Los Angeles has always been more than just Hollywood glamour, endless palm-lined boulevards, or sandy beaches stretching into the Pacific. What truly defines this city is the way it tells its story through food. Every time I land at LAX, I know I’m stepping into a culinary wonderland that blends tradition with experimentation, high-end celebrity dining with hole-in-the-wall treasures.
After dozens of trips to LA, I’ve developed a ritual: I try at least one new restaurant each visit, but I also return to the classics that shaped my love for the city’s food culture. Below, I’ll share my top five iconic restaurants in Los Angeles that you absolutely must try. Each one has its own personality, flavor, and rhythm. And yes, I’ll tell you what to order, how much to budget, and whether you’ll need to book ahead.
1. Musso & Frank Grill – The Hollywood Legend
Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Signature Dishes:
- Flannel Cakes (breakfast, \$14)
- Filet Mignon (\$65)
- Classic Martini (\$18)
Walking into Musso & Frank Grill feels like stepping back in time. Opened in 1919, it is the oldest restaurant in Hollywood and has hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Leonardo DiCaprio. The first time I came here, I booked a late dinner after wandering the Walk of Fame, and I swear the red leather booths and tuxedoed waiters transported me to another era.
I ordered the Filet Mignon, cooked medium rare, and it was everything a steak should be: tender, flavorful, and served with a simple baked potato. But the true star of the evening was the martini. Dry, perfectly chilled, and served with such old-school finesse that I almost expected Humphrey Bogart to pull up a chair.
Pros:
- Historic atmosphere, rich with Hollywood nostalgia
- Impeccable service—waiters treat you like a regular even if it’s your first visit
- Great for both breakfast (the flannel cakes are divine) and dinner
Cons:
- Prices are on the higher side
- Reservations are essential on weekends (I book through OpenTable)
My Tip: Come for dinner but plan a little extra time before or after to walk Hollywood Boulevard—it really heightens the sense of history.
2. Pink’s Hot Dogs – A Local Street Food Legend
Address: 709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Signature Dishes:
- Chili Cheese Dog (\$6.50)
- The “Martha Stewart Dog” (\$9.50)
- Bacon Chili Cheese Fries (\$6.75)
Not all iconic LA restaurants are fancy. Pink’s Hot Dogs is a perfect example of how something casual can become legendary. Since 1939, Pink’s has been serving hot dogs from a tiny stand that almost always has a line wrapped around the block.
I first visited Pink’s after a long day exploring Melrose Avenue’s thrift stores. I stood in line for nearly 40 minutes, but when I finally got my hands on their famous Chili Cheese Dog, it was worth every second. The bun was soft, the dog was juicy, and the chili had just the right kick. I also tried the Martha Stewart Dog (topped with relish, onions, bacon, and sauerkraut), which was both outrageous and delicious.
Pros:
- Affordable—most meals are under \$10
- A true LA institution with a fun, casual vibe
- Perfect late-night stop
Cons:
- Long wait times during peak hours
- Very limited seating, often crowded
My Tip: Come late at night (they close around 2 a.m. on weekends). The line is shorter, and the experience feels very “old Hollywood after-hours.”
3. République – French-Inspired Elegance in Mid-City
Address: 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Signature Dishes:
- Croque Madame (\$22)
- Beef Short Rib (\$48)
- Freshly Baked Pastries (around \$5–\$8 each)
Of all the restaurants I’ve tried in Los Angeles, République holds a special place in my heart. Set in a beautiful historic building that once belonged to Charlie Chaplin, République offers a mix of French-inspired cuisine with a distinctly California twist.
The first time I came here was for brunch, and the Croque Madame was absolutely heavenly—rich béchamel sauce, perfectly toasted bread, a runny egg on top. On another visit, I came for dinner and tried the Beef Short Rib, slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
But here’s my favorite part: the bakery counter at the front. The pastries here rival those I’ve had in Paris. The kouign-amann, buttery and caramelized, costs about \$6 and is worth every cent.
Pros:
- Stunning atmosphere with high ceilings and historic charm
- Incredible French-inspired menu
- The bakery is a must, even if you’re not dining in
Cons:
- On the expensive side, especially for dinner
- Walk-in brunch lines can be long; reservations for dinner are highly recommended
My Tip: Book a dinner table via Resy, but also swing by in the morning for pastries—it’s two completely different but equally memorable experiences.
4. Guelaguetza – Authentic Oaxacan Cuisine
Address: 3014 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Signature Dishes:
- Mole Negro (\$28)
- Tlayuda (\$18)
- Mezcal Cocktails (\$12–\$15)
When I want authentic Mexican food in Los Angeles, I head straight to Guelaguetza. This family-run restaurant specializes in Oaxacan cuisine and has won a James Beard award for its cultural significance.
The first dish I tried here was the Mole Negro, a complex sauce made with over 30 ingredients, including chocolate and chili peppers. It was smoky, sweet, and unlike anything else I’ve ever tasted. Their Tlayuda, sometimes called the “Mexican pizza,” is another standout—crispy, loaded with beans, cheese, lettuce, and chorizo.
The atmosphere is vibrant, often with live music, and the staff make you feel like family. I also loved exploring their mezcal menu, which introduced me to new flavors I’d never tried before.
Pros:
- Truly authentic Oaxacan cuisine
- Warm, family-like service
- Great value for the quality of food
Cons:
- Parking in Koreatown can be tricky
- Busy during weekends; reservations recommended
My Tip: Try their mole sampler platter if you’re new to Oaxacan cuisine—it’s a great way to taste the variety of flavors.
5. Bestia – Trendy Italian in the Arts District
Address: 2121 7th Place, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Signature Dishes:
- Roasted Bone Marrow (\$27)
- Cavatelli alla Norcina (\$32)
- Spiced Chocolate Budino (\$14)
Last but not least, Bestia in the Arts District is one of the hottest reservations in town. The industrial-style setting is hip, modern, and perfectly suited to the creative neighborhood around it.
The standout dish for me was the Roasted Bone Marrow, served with spinach gnocchetti—rich, decadent, and unforgettable. I also fell in love with their Cavatelli alla Norcina, a handmade pasta with sausage and black truffles that was pure indulgence.
The dessert menu is small but powerful—the Spiced Chocolate Budino is a must-try.
Pros:
- Creative Italian cuisine with bold flavors
- Stylish, industrial-chic setting
- Excellent cocktail menu
Cons:
- Very hard to get a reservation (book at least 3–4 weeks ahead on Resy)
- Loud atmosphere, not great for intimate dining
My Tip: If you can’t get a dinner reservation, try coming early for a walk-in at the bar—you might get lucky.
Practical Dining Tips in Los Angeles
- Reservations Are Key: For places like Musso & Frank, République, and Bestia, book ahead through Resy or OpenTable.
- Budgeting: Expect to spend anywhere from \$10 at Pink’s to \$100+ at Bestia depending on where you go. Mix high and low experiences for balance.
- Dress Code: LA is casual, but upscale restaurants lean toward “smart casual.” A nice shirt or dress will make you feel more comfortable.
- Parking: Always factor in valet or parking fees (usually \$10–\$20 in busier areas).
- Food Safety: Street food like Pink’s is iconic, but always check freshness and avoid peak heat hours for the safest experience.
Los Angeles is a city where food reflects diversity, history, and culture. From the timeless elegance of Musso & Frank to the late-night chaos of Pink’s, the French artistry of République, the Oaxacan soul of Guelaguetza, and the trendy buzz of Bestia, these five restaurants together capture the essence of what makes LA’s dining scene unforgettable.
Every meal I’ve had here tells a story—of Hollywood legends, immigrant traditions, culinary innovation, and the city’s boundless creativity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring LA through its food is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to truly understand the city.
So next time you plan a trip to Los Angeles, skip one extra tourist attraction and spend that time savoring a meal instead. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
