I love that LA has such a variety of restaurants and cafes all within walking distance from where ever you may be staying. I've put together a list of 10 of my favourite places (which was really difficult as I'm big foodie and discover many more gems each time I return). But here are 10 that I couldn't live without!
1. LITTLE SISTER, DTLA
I don't actually spend that much time in DTLA but when I do I have to pop into Little Sister. It's opposite of Bottega Louie (another fave of mine that I will mention in a bit!). Whenever I get a little bit homesick I'm always on the hunt for some comfort asian food and you are definitely in for a treat when you visit! I would say that this is one of my favourite asian cuisine places to eat and I have eaten at many! The vibe is very relaxed, an east meets west style menu that will hit you in the right places. I would recommend you try the 'pork, shrimp and crab dumplings', 'imperial rolls', 'grilled baby octopus' and 'pan fried e-fu noodles'
523 W 7TH ST LOS ANGELES 90014
2. BOTTEGA LOUIE, DTLA
A place where I can not miss whenever I'm in LA is Bottega Louie. The decor, people, service and food is always 100% and I always leave with a big smile on my face. You can get anything from pastries, macaroons, salads and even pasta and sauces to take home with you! I love going there in the week to avoid queuing and going either for breakfast or brunch is my favourite. If you do make it there for brunch, I recommend the farmers market breakfast and almond chai latte with a side of toast and make sure its with the blueberry butter! Its the best thing in the world!
700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017
3. zinque, melrose
this spot is a go to of mine when i want a quick lunch with friends. a good place to spot some of the famous locals and its dog friendly too. it also turns into a tapas and wine place at night. they’re famous for their ‘le bowls’ which is their rice bowl with some protein and veggies. you could definitely make this at home too and save yourself some $$$ but since you’re already in la you might as well treat yourself.
8684 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90048, USA
4. The Nice guy, n la cienega blvD
This used to be a hot spot for young hollywood, ideal since theres a no photos inside policy. (there is a photo booth though). the food is classic italian, i love their beef ragu, pizzas and the brussels sprouts side dish is a must order when you go. They have a selection of yummy cocktails too, I normally go for the spicy sienna. i would recommend booking this place in advance as it gets busy on weekends.
401 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
5.NORAH, WEST HOLLYWOOD
i live for their corn bread. i rave about this all the time and my friends don’t get it until they visit and ask me why i haven’t recommended it to them first?! the chill atmosphere and decor are right up my street and all the dishes they do here. i recommend the broccoli dish, black truffle gnocchi, smoked chicken sausage and the roasted duck breast! But everything is so delicious here!
8279 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046
6. Margot, Culver citY
a newly open rooftop restaurant thats sure to fill your belly with yummy food and good vibes. theres an indoor and outdoor section with a great view of west LA. i’ve pretty much tried most of the menu and everything is good but my favourites were the yellowfin tuna, cappelini, the sea bream and the broccoli. but to be honest, i could eat all the pasta dishes there.
8820 Washington Blvd #301, Culver City, CA 90232
7. SALAZAR, SILVER LAKE
this beauty is located in silver lake and does the most delicious mexican feast. from their margaritas to the street corn and tacos, this is my happy place for food. its all seated outside which is a perfect way to end the day in los angeles. there is no valet here and only street parking so bare that in mind when visiting. there is also no reservation so its first come first served!
2490 Fletcher Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90039, United States
8. Jon & Vinnys
one of my all time favourite spots in la. i have to eat here every time im in town at least once! i usually go for breakfast as its quieter. i always order the eggs and kale dish with a side of toast and tea or orange juice. for dinner i recommend the vodka pasta or any of the pizzas! you can even have their soft serve for after your breakfast if you wish!
412 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
9. urth cafe
basic la girl right here but urth is my usual spot to eat. breakfast, lunch and dinner is served here and pretty much everything is healthy. i can happily east here every day as theres a lot of variety on the menu. their boba teas are my go to here or the earl grey latte with almond milk.
8565 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069
10.malibu farm cafe &,restaurant
My go to spot when in malibu. i just feel so calm and relax whenever i stop by and always leave with a food baby. the perfect spot for casual dining among the waves and great for people watching.i normally end up eating in the restaurant section rather than the cafe at the end of the pier. i don’t have a usual that i order here cause i love trying everything on the menu but their abc tacos, open faced omelettes and dirty chai lattes are the best.
23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265