LA Food Scene Explained

Los Angeles is one of the world's great food cities, rivaling New York and London. What makes it special: unmatched Mexican cuisine, Asian food scenes comparable to their home countries, year-round access to California produce, celebrity chef culture, and a food truck revolution. There are over 27,000 restaurants representing 140+ cuisines.

LA has the best Mexican food north of Mexico City. Must-try: tacos (Leo's Tacos, Guisados), mariscos (Mariscos Jalisco), birria (Birrieria Gonzalez), Oaxacan (Guelaguetza), and high-end Mexican (Broken Spanish, Damian). East LA, Boyle Heights, and taco trucks everywhere serve authentic flavors.

Koreatown is the epicenter of Korean culture outside Korea. 24-hour Korean BBQ spots (Parks, Kang Ho-dong), late-night dining culture, and specialty spots for every Korean dish. Don't miss: jjajangmyeon, fried chicken, and the late-night scene. K-Town never sleeps.

Little Tokyo, Sawtelle (Little Osaka), and Torrance have incredible Japanese food. World-class sushi (Sushi Ginza Onodera, n/naka for kaiseki), ramen (Shin-Sen-Gumi, Tsujita), and izakayas abound. The omakase scene rivals Tokyo. Sawtelle is particularly walkable with Japanese bakeries, ramen, and more.

LA pioneered California cuisine — fresh, seasonal, produce-forward cooking. Farmers markets are a religion (Hollywood, Santa Monica). Farm-to-table is standard. Notable spots: Sqirl, Kismet, Gjusta. Vegan and plant-based options are everywhere — LA leads the plant-based movement.

LA's fine dining scene has exploded. Michelin-starred restaurants include Providence (seafood), n/naka (kaiseki), Mélisse (French), and many more. Tasting menus run $150-500+. Reservations often needed weeks ahead. Many high-end chefs also have casual concepts.