10 Best South Asian Restaurants in Los Angeles to Visit | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles boasts an extraordinary culinary range spanning India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Finding the best South Asian restaurants in Los Angeles means looking past generic curry houses to discover strip mall gems, coastal fine dining, and creative gastropubs. Whether you are craving sizzling tandoori platters, delicate hoppers, or wood-fired flatbreads, Southern California has you covered. Here are ten of the best South Asian restaurants in Los Angeles to check out right now.

Anarbagh Indian Cuisine

Location: 22721 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA, 91364, US

Serving the San Fernando Valley since 1989, Anarbagh is a certified local institution. The kitchen bakes tender chicken and lamb tikka inside scorching clay tandoor ovens. Diners flock here for blistered garlic naan, lamb biryani, and vegetarian staples like sag dal. Generous lunch specials make it a staple for daytime dining.

Baja Subs Market & Deli

Location: 8801 Reseda Boulevard, Suite A, Northridge, CA 91324, USA

Operating out of an unassuming convenience store, Baja Subs quietly serves sensational Sri Lankan specialties. Owners Premil and Koshalie Jayasinghe turn out fragrant kottu roti tossed with rich lamb curry, crispy egg hoppers, and spiced chicken biryani. Snag a drink from the cooler and enjoy one of the most unique takeout operations in town.

Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen

Location: 115 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, California 90401, United States

Positioned a block from the ocean, Khan Saab delivers an elevated halal menu spanning Pakistani, Indian, and Afghan flavors. Chef Imran Ali Mookhi presents rich eggplant baingan alongside charred meats and warm flatbreads. It is also celebrated for an ambitious non-alcoholic cocktail program featuring vibrant mocktails. The sophisticated coastal room makes it a premier Westside dinner destination.

Fitoor

Location: 1755 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA, 90401, US

Fitoor reimagines contemporary Indian dining inside a moody, dramatic dining room near the beach. Chef Surya Kumar crafts regional plates like Peshawari seekh kebabs, flame scallops, and avocado burrata chaat. It ranks among the best South Asian restaurants in Los Angeles for modern date nights. Pair your meal with an inventive craft cocktail from the sleek bar.

Badmaash Venice

Location: 1600 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, California 90291, United States

Taking over a stylish space on Abbot Kinney, Badmaash brings its playful swagger to Venice Beach. Fans return for signature mashups like spicy chicken tikka poutine alongside steak frites and hamachi crudo. A rock-carved back room and natural wine list create an energetic party vibe. It proves modern Indian cooking can be both irreverent and delicious.

Tara’s Himalayan Cuisine

Location: 10855 Venice Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90034, US

Tara Gurung Black showcases comforting Nepali and Tibetan home cooking inside a cozy Palms dining room. Steamed momo dumplings arrive stuffed with chicken, mutton, or vegetables alongside fiery tomato achaar. Adventurous eaters will love the hearty yak chili and Sherpa vegetable stew. Fresh herbs sourced straight from Nepal elevate every simmering broth.

Mayura Indian Restaurant

Location: 10406 Venice Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232, USA

Long championed by local critics, this Culver City stalwart specializes in the complex cooking of Kerala. Towering golden dosas and fragrant biryanis anchor a menu rich in coconut milk and aromatic curry leaves. Separate kitchens handle halal meats and vegetarian preparations with meticulous care. It remains one of the best South Asian restaurants in Los Angeles for sharing a traditional South Indian feast.

Al-Noor Restaurant

Location: 15112 S. Inglewood Avenue, Lawndale, CA 90260, USA

Conveniently situated near LAX, this family-owned Lawndale kitchen is the ultimate stop for comforting halal classics. Chef Mohammed Mumtaz prepares deeply flavored stews like slow-cooked nihari, haleem, and fragrant lamb korma. Fresh tandoori garlic naan arrives blistered and piping hot to every table. It offers some of the most reliable and soul-warming cooking in the South Bay.

Biriyani Kabob House

Location: 3525 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90020, USA

Tucked along 3rd Street, this Little Bangladesh fixture serves a robust mix of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi comforts. The star of the show is the aromatic lamb biryani, loaded with tender meat and fluffy basmati rice. Curries arrive alongside giant, fluffy naan baked to order in the tandoor. Huge portions and affordable prices keep loyal crowds returning weekly.

Pijja Palace

Location: 2711 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026, USA

Avish Naran’s playful Indian sports bar in Silver Lake remains one of the hottest dining tickets across town. Diners gather under glowing television screens for malai rigatoni pasta, charred saag pizza, and spicy garam masala chicken wings. Creative drinks and electric room energy seal its status among the best South Asian restaurants in Los Angeles. Snag a reservation well in advance to avoid a long wait.

Exploring the best South Asian restaurants in Los Angeles reveals an inspiring cross-section of cultures, ingredients, and traditions. Whether you are after a casual bag of kottu roti or an inventive plate of tandoori pizza, these ten kitchens deliver remarkable meals every single time.

April 9, 2020

LA Eats: Buying Groceries From Restaurants

Call it the new economics of supply and demand. With restaurants and bars shut down, despite the supplies they have, many local eateries are now offering essential groceries to meet the needs of residents confronting long grocery store lines and shelves stripped bare by hoarders. Additionally, some have partnered with local farmers to sell produce boxes as another way to generate revenue and provide people with fresh fruits and vegetables. Note: always call ahead or check delivery apps since both inventory and operating hours are subject to change.

Kismet

4648 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles | 323-409-0404
Hours: Pick-up hours are 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. If you place an order after 6 p.m., your order will be made for the following day.

This Mediterranean-Middle Eastern restaurant in Los Feliz is now offering groceries for pick-up, including rice, beans, olive oil, wines, steaks, salmon and produce sourced daily from Thao Family Farm. For the complete selection and to confirm what items are still available, click the “Goods” tab on their website.

The 101 Coffee Shop

6145 Franklin Avenue, Hollywood | 323-467-1175
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5.p.m. for to-go service only.

This long-time Hollywood landmark, best-recognized from the film Swingers, is now offering bread, eggs, produce and beer, in addition to menu items. As well, they are partnering with next-door neighbor MiniBar to provide family-sized margaritas and other pre-made cocktails.

Gwen

6600 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles | 323-946-7513
Hours: You can call or go online to order between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for next day delivery or curbside pick-up. Delivery window is 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Given that Gwen is both a high-end restaurant and a European-style butcher shop, it’s no surprise they are offering select butcher cuts along with produce boxes, prepared meals, pantry items as well as wine and beer. For a morning menu update, you can go to their website and subscribe to their daily newsletter.

The Butcher’s Daughter

1205 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice | 310-981-3004
Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for delivery, take out and curbside pick-up.

In addition to an abbreviated menu including all-day breakfast, sandwiches and pizza, this vegan eatery is offering such groceries as olive oil, coffee, cashew ricotta, house-made veggie burgers, walnut mushroom pate, bread, granola, pancake mix and even vegan collagen.

Rockenwagner Bakery

12835 Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles | 310-577-0747
Hours: Pick-up is available 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Delivery hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This Westside bakery and cafe has launched a pick-up and delivery service, partnering with County Line Harvest and Lady and the Larder to offer market-fresh produce and artisan cheeses in addition to pasta, pastries, bread and prepared meals. To order, go to their website. They offer same-day delivery for orders within five miles and next-day delivery for orders within five to 10 miles. They do not deliver outside of a 10-mile radius.

Bar Avalon

2112 W. Sunset Boulevard Suite J, Los Angeles | 213-908-5352
Hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Delivery is now offered from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday within a five-mile radius.

Calling itself “Bodega Avalon,” this Echo Park spot is now offering wine and provisions ranging from produce and made-to-order hot sandwiches to ready-made meal kits and such pantry items as couscous and rice. Check out their website for pick-up and delivery details.

April 2, 2020

LA Eats: Date Night At Home

Date night isn’t what it used to be. With restaurants closed throughout Southern California and residents under shelter-in-place orders, venturing out for an evening away from the kids, or simply as a couple, is impossible. So why not order in from any of the restaurants that remain open for delivery or takeout? You’ll be supporting a business in need while carving out some time for yourselves. Just call ahead as hours and menu choices are naturally subject to change. (Disclaimer: If you are not comfortable ordering take out during this time, please consider purchasing a gift card from your favorite local restaurant to support them).

Barcito

403 W 12th Street, Los Angeles | 213-415-1821
Takeout and delivery: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Bring a taste of Buenos Aires home with any of the Argentinian cuisine served at this downtown restaurant – from the empanadas and Jamon serrano sandwiches to the braised short rib and endlessly delectable churros. The standout dishes, however, are the ones that you may not have expected: the seared goat cheese, for one, and the pulpo, which is octopus coiled around a fried egg. Delivery is currently free for the entire downtown area.

Lunetta

2420 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica | 310-581-9888
Takeout and delivery: 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The modified menu at this Santa Monica restaurant still features plenty of crowd-pleasing fares. Starters and sandwiches range from a grass-fed beef burger with beefsteak tomato and caramelized onions to a wood-grilled salmon sandwich with pickled red onions and cilantro aioli. The main dishes include meatloaf and mashed potatoes with shiitake mushroom gravy and the barbequed salmon with marinated greens.

The Oaks Gourmet Market

1915 North Bronson Avenue, Los Angeles | 323-871-8894
Takeout and delivery: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

This cafe and marketplace’s regular menu of salads, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and pizzas are all available for takeout or delivery – in addition to grab-and-go dinners and sides which are prepared daily. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention their selection of craft beers, wines, and small-batch liquors – all of which are also available to be enjoyed at home.

Nerano

9960 South Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Hills | 310-405-0155
Takeout and delivery: 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Serving up pasta, pizzas, seafood, and antipasti, this sleek Beverly Hills restaurant also offers pre-batched cocktail jars to go since, for the moment, you can’t enjoy one in their darkly-lit bar. Aside from the Italian cuisine, the menu includes Ora King salmon, filet mignon and half jidori chicken. Special offers include 15 percent off all takeout orders, 50 percent off all wine bottles priced below $399 as well as dinner for two and a family combo that feeds four to six.

March 26, 2020

LA Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

With restaurants and bars forced to close their doors throughout Southern California due to the coronavirus, businesses and diners alike are continuing to adapt to this new reality. In addition to moving to delivery and curbside pickup, many eateries are offering new specials and adjusted hours. So even if you can’t go out to eat, please consider supporting them by ordering in. Better yet, supporting them by purchasing a gift card to use for future purchases is another option.

Manuela

907 E. 3rd Street, Los Angeles

New to its menu and available for curbside pickup or delivery, this seasonal eatery is offering a nightly “supper for two” that includes seasonal salad, biscuits, vegetable sides, and dessert. Nightly specials have included dry-aged ribeye, smoked beef brisket, and wine-braised meatballs. They also offer beer and wine. The hours are Monday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Rappahannock Oyster Bar

777 S Alameda Street, Los Angeles

It’s not the same as dining in LA’s Warehouse District, surrounded by the restaurant’s exposed wood and concrete floors, but oysters at home are better than no oysters at all. Other items available include lobster tacos, the lobster grilled cheese, and an avocado and kale salad. The hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Angelini Alimentari

7317 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles

The new takeout menu at Angelini Osteria’s sister restaurant includes pasta, antipasti, focaccia, meatballs, chicken, salmon, and pizza. Plus, for dessert, try their gluten-free chocolate Caprese soft chocolate cake or Italian bread pudding. The hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Crustacean

468 N Bedford Drive, Beverly Hills

Famed for its Vietnamese cuisine, this Beverly Hills staple is offering a special “An The Go” pickup and delivery menu highlighted by its signature garlic noodles (served with your choice of lobster, prawns or crab) as well as such other dishes as crispy Jidori chicken rolls, filet mignon, and chicken oyster satay. To Go hours are Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 8 p.m.

March 19, 2020March 19, 2020

LA Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

Among the many businesses bearing the initial economic brunt of the coronavirus pandemic is the restaurant industry. With eateries closing their doors daily as they are reduced to serving only delivery or takeout, we wanted to highlight some of the local ones that remain open. Order in or call ahead for pick-up – the food is delicious and you’ll be supporting a business in need during challenging times.

Wax Paper

2902 Knox Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039
This solid little shop has carved out a reputation for itself among sandwich fans. Recommendations: the Ira Glass (avocado, cheddar cheese, alfalfa sprouts, red onions, and garlic aioli, although you can also add meat), the Audie Cornish (black forest ham on a baguette) and their titanic twist on the classic Italian hoagie known as the Larry Mantle (bologna, salami, and pecorino pepato cheese).

Go Get Em Tiger

230 N Larchmont Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90004
For a coffee or your first bite of the day, there’s this shop tucked away in Larchmont Village. Whatever time of day it is, you can’t go wrong with the baked egg with chorizo, which probably qualifies as a meal in its own right.

Woon Kitchen

2920 W Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Before it moved into its brick and mortar space located in historic Filipinotown, Woon started as a family-run pop-up whose only intention was to share their mother’s Chinese comfort food. Inspired by Shanghainese and Cantonese cuisine, the selection is relatively small but no less tasty – from the fried tofu fish cakes stuffed with fish paste, cilantro, green onions to the soy veggie wraps served with Worcestershire sauce or red vinegar.

Burgers Never Say Die

2388 Glendale Boulevard, Unit A, Los Angeles, CA 90039

For those who aren’t familiar with Burgers Never Say Die, it began life as a burger stand before breaking out to become a local sensation. So there’s never been a better time to find out what you’ve been missing, even if you’ve never been a burger-and-fries guy or gal.

Homestate

4624 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027

This low-key, Texas-style eatery serves up breakfast and lunch with tacos like the picadillo (grass-fed ground beef, potato, carrots, and pickled jalapeno), the brisket (shredded brisket, guacamole, and slaw), the vegetarian Brazos (black beans and Monterey Jack) and the trinity (organic eggs, bacon, potato, cheddar). One note: they are only taking online orders now.

Tallula’s

118 Entrada Drive, Santa Monica CA 90402
Influenced by Executive Chef Saw Naing’s Burmese and Indian heritage, the homestyle menu fuses those flavors with traditional Mexican cuisine. Dishes come both hot (like the vegetable masala enchiladas with blue corn tortillas, green garlic, and spiced tomato sauce ) and cold (the Baja kampachi ceviche with strawberry hibiscus aguachile, red onion, and jalapeno).

March 11, 2020

LA Eats: Iconic Side Dishes

You order the meal, but what you really came for is the side. It happens. Whether it’s the favorite hangout where the fries are the salty sensations you crave or the pub that serves mac n’ cheese that outpaces the rest of the menu, some side dishes transcend their class status as mere half-considered, disposable pleasures. They become the plates of calorie intake we truly, madly love. Around Los Angeles and the Westside, here are a few sides so delicious and unforgettable they will have you coming back – but only for them.

Bacon Cheddar Buttermilk Biscuits

Manhattan Beach Post, 1142 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

If you live in the South Bay, you likely know this spot from Michelin–starred chef David LeFevre – and especially this signature side dish. Served with maple butter, these crispy bites of heart-stopping goodness are loaded with cheese that burst out crisp when baked. Better yet, because the eatery is all about shared plates, they are easily gobbled up with friends.

Misfit Mac n Cheese

The Misfit Restaurant, 225 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Just because a dish is gluten-free doesn’t it can’t also be decadent. Case in point: The Misfit’s mac n’ cheese comes topped with house-made chorizo and studded with green chiles that are baked inside this crispy, cheesy sensation. And yes, it’s sans gluten.

Tater Tots

The Craftsman, 119 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Is there a more maligned side than the tater tot? Is it because it’s a punchline in pop culture (looking at you, Napoleon Dynamite) or simply because when compared to its potato-related cousin, the fry, it’s remarkably tasteless? So give this rustic-themed gastro bar credit for enlivening their crispy tots with a range of flavorful dipping sauces.

Belgian Double-Dipped Fries

Wurstkuche, 625 Lincoln Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90291

Found among the many pints and exotic sausages served in this Venice spot (including the rattlesnake and rabbit with jalapenos) are the Belgian double-dipped fries. The fries are expectedly excellent, but there is no denying the power of the dip. Choose from such sauces as chipotle aioli, curry ketchup, Thai peanut, tzatziki, and bleu cheese walnut and bacon. They also have a location in downtown L.A. if you’re nowhere near the beach.

Onion Rings

Akasha, 9543 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

Forget about the menu’s suggestion to share the rings. You will wisely want to keep every last one for yourself. What makes these rings run circles around the competition? To start, they use rice flour instead of wheat and serve them with smoked paprika aioli. Bite into the crunchy exterior and you’ll discover organic sweet onion that’s meltingly delicious, marinated in soy sauce. Best of all, they are also vegan, meaning they can be enjoyed by anyone if you do choose to share (you probably won’t).

Bacon Cheeseburger Fat Fries

Fat Sal’s, 972 Gayley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024

Imagine a salad. Now instead of grilled chicken or tofu, picture French fries. Then add bacon, cheese, beef, pickles, and some Thousand Island dressing. And because it’s a salad, toss in some lettuce and tomatoes. That’s essentially this side at Fat Sal’s, which has two other locations, one in Encino and the other in Hollywood. If you’re looking for a different kind of salad, you’re in luck: they also serve buffalo chicken cheese fries.

March 4, 2020

LA Eats: Soups

Any time of year is soup weather. So while a cold day in Southern California often conjures thoughts of battling back chills with a piping hot bowl of soup, don’t dismiss the appeal of ramen, matzo balls or chowder just because the mercury is on the rise. Armed with bread and a range of flavors, a spoonful of soup can make for one satisfying slurp. If you’re inclined, here are some of the best bowls of goodness around Los Angeles and the Westside.

Hangari Kalguksu

3470 W 6th Street Suite 9 10, Los Angeles, CA 90010

Kal-guk-su – or hand-cut noodle soup – is the order of the day at this well-liked Korean restaurant. Try it plain or with clam or with kimchi, clam and bean sprout. If that’s not to your liking, consider the oyster soup with rice and seaweed.

Factor’s Famous Deli

9420 W Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90035

Factor’s has been at the same location on Pico Boulevard since 1948. Expect a welcoming, family atmosphere – after all the Markowitz family has owned and operated this delicatessen since 1969. While we’ll always show up for the matzo ball when we’re in the mood for heartiness, don’t discount the deliciousness of the tortilla soup or homemade turkey chili.

Silverlake Ramen

2927 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

This Japanese noodle bar declares they are “obsessed with ramen.” But there’s also no rush. Start with the seaweed salad, for example, before moving onto the classic tonkatsu, with your pick of protein (pork, chicken or tofu) in succulent broth thickened with bean sprouts, spinach, green onion, black garlic oil and egg. For non-meat-eaters, they offer a vegetable broth with bean sprouts, mushroom and tofu.

Connie & Ted’s

8171 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046

No matter what style of clam chowder you prefer, you won’t be disappointed by Jo’s Wicked Good Chowda’ at this seafood restaurant. That’s because they offer all three popular kinds of chowda’: the Rhode Island (a light broth that’s heavy on vegetables like celery and carrots), the New England (thick and creamy with potatoes, onion and clams) and the Manhattan (tomatoes with clams, pork and herbs). All three are made with salt pork.

Petit Trois

718 N. Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

This French bistro cuisine offers plenty of Parisian delights, but even up against the steak tartare and escargots, the French onion soup is an exquisite destination all its own, thanks to the fusion of caramelized onions with melted gruyère and emmental cheeses.

Ramen Hood

317 S Broadway, Grand Central Market, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Despite the animal-free menu – including a jaw-droppingly realistic vegan egg that will have you wondering how they made the chicken, it came from – Top Chef season two winner Ilan Hall’s ramen stand has no shortage of carnivorous fans. How do they do it? According to the eatery, the broth is kelp and shiitake mushrooms, combined with roasted sunflower seeds and white miso. As for the egg, it’s pure alchemy: GMO-free soy milk, gelled with the seaweed extract agar with a yolk that consists of nutritional yeast, back salt and sodium alginate. That hardly describes the process, but when the result is this convincing, does it matter?

February 20, 2020February 20, 2020

Los Angeles & Westside Eats: Pasta

Here’s the skinny on carb-conscious Los Angeles: the pasta is plentiful. Take that, Keto diet. From traditional dishes to fresh pasta to the flavorful spooning of Italian classics with Southern California produce and protein, locals have no shortage of eating options when they’re in the mood for a little (or a lot of) Italian. Here are some of the best.

Rossoblu

City Market South, 1124 San Julian Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Chef Steve Samson celebrates the summers he spent growing up in Northern Italy’s Bologna region with this Fashion District destination. The place is even named after Bologna’s soccer team. Not surprisingly then, the menu is as hearty as it is heartfelt, as personal as it is plentiful. Favorites include the tortellini in brodo (pasta stuffed with pork, chicken, mortadella, prosciutto and parmigiano reggiano), the pappardelle (duck ragu, complemented by pistachio) and Mom’s minestra nel sacco, in which parmigiano reggiano dumplings in a bag are dropped into broth.

Union Restaurant

37 Union Street, Pasadena, CA 91103

Located in the center of Old Town Pasadena, Union is an Italian restaurant and wine bar aiming for a menu that balances Italian country charm with Californian culinary elegance. It’s hard to argue with the results. After sampling an array of appetizers (from the pork meatballs to the charred octopus), dive into what you really came for: the pastas. The squid ink lumachel offers loads of Maine lobster, with fennel, lemon, and truffle butter, while the torchetti arrives with Calabrese pork ragu, ricotta, rosemary and a chili oil chef Chris Keyser calls “pizza grease.”

Alimento

1710 Silver Lake Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Zach Pollack’s Silver Lake restaurant doesn’t announce itself as one of the best places to dine in Los Angeles. Content to appear more like a neighborhood eatery than a high-end culinary destination, it’s nonetheless worth seeking out, regardless of whether you call Silver Lake home or not. As for what to order, two pastas are recurring standouts: the fusilli, splendid with clams and smoked butter; and the cheese-filled Tortellini In Brodo.

Viale dei Romani

623 N La Peer Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Located in West Hollywood’s Kimpton La Peer Hotel, Viale Dei Romani thinks big. That’s evident in the size of their pastas, the plentifulness of their meats. But it’s also there in print when their menu declares that their Pasta Alla Piastra features “the world’s best Bolognese.” Whether that’s accurate or not, you can decide for yourself, although it is probably unlike any Bolognese you’ve had before.

Angelini Osteria

7313 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Since its opening in 2001, this Italian restaurant in Beverly Grove has become a cornerstone of classic dining in Los Angeles. If you know it, you also know their most celebrated dish: Lasagna Verde. But there is also much more to Angelini Osteria than simply this (admittedly flavorful) lasagna. The Veal Shank Agnolotti with White Truffles, for one, is delicious, although whether it’s worth the $90 price, we will leave for you to decide. As well, be sure to try the Linguine with Sea Urchin if you have the chance.

Felix

1023 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291

For chef Evan Funke, pasta is a sacred experience. That’s apparent as soon as you step into this climate-controlled space, where diners at any table can watch their meals scrupulously toiled over. The spiraled trofie is a favorite among pastas, served with basil pesto and cheese. Don’t skimp on the Sfincione, some of the most delirious out-of-body bread you will ever bite into.

February 5, 2020

LA Eats: Seafood

Considering we live next to the Pacific Ocean, it’s no surprise there are almost as many seafood choices in Los Angeles as there are fish in the ocean. From nautical-themed eateries that would do any buccaneer proud to fine dining establishments to a bounty of sushi bars, here are our picks for the top seafood restaurants you should check out. With this selection, you should have no problem finding the catch-of-the-day you desire.

Broad Street Oyster Company

23359 CA-1 Freeway #3874A, Malibu, CA

After years popping up in different locations, this L.A. favorite has settled into permanent Malibu digs. The lobster rolls, crammed with meat, are the signature dish, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, whether it’s one of the seafood towers (the “Standard” consists of a dozen oysters, chilled shrimp and live sea urchin) or such non-seafood options as the beach burger, boasting two patties of organic Niman Ranch beef.

Fishing with Dynamite

1148 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA

What this Manhattan Beach eatery lacks in size it makes up for in taste and style. Choose one of their “old school” dishes (New England clam chowder, black sea bass or battered cod, among them) or go “new school” (grilled octopus, Pacific rockfish ceviche or seared diver scallops, to name a few). For dessert, the key lime pie is a must.

Angler

8500 Beverly Boulevard, Suite 117, Los Angeles, CA

This restaurant prides itself on sourcing seafood from local waters, then cooking its dishes slowly in an open wood fire, per chef Joshua Skenes. From their raw bar, you can choose the big eye tuna, served with grilled tomato jelly, or the Pacific ruby fish with salted plum. Menu items fresh from the fireplace include a grilled red rockfish and a whole smoked trout, but the poached marbled flounder is not to be missed.

Son of a Gun

8370 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA

Drop into this eatery, located not far from the Beverly Center, for chilled or grilled peel-and-eat shrimp, linguine and clams, or the lobster BLT. For lunch, try the smoked Mahi dip with celery, radish, and crackers, the fish and chips with malt vinegar aioli, or the well-regarded shrimp toast.

L&E Oyster Bar

1637 Silver Lake Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

You come here, naturally, for the oysters. And for romance, you can’t do much better than this cozy Silver Lake location – there’s a casual lounge upstairs while the restaurant is downstairs. But even if you’re not in the mood for oysters, the mussels on chorizo toast is a delicious alternative, as is the fried oyster po’boy. Want to skip the seafood altogether? They have a cheeseburger, with remoulade, onion jam, and bacon.

C.O.D. Restaurant

8408 W. Third Street, Los Angeles, CA

If you were wondering, C.O.D stands for “Catch of the Day.” Owner and executive chef Marcus Kwan’s own upbringing in a Cantonese village informs his vision: marrying the culture of China’s fishing villages with California coastal cuisine. After a crab salad or the clam chowder, move onto the Halibut Carpaccio, the Truffle Uni Pasta with green nori linguini, or the Grilled Octopus Plate with bacon, scallion, and lemon zest. For dessert, you can’t miss the creme brulee.

January 30, 2020

LA Eats: For Vegans and the Vegan-Curious

The plant is having a moment. From the Impossible Burger to Beyond Meat, plant-based protein is sweeping menus and diets alike – a trend expected to only grow in 2020. Fortunately for locals, Los Angeles, the Westside and the Valleys offer no shortage of delicious culinary options for long-time vegans and the vegan-curious alike.

Los Angeles and Westside

Un Solo Sol

1818 E 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA

This plant-based spot sits across from Mariachi Plaza in Boyle Heights. The atmosphere and downtown location are as flavorful as the food, which ranges from nopales salad and potato or chicken taquitos to the Mushroom and Cheese Pupusa Plate and fajitas with organic tofu. Plus, don’t forget the black beans and rice!

Green Table Cafe

5998 W. Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

Formerly known as Real Raw Vegan, this eatery specializes in vegan Italian dishes. Start off with one of their signature juices such as the Bella Vespa (orange, carrot, ginger, cayenne, lemon and aloe vera). Then bite into their B…Special Panini (sautéed baby mushrooms, red bell pepper, eggplant, olives, sliced avocado with in-house almond cream cheese and Thousand Island sauce) or a Spinach Artichoke Melt (vegan sausage, marinated artichoke hearts, vegan cream cheese, spinach, garlic and olive oil on a toasted garlic bun). In the mood for pasta? Lasagna options are eggplant, zucchini, cauliflower or polenta. Lastly, their plant-based dessert list includes banana nut muffins and oatmeal cranberry cookies.

Monty’s Good Burger

516 S Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

Describing itself as “for carnivores who care about the environment,” Monty’s has locations in Echo Park (1533 W Sunset Blvd), Riverside (3605 Market St.) and this spot in Koreatown. Have your burger, featuring the plant-based Impossible patty, with shoestring fries or a chopped kale Caesar salad, then wash it down with an organic craft soda.

Seabirds Kitchen

975 E 4th Street, Long Beach, CA

In 10 years, Seabirds has expanded from a food truck to three spots, including this Long Beach location. Sample a beer-battered avo taco (fried avocado, Seabirds sauce, cabbage, red onion, lime) before moving onto a Beets Me Burger (house-made shiitake, beet and chia patty) or the Jackfruit Nachos.

Pura Vita

8274 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA

The first completely plant-based Italian restaurant in the country, Pura Vita marries New York City wine bar atmosphere with Southern Italian cuisine. Plant-based dishes range from the Giambotta (Calabrian vegetable stew, macadamia Parmigiano and grilled ciabatta) to the Caprese (house-made cashew mozzarella, heirloom tomato, basil, and balsamic reduction) to the Linguine di Mare (garlic white wine sauce, king oyster mushroom scallops, and toasted breadcrumbs).

San Fernando Valley

Vinh Loi Tofu

18625 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA

We could tell you what’s on the menu of this Vietnamese vegan eatery, but as customers know, owner Kevin Tran might as easily cook up something especially for you. Just tell him what you’re craving. For folks with trust issues, the menu offers such favorites as the Tofu Robot Soup.

Sun Cafe

10820 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA

They don’t just serve vegan dishes like the Zucchini Lasagna (zucchini slices layered with walnut pesto, spinach, cashew ricotta, SunChorizo, marinara, and cashew cheese) or the Tempeh Stir Fry (cauliflower, zucchini, bok choy, and carrots, in pineapple chili, teriyaki tempeh and lime juice), but they’ll teach you how to cook it yourself. A 90-minute vegan cooking class happens every Saturday morning at 9 a.m., except on some holidays. Cost is $40 at the door.

Follow Your Heart

21825 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA

What began in 1970 as a seven-seat, vegetarian food bar now offers both a full vegan menu and an SOS menu, which means “no Salt, no Oil, and no Sugar.” SOS selections range from the White Bean Kale Burger (patty made from kale, brown rice, white beans and oats) to the Super Green Pasta (zucchini noodles, served with steamed kale, spinach, broccoli, and white beans).

Conejo Valley

Norte-Sur Mexican Grill

2950 Johnson Drive, Ventura County, CA

Located just off the 101 freeway in Ventura, Norte-Sur’s owners are as proud of their home-made salsas and Aguas Frescas as they are their Mexican vegan cuisine. Have a soft taco or sizzling fajita with their gluten-free vegan soyrizo, for example. Or order their vegan mole taquitos, rolled with mole-mashed potatoes, cabbage, and pico.

Hip Vegan

201 N. Montgomery Street, Ojai, CA

Expect fresh vegan cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere befitting Ojai. If you’re feeling like something light, there are wraps, sandwiches, bowls and salads. If you’re hungry for food that’s more filling, try the veggie pasta with garbanzo bean meatballs.

Karma Baker

1145 Lindero Canyon Road, Ste D3, Westlake Village, CA

Skip the meal and go straight to organic, kosher, vegan and gluten-free desserts. Their not-so-guilty pleasures range from pastries and custom-made cakes to hot pockets and hand pies.

Santa Clarita

Thai Chefs Restaurant

28014 Seco Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA

Thai Chefs owner has cooked traditional Thai cuisine for more than two decades, first at a restaurant in Thailand. This family-restaurant offers several vegan options for some of its most popular dishes, including the stir-fried chicken and yellow curry with coconut milk, potatoes, carrot, and onion.

Manoushee Mediterranean Restaurant

27131 Sierra Hwy #100, Santa Clarita, CA

Among such traditional Mediterranean plates as shawarma are several vegan options. The Lebanese Hash Falafel, for example, features patata harra (or spicy potatoes) on lettuce and tomato, and your choice of protein. An extra portion of falafel can be substituted for the fried egg that usually tops the dish. If you have stew in mind, they have an Egyptian Fava Bean Stew served with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. And for dessert, try the vegan carrot cake.

Tomato Joe’s Pizza Express

27732 McBean Pkwy, Valencia, CA

Hankering for a vegan pizza with a beer-battered crust? Tomato Joe’s provides no shortage of mix-and-match options. And if you’re not hungry for a slice, sample their vegan meatballs, with melted vegan mozzarella, and served with vegan garlic bread. Tomato Joe’s also has a second Santa Clarita location at 19167 Golden Valley Rd.