Los Angeles boasts a vibrant food scene that captivates both locals and visitors. Renowned food writer Jonathan Gold once described a great restaurant as a place that allows diners to escape reality and indulge in pleasure. From upscale dining to beloved local diners, LA offers a diverse array of culinary experiences.

One standout is Antico Nuovo, located in a strip mall on Beverly Boulevard. Chef Chad Colby serves some of the best pasta in the city, including foglie d’ulivo, which features olive leaf-shaped pasta paired with roasted squab. The restaurant is known for its fresh-baked focaccia, served with various dips, and offers half-portions of pasta for solo diners.

Another iconic spot is The Apple Pan, a West LA diner that has been serving customers since 1947. Its hickory burger, topped with a sweet barbecue sauce, and banana cream pie are fan favorites. Regulars also rave about the off-menu tuna melt, which has gained a loyal following.

A Tí, a restaurant that began as a pop-up in Echo Park, has quickly become a neighborhood favorite. Chef Andrew Ponce, a second-generation Mexican-American, offers dishes like sweet potato and al pastor tacos, and crispy duck mole, which is complemented by a citrusy lime crema.

In Silver Lake, Azizam serves homestyle Iranian cuisine that evokes nostalgia. The menu features dishes like braised lamb neck and ash-e-jo, a hearty soup made with barley and beans. The restaurant also offers delightful pastries, including saffron milk bread.

Baby Bistro, located on the border of Echo Park and Chinatown, has gained acclaim for its seasonal menu crafted by Chef Miles Thompson. Diners can enjoy dishes like mackerel grilled over charcoal and pork belly with pistachios, all in a cozy, homey setting.

Baroo, a modern Korean restaurant in the Arts District, focuses on fermentation and offers a relaxed tasting menu. Chef Kwang Uh’s dishes are known for their artistry and flavor, creating a comfortable dining experience.

Bistro Na’s, located in the San Gabriel Valley, specializes in Chinese imperial cuisine. Opened in 2016, it features beautifully presented dishes like wok-fried crispy shrimp and Peking duck, which is considered the best in LA.

Bub and Grandma’s, a wholesale bakery, has a restaurant in Glassell Park known for its flavorful sandwiches and exceptional pastries, particularly its donuts. Café 2001, situated in the Arts District, offers a unique blend of Japanese-inspired dishes in a casual setting.

Café Telegrama, located on Western Avenue, is a popular stop for gallery visitors. It features famous pancakes and fresh salads, while its sister restaurant, Ètra, serves Italian cuisine with a focus on minimal-intervention wines.

Camélia, a bistro in the Arts District, combines Japanese ingredients with French cuisine. Opened in 2024, it offers dishes like abalone pot pie and corn cheesecake, showcasing the creativity of husband-and-wife restaurateurs Charles Namba and Courtney Kaplan.

Damian, opened by acclaimed chef Enrique Olvera in 2020, offers fine dining with a Mexican twist. The restaurant features an indoor/outdoor space and highlights local produce in its classical Mexican dishes.

Firstborn, led by Chef Anthony Wang, reflects his personal culinary journey. The restaurant offers inventive dishes that tell a story, making it a unique addition to LA's diverse food landscape.

These restaurants exemplify the rich culinary tapestry of Los Angeles, where food lovers can find everything from traditional comfort food to innovative fine dining.