Los Angeles is a sprawling Southern California city of about 3.9 million people between the Pacific coast and the San Gabriel Mountains, known for Hollywood, beaches, museums, mountain viewpoints and some of the most varied food in the United States.
Los Angeles is one of the most varied dining cities in the United States, shaped by Mexican, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Armenian, Persian and Chinese communities alongside Jewish delis, soul food and California-produce cooking. Taco trucks and counters in Boyle Heights and East LA, Korean barbecue in Koreatown, sushi and ramen in Little Tokyo and Sawtelle, and the Southern Thai kitchens of Thai Town sit within a few miles of Michelin-starred tasting rooms and Hollywood steakhouses. Neighbourhoods are spread across a large metro area, so dining plans work best when grouped by area.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Los Angeles.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Japanese
California
Californian
Mexican
Middle Eastern
Seafood
Southern Soul Food
Food tours & tastings in Los Angeles
Eat your way through Los Angeles with a guide.
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Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Reserve dinner at destination restaurants such as Bestia, Bavel, Republique and Providence weeks ahead through each restaurant's own website or booking platform.
A tip of 18-20 percent is customary at sit-down restaurants; counter service tips are optional but common.
Distances are large; group dining by area (Downtown/Arts District, Koreatown, Hollywood, Westside) and allow for traffic between neighbourhoods, particularly from 4 to 7 PM.
Parking is often valet-only on the Westside and in Hollywood, at about $10-25; rideshare avoids the cost.
Carry small bills for trucks and classic counters, some of which favour cash.
Lunch is often cheaper for the same kitchen, notably at Sushi Gen and Japanese restaurants in Little Tokyo.
Restaurant closures were frequent in 2026; confirm hours and opening status by phone or website before travelling.
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are widespread in Los Angeles, with dedicated vegan restaurants in Venice, Silver Lake and Echo Park and menus that mark allergens at many mid-range and upscale restaurants. Halal, kosher (notably around Pico-Robertson and Fairfax) and Persian or Armenian cuisines are well represented. Travellers with allergies should tell staff when ordering, as street trucks and traditional counters do not run separate prep areas.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $35-60 per person per day: taco and truck meals, a deli sandwich, a food-hall breakfast and a hot dog or ramen dinner (USD) | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |