LA Food Diaries: Food recommendations & honest thoughts
We came to LA with low expectations since our last visit, I’ve had a change of heart
We were wrong. 😅
From hole-in-the-wall breakfast burrito that changed our lives to colouring in a dinner - this city does not miss (if you go to the right spots ;) )
No tourist traps. No boring plates. Just genuinely, embarrassingly good food at every single stop.
If your next trip doesn’t have a restaurant list longer than your itinerary… are you even doing it right? 🍽️✈️
Drop a 🌮 if LA is on your list — we’ll tell you exactly where to eat.
During my recent trip to Los Angeles, I was genuinely surprised by how diverse and vibrant the food scene is, far beyond the typical tourist spots. One of my standout experiences was at Sobuneh in West Hollywood, where the breakfast burrito — featuring crispy tater tots — completely changed my perception of morning meals. It’s a hidden gem that locals rave about, and rightly so! I also found Layla Bagels in Santa Monica to be a delightful surprise; the seasonal fruit bagels not only tasted fresh but offered a unique twist that elevated this classic breakfast item to another level. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful start to the day. For those with a sweet tooth, Sidecar Doughnuts on Fairfax Avenue are an absolute must-try. Their vanilla bean cake doughnut with brown butter glaze and fleur de sel, along with the huckleberry cake doughnut bursting with fresh foraged berries, taste more like indulgent cakes than typical doughnuts — a true treat. If you’re craving coffee and a cozy vibe, Olive & James in Melrose Park offers fantastic matcha coffee that made me wish I had visited twice during my trip! It’s a perfect mid-day break spot with an Instagram-worthy ambiance. One evening, I visited Jon & Vinny's in Beverly Hills, and the pasta with meatballs was so excellent that I found myself nostalgic just thinking about it. Their interactive art-filled environment adds to the overall dining experience, making it more than just a meal. Also, for those who love authentic ethnic food, Luv2eat Thai Bistro transports you straight to Thailand with flavors that remind you of street food there — a rare find outside Asia. I wish I could find similar spots in other cities. In-and-Out burger lovers can also rejoice as their chips complement the classic burger perfectly, a simple combination but executed to perfection. My takeaway? When visiting LA, don't just stick to the iconic landmarks and tourist traps; explore local recommendations and dive into these delicious, often underrated spots. Build your food itinerary almost as extensively as your sightseeing list — the culinary adventure is well worth the effort.
