Upon moving to Los Angeles, you’ll discover a world-class LA restaurant scene offering an eclectic variety and thousands of options to choose from. So where to begin? We believe that you can’t go wrong with the classics. Beloved by locals, these 16 quintessential LA spots have stood the test of time by carving out an undeniable culinary niche, while telling their own Hollywood story woven into the city’s nostalgia.
Iconic Los Angeles restaurants
Musso & Frank Grill
For over 100 years, this family-owned Hollywood treasure has attracted the who’s who of Tinseltown including Chaplin, Monroe, and Tarantino to name a few. Top-notch waiters clad in red jackets and bow ties swing trays of lobster cocktails, succulent rib eye steaks, and arguably the best martini west of the Mississippi. If this LA restaurant looks familiar, it’s because it has been used as a location in noted films (see Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) and famous novels (see most of Raymond Chandler’s books).
Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Canter’s Deli
For a truly authentic Jewish deli experience, it doesn’t get better than Canter’s in the Miracle Mile district. Opened in 1931, the Canter family has consistently kept with their own high standards, serving up award-winning fare including pastrami, fresh-baked breads, and of course, a matzo ball soup to write home about. Whether you’re coming in for breakfast blintzes or craving a late-night sandwich and cocktail, Canter’s is always the reliable choice.
Address:419 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Philippe the Original
Famed as the “home of the original French Dip sandwich,” this unassuming staple in Downtown LA has been dishing out comfort delicatessen fare since 1908. Do as the locals do and have a pre-ball game meal before walking over to Union Station and taking the shuttle to Dodger Stadium. We promise it won’t be the last time you do.
Address: 1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Cole’s French Dip
It wouldn’t be fair to mention the French Dip at Philippe’s without giving this other Downtown LA favorite its due respect. Also opened in 1908, Cole’s offers a more bar-centric atmosphere to enjoy their equally famous French Dip sandwich in addition to other pub delights. Whose signature sandwich is better? You’ll have to decide on your own.
Address: 118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Los Angeles restaurants for the refined palate
Bestia
Located in a stylish industrial space at the heart of the Arts District, this lauded culinary destination is among the most talked about in the city. Cozy up in a booth and enjoy contemporary Italian dishes like saffron gnocchi and leek & gorgonzola pizza while sipping on a beverage from their progressive wine and cocktail menu. After one visit to Bestia, you’ll put it at the top of your list for impressing visitors.
Address:2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Spago
Perhaps the most world-renowned LA restaurant is chef Wolfgang Puck’s masterpiece in Beverly Hills. For over 40 years, the menu at Spago’s has managed to keep moving forward with edgy dishes while still offering some of the classics that first put it on the map. The standard for fine-dining excellence, this is the place to indulge in truffles, caviar, veal tartare, and fine wines.
Address: 176 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Dan Tana’s
For over 50 years, this family-owned and operated West Hollywood gem prides itself on offering a “home away from home” restaurant experience. Keeping with a classic Italian American menu, common folk and celebrities alike flock to Dan Tana’s for dishes like the chicken parmesan and veal Scallopini. Sharply dressed in black tuxedos, the expert wait staff are brimming with stories of the days of yore and procure a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Address: 9071 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Best Los Angeles restaurants for a quick bite
Original Tommy’s
Founded in 1946, this often-imitated LA burger joint has captured the hearts of Angelenos by keeping it simple and unwavering throughout the years. Chili burgers, chili fries, chili dogs, you get the idea. Host to many a first date over the generations, there’s a reason why Tommy’s has remained an integral part of the LA food scene.
Address: 2575 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057
In-N-Out Burger
A model of consistency, this famous burger chain may be the most frequented by any other restaurant on this list. The menu is deceptively quaint, as there are many other items and versions of the food that you just have to know about through word of mouth (e.g., “Animal Style” fries and “Protein Style” burgers). What makes this place even more remarkable is how polite and efficient the staff is, as is the case with any location you visit.
Address: 7009 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
Pink’s Hot Dogs
With a retro pink exterior, it’s impossible to miss this legendary hot dog stand on North La Brea in Hollywood. For over 80 years, locals, tourists, and everyone else in between have braved the perpetual line around the block in anticipation for loaded polish dogs and burgers. And with an impressive resume of cameos in movies, TV shows, and travel channels, you’ll definitely want to get your picture taken with this Hollywood starlet.
Address: 709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Los Angeles restaurant staples
Cielito Lindo
While perusing the quaint Mexican shops of historic Olvera Street, you’ll notice a buzz around this must-try taquito stand. Opened in 1934, Cielito Lindo serves up authentic tamales, burritos, and, most importantly, their world-famous taquitos. If you’re wondering what a taquito is, imagine a rolled and fried taco smothered in avocado salsa. Better yet, give them a visit. You won’t be disappointed.
Address: E-23 Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Apple Pan
Time travel back to the 50’s as this vintage West LA diner delivers on arguably the best burgers and homemade pies in the city. Praised by top food critics, The Apple Pan has grown a massive, loyal base of Angelenos who keep coming back for hickory burgers and house sauce. Insider tip: bring cash and prepare to wait a few minutes.
Address:10801 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
El Coyote
Enter below the famous neon sign and settle in for a feast of traditional Mexican food and margaritas made from scratch. Frequented throughout history by Hollywood legends and literal royalty (Queen Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier once), El Coyote has always made it a priority to provide guests with a warm atmosphere in a festive setting. The menu offers all the usual suspects of Mexican cuisine, but for something different and delicious, try their signature ostrich tacos.
Address: 7312 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Bay Cities
For award-winning old-school Italian deli sandwiches, visit this Santa Monica landmark that’s approaching their 100-year anniversary. Decisions won’t come easy as this iconic eatery offers generous portions of Italian meats, cheeses, cutlets, etc. between two pieces of housemade artisanal bread. But it’s not all just sandwiches here. Bay Cities also doubles as an Italian market offering gourmet and imported groceries from the motherland.
Address: 1517 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Whether you’re moving to Los Angeles, visiting, or looking for a new place to dine with friends and other locals, you won’t be without options. Take a bite out of LA and experience the wide range of culinary choices found in these Los Angeles restaurants.
Related content
