o you’re in Los Angeles and you’re not a local and you’re wondering where you should eat. As an LA local (born and raised), I have been to a lot of restaurants over the past almost 20 years of my life. And, I know which ones are not worth going to again… You may see a lot of influencers in LA going to Catch and BOA Steakhouse. And, while those places are definitely tasty and fun, they’re always super crowded and a little overrated. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite spots to eat in LA with great food and great vibes.
Alfred Coffee
This one is pretty basic and highly recommended (and instagrammed), but it’s honestly worth it… at least once! Alfred has a few locations in LA and while it’s not cheap at all, it’s a really good cup of coffee. When I’m at Alfred, I almost always get an iced vanilla latte with almond milk! It’s so good and not overly sweet. They have a ton of drinks to choose from, though (if iced lattes aren’t really you thing). They also have a super cute tea room near their Melrose Place location. They have such good boba and an even better aesthetic!
Katsuya
This may be my favorite restaurant ever. Katsuya is a sushi restaurant on Ventura Blvd in Studio City (also known as “sushi row”). I’ve been going to Katsuya for as long as I can remember. It’s so delicious and fresh. If you get the chance to during your visit, I recommend making a reservation for the bar because it really just adds to the overall experience!
Pizzeria Mozza
I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Italy and eating Italian pizza. For the most part, pizza in the United States doesn’t even compare to what you can get in Europe, but Pizzeria Mozza is basically the closest thing to it! The other super fun thing about Mozza is that you can get their to-go pizzas and make them at home with their fabulous dough!
Grand Central Market – Ana Maria
Okay, I cannot say enough amazing things about Ana Maria in Grand Central Market. There tacos are so-freaking-good and so well priced! Before I stopped eating read meat I would get their carne asada tacos every time I was in DTLA. I highly recommend. Plus, Grand Central Market is such a fun place to visit and eat! (If you stay for dessert, I’d go to McConnell’s ice cream) If you want more information on Grand Central market, read my article about things to do in LA.
Howlin’ Ray’s
Howlin’ Ray’s has to be the best spicy chicken sandwich I have ever had. Every single bite of a Howlin’ Ray’s sandwich is like the best bite of your life. The only problem with this restaurant is, in order to get a spot in line before they run out of chicken, you’ve got to get there early. Many people wait hours everyday just to buy a chicken sandwich or two. And, while that might sound crazy, it’s totally worth it. Plus, Howlin’ Ray’s is located in downtown Los Angeles near _________, so after you get your delicious sandwich you can walk around and enjoy the city.
Nightshade
If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and upscale dinner, definitely go to Nightshade! It’s in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and has the most creative dishes. Nightshade is one of the coolest restaurants I’ve ever eaten at. Everything on the menu is delicious, but I have to recommend the scallops because they are life changing.
Bavel
Bavel is one of the most aesthetically pleasing places I’ve ever eaten. It is so beautiful, the staff is so amazing, and the food is really good. If you’re not super into Medditerean food, I would recommend Bestia, their Italian sister restaurant with very similar vibes. Whoever you’re traveling with, Bavel is such a fun place to have a long dinner with lots of drinks in a beautiful space!
Katsuya
Porto’s in Burbank is pretty much a universal staple for most local Angelenos. Their soups and pastries are just to die for! They have so many options and I swear everything there is worth the trip to Burbank. However, I’m partial to their fruit tarts so I’d have to recommend those.
