wings to BBQ pineapple pizza, the extensive menu entices even the non-vegan crowd. Recent innovations in vegan cuisine, including unique taco selections, make this a must-try.

The Butcher’s Daughter

This Venice location features a beachfront design, offering a tasty selection of mainly vegan and gluten-free options. Whether it’s a juice flight or stone oven pizza, the dishes are as flavorful as they are nutritious.

Gracias Madre

With an all-organic plant-based Mexican menu, Gracias Madre has set a high standard in West Hollywood. Enjoy authentic flavors wrapped in fresh ingredients in a festive outdoor atmosphere.

Budget Dining in Los Angeles

SocialEats

This food discovery platform offers a smorgasbord of affordable culinary delights. Recommendations include cheeseburgers, fish sandwiches, and tacos from renowned local chefs, enabling diners to sample a variety of dishes all in one location.

Original Farmer’s Market

Since 1934, this legendary market with over 100 vendors has provided ready-to-eat food and local produce. Venture around the market and pick up anything from sushi to BBQ.

Grand Central Market

Beginning in 1917, this European-style food hall has been a staple for locals and visitors alike. Experience cultural diversity with options from over 38 vendors, including fresh seafood, Korean fare, and sweet pastries.

Smorgasburg LA

Having originated in Brooklyn, this grand weekly open-air market is now a showcase for the culinary creativity of local vendors. With over 65 options, you can sample an array of inventive dishes every Sunday in Downtown LA.

This article was first published Apr 7, 2020 and updated May 27, 2022.