Los Angeles, the sprawling city of angels, doesn’t just boast sunshine and celebrities. It’s a haven for adventurous eaters, a place where culinary innovation meets fresh, local produce. Whether you crave Michelin-starred magic or crave-worthy tacos, LA’s got it. Here’s CJ Digital’s hot list of the 10 restaurants you simply can’t miss in 2024:
1. Bestia: This Arts District mainstay remains a heavyweight. Chef Ori Menashe’s mastery of wood-fired magic transcends mere pizzas. Think charred octopus with nduja and Calabrian honey, or his iconic burnt carrot agnolotti – a symphony of sweet, smoky, and savory. Don’t miss the buzzing weekend brunch, either.
2. n/Soto: This newcomer in Chinatown is already a darling of the food scene. Chef Charles Namba blends his Mexican and Japanese heritage into explosive dishes. Think Baja shrimp aguachile brightened with yuzu kosho, or melt-in-your-mouth barbacoa tacos nestled in house-made tortillas. Be prepared to wait (no reservations!), but it’s worth every delicious minute.
3. Petit Trois: This perpetually packed bistro in Little Tokyo is a love letter to French comfort food. Don’t be fooled by the casual digs – the food is pure refinement. Dive into the coq au vin for a soul-warming experience, or indulge in the decadent steak frites with its ridiculously crispy pomme frites. Weekend brunch is legendary, so snag a seat early for their pain perdu (French toast) that’s as good as it gets.
4. Madre: This Venice gem is a celebration of Oaxacan cuisine. Forget everything you think you know about mole. Here, it’s an art form, with seven varieties gracing the menu. Sample the mancha manteles, a rich, nutty mole enveloping tender chicken, or the estofado de res, a slow-braised beef bathed in a complex mole coloradito. Wash it all down with a cup of hot chocolate, frothed to perfection by hand.
5. A-Frame: Perched on the rooftop of the Row DTLA, A-Frame offers stunning skyline views alongside an innovative California-coastal menu. Chef David Lentz helms the kitchen, crafting dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Think hamachi crudo with shiso and blood orange, or perfectly roasted lamb with spring vegetables. Don’t forget to linger for sunset cocktails – the view is unbeatable.
6. Salazar: This Koreatown institution is a haven for late-night eats. But don’t be fooled by the casual vibes – the food here is pure magic. Their signature bulgogi fries are a must-try, with tender marinated beef blanketing crispy shoestring potatoes. Dive into their kimchi jjigae (spicy stew) for a taste of Korean comfort food, or sample their extensive selection of soju (Korean rice liquor) for a boozy adventure.
7. A.O.C. Wine Bar: This cozy spot in Brentwood is more than just a wine bar. Chef Suzanne Goin creates seasonal Californian cuisine that’s both innovative and comforting. Their roasted chicken with Meyer lemon and herbs is a perennial favorite, as is their ever-changing pasta selection. Let the knowledgeable staff guide you through their extensive wine list, ensuring the perfect pairing for every dish.
8. République: This Silver Lake hotspot is a haven for all-day dining. Start your day with their legendary ricotta pancakes, or grab a guilt-free lunch salad packed with seasonal ingredients. Come dinner, their menu takes a more sophisticated turn, offering dishes like roasted branzino with fregola sarda or grilled lamb chops with mint pesto. Don’t miss their beautifully curated selection of artisanal breads and pastries.
9.Destroyer: This newcomer in Culver City is already creating a buzz. Chef Josiah Citrin, a veteran of the LA dining scene, brings a playful yet sophisticated approach to California cuisine. Think hamachi crudo with watermelon and trout roe, or a juicy roasted duck with blood orange gastrique. The space is sleek and modern, perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
10. Majordomo: This Melrose Way destination is a true splurge, but it’s an experience worth saving up for. Chef David Chang brings his Momofuku magic to LA with a menu that’s both innovative and endlessly creative. Sample the tasting menu for a journey through unexpected flavor combinations and luxurious ingredients, or opt for the a la carte menu and tailor your own culinary adventure.
This list barely scratches the surface of LA’s ever-evolving culinary landscape. From trendy tacos to world-class fine dining, the City of Angels has something for every palate and budget. So grab your appetite and your sense of adventure, because in LA, every meal is a delicious discovery waiting to happen.
Bonus Picks:
Looking for something specific? Here are a few off-the-beaten-path picks to tantalize your taste buds:
- Craving Vegan? Gracias Madre in West Hollywood offers innovative and flavorful plant-based Mexican fare.
- Dim Sum Dreams? Seafood Cove in Monterey Park is a local favorite for its extensive and delicious dim sum selection.
- Late-Night Kebab Fix? Prince Street Pizza in Koreatown offers satisfying kebabs alongside their legendary New York-style slices.
No matter what your culinary desires, LA has a restaurant waiting to satisfy them. So get exploring, Angelenos (and soon-to-be Angelenos!), and happy eating!