Drive-thru windows are a staple of LA dining—pass by In-N-Out on any night of the week and the line of cars will undoubtedly stretch around the block. But walk-up windows? Not so much. That's starting to change, though, as eateries are stepping up their game with unique window concepts. With LEONA's new cookie window popping up, we're taking a look at a few other exceptional walk-up spots around town:
Blue Window (Hollywood): Chef Susan Feniger and Kajsa Alger launched Blue Window last August, a small walk-up spot next to their popular restaurant Mud Hen Tavern. The first menu featured Asian fusion, but it rotates every six months and is now offering pure Americana fare: Spaghetti Yo's, chili cheese Frito tamales, falafel battered onion rings and more. Main dishes are $7, sides are $5. 742-B N Highland Ave, Hollywood, Mon-Fri noon-6pm
Pie Life Pizza (Pasadena): This small walk-up window serves New York-style pizza, both whole pies and by the slice. You won't find any crazy flavors here, but their standard options—pepperoni, tomato basil, vegetarian and a few more—make for a solid lunch or dinner. The only struggle is finding a spot at one of the few high tops outside the window. 691 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, Tue-Sun 11am-8pm
The Standing Room (Redondo Beach): Giant, juicy burgers are why people come in droves to the Standing Room, a small kitchen located inside a liquor store. While a second sit-down location opened in nearby Hermosa Beach, this original spot is keeping it OG by having customers order inside the store, then waiting by the outside window surrounded by a whale mural. Choose from around 10 different burgers—and an order of truffle parmesan fries wouldn't hurt. 144 N Cataline Ave, Redondo Beach, Mon 11am-8pm, Tue-Sat 11am-9:30pm, Sun noon-9:30pm
LEONA (Venice): As mentioned, chef Nyesha Arrington's Venice eatery just launched a cookie window, offering creative sweets like miso brown butter chocolate chip and coconut macaroons along with a selection of agua frescas. It pretty much sounds like our childhood dreams come true. 123 Washington Blvd, Venice, Tue-Sun 11am-close
Twin Sliders (Hollywood): It's easy to miss Twin Sliders if you're not looking for it—the tiny window on Sunset Blvd takes up minimal real estate, and only it's bright orange and blue color scheme make it stand out amidst the drab buildings that surround it. So what are you getting here? Really good sliders—duh—and a bomb milkshake. 5940 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm, Fri 11:30-11pm, Sat 6pm-11pm
