Are you looking for an utterly unique, treasured culinary experience to enjoy with your loved ones? In Southern California, there is no shortage of icons, and this applies to dining too. Likewise, with so many famed spots for a sip and bite, where does one begin? Luckily for you, we have a curated list of the most iconic restaurant settings in So Cal.
LOS ANGELES MOST ICONIC LOCAL RESTAURANTS
The Apple Pan
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Since 1947, this quintessential Westside iconic local restaurant has stood the test of time. Apple Pan is downright legendary for its smoky hickory burgers, excellent sandwiches, and in-house pies. Likewise, this makes the pie shop an absolute must for dessert or any time of day!
Bestia
Location: DTLA
Known for its famous clientele and dashing interiors, this Italian iconic local restaurant has become an iconic dining spot in Downtown LA. Likewise, Bestia’s hard-to-land reservation is attributed to its incredible menu featuring Spaghetti Rustichella and equally iconic desserts.
Musso & Frank Grill
Location: Hollywood
Opened in 1919, this steak-and-cocktails joint is the oldest iconic local restaurant in Hollywood. Likewise, serving steakhouse magnificence of excellent grilled meats accompanied by the ultra-famous martini, old-school American steakhouse vibes do not get better than this.
WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES MOST ICONIC LOCAL RESTAURANTS
Polo Lounge
Location: Beverly Hills
Set in the hip Beverly Hills Hotel, Polo Lounge is the power dining spot in all of LA. Likewise, this iconic local art deco eatery has been a favorite spot for generations of Hollywood stars offering refined Californian cuisine with an Italian edge. In addition, their spectacular patio is ideal for a sunny breakfast, a Sunday jazz brunch, or a soft music chill spot.
Dan Tana’s
Location: West Hollywood, CA
Opened in 1964, Dan Tana’s serves Italian staples like chicken Parmesan and steaks. Likewise, this old-school Hollywood joint has been famous for celebrity sightings and its red and white cutting-edge décor.
Golden Bull Restaurant
Location: Santa Monica, CA
This charming beachside restaurant in Santa Monica is famous for its prime rib, chops, and cocktails served in an old-fashioned, wood-paneled space and patio. Likewise, the bites and setting make Golden Bull a must for locals to try.
SAN FERNANDO VALLEY MOST ICONIC LOCAL RESTAURANTS
Casa Vega
Location: Sherman Oaks, CA
For over 65 years, this family-owned iconic local eatery in the San Fernando Valley has served hearty and classic Mexican dishes in an inviting and festive atmosphere. In addition, the establishment is famous for the filming location of the Hollywood movie “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”. Likewise, Casa Vega is also famous for its late-night offerings and margarita-fueled happy hours.
Firefly
Location: Studio City
Opened in Studio City over a decade ago, Firefly is famous for its upscale design with an inside library bar and outdoor dining with a fireplace and candlelit tables. The yellowtail Hamachi sashimi with ponzu sauce, heirloom tomatoes, and pepper cress is to die for. Likewise, you can also order the addictively decadent chicken liver pâté made with cognac or the roasted macadamia nuts, served with grilled ciabatta. In addition, Firefly has been heralded as the perfect date night spot in the valley.
Kravings
Location: Tarzana
This Brazilian fusion steakhouse & lounge serves a variety of fresh salads, sushi, and a wide selection of alternatives to suit your palate. In addition, Kravings has a number of other meat-based options like beef and chicken entrees. Likewise, this means they even have options for vegetarians.
CONEJO VALLEY MOST ICONIC LOCAL RESTAURANTS
Neptune’s Net
Location: Ventura County
This throwback Malibu-adjacent restaurant is known to flock up with bikers, surfers, families, and tourists for its authentic seafood servings and rich local history. In addition, this waterfront eatery has an exemplary stack of delicious shrimp tacos and steamed tacos, making it an ideal lunch and dinner spot.
Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill
Location: Agoura Hills
Offering hearty platters of food seasoned with the best BBQ flavors from all over the country, Wood Ranch is a lively, family-friendly joint in Agoura. Likewise, their menu is filled with all sorts of delectable barbecue eats.
Shibuya
Location: Calabasas
With an enjoyable selection of fresh sashimi and rolls, Shibuya is a must. Likewise, this intimate Japanese sushi restaurant near Mulholland Drive has excellent customer service and ambiance perfect for a date.