Bars and restaurants
Baroo, Arts District
Kwang Uh and Mina Park’s Baroo is one of the most exciting reservations in the city thanks to its ambitious, fermentation-driven Korean fare. Uh, who once considered becoming a monk, has created a lyrical menu featuring envelope-pushing dishes such as smoked mussels with raspberry gochujang, and hay-smoked amberjack, charred scallion and gim (seaweed) sauce.
Found Oyster, East Hollywood
This jewel-box of a restaurant has a menu is built around oysters and seasonal seafood towers, which pair well with the natural wines on offer. Take a seat at the intimate bar or on the pavement patio and enjoy the Sicilian crudo and the scallop tostada.
Bestia, Arts District
Ori Menashe’s Italian-inspired haunt in a former warehouse is always packed and full of energy. Choosing from the extensive menu is difficult but we suggest the charcuterie, the roasted bone marrow with spinach gnocchetti and the cavatelli alla norcina.
N/naka, Palms
One of the city’s most revered chefs, Niki Nakayama specialises in kaiseki – a traditional Japanese multi-course meal – and has created elegant dishes such as uni-butter sea bass. Despite kaiseki’s historic heritage, Nakayama’s version is fresh and modern as her ambitious menu – and the accompanying wines and sakés – change regularly.
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Café Telegrama, Melrose Hill
In 2023 artist John Zabawa added a European stamp to Melrose Hill with Café Telegrama. “The design centres on the tables of Parisian cafés, Italian ceramics and flavourful coffee profiles,” says Zabawa, “as well as Denmark’s use of interior architecture crafted with natural elements.” The menu includes breakfast staples such as pancakes with ricotta and blueberry compote, and Cobb and chopped salads. The avocado and Korean chilli on toast is also worth returning for.
Osteria Mozza, Hollywood
Nancy Silverton’s Osteria Mozza helped to establish Los Angeles as a serious culinary destination. A few hours at this restaurant and its renowned mozzarella bar can constitute a complete evening. Try the burrata and marinated peppers, the orecchiette with sausage and Swiss chard, and the grilled octopus with a glass of Italian wine.
Go Get Em Tiger, Citywide
Since 2013, Go Get Em Tiger has been the city’s defining coffee spot thanks to its knowledgeable baristas and its close relationships with growers. The 24HR Cold Brew is the signature pour. If you’re in need of an extra boost, try the almond-macadamia latte.
Night + Market Song, Silver Lake
Chef Kris Yenbamroong cut his culinary teeth at his family’s restaurant. What you’ll find at his own place is top-notch spicy Thai fare and a convivial atmosphere. Aharn glam lao is the name of the game here, which roughly translates to “food that facilitates drinking and having fun among friends”, an experience that’s enhanced by the vibrant fit-out. You can’t go wrong with any of the larbs (classic minced-meat salads).
Redbird, Downtown
Neal Fraser’s innovative New American kitchen occupies the former rectory of the Cathedral of St Vibiana. The seasonal menu features whole crispy branzino and braised-goat gemelli. Book a leisurely weekend brunch under the vaulted ceilings.
Tam O’Shanter, Atwater Village
This steakhouse is one of LA’s oldest restaurants and is still operated by its founding family. Settle into one of the dark-wood booths for Scottish-inspired American cooking, including prime rib served on a carving trolley.
Bavel, Arts District
Here, Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis blend Middle Eastern cooking with an easygoing Californian spirit. Expect spice-heavy marinades, wood-fired meats and generous sharing plates. Don’t skip the lamb-neck shawarma, the oyster-mushroom kebab or the nduja hummus. The airy warehouse dining room, complete with exposed brick and hanging greenery, has a lively atmosphere.
Apotheke, Chinatown
The cocktails on Apotheke’s dispensary-style menu are grouped by their alleged restorative properties. The usagi (gin with green apple and carrot juice), for example, is listed under health and beauty. The dark, moody space is a fine place in which to while away the evening.
