Los Angeles Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Los Angeles. Your complete guide to dining in Los Angeles.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Los Angeles! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Los Angeles has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Los Angeles's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Los Angeles like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Los Angeles offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Los Angeles.
Girl & the Goat Los Angeles
Highly rated American in Los Angeles with 4.8 stars from 3209 reviews.
📍 555-3 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
71Above
Highly rated Restaurant in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 2723 reviews.
📍 633 W 5th St 71st floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Bottega Louie
Highly rated Italian in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 7533 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Holbox
Highly rated Seafood in Los Angeles with 4.8 stars from 2387 reviews.
📍 3655 S Grand Ave c9, Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
République Café Bakery & République Restaurant
Highly rated French in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 6829 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic French cuisine
Providence
Highly rated Seafood in Los Angeles with 4.7 stars from 1112 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 5955 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Rossoblu
Highly rated Italian in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 961 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1124 San Julian St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Redbird
Highly rated American in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 1788 reviews.
📍 114 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Maccheroni Republic
Highly rated Italian in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 3001 reviews.
📍 332 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Bestia
Highly rated Italian in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 3934 reviews.
📍 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Guelaguetza Restaurant
Highly rated Mexican in Los Angeles with 4.3 stars from 6355 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3014 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mexican cuisine
Sushi Gen
Highly rated Sushi in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 1724 reviews.
📍 422 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Sushi cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Los Angeles.
Grand Central Market
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 35813 reviews.
📍 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Original Farmers Market
Highly rated Restaurant in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 16547 reviews.
📍 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Smorgasburg (Los Angeles)
Highly rated Restaurant in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 3847 reviews.
📍 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
California Market
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.3 stars from 2949 reviews.
📍 450 S Western Ave #1, Los Angeles, CA 90020, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mercado La Paloma
Highly rated Thai in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 3196 reviews.
📍 3655 S Grand Ave # 280, Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Thai cuisine
Rodeo 39 Public Market
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 1843 reviews.
📍 12885 Beach Blvd, Stanton, CA 90680, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Grove
Highly rated Restaurant in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 27589 reviews.
📍 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Little Tokyo Market Place
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 2962 reviews.
📍 333 S Alameda St #100, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Los Angeles.
Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 5 stars from 316 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
LA Food Tours
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 5 stars from 88 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Melting Pot Food Tours
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.8 stars from 43 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Hollywood City Tours
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.8 stars from 6646 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Ultimate Hollywood Tours
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.9 stars from 2784 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Delicious Dish Tours
Highly rated International in Los Angeles with 4.8 stars from 6 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Los Angeles.
Dalian's Café
Highly rated Bakery in Los Angeles with 4.9 stars from 277 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 530 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Urth Caffe
Highly rated Cafe in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 5610 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 459 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker
Highly rated Bakery in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 2984 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 8653 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Jurassic Magic Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Los Angeles with 4.7 stars from 397 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1865 S Mansfield Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Coffee Company
Highly rated Cafe in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 3470 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 8751 La Tijera Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Alchemist Coffee Project
Highly rated Cafe in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 992 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 698 S Vermont Ave Ste 103, Los Angeles, CA 90005, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
République Café Bakery & République Restaurant
Highly rated French in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 6829 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic French cuisine
De La Tierra Café
Highly rated Cafe in Los Angeles with 4.8 stars from 177 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1144 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Los Angeles.
Signature Dish
A must-try Los Angeles specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Los Angeles dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Los Angeles with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Los Angeles specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Los Angeles creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Los Angeles classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Los Angeles specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Los Angeles dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Los Angeles with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Los Angeles specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Los Angeles.
Perch
Highly rated French in Los Angeles with 4.4 stars from 7328 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic French cuisine
The Escondite
Highly rated Bar in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 701 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 410 Boyd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Seven Grand
Highly rated Bar in Los Angeles with 4.6 stars from 1929 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 515 W 7th St 2nd floor, Los Angeles, CA 90014, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Death & Co Los Angeles
Highly rated Bar in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 492 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 818 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Frolic Room
Highly rated Bar in Los Angeles with 4.4 stars from 955 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 6245 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Everson Royce Bar
Highly rated Bar in Los Angeles with 4.5 stars from 1078 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1936 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Los Angeles's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Los Angeles vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Los Angeles is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Los Angeles offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Los Angeles specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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