5 Best New Restaurants in Glendale, California that People Swear By

Glendale has quietly become one of L.A. County’s most interesting eating neighborhoods, with Armenian institutions, modern cafés, and sleek new restaurants all sharing the same blocks.

These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy spots highlight just how good eating in Glendale can be.

1. Bacari GDL

Located at the Americana at Brand, Bacari GDL brings a stylish, Mediterranean‑leaning small‑plates experience to Glendale.

The space is warm and intimate, with string lights, greenery, and a lively bar scene.

The menu focuses on cicchetti—small plates meant for sharing.

Think crispy Brussels sprouts, lamb skewers, pizzas with chewy crusts, pastas in rich sauces, and seasonal vegetable dishes that are far from an afterthought. The wine list and cocktail program are strong, with lots of easy‑drinking options.

It’s one of the best date‑night or group‑dinner destinations in the area.

2. Mini Kabob

Mini Kabob is tiny, wildly beloved, and easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

This family‑run Armenian/Egyptian spot has become a cult favorite for its perfectly grilled meats and warm hospitality.

The menu is focused: juicy chicken and beef kebabs, lula, shawarma, and falafel, all served with pillowy lavash, rice, salads, and garlicky sauces.

Everything is made with care, and the small size of the shop means attention to detail is high.

Takeout is popular, but if you can snag one of the limited seats, you’ll get the full experience.

3. Din Tai Fung (Glendale)

Din Tai Fung at the Americana remains one of Glendale’s biggest draws.

While it’s part of an international chain, this location feels polished and buzzy, with an open dumpling‑making station and a sleek dining room.

The stars are the xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and noodles: delicate wrappers filled with rich broth and meat, plus bouncy noodles in spicy, garlicky, or sesame sauces.

You’ll also find wontons, greens with garlic, fried rice, and crisp, lightly battered dishes.

Expect a wait—but also one of the most consistent, crowd‑pleasing meals in the city.

4. Carousel Restaurant (Glendale)

Carousel is a long‑standing name that still feels fresh thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and huge menu of Lebanese and Armenian dishes. The Glendale outpost is especially popular for group dinners and celebrations.

You can build a meal around mezze—hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves, falafel—or dive into kebab plates, shawarma, and grilled seafood. Large combination platters make it easy to taste a bit of everything.

Live music and belly dancing on some nights add to the festive, “night out” energy.

5. Porto’s Bakery & Café (Glendale)

Porto’s might be a local legend rather than a hidden gem, but the Glendale location is a cornerstone of the city’s food identity. The bakery‑café hybrid draws constant crowds—and for good reason.

Expect Cuban pastries like guava and cheese strudels, potato balls, and pastelitos, alongside cakes, sandwiches, salads, and coffee drinks. It’s as good for a quick breakfast and coffee as it is for picking up party trays or a casual lunch.

If you’re new to Glendale, Porto’s is almost a required first stop.