Today on the blog: 15 of the best places to eat in LA.
As our vacation in Los Angeles comes to end an tomorrow, I thought I’d give you a round-up of some of my favorite places to eat in my hometown. This list could be pages and pages long, but I’ve narrowed it down to the restaurants we repeatedly went to when we lived in West LA and the ones I try to hit anytime I come home. In no particular order, you’ll find a mix of sit down, fast casual, and sweets, all of which I know you’ll love!
My Favorite Places to Eat in LA
Breakfast
Huckleberry: Love this cozy Santa Monica bakery for weekend brunches. You can’t go wrong with any of their baked goods, but I also love their avocado toast and breakfast bowls.
Eggslut: If you’re like me and could eat breakfast for any meal of the day, you’ll love Eggslut. The egg sandwiches here are more than just food, they’re an experience!
Primos Donuts: Primo’s is a local ma’ and pa’ shop located right off Sawtelle Blvd. in West LA. This little donut shop sells the best classic donuts but they go quick, so get there early.
Sidecar Doughnuts: If I had to pick one donut shop to try in Southern California, it would be Sidecar. I tried every single item in the store when I went and loved it all. My favorite donut was the Country Ham and Egg – literally one of the best things I’ve ever put in my mouth!
Republique: This modern French restaurant and bakery is one my in-laws introduced me to just a few years ago and one that I fell in love with instantly. It’s become a favorite among locals, so if you go for breakfast, get there early or make a reservation if you’re going for dinner. And promise me, if you go for breakfast, you’ll get the Cornetti. Simply incredible.
Lunch and Dinner
Mendocino Farms: We discovered Mendocino Farms about 7 years ago when they only had a few locations across LA. Now, with 18 locations that will be open by the end of the year, Mendocino Farms is known for its fresh, local ingredients and creative spins on sandwiches and salads. I recommend trying the Sophisticated Chicken and Prosciutto Salad and the Not So Fried Chicken Sandwich.
Milo and Olive: I love Milo and Olive for their pizza, but the one item on the menu that you must try is the Garlic Knot! Mouth-watering!
Lemonade: We used to hit Lemonade a couple of times a month. It’s quick, fresh, and has something for everyone. In addition to proteins and sandwiches, they have a ton of sides to choose from. To ensure you like what you get, make sure to ask for samples of the sides.
800 Degrees: Located next to UCLA, this pizza place is known for their Neopolitan style pizzas. I love making my own, while Ryan usually gets their Carni Pizza.
Pizzeria Mozza: If you’re over in the Los Angeles or Newport areas, please, please, please do yourself a favor and eat at Pizzeria Mozza! It’s some of the best pizza I have ever had, including everything I’ve tried straight from Italy.
True Food Kitchen: If you’re looking for healthy food that tastes amazing, you won’t want to miss True Food Kitchen. I recommend the Charred Cauliflower, Edamame Dumplings, Ancient Grains, Steelhead Salmon and Roasted Artichoke Pizza.
Bay City Italian Deli: This local staple is probably not one you’ve heard of, but if you’re headed to the beach, this is the perfect place to run in for a sandwich to take with you.
Hopdotty Burgers: Ryan and I love burgers and are always on the hunt for the best of the best. Hopdotty’s is definitely among our favorites.
Ice Cream
Salt and Straw: With ice cream flavors that are created based on what’s in season, you’ll want to hit this “farm-to-cone” ice cream spot all year long. Follow their Instagram for new monthly flavors.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream: I can’t even tell you how excited I was for this NYC favorite to open in LA! It holds the number one spot on my ice cream list. Don’t shy away from trying their vegan flavors – they’re just as good as the classics!
Of course, as I write this, I’m starting to think of dozens of other places I love in LA, so don’t be surprised if you see a Part B to this list of the best places to eat in LA!
Happy eating!
I’m so glad I stumbled across your list! We are staying at the lowes Hollywood hotel today and tomorrow. So if you had to narrow it down to just a few places close by what would they be?
Try Mozza and Republique! Both are close to you
You are missing a really great option that fits on your list: Flowerchild, which is now open in Santa Monica, and is owned by the same group that created True Foods. You must try the creamed corn. I know it sounds odd, but it is delicious!
I’ve just recently heard of Flowerchild! I’ll add it to my list for my next visit. Thank you!