Los Angeles, California, is a city renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene.
From upscale dining establishments to trendy eateries, LA offers an array of dining experiences that reflect its multicultural influences and innovative spirit.
Whether you’re a local food enthusiast or a visitor looking for a memorable meal, here are the five best restaurants in Los Angeles that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Bestia
Overview
Located at 2121 7th St, Bestia is one of LA’s most acclaimed dining destinations, known for its inventive Italian cuisine and industrial-chic ambiance.
Chef and owner Dina De Luca brings a modern twist to traditional Italian dishes, resulting in a menu that’s both creative and comforting.
What to Try
- Bone Marrow: Served with a crispy crostini and vibrant salsa verde, this dish is a standout for its rich, buttery flavor.
- Pasta with ‘Nduja: Spicy, spreadable salami mixed with perfectly cooked pasta and topped with fresh herbs and cheese.
- Lardo-Stuffed Agnolotti: Delicate pasta pockets filled with flavorful lardo, paired with a savory broth and seasonal vegetables.
Ambiance
Bestia features an open, industrial space with exposed brick, concrete floors, and an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the culinary action.
The restaurant’s energetic and sophisticated atmosphere, combined with its exceptional food, makes it an ideal spot for a special occasion or an indulgent night out.
2. Republique
Overview
Located at 624 S La Brea Ave, Republique is a French-inspired restaurant that offers a blend of classic and contemporary dishes in a stunning, historic setting.
The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 1920s building, and its menu reflects the rich culinary traditions of France with a modern twist.
What to Try
- Croissant Sandwiches: Flaky, buttery croissants filled with high-quality ingredients like ham, cheese, and eggs, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- Duck Confit: Tender duck leg slow-cooked until crispy, served with seasonal vegetables and a flavorful sauce.
- Tarte Tatin: An upside-down caramelized apple tart served with a dollop of crème fraîche.
Ambiance
Republique boasts a grand and elegant interior with high ceilings, marble countertops, and an impressive bakery counter.
The restaurant’s ambiance is both upscale and inviting, making it a great choice for brunch, lunch, or a sophisticated dinner.
With its charming decor and delectable menu, Republique offers a dining experience that’s both refined and memorable.
3. Guelaguetza
Overview
Located at 3014 W. Oaxaca St, Guelaguetza is a celebrated Oaxacan restaurant known for its vibrant flavors and traditional dishes.
Named after the Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca, this restaurant brings the essence of Mexican culinary traditions to LA, with an emphasis on authentic, high-quality ingredients.
What to Try
- Mole Negro: A rich and complex mole sauce made with a blend of chiles, chocolate, and spices, served over tender chicken or pork.
- Tlayudas: A traditional Oaxacan dish featuring a large, crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, cheese, meat, and fresh vegetables.
- Memelas: Thick, handmade tortillas topped with a variety of ingredients like salsa, beans, and cheese.
Ambiance
Guelaguetza offers a lively and colorful atmosphere with its vibrant murals, traditional Mexican decor, and festive ambiance.
The restaurant’s warm and welcoming environment, combined with its authentic cuisine, makes it a popular spot for both casual dining and special celebrations.
Guelaguetza’s commitment to tradition and flavor ensures a dining experience that’s both enjoyable and immersive.
4. n/naka
Overview
Located at 3455 S Overland Ave, n/naka is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional kaiseki, a Japanese multi-course dining experience.
Chef Niki Nakayama creates exquisite dishes that combine seasonal ingredients with meticulous presentation, resulting in a culinary journey that’s both artistic and delicious.
What to Try
- Omakase Menu: The chef’s tasting menu features a carefully curated selection of seasonal dishes, showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine with innovative touches.
- Sashimi: Fresh, high-quality fish served with delicate accompaniments that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Wagyu Beef: Tender, marbled beef prepared with precision and served with complementary sauces and sides.
Ambiance
n/naka offers a refined and serene dining environment with its minimalist decor, wooden accents, and calm atmosphere.
The restaurant’s focus on presentation and quality ensures a dining experience that’s both elegant and intimate.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying an exceptional meal, n/naka provides a memorable and sophisticated culinary experience.
5. The Bazaar by José Andrés
Overview
Located at 465 La Cienega Blvd, The Bazaar by José Andrés is a Spanish-inspired restaurant that offers a unique and playful approach to fine dining.
Chef José Andrés, known for his innovative techniques and creative flair, presents a menu that features modern Spanish cuisine with a focus on unexpected flavors and textures.
What to Try
- Cotton Candy Foie Gras: A whimsical and indulgent dish featuring rich foie gras encased in a light cotton candy shell.
- Spanish Suckling Pig: Tender and flavorful pork served with crispy skin and traditional accompaniments.
- Nitro Gazpacho: A cold Spanish soup made with fresh vegetables and served with a dramatic presentation involving liquid nitrogen.
Ambiance
The Bazaar offers a chic and contemporary ambiance with its stylish decor, dramatic lighting, and vibrant atmosphere.
The restaurant’s playful and inventive approach to dining creates an exciting and immersive experience, making it a great choice for those looking to explore innovative cuisine in a lively setting.
With its focus on creativity and fun, The Bazaar delivers a dining experience that’s both entertaining and extraordinary.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city that boasts a diverse and dynamic dining scene, with options that range from high-end fine dining to casual comfort food.
Whether you’re indulging in the modern Italian fare at Bestia, savoring the flavors of Oaxaca at Guelaguetza, or experiencing the innovative cuisine at The Bazaar, these five restaurants represent some of the best culinary experiences that LA has to offer.
With their exceptional food, distinctive atmospheres, and top-notch service, these dining spots ensure that every meal in Los Angeles is a memorable one.
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