Los Angeles is one of the most dynamic dining cities in the world, with new restaurants launching constantly across neighborhoods.
From tasting menus to street‑food‑inspired concepts, these relatively new or newly hot spots give a sense of where LA’s food scene is right now.
1. Mother Wolf
Mother Wolf, in Hollywood, has quickly become one of LA’s most talked‑about Italian restaurants, channeling the flavors of Rome in a glamorous, high‑energy room.
The space is dramatic—arched ceilings, rich colors, and a buzzing crowd of diners and industry types.
The menu leans into Roman classics: cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana, and thin, crisp pizzas baked in a blisteringly hot oven.
Antipasti feature seasonal produce and Italian pantry staples, while mains highlight simply grilled meats and seafood. The cocktail program is strong, and the Italian‑heavy wine list matches the food’s sense of place.
2. Kato (Expanded Location)
Kato began as a tiny tasting‑menu spot and has since expanded into a larger, more luxurious setting on the Westside.
The new space feels sleek and minimal, with an understated elegance that keeps the focus on the food.
The menu is a contemporary tasting progression rooted in Taiwanese and broader Asian flavors filtered through a California lens.
Expect delicate seafood courses, precise sauces, and thoughtful use of local produce and herbs. Wine and sake pairings are carefully curated, turning dinner into a complete, immersive experience.
3. Anajak Thai (Newer Natural Wine / Taco Night Buzz)
Anajak Thai in Sherman Oaks has been around, but its recent reinvention and expanded offerings—like its celebrated “Thai Taco Tuesday” and natural wine focus—have made it feel like a new restaurant in spirit.
The space is compact and unpretentious, with a palpable neighborhood energy.
The core menu revisits traditional Thai dishes with depth and nuance, while specials and pop‑up‑style nights push into more experimental territory.
You might find grilled meats, spicy salads, and curries alongside creative mash‑ups. The natural wine list and inventive cocktails make it as much a hangout as a takeout destination.
4. Kuya Lord
Kuya Lord brings modern Filipino food to LA in a relaxed, counter‑service setting that still feels special. The space is casual but thoughtfully designed, with an emphasis on the open kitchen and the bright, bold plates coming out of it.
The menu features Filipino staples—lechon, inihaw (grilled meats), pancit, and hearty rice plates—with refined execution and vivid flavors. Crisp pork, charred skewers, sour and savory sauces, and plenty of garlic and citrus create dishes that are both comforting and exciting. It’s a great introduction to Filipino cuisine for newcomers and a fresh take for those already familiar.
5. Horses
On Sunset Boulevard, Horses occupies a historic Hollywood space but brings a very current bistro sensibility to it. The dining room is cozy and slightly nostalgic, with wood accents, mirrors, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The menu blends European bistro classics with modern Californian touches. You might find steak frites, roast chicken, and pastas alongside more playful dishes built around seasonal vegetables or interesting cuts of meat. The bar turns out excellent martinis and classic cocktails, and the wine list is smart and compact, with plenty of food‑friendly bottles.
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