Los Angeles
Los Angeles Dining Guide: A Blend of Iconic Spots and Trendy Hangouts
Los Angeles is home to a dynamic food scene, with everything from old-Hollywood favorites to new-wave hotspots. Whether you're looking for upscale dining or a laid-back coffee stop, here’s a curated selection of restaurants and cafés that capture LA’s distinctive mix of glamour and casual chic.
Craig’s
Craig’s in West Hollywood is a favorite among celebrities and locals alike, offering a classic American menu in a sleek, upscale setting. The interior exudes old-school Hollywood glamour, with leather booths, dark wood, and soft lighting that creates a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. The menu features comfort-driven dishes like their famous chicken parm and vegan specialties that cater to a health-conscious crowd. Attire here is stylish and upscale, with a fashionable crowd dressed in smart-casual for a night out that feels both intimate and lively.
Mother Wolf
Located in Hollywood, Mother Wolf brings a rustic, Roman-inspired dining experience to LA with a focus on traditional Italian dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick, high ceilings, and a large open kitchen where diners can watch their food being made. The menu highlights wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and seasonal ingredients that celebrate the simplicity of Italian cooking. The crowd here is a mix of trendy locals and foodies, with attire leaning toward casual-chic, perfect for an elevated yet relaxed dinner.
Courage Bagels
This modest Silver Lake bagel shop has taken LA by storm with its perfectly crispy, Montreal-style bagels. The tiny, charming spot has a neighborhood vibe, with a minimalist interior that puts the focus on its star attraction—the bagels. Known for their crunchy exterior and soft, chewy interior, Courage Bagels offers a simple menu of bagels topped with seasonal ingredients, like smoked salmon and heirloom tomatoes. The vibe is casual, and the crowd is laid-back, making it the ideal place for a quick, delicious breakfast or lunch. Dress casually, as this is an easygoing spot that feels like a neighborhood staple.
La Scala
A Beverly Hills institution, La Scala has been serving up classic Italian fare since the 1950s. The interior is elegant but understated, with white tablecloths, wooden paneling, and an intimate atmosphere that makes it perfect for power lunches and dinner dates. The restaurant is famous for its chopped salads, along with pasta dishes and hearty mains that have a loyal following. The crowd is polished and often business-casual, reflecting the timeless sophistication of La Scala.
Community Goods
Community Goods, located in Echo Park, is a trendy café and general store that offers a cool, minimalist aesthetic. The space is bright and modern, with sleek furnishings and a carefully curated selection of local goods. The café menu focuses on artisanal coffee and light bites, making it a perfect spot for a quick coffee break or casual meeting. The crowd here is trendy and creative, with most patrons dressed in casual, stylish outfits that reflect the laid-back, artsy vibe of the neighborhood.
Sunset Tower Hotel Restaurant
The Sunset Tower Hotel Restaurant, perched on the Sunset Strip, offers a luxurious, old-Hollywood experience with sweeping views of the city. The interior exudes 1920s glamour, with art deco accents, plush seating, and an elegant, intimate dining room. The menu features a mix of classic American and European-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, and the crowd is a mix of Hollywood elite and those looking for a special night out. Attire is upscale, with diners dressed in stylish, sophisticated outfits that match the restaurant’s glamorous vibe.
Jon & Vinny’s
Jon & Vinny’s is a trendy Italian-American spot in Fairfax, known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes. The bright, minimalist interior features sleek wooden booths and an open kitchen, creating a casual yet energetic dining experience. The menu is simple but expertly crafted, with popular dishes like the spicy fusilli and their signature pizzas. The vibe here is fun and lively, with a young, trendy crowd that dresses in casual-chic attire. It’s the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a laid-back date night.
South Beverly Grill
South Beverly Grill, located in Beverly Hills, offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on modern American cuisine. The sleek, contemporary interior features dark wood, leather seating, and ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable vibe. The menu highlights fresh seafood, steaks, and sushi, catering to an upscale clientele that values both quality and ambiance. The crowd is polished and professional, with most diners dressed in business-casual or smart-casual attire, making it a popular spot for both business meetings and social gatherings.
Mizlala
Mizlala brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to the heart of Sherman Oaks, offering a casual yet flavorful dining experience. The interior is bright and colorful, with a fun, contemporary design that reflects the vibrant flavors of the menu. The dishes here are fresh and flavorful, with a focus on shawarma, falafel, and a variety of salads and dips. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, with a diverse crowd that dresses casually, perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner with friends.
Delilah
Delilah is the epitome of modern supper-club glamour in West Hollywood. With its plush velvet booths, dim lighting, and retro-inspired decor, the atmosphere exudes 1920s elegance with a contemporary twist. The menu offers a mix of American and European classics, from truffle fries to lobster mac and cheese. As the night progresses, the restaurant transforms into a lively lounge, with music and an energetic vibe that attracts celebrities and LA’s fashionable crowd. Attire here is upscale and trendy, with patrons dressing to impress for a night out that’s as much about the scene as it is about the food.