20 famous Los Angeles restaurants actually worth trying

What is it? A refined, multiregional tour through Italy via the mind of one of L.A.’s best chefs. 

Why we love it: It’s not the only chef-driven Italian restaurant in town, but it’s one of L.A.’s most famous(ly busy) restaurants for a reason. Chef and co-owner Ori Menashe’s menu highlights still manage to delight and impress, no matter how many times we’ve ordered them. Despite the decade and change since Bestia first opened in 2012 (and the fact owners Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis have opened two more restaurants), Bestia still requires a reservation on weekend evenings. The seasonal menu rotates slightly, but there’s a couple of heavy hitters I always recommend, including the roasted bone marrow with spinach gnocchetti—one of the dishes that cemented my desire to write about food—and the chestnut and mushroom agnolotti. The latter consists of tiny mascarpone-stuffed pasta pockets topped with fried sage and fennel pollen; a combination these days that’s no longer novel, but still shockingly good. Paired with the industrial-modern digs and the sleek ambience, it’s a place where we’re likely to linger until the staff starts bussing our dessert plates and wine glasses.

Time Out tip: Order your own dessert. Pastry chef and co-owner Genevieve Gergis’s sweets are all memorable, even on repeat visits, and god help anyone who tries to get in between us and a forkful of chocolate budino tart.

Address: 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Opening hours: Daily 5–11pm

What is it? A West L.A. institution that’s home to one of the best burgers and pies in the city.

Why we love it: Queue up and take a seat around the U-shaped counter at the Apple Pan, which has somehow, someway, managed to escape time. Aside from a few minor changes over the years—I still miss the old-school paper soda cones with metal cupholders—the restaurant has largely stayed the same in terms of the interior layout and menu. Burger patties sizzle on the griddle that’s been around for decades (since 1947, to be exact) and served by friendly staff, including more than a handful that have worked here for decades. The most modern updates? Since the pandemic, you can sit outside in the newer outdoor dining area, and vegans and vegetarians can opt for an Impossible patty. But the go-to order for me is still the classic smoky hickoryburger, which comes slathered in house barbecue sauce and can only be made better by ordering double the cheese. If I’m with more than one other person, I usually like to split the tuna melt or a patty melt for a little more variety. Pair your handhelds with an order of crispy fries and save room for a slice or two of the equally-famous housemade pies (á la mode, all the way). 

Time Out tip: The Apple Pan is a go-to L.A. option for Thanksgiving pies and a Pi Day destination. Read: Order far in advance or arrive early, or risk disappointment.

Address: 10801 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11am–11pm; Fri, Sat 11am–midnight; Sun 11am–11pm

What is it? A constantly changing European-style food hall in the heart of Downtown L.A. that’s over a century old.

Why we love it: If you factor in the history and sheer number of dining and grocery options, Grand Central Market is greater than the sum of its parts. The neon signs and affordable lunch options draw in tourists and local office workers alike for both old-school and new-school options. Longtime favorites include Bento-ya and China Cafe, but you can also pick up the best doughnuts in Los Angeles from the Donut Man (look out for strawberry season!) and the city’s best pies and cookies from Fat + Flour, among other goodies. I also like the dosirak (Korean lunchbox combos) from Shiku, McConnell’s Ice Cream, lobster rolls from Broad Street Oyster and Nonna’s Empanadas. On warm summer nights, gather a group and assemble a meal of tacos, barbecue and fried chicken on the sidewalk patio, then follow it up with a beer at Golden Road Brewery. Whether it’s your first time at GCM or your 80th, you’ll always find something new to love.

Time Out tip: I’ve found the quality to be inconsistent at the Villa’s Tacos and For the Win outposts at GCM—and thus would rather steer you towards their standalone locations.

Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opening hours: Daily 8am–9pm (individual vendor hours may vary)

What is it? An always-packed bagel shop in Virgil Village slinging wild-yeasted, Montreal-style bagels.

Why we love it: The lines are usually fairly long (unless you get lucky on the later side of Monday morning) and it can take close to half an hour sometimes to get your order, but these are—sigh—the best bagels in Los Angeles. Slightly burnt, lightly chewy and barely sweet, a Courage bagel is crispier and thinner than your standard New York style, which lends itself to schmear and toppings like farmers’ market veggies like heirloom tomatoes and wild-caught Alaskan lox. Owners Arielle Skye and Chris Moss have been featured in basically every major local and national food outlet, including a ragebait headlined article by the New York Times: “The Best Bagels Are in California (Sorry, New York).” In the realm of California-by-way-of-Montreal bagels, Courage is the standard by which all others are judged—so come here at least once and judge for yourself. 

Time Out tip: Courage Bagels doesn’t sell loose bagels in bulk, so don’t come here expecting to pick up a spread for the office or breakfast at home on a Sunday morning.

Address: 777 N Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029

Opening hours: Mon, Thu–Sun 7am–2pm 

What is it? Some of the city’s best fried chicken—with the national fame and long weekend lines to match. 

Why we love it: The chef behind Howlin’ Ray’s, Johnny Zone, may have spent time in the kitchen with some of the world’s best chefs, but he really found his calling when he brought Nashville hot chicken to Los Angeles—and the world took note. Spice fiends fly in from around the world and head to his brick-and-mortar in Far East Plaza for a plate of chicken (white or dark) or a sandwich in whatever level of heat you can handle, from “Country” to “Howlin’.” You’re supposed to be sweating. You’re supposed to get messy. You’re supposed to be, considering that you’re eating some of the best (spicy) fried chicken in town. Of course, the fact that it’s some of the best is no secret—Angelenos and tourists alike will wait in lines for an hour or more, especially on weekends. For a sit-down experience complete with bagged tallboys, there’s also a newer Pasadena location.

Time Out tip: For a truly decadent bite, order the Jojo-style sando, which puts boneless chicken breast, melted cheddar, butter and maple syrup between two waffles. 

Address: Chinatown: 727 N Broadway, Ste 128, Los Angeles, CA 90012; Pasadena: 800 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena, CA 91105

Opening hours: Chinatown: Wed–Sun 11am–7pm; Pasadena: Wed–Sun 11am–7pm

What is it? A classic Southern California chain known for its cheeseburgers, milkshakes and not-so-secret menu.

Why we love it: Southern California may have also spawned the golden arches, but no other regional fast food export has built a devoted local and out-of-towner following quite like In-N-Out. “Did you go to In-N-Out?” is bound to come up in any conversation when a tourist visits our burger-loving city, and even for locals, it’s hard to argue with the less-than-$3 cheeseburgers, the late-night hours and the famous not-so-secret menu that offers a surprising level of customization for a fast-food spot. As for the fries…if you’re not a fan of soft (some might say soggy) fries, ask for your fries well-done. For those who love Thousand Island spread, order the off-menu animal-style fries, which come topped with plenty of creamy orange spread, grilled onions and melted cheese. We swear our eternal allegiance.

Time Out tip: The In-N-Out right by the airport is normally busy most hours of the day, but there’s another location slightly further south in El Segundo that’s usually less crowded.

Address: Multiple, including LAX, Hollywood and Palms

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 10:30am–1am; Fri, Sat 10:30am–1:30am; Sun 10:30am–1am

What is it? Hollywood’s oldest restaurant—and a celebrity favorite for over a century. 

Why we love it: Open since 1919, Musso & Frank more than lives up to its century-long iconography. This steak-and-cocktails joint on Hollywood Boulevard was once favored by the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Raymond Chandler and Orson Welles. Thanks to TV shows and movies like Once Upon a Time… In Hollywood, Ocean’s Eleven and Mad Men, it’s practically an actor and star in its own right, and you might still spy a modern celebrity there today. As such, you’re not allowed to take photos of the dining room, though you’re more than welcome to take pictures of your meal or tablemates. With its obscure mid-century dishes—jellied consommé and grilled lamb kidneys, anyone?—and a litany of steakhouse classics, the menu can be quite daunting. And while I can’t recommend Musso & Frank strictly for the food, the steaks are a foolproof choice here, as are the sanddabs a la meunière. Manage expectations if you decide to order one of the pastas or any of the old-school dishes. What’s always delicious, however, is the half-loaf of housemade sourdough bread—the perfect accompaniment to Musso’s ultra-famous martinis, which comes with a little extra in a side car.

Time Out tip: Skip the chaos of finding street parking in Hollywood and utilize the valet ($15) in the parking lot located off Cherokee Avenue.

Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5–11pm, Sun 4–10pm

What is it? One of L.A.’s oldest restaurants and a go-to for Dodger fans during baseball season. 

Why we love it: It’s called a French dip. Ever heard of it? In business since 1908, Philippe the Original claims to have invented the French dip sandwich. Whether or not you believe them (Cole’s will certainly contest this fact, claiming their own French dip version as the first), there’s no denying the eatery has an exemplary stack. Savvy customers make their way across the sawdust-covered floor to select a lamb, roast beef, pastrami or turkey filling, then ask their server to double-dip the bread in the meaty juice; add some of the sinus-clearing atomic mustard and you’re golden. A bevy of sides includes coleslaw, macaroni and potato salad, hard-boiled eggs and pickles—all to be eaten in the midst of friendly strangers you’ll inevitably wind up talking to.

Time Out tip: I can also recommend the cup of chili.

Address: 1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Opening hours: Daily 6am–10pm

What is it? One of L.A.’s most quintessential seen-and-be-seen restaurants, complete with a stunning oceanfront location so close to the beach that you’ll overhear children playing on the sand.

Why we love it: Nobu Malibu is one of those places that’s so stunning, you may just hear yourself muttering, “Is this real life?” Whether you’re looking to gawk at celebrities or just want to celebrate a special occasion, the current location on PCH offers excellent views of the water during the day—and a moody, somehow even better atmosphere at night. The pricey fusion-style Japanese cuisine may no longer be cutting-edge, but in our experience it’s still quite delicious and extremely consistent, from signatures like the yellowtail jalapeño sashimi and miso black cod to newer seasonal dishes. Beyond food and ambience, top-notch service and plenty of well-lit nooks and crannies for snagging the perfect selfie make the hassle of booking a table here worth it. 

Time Out tip: Reservations are only available over the phone (310-317-9140) up to 30 days in advance, and the phone lines open at 10am.

Address: 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Opening hours: Mon–Thu noon–10pm; Fri, Sat noon–11pm; Sun noon–10pm

What is it? A timeless red-sauce joint in West Hollywood that’s been beloved among locals, celebrities and local celebrities since 1964.

Why we love it: Few go to Dan Tana’s simply for the cooking. It’s not that the old-fashioned Italian American fare is bad: It’s more that the Old Hollywood atmosphere is wonderfully thick. The longtime servers can tell you what L.A. was like back when this red-sauce joint was cutting-edge, a time when they were much younger but Dan Tana’s looked the same. The menu is full of inside joke-like nods to regulars, including a few dearly departed celebrities and industry bigwigs, but focus in on the chicken (or alternatively, veal or eggplant) parm, the various cuts of steaks and potatoes Beckerman—essentially cottage fries topped with crispy deep-fried onions. The spaghetti marinara that comes with every entrée is old-school Italian American at its most endearing (read: the noodles are rinsed off with water, and it’s much better as a side than a main event). One word of warning, however: The maître d’ does play favorites when it comes to reservations, which are only taken over the phone, and the wait for walk-ins can stretch to an hour or more, particularly on weekend evenings. Generally, however, even newbies can score a table here if they call three weeks in advance—which is what I recommend doing.

Time Out tip: For dessert, order the cappuccino ice cream and a slice of cheesecake. 

Address: 9071 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Opening hours: Daily 5–11pm

What is it? A storybook pub in Atwater Village that was popular with Walt Disney and the early Imagineers. 

Why we love it: Run by the same family as Lawry’s the Prime Rib, this whimsical Scottish-themed pub is over a century old. As such, the Tam also has a long history in Hollywood—Table 31 by the fireplace was a favorite among the Disney crew, and is commemorated as such with a plaque. The red phone booth outside is adorable for photo ops, and the dining room comes alive during the holidays, with plenty of old-fashioned decor and roving carolers that will sing to you at your table. Plus, the prime rib plates here are just as delicious as the ones carved tableside at its flashier sibling in Beverly Hills, with the added bonus of its charming old-fashioned atmosphere. Other menu highlights include the corned beef platter, shepherd’s pie, and a not-so-traditional cauliflower tikka masala. Knock back a few pints of Belhaven Scottish Ale, and by the end of the meal, you’ll be seeing tartan and reciting Robert Burns.

Time Out tip: Head to the bar for “pub specials” like fish and chips, a crispy chicken sandwich and a prime rib sandwich on a kaiser roll.

Address: 2980 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Opening hours: Daily 11am–9pm

What is it? A decades-old hangout for bikers and beachgoers along PCH.

Why we love it: This 1950s biker hang still draws a line of motorcycles to its scenic stretch of PCH, and while you’ll be sharing massive wooden picnic tables with tough guys, you can also expect a mix of families with children, surfers and hungry tourists just trying to get a glimpse—and taste—of local history. Neptune’s Net isn’t a fancy seafood spot, but one with consistently good fry baskets and dishes like steamed lobster, fried shrimp tacos and New England clam chowder. Of course, the unbeatable waterfront location is what makes this iconic Malibu-adjacent restaurant an ideal lunch and dinner spot, which fills up at all hours of the day.

Time Out tip: Neptune’s Net is open 365 days a year, with limited hours on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Clam chowder and a seafood basket on Turkey Day, anyone?

Address: 42505 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Opening hours: March to October: Mon–Thu 10:30am–8pm; Fri 10:30am–9pm; Sat, Sun 10am–8pm. October to March: Mon–Thu 10:30am–7pm; Fri 10:30am–8pm; Sat, Sun 10am–7pm

What is it: An iconic LAX-adjacent diner that’s one of the city’s leading examples of Googie architecture. 

Why we love it: This Westchester daytime staple offers impeccable retro vibes—you’re literally stepping into a piece of L.A. history—and some of the best fried chicken and waffles in the city. The high-quality service and straightforward fare has kept morning crowds at Pann’s thick since the diner first opened in 1958, and the location makes it fairly convenient for travelers flying in and out of LAX—at least if you’re departing or arriving in the morning or early afternoon. Beyond fried chicken, Pann’s also serves the increasingly hard-to-find ham steak, pancakes, omelettes and pancakes. The hefty country-fried steak, which comes with a fluffy biscuit, is another menu standout. For lunch, look towards the patty melt, cornmeal breaded catfish and a slew of sandwiches and salads. 

Time Out tip: If you’re in a rush, Pann’s also offers takeout, but I really recommend taking the time to dine in.

Address: 6710 La Tijera Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8am–3pm; Sat, Sun 7am–3pm

What is it? The city’s longest running Mexican restaurant.

Why we love it: Founded in 1923, El Cholo is now a veritable regional chain—and while its cuisine may not exactly be cutting edge, the comforting mix of enchiladas, fajitas and other classic Mexican American fare is downright iconic. Despite the “Spanish Cafe” part of its marquee, the menu here isn’t at all Iberian; the name is a holdover from the more racist times of yesteryear. Visit the Western Avenue flagship to bask in the Mission Revival interiors and soak up some L.A. history with a side of chips and salsa. There are also other locations in Santa Monica and Downtown (plus a breakaway offshoot in Pasadena), but we prefer the Koreatown semi-original—it was originally located closer to USC—whenever we want to feel old-school cool.

Time Out tip: Every menu item lists the year it was added; I like the seasonal green corn tamales (1923), combination plates (1938) and taquitos (1995).

Address: 1121 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am–9pm

What is it? A longtime soondubu chain beloved for its late-night hours and solid rendition of its namesake dish. 

Why we love it: I’m sorry to say that BCD Tofu House isn’t the all-around best soondubu option in L.A. anymore—that honor belongs to both LA Tofu House and Surawon, at least in my book—but this after-hours dining chain is still a worthwhile pit stop for the clubbing set and other nighthawks. Before her death in 2020, owner Hee Sook Lee grew the business from a single Koreatown storefront to a grocery brand and restaurant chain with locations across Southern California, Texas, New Jersey and New York. In fact, BCD is largely the reason why so many other soondubu specialists exist in Los Angeles today—so crack an egg into a ttukbaegi (black earthenware pot) of bubbling tofu stew with your choice of protein or vegetables, enjoy the complimentary lightly fried croaker and banchan, and raise a glass to Lee’s all-American immigrant success story. Combined with the cozy atmosphere and interesting patrons, the Wilshire Boulevard location is a great place to end the night, especially on weekend evenings. 

Time Out tip: Between the two Koreatown locations, there’s a better parking situation at the Wilshire location. 

Addresses: Multiple, including two in Koreatown (Western, Wilshire) and one in Torrance

Opening hours: Western: Mon–Thu 8am–11pm; Fri, Sat 8am–12:30am; Sun 8am–11pm. Wilshire: Mon–Thu 7am–3am; Fri, Sat 7am–4am; Sun 7am–3am. Torrance: Daily 10am–9:30pm

What is it? A third-story Asian-inspired hot spot concept in West Hollywood that originated in NYC.

Why we love it: The space and views are gorgeous, and the food is better than it needs to be. Catch LA is a definite place to see and be seen, but the restaurant’s pricey, globally inspired menu of seafood, sushi and show-stopping desserts delivers a consistent, crowd-pleasing experience that hits the mark every single time. This Melrose rooftop destination features breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills and an open-air retractable ceiling that makes the restaurant a little cozier on colder nights. The floral-lined entryway might be among the most Instagrammed spots in West Hollywood, but that’s all part of the fun at Catch LA, whose glitzy ambience, crowd-pleasing fusion cuisine and excellent service combine for a nightlife-oriented dinner where every diner feels like a star.

Time Out tip: You can’t go wrong with any of the desserts, but my two favorites are the Hit Me, which consists of a smash-worthy chocolate ice cream cake, and the Carnival, a mini Ferris wheel of ricotta doughnuts.

Address: 8715 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 6–10pm; Fri 5:30–10:30pm; Sat 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–10:30pm; Sun 11:30am–2:30pm, 5:30–10pm

Why we love it: Follow the smell of taquitos to this L.A. institution that sits on the edge of the oldest street in Los Angeles. Cielito Lindo has been serving freshly stuffed, rolled and fried taquitos since 1934, enough to earn its street cred title of “world famous.” The likes of Anthony Bourdain and Eve Babitz have sung the praises of these tightly wrapped snacks—and the signature beef taquitos in mild, fairly runny guacamole live up to hype thanks to their affordability and the magic of a deep fryer. There are also burritos and a chile relleno, which comes smothered in salsa and cheese, plus a combo served with beans and cheese. (If you ask me, always go for the beans and cheese.)

Time Out tip: Parking in the immediate area is fairly expensive or difficult to find—I recommend taking the Metro if you can, or parking in Chinatown and walking over.

Address: 23 Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 9 am–8 pm; Fri, Sat 9am–9pm; Sun 9 am–8pm

What is it? A historic Jewish deli that sits along perhaps the most storied stretch of Fairfax.

Why we love it: Canter’s is a fantastic, living relic of early-20th-century L.A. and a reminder of the local Jewish community’s deep roots. Still owned by the Canter family, this 24-hour deli with a gargantuan bakery case and retro interior is a decent Jewish deli and one of our favorite places to dine after hours. Come here at 2am and you’re bound to see musicians from all over town who’ve just gotten off the stage and want to tuck into some blintzes or a stacked pastrami sandwich. Come here for a comforting bowl of matzo ball soup. Come here for cookies and challah to go, or, perhaps our favorite pairing, a plate of latkes and a dirty martini. Have just about whatever experience you’re looking for, because at Canter’s, things stay the same and variety is a constant.

Time Out tip: This is not the place to go for the best pastrami sandwich in L.A.—that’s Langer’s, which is also one of the city’s best restaurants. This is, however, an L.A. dining experience you should experience at least once. 

Address: 419 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Opening hours: Daily 24 hours

What is it? A classic Mexican restaurant in Beverly Grove where actress Sharon Tate allegedly ate her last meal in 1961.

Why we love it: The Mexican American fare here isn’t exactly the best in town, but you can’t deny the enduring appeal of El Coyote. The walls are dotted with signed portraits of Hollywood stars; the enormous red neon sign alone is a local icon; and the dishes are hot, affordable and fast. Established in 1931, the restaurant serves all the classics of the Mexican American dining genre, including the requisite complimentary chips and salsa and from-scratch house margaritas, which come served on the rocks. Generations of Angelenos have grown up on dishes like the Enchilada Howard (named after one of El Coyote’s first regulars), chile con carne burrito and sizzling fajitas made with chicken, steak or shrimp. Order whatever you feel like eating that day and at least one stiff drink—this is a spot where the bona fide old-school vibes take priority over any particular menu item. 

Time Out tip: El Coyote doesn’t take reservations for parties under 10, so come early or risk a long wait, especially on the weekends.

Address: 7312 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Opening hours: Wed–Thu noon–9pm; Fri, Sat noon–10pm; Sun noon–9pm