Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, where sunshine meets sizzling street food and high-end dining. Whether you’re craving global flavors or gourmet innovations, LA’s vibrant food landscape offers endless choices. For foodies looking to explore the city’s culinary gems, here are 10 must-visit restaurants that define what it means to eat well in the City of Angels.
Type: Japanese | Cost: $$$$
At N/Naka, Chef Niki Nakayama curates a refined 13-course kaiseki menu that seamlessly blends time-honored Japanese traditions with contemporary California sensibilities. This two-Michelin-star restaurant offers a rare and exquisite dining experience—reservations are limited, but the artistry on each plate is unforgettable.
📍 3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034
Type: Italian | Cost: $$
Step into the cinematic world of Mother Wolf, where Chef Evan Funke brings Rome to LA with handmade pastas and bold Italian flavors. The ambiance is just as captivating as the food, making this Hollywood hotspot a favorite among locals and celebrities alike.
📍 1545 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Type: New American | Cost: $$$
Chef Jordan Kahn reimagines fine dining at Meteora, an otherworldly space where nature-inspired décor meets avant-garde cuisine. Expect imaginative dishes like avocado pie and rare seafood, all plated with artistic precision in a setting unlike any other.
📍 6703 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Type: Mexican | Cost: $$
Celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Oaxaca, Guelaguetza is a lively, award-winning restaurant known for its house-made moles, chapulines, and festive atmosphere. It’s a staple in LA’s Mexican food scene and a beloved spot for both casual diners and food critics.
📍 3014 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Type: Persian | Cost: $$
Azizam introduces a new wave of Persian cuisine to Silver Lake, presenting bold and comforting dishes like herb-laden kuku sandwiches and giant meatballs. The restaurant’s modern vibe and rich flavors make it a standout in the city’s bustling Eastside.
📍 2943 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Type: Middle Eastern | Cost: $$
From the team behind Bestia and Bavel comes Saffy’s, a colorful, retro-inspired eatery with a creative take on Middle Eastern dishes. With its irresistible lamb shawarma and perfectly smoky spreads, Saffy’s is redefining neighborhood dining in East Hollywood.
📍 4845 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Type: Japanese-Inspired | Cost: $$$
Located on Abbot Kinney, RŌVĒR is Chef Travis Lett’s return to form—this sleek, contemporary izakaya serves up a fresh fusion of Japanese techniques and California ingredients. Think refined dishes in a space that oozes laid-back Venice sophistication.
📍 1305 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Type: Thai Fusion | Cost: $$
A true neighborhood treasure, Anajak Thai has become famous for its inventive Thai-Mexican mashups and modern twists on classic Thai cuisine. Don’t miss their “Taco Tuesdays,” where Southeast Asian flavors meet street-style fun.
📍 14704 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Type: French Bistro | Cost: $$$
With minimalist decor and a bold, modern menu, Camphor stands out in the LA Arts District. French staples like duck à l’orange and tartare are given new life with bright, Asian-inspired flavors—elevated yet accessible.
📍 923 E 3rd St #109, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Type: French | Cost: $$$
Housed in a historic building, République delivers everything from flaky croissants in the morning to luxurious French dinners in the evening. With its high ceilings and stunning interior, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
📍 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
From haute cuisine to hidden neighborhood gems, Los Angeles continues to lead with its bold and dynamic food culture. Whether you’re a long-time local or planning your next visit, these ten exceptional restaurants promise an unforgettable taste of the city.
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