Los Angeles boasts an unparalleled culinary landscape, rich with flavors from around the globe. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and its restaurants reflect that diversity. As a very passionate foodie, I love exploring new restaurants. Friends often reach out for my recommendations on where to eat, so I decided to compile a list of my top picks in LA. I’m always on the lookout for new gems, so if you have any favorites to share, send them my way!

Italian

• E Baldi – Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, the eponymous restaurant of chef Edoardo “Edo” Baldi specializes in Tuscan food with an accent of Emilia-Romagna.
• Madeo -Influenced by the coastal cuisine of Forte dei Marmi, the menu pairs the freshest local ingredients with premium European elements. 
• Funke – Funke is a new Beverly Hills restaurant that’s about time-honored recipes. Chef Evan Funke is here to showcase old-school pasta shapes and cooking techniques …
• Pasta Sisters – Pasta Sisters is a family-owned Italian restaurant & fresh pasta store that features authentic Italian dishes.

Asian

• Shu Sushi – Unico simply means unique, we believe that that is the word to describe SHU Sushi. For over 10 years, SHU has provided patrons with this dining experience.
• Yazawa – Japanese BBQ with Waygu imported from Japan. Definitely on the more expensive side but worth it!
• Sushi Fumi – Popular spot for fresh and affordable sushi – note there is no reservations so go early.
• Tonchin – Trendy spot for ramen and Japanese izakaya-style dishes.
• Matsuhisa – Iconic Japanese-Peruvian fusion by Nobu Matsuhisa.
• Sushi Park – Omakase-focused sushi experience tucked away on the second floor of a nondescript strip mall on Sunset.
• Uchi – Recently opened – A delicate balance of elevated food and impeccable service, Uchi offers non‐traditional Japanese cuisine with signature tastings, sushi, and a seasonal omakase.
• Tempura Endo – Exquisite Kyoto-style tempura in an intimate setting.
• KinKan – Modern Asian restaurant offering elevated dishes with a Japanese influence.

Korean BBQ

• Quarters – Fun, vibrant spot known for Korean BBQ with a modern twist.
• Genwa BBQ – Upscale Korean BBQ with high-quality meats and an array of banchan.
• Mun – Trendy Korean BBQ offering a unique, fine-dining experience.
• Manpuku – Known for their authentic Japanese BBQ, also specializing in Korean BBQ.

American/California Cuisine

• Great White – Great White is a casual all day cafe with a focus on fresh, local cuisine paired with great coffee & drinks.
• Republique – My favorite brunch spot in Los Angeles.
• Horses – Great dinner spot on Sunset.
• South Beverly Grill – Upscale American grill with great ambiance.
• Beverly Hills Polo Lounge – Classic California fare in an iconic setting.
• Craig’s is celebrity–favorite and serves upscale American comfort food.

Steakhouse

• Benjamin Hollywood – Classic American steakhouse with premium cuts.
• Catch Steak – Trendy steakhouse with seafood and steak dishes.
• MXO Steakhouse – A new contemporary Mexican Steakhouse centered around wood-fire cooking in the heart of the culinary
• The Penthouse at Mastro’s – Upscale steakhouse and the best creamed corn and mashed potatoes.

Vegetarian/Vegan

• The Butcher’s Daughter – Vegetarian spot with seasonal, plant-based dishes.
• Crossroads – High-end vegan restaurant known for its creative dishes.

Eclectic

• Zinque – Casual French-inspired bistro with a cozy ambiance.
• Destroyer – Futuristic, minimalist spot serving innovative brunch and lunch dishes.
• Saffy’s – Popular spot with a Middle Eastern-inspired menu and chic ambiance.

Mexican

• Casa Madera – Modern Mexican fusion spot with Mediterranean influences.
• Don Cucos – Classic Mexican restaurant with flavorful dishes and great margaritas.
• Javier’s – Mexican restaurant in Century City Mall known for its luxurious ambiance and elevated dishes.
• Tacos 1986 – Famous for its street-style tacos with handmade tortillas.

Pizza

• Prime Pizza – Known for serving some of the best pizza in LA with New York-style slices.

Burgers

• In-N-Out Burger – LA’s iconic fast-food burger joint.
• Burger She Wrote – Casual spot serving juicy smash burgers.
• Heavy Handed – Hearty, flavorful burgers from a popular food truck and restaurant.

Bagels

• Layla Bagels – Popular spot known for their fresh, creative bagel offerings. 3
• Courage Bagels – Trendy bagel shop with wood-fired, Montreal-style bagels.