Torrance Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Torrance. Your complete guide to dining in Torrance.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Torrance! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Torrance 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 Torrance's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Torrance like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Torrance 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 Torrance.
Local Kitchen
Highly rated American in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 1391 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1321 Sartori Ave, Torrance, CA 90501, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Urban Plates
Highly rated American in Torrance with 4.8 stars from 3673 reviews.
📍 21503 Hawthorne Blvd A, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Din Tai Fung
Highly rated Chinese in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 2664 reviews.
📍 21540 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
Delices Du Chef
Highly rated Restaurant in Torrance with 4.8 stars from 101 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 24416 Crenshaw Blvd Suite 4, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
Highly rated American in Torrance with 4.4 stars from 2855 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3525 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
King's Hawaiian Bakery and Restaurant
Highly rated Bakery in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 5221 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 2808 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Yoritofu
Highly rated Korean in Torrance with 4.9 stars from 24 reviews.
📍 21209 Hawthorne Blvd B, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Korean cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Salt & Pearl
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 87 reviews.
📍 1719 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Gaetano's Restaurant
Highly rated Italian in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 1067 reviews.
📍 2731 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Depot Restaurant
Highly rated American in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 418 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 1250 Cabrillo Ave, Torrance, CA 90501, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
kitchen sodam Korean Restaurant
Highly rated Korean in Torrance with 5 stars from 13 reviews.
📍 24631 Crenshaw Blvd # F, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Korean cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
BlueSalt Fish Grill - Torrance
Highly rated Seafood in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 1154 reviews.
📍 23215 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood 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 Torrance.
Mitsuwa Marketplace
Highly rated Japanese in Torrance with 4.5 stars from 4660 reviews.
📍 3525 W Carson St Suite 164, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
Trader Joe's
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 2110 reviews.
📍 19720 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Makkah Market
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 265 reviews.
📍 22846 S Western Ave, Torrance, CA 90501, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
H Mart Torrance
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.5 stars from 1992 reviews.
📍 4340 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Vons
Highly rated Bakery in Torrance with 4.2 stars from 1079 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 4705 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Food 4 Less
Highly rated Bakery in Torrance with 4.3 stars from 1200 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 851 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.4 stars from 1250 reviews.
📍 2655 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
WinCo Foods
Highly rated Bakery in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 4319 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 3400 E South St, Lakewood, CA 90805, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Torrance.
Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles
Highly rated International in Torrance 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
Carlsbad Food Tours
Highly rated International in Torrance with 5 stars from 120 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 Torrance 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
Japan Deluxe Tours, Inc.
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.9 stars from 114 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
Premier World Discovery
Highly rated International in Torrance with 4.4 stars from 55 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
HopSaint Brewing Company
Highly rated Restaurant in Torrance with 4.5 stars from 553 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
- •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 Torrance.
Caffe Tre Venezie
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.8 stars from 353 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3525 CA-1 unit b, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Nook Coffee Bar
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 300 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 980 W 190th St suite b1, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Offset Coffee Roasters
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 349 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 24416 Crenshaw Blvd # 1, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Pinwheel Cafe & Bakery
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.5 stars from 334 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2553 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Corridor Flow
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 291 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 24614 Narbonne Ave, Lomita, CA 90717, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Bada, Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 45 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Plaza Mayor Shopping Center, 5005 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Copa Vida - Torrance
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.6 stars from 61 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 21250 Hawthorne Blvd Suite 100, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
First Flight Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 43 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 22501 Crenshaw Blvd #200, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Torrance.
Signature Dish
A must-try Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance.
Torrance Tavern
Highly rated Restaurant in Torrance with 4.4 stars from 877 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 22735 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Project Barley Square - Brewery & Restaurant
Highly rated Bar in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 320 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1109 Van Ness Ave, Torrance, CA 90501, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Bounty Room
Highly rated Bar in Torrance with 4.5 stars from 151 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 4419 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Georgia’s Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Torrance with 4.7 stars from 214 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1500 Aviation Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90278, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
View , Music Bar & Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Torrance with 4.4 stars from 116 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1431 W Knox St, Torrance, CA 90501, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
JOEY Manhattan Beach
Highly rated Restaurant in Torrance with 4.8 stars from 4117 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3120 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
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
Torrance'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 Torrance 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
Torrance 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 Torrance 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 Torrance 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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