Tag: food

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10 Best Korean Restaurants in LA You Must Try | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is home to an extraordinary Korean food scene, anchored by the vibrant Koreatown neighborhood. Finding the best Korean restaurants in LA involves exploring far beyond standard barbecue to discover rich stews, cold noodles, and traditional small plates. Whether you are a local or visiting for the first time, these ten exceptional spots deliver unforgettable culinary experiences.

Hojokban

Location:  734 East 3rd Street, Los Angeles, California 90013, United States

Bringing modern flair to classic dishes, Hojokban stands out among the best Korean restaurants in LA for inventive dining. Located in the Arts District, this high-energy eatery serves highlights like truffle potato jeon and pre-sliced short ribs. Paired with craft cocktails and Korean spirits, it offers a fresh take on modern dining.

Park’s BBQ

Location: 955 S Vermont Ave G, Los Angeles, CA 90006, USA

No dining guide is complete without Park’s BBQ, widely considered the premier destination for tabletop grilling. Known for serving prime-grade beef and quality pork, it easily ranks among the best Korean restaurants in LA. Their exceptional banchan side dishes and top-tier meats elevate every single meal.

Soban Restaurant

Location: 4001 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90019, US

Specializing in authentic homestyle cooking, Soban Restaurant is famous for its ganjang gejang, or raw marinated flower crab. This intimate, family-owned spot also serves rich braised black cod and tender short ribs. Its deep flavors have made it a beloved fixture in the local dining community.

K-Team BBQ

Location: 936 South Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90006

Created by the team behind Park’s BBQ, K-Team BBQ focuses on high-quality pork cuts and traditional grilling styles. Diners can enjoy thick pork collar, frozen belly, and beef tongue cooked on tallow-slicked grills. Additions like pollack roe paste and fresh minari make this a standout barbecue spot.

Yu Chun

Location: 3185 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90006, US

When warm weather arrives, Yu Chun is the top spot for refreshing bowls of naengmyeon made with chewy arrowroot noodles. Their signature cold noodle soup pairs seamlessly with grilled galbi. During cooler months, diners love their sizzling stone pot bibimbap loaded with fresh vegetables and rice.

Surawon Tofu House

Location: 2833 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006, USA

For fans of silken tofu stew, Surawon Tofu House is an absolute standout. The restaurant makes its soft tofu fresh on the premises daily, yielding a richer flavor profile. Combination meals paired with crispy fried mackerel offer exceptional value for authentic Korean comfort food.

Kobawoo House

Location: 3069 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005, USA

A neighborhood classic since 1983, Kobawoo House is celebrated for its bossam—tender, boiled pork belly served with flavorful accompaniments. The traditional wooden interior provides rustic charm, while the menu features giant seafood pancakes and bubbling kimchi stews served in piping-hot stone pots.

Sun Nong Dan

Location: 3470 W 6th St #7, Los Angeles, CA 90020, USA

Famous for its massive, spicy stone bowls of galbi-jjim, Sun Nong Dan is a legendary late-night spot. Braised short ribs and rice cakes are smothered in melted cheese upon request. It is frequently listed as one of the best Korean restaurants in LA for lively group dinners.

Jilli

Location: 3905 West 6th Street, Los Angeles, California 90020

Located in Koreatown, Jilli is a lively modern pub serving creative bar snacks known as anju. Standout dishes include rigatoni with kimchi vodka sauce and tuna dip, perfectly paired with local rice wine. It provides a fun, relaxed environment for contemporary drinks and casual dining.

Han Bat Shul Lung Tang

Location: 4163 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020, USA

Simplicity reigns at Han Bat Shul Lung Tang, where the menu focuses almost entirely on rich bone marrow soup. Guests customize their seolleongtang broth with green onions, salt, and flavorful kimchi. It remains one of the best Korean restaurants in LA for a soul-warming meal.

From lively barbecue houses to quiet soup spots, the best Korean restaurants in LA offer incredible flavor and diversity. Be sure to check out these iconic destinations on your next culinary adventure!

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10 Best Happy Hours in Los Angeles to Try This Fall | L.A. Eats

As warm summer days fade into crisp autumn evenings, discovering the best happy hours in Los Angeles provides the ultimate excuse to gather for craft cocktails and artisanal bites. Whether you are craving a chic tropical escape, gourmet barbecue, or upscale Italian fare paired with panoramic skyline views, the city offers an extraordinary array of late-afternoon experiences. Here are ten of the finest spots to visit this fall.

Everson Royce Bar

Location: 1936 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Located in the vibrant Arts District, this popular watering hole is widely considered one of the best bars in the city. The spacious outdoor patio is perfect for a breezy fall evening. During happy hour, which runs from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, you can score $6–$7 beers, $9 glasses of wine, and $11 cocktails. Do not miss out on their food specials, which include wild mushroom arancini and a fantastic $14 burger and fries combo.

Gracias Madre

Location: 8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

This West Hollywood staple is famous for its creative, plant-based Mexican cuisine and its stunning outdoor courtyard. Stop by on weekdays between 3 and 6 p.m. to enjoy refreshing $9 margaritas that balance the sweetness of agave with orange bitters. The happy hour menu also features $6 draft beers and excellent vegan bites, including loaded soyrizo nachos and a $10 “Happy Madre Meal,” featuring a jackfruit slider, garlic chipotle fries, and a beer.

Shirubē

Location: 424 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

If you are on the Westside, this Tokyo-based restaurant chain offers a fantastic deal on Japanese drinking fare. The happy hour schedule is generous: all day Sunday and Monday, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and a late-night option from 9 to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Enjoy $5 beers, $6 shochu highballs, and ultra-popular bar bites like corn ribs, garlic shrimp, and negitoro over garlic bread, ranging from $5 to $20.

The Bamboo Club

Location: 3522 E Anaheim St, Long Beach, CA 90804

For a laid-back, tropical escape, head down to Long Beach to visit this prime tiki destination. Famous for its killer cocktails and vinyl nights, The Bamboo Club offers happy hour all night on Mondays and Tuesdays, and from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. You can enjoy $2 off cocktails, $6 beers, and snack on a $10 fried chicken sandwich or cheeseburger, along with an order of $9 six-piece wings.

Dante Beverly Hills

Location: 225 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Perched on the top floor of the Maybourne Beverly Hills, this New York City import offers an incredible luxury experience at a steep discount. Every day from 3 to 5 p.m., guests can order from a selection of five unique top-shelf martinis for just $10. Pair your drink with sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills and upscale Italian fare for a sophisticated afternoon treat.

Gin Rummy

Location: 822 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

This island-inspired destination sits right on the edge of Venice and Marina del Rey. Every day from 4 to 6 p.m., the breezy, spacious venue offers a massive happy hour menu. Sip on $10 frozen daiquiris, margaritas, or beer-and-shot combos, while enjoying $8 wines and well drinks. The food deals are equally impressive, featuring $10 chicken wings and $14 coconut shrimp.

Maple Block Meat Co.

Location: 3973 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City, CA 90230

This Culver City barbecue joint is the perfect spot for comforting, smoky flavors this fall. The happy hour runs from 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and all night on Mondays. Enjoy $6 draft beers and $11 cocktails alongside steeply discounted bar bites. Popular choices include $9 grilled cheese sandwiches, $13 six-piece wings, and nachos topped with your choice of peach wood-smoked brisket or pork belly.

Tu Madre

Location: 1824 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

With multiple locations including Los Feliz, Tu Madre is famous for its “feliz hour,” running from 3 to 6 p.m. on weekdays. It is incredibly easy to assemble a filling, delicious meal for under $40. The menu features $10 cocktails, $5–$6 beers, and excellent food specials, including $3.50 tacos dorados and loaded nachos.

Madre

Location: 801 N Fairfax Ave #101, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Known for its staggering selection of mezcal, Madre’s West Hollywood location offers a fantastic happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can sip on a perfectly balanced smoky margarita for $11 or sample a Mezcal O’Clock flight for $21. Pair your drinks with delicious small bites like charred elote, tender carnitas tacos, or a side of chips with rich chicken mole negro.

Escala

Location: 3451 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020

Located in Koreatown’s historic Chapman Plaza, this lively Colombian-Korean fusion restaurant offers happy hour twice a day. Stop by from 4 to 7 p.m. daily, and a late-night option from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday. Enjoy $7 well cocktails or grab a pitcher of beer for $22. The discounted food menu features crispy yucca fries, empanadas filled with spicy kimchi fried rice, and a hearty chorizo sandwich.

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Weekend Events | September 18 – September 20, 2026

Fall is slowly arriving in LA, and with it comes the transition from summer to autumn fun. Whether you are seeking spooky, cozy, or tasty things to do, there is something for everyone in and around Los Angeles. From Bob Baker Day to Halloween Horror Nights and more, celebrate and enjoy all the weekend fun happening September 18 through September 20. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 18 – September 20 

Jazz at LACMA

When: Until September 25

Where: LACMA | Mid-City

What: Spend a Friday evening enjoying Jazz at LACMA, one of Los Angeles’ longest-running free live music traditions. Held in the welcome plaza at Los Angeles County Museum of Art, just behind the iconic Urban Light, the series brings acclaimed jazz musicians to the museum throughout the summer. Grab a first-come, first-served seat in the plaza or bring a picnic and listen from the surrounding lawn for a relaxed evening of music and art.

Bob Baker Day

When: September 20 

Where: Chinatown

What: Celebrate the whimsical legacy of Bob Baker at the annual Bob Baker Day, returning to Los Angeles State Historic Park for a free day of puppetry and family fun. Hosted by the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, the outdoor festival features puppet performances, live entertainment, crafts, vendors, and activities for all ages. New this year is a dog costume contest, adding even more playful charm to the beloved Los Angeles tradition.

Zootoberfest

When: September 19 – September 20 

Where: L.A. Zoo | Griffith Park

What: Raise a stein alongside the wildlife at the inaugural Zootoberfest, bringing a festive Oktoberfest celebration to the Los Angeles Zoo on September 19 and 20. The family-friendly weekend features German-inspired food, giant pretzels, specialty beers, live Oktoberfest bands, lawn games, themed photo opportunities, and plenty of seasonal fun. Festival activities are included with general zoo admission, making it an easy way to welcome fall while visiting your favorite animals.

 

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 18 – September 20 

The Old World Oktoberfest

When: Until November 8

Where: Huntington Beach 

What: Raise a stein and celebrate Bavarian tradition at Old World Oktoberfest, a longtime Orange County favorite dating back to 1977. Held at Old World Village, the festivities feature German food, a lively biergarten, oompah bands, dancing, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit from September 12 through November 8. Select days welcome families and guests of all ages, while Friday and Saturday evenings turn into a 21-and-over celebration.

Dark Harbor

When: September 18 – November 1 

Where: Long Beach

What: Brave one of Southern California’s most atmospheric Halloween attractions when Dark Harbor returns to the historic RMS Queen Mary for its 13th anniversary. The haunted experience transforms the ship and surrounding grounds with eerie mazes, roaming monsters, fog-filled corridors, carnival rides, secret speakeasies, and live entertainment. New this year is the “Shipwrecked: Brace for Impact” maze, joining reimagined attractions inspired by the ocean liner’s storied past.

Antigone: In the Language of Kings

When: Until October 3

Where: Getty Villa | Pacific Palisades

What: Experience classical theater in a striking new setting as Latino Theater Company reimagines Sophocles’ Antigone for the Getty Villa’s annual Outdoor Classical Theater series. Staged in the museum’s open-air amphitheater, this adaptation transports the ancient tragedy to Tenochtitlan and weaves Aztec mythology into the timeless story. Arrive early to enjoy Mexican-inspired concessions before settling in for an evening of theater beneath the coastal sky.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 18 – September 20 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: Until November 1 

Where: Universal City

What: Spooky season officially arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood with the return of Halloween Horror Nights. This year’s after-dark event features terrifying haunted houses inspired by Stranger Things 5, Hellraiser, Evil Dead Burn, Ozzy Osbourne, and Sinners, plus sinister scare zones and the park’s infamous Terror Tram. Running on select nights from September 3 through November 1, it’s a fright-filled kickoff to Halloween season for horror fans.

The Burbank Batman Art Expo

When: September 19 – September 20 

Where: Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Burbank Airport, 2100 Empire Ave, Burbank

What: Step into the world of Batman: The Animated Series during a special pop-culture art event featuring several of the acclaimed show’s writers, directors, and producers. Fans can meet creatives including Kevin Altieri, Dan Riba, Stan Berkowitz, Robert Skir, and Eric Radomski, with opportunities to purchase and have original production drawings and animation cels signed. The event also features a large collection of original animation art, limited-edition prints, and rare collectibles from DC, Warner Bros., Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and more.

Classic Films Under the Stars

When: Until September 26 

Where: Brand Park | Burbank

What: Enjoy classic cinema under the stars as the Alex Film Society brings its summer screening series to Brand Park. Settle in on the lawn for an evening of beloved films in a relaxed outdoor setting, offering movie lovers a nostalgic way to spend a summer night.

Conejo Valley | September 18 – September 20 

42nd Annual Ventura County Coastal Cleanup Day

When: September 19 

Where: Locations Throughout Ventura County

What: Give back to the coast during the 42nd Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day, taking place September 19 at beaches and waterways throughout the state. Local volunteers can join cleanup efforts across Ventura County to help remove trash and plastic pollution while protecting the region’s beaches, rivers, and marine habitats. It’s an easy, hands-on way for individuals, families, and groups to make a positive impact on the local environment.

7th Annual Chowderfest Event

When: September 19 

Where: 3900 Bluefin Cir, Oxnard, CA 93035

What: Sample some of the coast’s best chowder at the 7th Annual CHOWDERFEST, returning to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum on September 19. The waterfront fundraiser pairs plenty of chowder with live local music and admission to the museum’s exhibits for a festive afternoon at Channel Islands Harbor. New this year is a playful Sea Lion Imitation Contest, where guests can compete to see who can deliver the most convincing impression while supporting the museum’s programs.

Relay for Life of Conejo Valley

When: September 19 

Where: 141 Memorial Pkwy, Thousand Oaks

What: Come together for a meaningful day of community and support at the Relay For Life of Conejo Valley, benefiting the American Cancer Society. Held at California Lutheran University, the event begins with a non-competitive 5K before a day of relay laps, live music, games, activities, and fundraising. Survivors, caregivers, families, and supporters are invited to celebrate those who have faced cancer, honor loved ones lost, and help raise funds for cancer research and patient services.

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Best French Restaurants in Los Angeles to Try This Fall | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles has never needed cobblestone streets to appreciate a good French bistro. Across town, chefs are serving bubbling onion soup, buttery roast chicken, steak frites, pristine seafood, and plenty of excellent wine. Others are stretching the definition of French cooking with Japanese techniques and California ingredients.

As of September 2026, the best French restaurants in Los Angeles range from longtime institutions to newer neighborhood favorites. Here are 10 spots to consider for your next dinner, leisurely lunch, or wine-fueled evening.

L’APPART by AIR FOOD

Location: 541 S Spring St, Units 112/113, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Now tucked inside Downtown’s historic Spring Arcade building, L’APPART delivers the sort of cozy Parisian cooking that rewards a little searching. Chef Thierry Babet keeps the menu focused with 48-hour duck confit, French-style wood-fired pizzas, and onion and shallot soup finished with Emmental.

Mr. T

Location: 953 N Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

This Paris transplant brings plenty of energy to Hollywood. Dinner might involve steak frites, yellowtail crudo, and truffle macaroni and cheese in a lively industrial dining room. By day, Mr. T shifts into cafe mode with breakfast burritos, scrambled eggs, and salmon tartines.

Camélia

Location: 1850 Industrial Street, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Camélia explores the meeting point between French and Japanese cooking. Chef Charles Namba pairs Parker House rolls with black sesame and ikura, puts Gruyère inside ham katsu, and serves koji-roasted chicken with seaweed cream sauce. It is one of the best French restaurants in Los Angeles for diners interested in something less traditional.

République

Location: 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036

More than a decade after opening, République remains an essential LA dining experience. Daytime crowds line up for pastries, pancakes, and savory brunch dishes. Dinner brings oysters, roast chicken, Dover sole à la meunière, and the restaurant’s excellent bread with pan drippings.

Camphor

Location: 923 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Hidden within the Arts District, Camphor pairs industrial cool with polished French cooking. The menu moves confidently from beef tartare and caviar to lobster saffron risotto and a large-format rib-eye. Save room for warm bread pudding or marzipan at the end.

Monsieur Marcel

Location: 6333 W 3rd St #150, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Monsieur Marcel offers a taste of France inside the Original Farmers Market. Oysters, cheese, French classics, and an extensive wine selection make it an easy place to linger after shopping. The adjoining market also prepares sandwiches during the day.

Petit Trois Le Valley

Location: 13705 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

Ludo Lefebvre’s Valley bistro offers all-day dining in a charming Paris-inspired setting. Duck confit and frites share the menu with playful signatures like the Big Mec burger and Mec Muffin. It remains one of the best French restaurants in Los Angeles for a relaxed lunch that might turn into another glass of wine.

Electric Bleu

Location: 3523 Centinela Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90066

Electric Bleu gives the French bistro a laid-back California interpretation. Start with baguette and butter, pâté en croûte, or smoked salmon blini before moving into steak au poivre, grilled octopus, or roasted chicken. A five-course chef’s tasting menu offers another way to explore the kitchen.

Coucou

Location: 218 Main Street, Venice, CA 90291

Coucou combines French food with a strong cocktail program and an unmistakably Westside mood. Steak frites and market crudités are dependable choices, while the L’Haute Dog piles French onion marmalade, fondue, and spicy mustard onto a pork sausage. Additional locations bring the concept to West Hollywood and Manhattan Beach.

Pasjoli

Location: 2732 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Pasjoli has evolved into a playful neighborhood bistro without abandoning chef Dave Beran’s fine-dining precision. French onion souplette, caviar crêpes, steak frites, and roast chicken sit beside chicken cordon bleu wings and the bone marrow aioli-topped PJ Burger. Tableside pressed duck remains the showstopper.

From traditional bistros to restaurants rewriting the rules, the best French restaurants in Los Angeles prove there is no single definition of French dining in LA. All that is really required is good cooking, good wine, and enough time to enjoy both.

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Best Vegan Restaurants in Los Angeles | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles was doing plant-based dining long before it became a national trend. Today, the city’s vegan and vegetarian restaurants are less concerned with substitutions and more interested in making genuinely good food. You can find handmade Italian pasta, Ethiopian platters, spicy Thai curries, stacked deli sandwiches, and tacos that happen to skip the meat.

As of September 2026, the best vegan restaurants in Los Angeles include longtime neighborhood institutions and a few exciting newcomers. Whether you eat plant-based every day or simply want an excellent dinner, these 10 spots deserve a place on your list.

Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine

Location: 1047 S Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90019

A Little Ethiopia fixture for more than two decades, Rahel makes a strong case for ordering family-style. The combination platter arrives with fava bean ful, lentils, zucchini, mixed vegetables, and plenty of injera for scooping everything up. Bring friends and share.

Civico 2064

Location: 2064 Hillhurst Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Civico 2064 serves traditional Italian dishes alongside a complete vegan menu, making it particularly useful for mixed dining groups. Plant-based choices include Caprese with house-made rice mozzarella, vegan calamari, and fettuccine al funghi with slow-cooked mushroom ragù.

Bulan Thai Vegetarian Kitchen

Location: 4114 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90029

Bulan Thai has been quietly serving some of the best vegan food in Los Angeles for years. Favorites include mock duck curry, roasted kabocha squash seasoned with Thai spices, and fiery plant-based chicken. The cozy Silver Lake dining room is equally suited to a casual dinner or weeknight takeout.

Simply Wholesome

Location: 4508 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90043

Simply Wholesome takes an inclusive approach to dining, with plenty for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free guests. Tofu omelets, veggie burgers, tacos, enchiladas, smoothies, and hearty plates make this a reliable option from breakfast through dinner.

Crossroads Kitchen

Location: 8284 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Crossroads Kitchen helped prove that plant-based dining could feel every bit as polished as a traditional fine-dining restaurant. Chef Tal Ronnen’s menu includes French onion soup, Neapolitan-style pizzas, spicy rigatoni, and an impressive weekend brunch. It remains one of the best vegan restaurants in Los Angeles for a proper night out.

Men & Beasts

Location: 2100 West Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

One of the newer names on the list, Men & Beasts brings a vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu to Echo Park. Seitan char siu and plant-based chicken tenders with sweet sambal showcase a playful mix of flavors. There is also an intimate 24-seat lounge offering a tea ceremony.

Justine’s Wine Bar

Location: 2029 Blake Avenue #102, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Justine’s Wine Bar sits beside beloved vegan bakery Just What I Kneaded, pairing plant-based drinking snacks with wine, beer, and wine cocktails. Moroccan cigars and pizza fit the mood, while pink seating, floral murals, and checkered floors give the room plenty of personality.

Maciel’s Plant-Based Butcher & Deli

Location: 5933 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90042

Maciel’s takes the classic neighborhood deli and makes it entirely plant-based. The Highland Park shop stacks its house-made vegan meats into Reubens, Italian subs, wraps, and breakfast burritos. For a casual lunch, it ranks among the best vegan restaurants in Los Angeles.

El Cocinero Restaurant

Location: 6265 Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 12, Van Nuys, CA 91411

El Cocinero is proof that vegan Mexican food does not need to play it safe. The Van Nuys taqueria serves tacos, tortas, burritos, and nachos piled with house-made vegan meats. Save room for the vegan flan.

Chicana Vegana

Location: 113 E Commonwealth Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92832

For those willing to venture farther south, Chicana Vegana is worth the drive. The family-run Fullerton restaurant serves loaded nachos, taquitos, street tacos, burgers, and sopes in a laid-back setting.

From longtime staples to inventive newcomers, the best vegan restaurants in Los Angeles show just how broad plant-based dining has become. Meatless or not, these are simply restaurants worth knowing.

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Best Ice Cream Shops in Los Angeles to Try this Summer | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles may not have much of a traditional fall, which makes September an excellent excuse to keep ice cream season going. Across the city, old-school parlors now share the landscape with inventive creameries drawing inspiration from Bangkok, Tehran, Jakarta, and beyond.

The best ice cream shops in Los Angeles offer far more than vanilla in a waffle cone. Think saffron and rose, ube malted crunch, baklava folded into ice cream, and sundaes substantial enough to require a few friends. Here are 11 places worth a stop.

Sweet Rose Creamery

Location: 225 26th Street, #51, Santa Monica, CA 90402

Chef Shiho Yoshikawa keeps things seasonal at this Brentwood Country Mart favorite from the Rustic Canyon family. Classics like Madagascar vanilla and mint chip sit alongside rotating flavors such as strawberry and pixie tangerine sorbet. For maximum nostalgia, order the Campfire sundae crowned with torched marshmallows.

Wanderlust Creamery

Location: 2105 Sawtelle Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90025

Wanderlust builds its menu around flavors inspired by destinations around the world. Ube malted crunch, vegan sticky rice and mango, and Kinder hazelnut make a compelling case for ordering more than one scoop. Monthly specials keep regulars coming back.

Carmela Ice Cream & Sorbet

Location: 2495 E. Washington Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91104

After reopening in 2025 following the Eaton Fire, Carmela remains one of the best ice cream shops in Los Angeles for elegant, ingredient-driven flavors. Salted caramel, lavender honey, and brown sugar vanilla bean are longtime favorites. Seasonal fruit sorbets provide a lighter counterpoint.

Kinrose Creamery

Location: 140 Mills Place, Pasadena, CA 91105

Iranian and Egyptian flavors shape the menu at Kinrose Creamery. Walnut baklava comes scattered with flaky pastry, while tart lavashak and fig with olive oil push the traditional scoop in more unexpected directions. The roomy Pasadena shop even has a Pac-Man machine for lingering after dessert.

Scoops

Location: 5105 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90042

Founder Tai Kim has made experimentation part of Scoops’ identity. Flavors can veer from peanut butter and strawberry jelly to ricotta honey butter toffee, with plenty of oat milk-based and sorbet choices mixed in. Because the selection changes frequently, repeat visits rarely look the same.

Fluffy McCloud’s

Location: 1814 West Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Part ice cream parlor, part wonderfully strange fever dream, Fluffy McCloud’s pairs cow-print booths and flying-saucer chandeliers with flavors like saffron rose and lemon verbena. Groups should tackle the banana split, which packs six scoops around a caramelized banana.

Kanomwaan

Location: 5261 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Kanomwaan brings the spirit of a contemporary Bangkok dessert cafe to Thai Town. Along with shaved ice and pandan-slathered brick toast, the shop serves distinctly Thai ice creams such as durian sticky rice and butterfly pea flower. Candle-smoked ice cream with salted egg yolk is particularly memorable.

Mashti Malone Ice Cream

Location: 1525 N. La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

A Los Angeles institution, Mashti Malone remains among the best ice cream shops in Los Angeles for Persian flavors. The rose ice cream is delicately floral, while herbal snow combines 14 herbs and basil seeds with rosewater-lemon sorbet. Cherry faloodeh adds chewy rice noodles to the equation.

Moom Maam

Location: 21712 Hawthorne Boulevard, Suite 293A, Torrance, CA 90503

Scientist-turned-gelato-maker Saran “Darwin” Wai approaches dessert with both precision and playfulness. His Thai heritage informs many of Moom Maam’s flavors, while Southern California ingredients provide plenty of room for experimentation.

Jamz Creamery

Location: 231 E. Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301

Just blocks from SoFi Stadium, family-owned Jamz Creamery offers 27 flavors ranging from pistachio to strawberry cheesecake. Turn them into milkshakes, banana splits, or hefty ice cream sandwiches. There are also plenty of vegan options.

Awan

Location: 866 Huntley Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Awan proves plant-based ice cream can be genuinely luxurious. Indonesian coconut cream creates a rich base for Balinese vanilla bean, chocolate Oreo, and Gaviota strawberry, while seasonal flavors such as pineapple pandan keep things interesting.

From decades-old neighborhood institutions to boundary-pushing newcomers, the best ice cream shops in Los Angeles reflect the city itself. They are global, creative, and occasionally delightfully weird. And with Southern California temperatures stretching well beyond Labor Day, there is little reason to put the ice cream spoon away just yet.

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Top Restaurants in Beverly Hills | L.A. Eats

As of August 2026, the top restaurants in Beverly Hills offer everything from handmade pasta and pristine sushi to Greek seafood and a very fashionable afternoon tea. Here are 10 tables worth booking.

Monsieur Dior

Location: 323 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Three-Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn brings serious culinary credentials to the top floor of Dior’s Rodeo Drive flagship. Monsieur Dior offers à la carte dishes alongside a $295 five-course tasting menu, with creations such as dry-aged tuna tartare and abalone with anchovy au poivre. Afternoon tea and smaller plates in the lounge make this one of the top restaurants in Beverly Hills for turning shopping into an occasion.

Sushi Note Omakase

Location: 421 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Hidden below Rodeo Drive, Sushi Note Omakase feels appropriately discreet for Beverly Hills. Fewer than 20 diners fill the intimate space for beautifully executed nigiri and an especially thoughtful wine program. Skip the decision-making and let the sommelier guide the evening.

Funke

Location: 9388 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Evan Funke brings his devotion to handmade pasta to a sprawling, multi-level dining room that manages to feel both glamorous and energetic. Pasta is naturally the headline, but pizzas and other regional Italian specialties deserve room on the table. Finish upstairs with a cocktail on the rooftop.

Bad Roman

Location: 267 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Bad Roman brings New York maximalism to the former Palm Steakhouse space. The menu matches the theatrical room with roasted garlic babka, extravagant seafood towers, handmade pastas, caviar gnocchi, and roasted branzino. It is playful, indulgent, and unmistakably Beverly Hills.

Mr. Chow

Location: 344 N Camden Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Some restaurants chase buzz. Mr. Chow has had it since 1974. The legendary dining room remains known for polished Chinese cooking, tableside presentation, and a celebrity-heavy crowd. Beijing duck is the classic order, followed by dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries meant for sharing.

Matū

Location: 239 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Among the top restaurants in Beverly Hills for steak lovers, Matū takes a more focused approach than the traditional steakhouse. The kitchen exclusively serves grass-fed Wagyu from New Zealand’s First Light Farms, available through a tasting menu or à la carte. The carpaccio and braised beef croquetas are excellent opening moves before the wood-grilled steak arrives.

Avra Beverly Hills Estiatorio

Location: 233 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Avra channels the Greek islands through pristine seafood and a breezy dining room in the Golden Triangle. Guests can select their fish from the restaurant’s signature market display before it is simply prepared. Grilled prawns, feta-tomato salad, and honey-drizzled manouri saganaki round out the table.

Sushi Nakazawa

Location: 145 S Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Just outside Beverly Hills proper, Sushi Nakazawa is close enough to merit inclusion. Chef Daisuke Nakazawa’s Los Angeles restaurant centers on precise Edomae-style nigiri, with a $190 classic omakase and an expanded $295 chef’s menu. Beverage pairings range from sake and wine to a fully nonalcoholic option.

Dante Beverly Hills

Location: 225 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Perched atop The Maybourne Beverly Hills, Dante delivers one of the neighborhood’s prettiest rooftop experiences. Come for celebrated cocktails and Hollywood Hills views, then stay for wood-fired pizzas and generous plates of pasta. For sunset drinks that become dinner, it ranks among the top restaurants in Beverly Hills.

Spago

Location: 176 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Wolfgang Puck’s flagship remains essential after decades in the spotlight. Spago balances tasting menus and polished à la carte dining with a lively front bar, while Puck himself can still be spotted working the room. In a neighborhood constantly welcoming something new, its staying power says plenty.

The top restaurants in Beverly Hills ultimately share one quality: they know dining here should feel like more than dinner. Whether that means an omakase hidden beneath Rodeo Drive, pasta followed by rooftop cocktails, or an evening at an LA classic, Beverly Hills still knows how to make a reservation feel special.

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Best Bars in Los Angeles to Visit this August | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles has never been a one-drink town. Across the city, bartenders are playing with Mexican spirits, natural wines, savory martinis, tropical flavors, and cocktails that borrow from decades past. The result is a bar scene that feels increasingly specific to its neighborhoods.

For late-summer drinks, the best bars in Los Angeles range from polished Sunset Strip lounges to intimate Virgil Village hideaways. Here are 10 destinations worth adding to your list.

Bar Next Door

Location: 9159 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Bar Next Door embraces the history of the Sunset Strip from a space once occupied by the talent agency that represented Marilyn Monroe. Bar director Brynn Smith carries that spirit into playful cocktails like the Hustler Hollywood lychee martini highball and Garden of Allah gin and tonic. There is no kitchen, but guests can bring in food, including a slice from neighboring Prince Street Pizza.

Accomplice Bar

Location: 3811 Grand View Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066

Connected to Little Fatty in Mar Vista, Accomplice has become a neighborhood favorite for serious cocktails without the ceremony. Spirit-forward drinks include the Bad Bunny with mezcal, vermouth, Italian bitter aperitif, and carrot. The crisp Japanese highball makes an especially refreshing choice on a warm LA evening.

Force of Nature

Location: 1031 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291

Force of Nature brings an intimate wine and cocktail destination to Abbot Kinney. Opened by Crudo e Nudo partner Leena Culhane, the upstairs space highlights winemakers, distillers, artists, and culinary creatives through its drinks and events. Its natural wines and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best bars in Los Angeles for an easy Venice evening.

Employees Only

Location: 7953 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046

The Los Angeles edition of New York cocktail institution Employees Only has developed an identity of its own. The sprawling West Hollywood location pairs a dining room and back bar with expertly executed drinks, from the blackberry-forward Amelia to creative seasonal cocktails. Its Tuesday through Sunday happy hour is another reason to arrive early.

Bar 109

Location: 649 North Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004

Located at the front of Chef Brian Baik’s Corridor 109, Bar 109 combines polished cocktails with a concise food menu. The Marine Layer martini blends gin, Manzanilla sherry, dry vermouth, saline, and white kelp for a subtle coastal note. Pair it with Baik’s fried fish sandwich or wagyu hot dog.

Mírate

Location: 1712 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Mírate has earned national attention for its inventive drinks and impressive collection of Mexican spirits. Beverage director Max Reis transforms familiar cocktails with ingredients like tepache, jackfruit ponche, mole bitters, and sal de chapulín. Add chef Alan Sanz’s Mexican cooking and the dramatic tree-filled setting, and it is easy to understand why Mírate ranks among the best bars in Los Angeles.

Big Bar

Location: 1927 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA

Attached to Alcove Cafe, Big Bar has maintained the spirit of a neighborhood watering hole while developing a destination-worthy cocktail program. Seasonal menus often follow playful themes, giving the bartenders plenty of room to experiment. Settle into the intimate bar or grab a table on the brick-lined patio.

The Let’s Go! Disco & Cocktail Club

Location: 710 E 4th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90013

The Let’s Go! brings 1970s Italian disco energy to the Arts District without letting the theme overpower the drinks. Italian ingredients appear throughout a menu that ranges from zero-proof spritzes to amaro daiquiris. After a little dancing, the tequila and amaro espresso martini makes a fitting nightcap.

Thunderbolt

Location: 1263 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Thunderbolt may have collected major cocktail accolades, but the Historic Filipinotown bar remains refreshingly casual. Drinks include a coconut-washed rye Old Fashioned and a nonalcoholic lychee daiquiri, while its bottle shop offers natural wine and spirits to take home. For inventive drinks without the velvet-rope attitude, it remains one of the best bars in Los Angeles.

Real Charmer

Location: 864 Virgil Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029

Real Charmer gives Virgil Village a stylish new destination for liquor-forward cocktails. Beverage director Kayla Dowell’s menu includes creations like the Mezze Martini, made with olive oil-washed gin, dill, Kalamata olives, peppercorn, lemon peel, and dry vermouth. Snacks sourced from local markets, including Spam musubi with Sriracha mayonnaise, keep things casual.

From destination cocktail programs to bars that still feel genuinely neighborhood-driven, the best bars in Los Angeles offer plenty of ways to stretch a summer evening. Pick a neighborhood, order something unexpected, and let the night decide the rest.

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Best Montecito Staycation Ideas – A Luxury Weekend on the Coast | Out & About

Tucked between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Montecito has mastered the art of slowing down. Just a short drive up the coast from Los Angeles, this elegant seaside enclave offers all the ingredients of an upscale escape without the stress of airport lines or crowded itineraries. Planning the ultimate Montecito weekend getaway is less about rushing through attractions and more about lingering over fresh coastal cuisine, wandering through quiet gardens, and unwinding to the sound of crashing waves. If you are looking for a relaxing escape close to home, here are the top Montecito staycation ideas for a perfectly curated, luxurious weekend.

Wake Up at a Premier Luxury Resort 

Every memorable getaway begins with an exceptional home base, and Montecito features some of the world’s most refined accommodations. Book an oceanfront suite at the iconic Rosewood Miramar Beach for direct sand access, stylish bungalow suites, and Forbes Five-Star pampering at Sense Spa. Alternatively, opt for the historic San Ysidro Ranch, where private cottages tucked into the lush hillside offer ultimate privacy, roaring fireplaces, and creek-side views. Choosing a standout resort is one of the easiest Montecito staycation ideas to ensure your weekend feels worlds away from daily life.

Mornings by the Shore & Coast Village Road 

Begin your morning with a quiet walk along Butterfly Beach, a local favorite known for its calm water, gentle shoreline, and serene coastal views. Afterwards, take a short stroll to Coast Village Road, Montecito’s main thoroughfare for boutique shopping, art galleries, and upscale dining. Grab an artisanal espresso and croissant at Caffe Luxxe or Lilac Montecito before browsing local boutiques. For lunch, indulge in freshly shucked oysters and lobster rolls at Clark’s Montecito, or head to Montecito Country Mart for wood-fired sourdough pizzas at Bettina.

Discover Botanical Wonders and Scenic Trails 

Montecito’s natural landscapes are just as compelling as its high-end amenities. Reserve a morning tour at Lotusland, a world-renowned 37-acre botanical estate. The peaceful sanctuary features rare global plant collections, dramatic cacti, and exotic lotus ponds. Because advance reservations are required, every tour feels intimate and exclusive. If you prefer active outdoor exploration, head to the nearby Hot Springs Canyon Trail. At this local spot, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Santa Barbara coastline and surrounding mountain ridges.

Indulge in Exceptional Coastal Dining 

A true coastal staycation requires top-tier dining, and Montecito’s culinary scene excels at unhurried, elevated meals. End your evening with dinner at Caruso’s. The Michelin-starred, oceanfront restaurant at Rosewood Miramar Beach offers seasonal California-Italian tasting menus that meet uninterrupted Pacific views. For a cozy, romantic setting, book a table at The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch. It’s there that you will enjoy seasonal farm-to-table dishes under citrus trees and ambient candlelight.

Escape Without Going Far 

The beauty of these Montecito staycation ideas lies in their seamless simplicity. You do not need a multi-day flight to feel completely recharged. A brief scenic drive brings you to pristine beaches, world-class dining, and peaceful mountain backdrops. Whether celebrating a special milestone or simply craving a restful weekend away, Montecito is it. Enjoy an elegant, unforgettable sanctuary right along California’s golden coast.

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Best New Restaurants in Los Angeles for August 2026 | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles dining does not ease into late summer. It arrives with rooftop screens, charcoal smoke, new bakeries, seafood counters, and a few serious reservations worth planning around. The best new restaurants in Los Angeles for August 2026 stretch from Silver Lake and Chinatown to Venice, Santa Monica, Altadena, and Alhambra, giving diners plenty of reasons to leave the house before Labor Day.

Whether you want a polished omakase, a lobster roll by the beach, or a late-night sandwich after drinks, these are the best new restaurants in Los Angeles to know this month.

Bar di Bello

Location: 3300 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90026, US

Bar di Bello brings Milanese polish to Silver Lake’s Sunset Row. The cocktail list leans stylish, with drinks like the tomato water and gin-based Greenhouse Martini and the raspberry-balsamic Prima Donna. The food follows with trofie alla Genovese and a chicken cutlet dressed with shallots, guanciale, and capers.

Frank & Frank’s

Location: 943 North Broadway, Los Angeles, California 90012, United States

Frank & Frank’s gives Chinatown a new late-night sandwich shop with real personality. The menu is tight but clever, with a spicy Italian layered with salami, ‘nduja stracciatella crema, and shaved Parmesan, plus a turkey and candied bacon sandwich called the Nostalgia. Weekend hours run late, making it one of the best new restaurants in Los Angeles for after-dark cravings.

Cineopera

Location: 812 East 3rd Street, Los Angeles, California 90013, United States

Cineopera has turned the former LA Cha Cha Chá rooftop into a relaxed Arts District hangout with skyline views and outdoor screens. The menu is easygoing and built for grazing, with focaccia sandwiches, panzanella, fritto misto, fries, and stuffed peppers. It is ideal for a casual night of sports, movies, and Downtown views.

Bengara

Location: 803 Traction Avenue, STE 140, Los Angeles, California 90013, United States

Bengara brings Japanese binchotan charcoal cooking to the Arts District. The menu centers on slow, low-heat genshiyaki-style preparations, including teuchi citrus soba, grilled rice skewers with uni and red miso, pork shoulder with fermented garlic, and kinako ice cream. It is quiet, smoky, and refined.

The Tasting Kitchen

Location: 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA, 90291, US

The Tasting Kitchen has returned to Abbot Kinney after a long closure, with chef Casey Lane back at the helm. The refreshed menu keeps longtime favorites while adding dishes cooked over charcoal and fire, including mackerel escabeche, bucatini all’Amatriciana, and shrimp tagliolini. Its farmers market-driven approach keeps the restaurant feeling alive in the moment.

San Damián

Location: 1025 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, California 90291, United States

San Damián brings coastal Mexican seafood to Venice from Enrique Olvera’s Casamata group. Chef Chuy Cervantes’s menu includes Kumamoto oysters, clams with salsa macha, local rockfish ceviche, Dungeness crab tostadas, kanpachi al pastor, and pescado asado. For mariscos and cocktails on the Westside, it is easily among the best new restaurants in Los Angeles.

West Side Oyster Club

Location: 1355 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401, United States

West Side Oyster Club gives Ocean Avenue a breezy new seafood spot with East Coast inspiration. Expect fish and chips, blackened shrimp tacos, fried oysters, clam chowder in a bread bowl, lobster rolls, po’boys, and shareable platters. It is casual, coastal, and built for summer.

Sushi Nakazawa

Location: 145 S Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Sushi Nakazawa finally brings its Michelin-starred omakase experience to Los Angeles. Chef Daisuke Nakazawa serves Edomae-style nigiri flights, with a classic omakase and a larger chef’s menu available. For sushi lovers, this is one of the most anticipated openings of the year.

Pizzeria Sei

Location: 10700 Tabor St, Los Angeles, California 90034

Pizzeria Sei has expanded into a larger Palms home with a sit-down dining room and a broader menu. The pizzas now include Neapolitan, fried montanara, and Roman-style scrocchiarella. Add supplì with vodka sauce, chicken croquettes, or broccolini with bagna cauda to round out the table.

Bar Betsy

Location: 871 East Mariposa Street, Altadena, California 91001, United States

Bar Betsy is an all-day cafe and wine bar from Tyler Wells, located next to Betsy in Altadena. Mornings bring coffee, puff pastries, and brioche breads, while later hours shift toward crudo, focaccia sandwiches, and farmers market-driven plates. It feels like an easy neighborhood habit in the making.

Pinecone Bakeshop and Cafe

Location: 116 West Main Street, Alhambra, California 91801, United States

Pinecone Bakeshop and Cafe brings fruit-focused baking to Alhambra from Joyce Hsieh. Tarts highlight local produce, including Harry’s Berries strawberries and Wong Farms mangos, with crusts made from Tehachapi Sonora wheat. Espresso, matcha, hojicha, and seasonal drinks make it a sweet finish to this month’s list of the best new restaurants in Los Angeles.

From polished sushi counters to breezy seafood rooms and neighborhood cafes, the best new restaurants in Los Angeles for August 2026 show a city still hungry for reinvention. This month, the table is wide open.

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