Los Angeles is a massive playground for anyone who loves to eat. From street vendors to Michelin-starred dining, every neighborhood has its own flavor and flair. It’s loud, it’s bright, and honestly, it’s always changing—so you’ll never get bored.
Whether you’re snacking on late-night noodles or chillin’ over third-wave coffee, LA hits every budget and craving. The city’s energy is nonstop, and the food scene is just as wild—no planning needed, just show up hungry.
From iconic street food to globally famous chefs, Los Angeles is endlessly fun to explore with your fork (and camera). Here’s how to eat your way through LA right now.
What to Eat in Los Angeles
Chili Cheese Dog at Pink’s
This legendary hot dog stand has been serving up beefy dogs covered in chili and gooey cheese since 1939. It’s classic, messy, and pure LA.
Find it at Pink’s on Melrose—late-night lines, but it’s worth it just for the vibe.
Taquitos with Avocado Sauce at Cielito Lindo
Tucked away on Olvera Street, these crispy, rolled beef taquitos have been a go-to for nearly 100 years. The tangy avocado sauce is what makes them magic.
If you’re near DTLA, just grab and go—this is real LA history on a plate.
Double-Double Burger at In-N-Out
You can’t talk LA food without mentioning In-N-Out. The Double-Double is iconic—fresh, stacked burgers, always made to order. Pro tip: order it “animal style” for extra goodness.
There’s a spot near every freeway entrance. Just pull off and refuel—the LA way.
French Dip Sandwich at Philippe’s
One of LA’s original sandwiches. Philippe’s dips their baguettes in savory jus for perfectly tender bites. The counter is old-school and the vibe is pretty much always buzzing.
Order spicy mustard for the full effect.
Korean BBQ
K-Town grills are where LA shows off—endless banchan, charred meats, all the smoky energy. It’s communal, it’s noisy, and it’s honestly some of the best Korean BBQ in the US.
Places like Park’s BBQ or Quarters are always packed, but you’ll eat like royalty.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles
Koreatown
Koreatown is true 24/7 eating. BBQ, late-night noodles, food halls, you name it—this neighborhood is nonstop. The energy is wild, the food is crazy good, and you can wander from taco stands to upscale tasting menus in a few blocks.
Perfect spot for groups and anyone who wants to snack their way around.
Arts District
This is where indie coffee shops, chef-driven kitchens, and mural-covered buildings all hang out. Locals love spots like Bestia and Guerrilla Tacos. It’s super walkable—come for dinner or weekend hangs and you’ll never run out of cool stops.
The vibe is always creative, and new places pop up every month.
Downtown LA (DTLA)
DTLA is the hub for everything from street food finds to luxe rooftop dining. There’s an incredible variety—grab taquitos at Olvera Street, ramen in Little Tokyo, or climb up to a rooftop for cocktails and crazy city views.
It’s bustling, loud, and full of surprises at every turn.
Silver Lake & Echo Park
Eastside neighborhoods are all about coffee, killer brunch spots, and trendy bakeries. Silver Lake especially has some of the coolest patios and creative menus. There’s always another spot on Sunset to try.
Great for lazy days and people-watching with friends.
Venice
Venice is more than just the beach—expect buzzy cafés, wild food trucks, and the trendy Abbot Kinney scene. The mix here is super global, and you just can’t beat a sunset meal by the water.
Do an afternoon food crawl near the skate park and you’ll see the whole LA scene in a couple of blocks.
Budget Restaurants in Los Angeles
Howlin’ Ray’s
Hot chicken that’s actually spicy, affordable, and famous for a reason. This Chinatown favorite brings on long waits and even longer flavor.
The sandwich is huge, the fries are epic, and the line is all part of the experience.
Tacos 1986
Insanely good street tacos for only a few bucks each, with tasty fillings like adobada and mushrooms. Multiple locations around the city, all equally casual.
Quick, cheap, and ridiculously delicious if you want a real LA taco run.
Mariscos Jalisco
Forget basic fish tacos—Mariscos Jalisco’s fried shrimp tacos are legendary. This food truck has won all the awards, and it still costs less than $10 for a perfect lunch.
Find them parked on Olympic in Boyle Heights.
Guelaguetza
Your spot for Oaxacan food that won’t break the bank. Mole tamales, tlayudas, and more. The place is great for groups and the portions are big.
Definitely come hungry—it’s a casual space with amazing flavors.
Guerrilla Tacos
This started as a truck and is now a taco mecca right in the Arts District. Top-shelf ingredients, house-made salsas, and killer vegetarian options—still super affordable.
Perfect spot if you want creative LA food without spending big.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Los Angeles
République
A French-inspired all-day café in a historic building—think epic pastries, creative brunches, and solid cocktails. Dinner is busy, but lunch is chill.
It lands right in the sweet spot between special and casual.
Jon & Vinny’s
Classic LA Italian-American comfort food—pizza, pastas, and house-made soft serve. Easy to get a table if you go off-hours, and the prices feel reasonable for how much you get.
Don’t sleep on the breakfast menu either.
Bestia
This Arts District favorite is known for house-cured meats, handmade charcuterie, and wood-fired pizzas. The vibe is always buzzing. Reservations are a must for dinner.
Go for the bone marrow and let your friends try everything else.
Sqirl
Bright brunches, inventive toasts, and jams made in-house. The line is long but moves fast. Most folks go for breakfast, but their rice bowls and salads are absolutely worth a detour.
It’s casual but always feels fresh and fun.
Osteria Mozza
One of the best Italian spots in town, Michelin-starred but still welcoming. The mozzarella bar is the main event, and the pastas are next-level.
Great for celebrations, but not overly formal or stuffy.
Luxury Restaurants in Los Angeles
Melisse
For a true splurge, Melisse in Santa Monica is fine dining royalty. Expect artistic tasting menus, an intimate dining room, and service that’s super smooth. It’s all very “treat yourself” without being pretentious.
If you’re ready to celebrate or just go full-on foodie, book early.
CATCH Los Angeles
Rooftop views, celeb sightings, seafood towers and great sushi. CATCH is all about that Hollywood vibe—everyone’s snapping photos, but the food gets real love too.
Go for the scene, stay for the desserts, and pack your Instagram.
Best Coffee Shops in Los Angeles
File Systems of Coffee
Chic, plant-filled, and with serious engineering vibes in Melrose. Laptops out, pour-overs on point, and chill energy all day.
Cafe Giverny
Calm, creative, and beautiful pastries. It’s a little hidden, but that’s part of the appeal. Great lattes and quiet corners for reading, too.
Crumbs & Whiskers
Kitten + cat café! Rescue cats everywhere. Sip coffee and get all the furry vibes. Book ahead if you’re hoping for one of the quieter times.
Verve Coffee Roasters
Hip, local-favorite with several LA spots. Their plant wall in DTLA is iconic, and the iced coffee never fails.
Alchemist Coffee Project
Brewing in Koreatown, Alchemist is known for specialty blends and an airy, minimalist vibe. Excellent matcha lattes, too.
Markets in Los Angeles
Smorgasburg LA
This Sunday market is legendary—dozens of unique food vendors, pop-up shops, drinks, and good people watching. Entry is free, but you’ll want to bring cash for bites.
There’s everything from vegan ramen to wild donut creations. Go hungry and try it all.
Hollywood Farmers’ Market
One of LA’s biggest and best food markets, held Sundays on Ivar Ave. The produce is fantastic, but don’t ignore the ready-to-eat stalls—tacos, pastries, breakfast burritos, plus live music.
Arrive early for the least crowded stroll.
Original Farmers Market LA
Since 1934, this indoor food market near The Grove has been serving everything from ice cream to Brazilian barbecue. Over 100 vendors indoors and outdoors with every snack you could want.
It’s touristy but still super fun for snacks or lunch with friends.
Budget Accommodation in Los Angeles
Samesun Venice Beach Hotel & Hostel
Right on the Venice boardwalk—bunks and privates, clean, and as cheap as LA gets for a beach stay. Shared kitchen and cool roof views.
The Tangerine
Burbank spot that’s quirky and stylish but won’t empty your wallet. Free parking, pool, great eats nearby. Mediocre WiFi, but you’re in LA, go outside.
June Hotel
Playful, modern sister to Proper Hotels near LAX. Trendy, clean, and comfy for the price. Fun rooftop pool and bar.
Arion Cozy Getaway Santa Monica
Airbnb studios with free parking, just a few blocks from the beach. Great value in Santa Monica, especially if you like a little quiet.
HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel
Super-social hostel just off Santa Monica’s main drag. Clean, walkable to both the beach and tons of food. Dorms or privates available, breakfast included.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Los Angeles
Hotel Erwin
Right in Venice with a rooftop bar, fun decor, and classic LA beach vibes. Not cheap, but the views (and people-watching) are hard to beat.
The Kinney Venice Beach
Splashy colors, close to the beach, and super family-friendly. Small pool and affordable rates if you book early.
Inn at Venice Beach
Comfy rooms and right near the boardwalk—nothing fancy, but easy walking everywhere. Free breakfast and decent rates.
1 Hotel West Hollywood
Chic, eco-friendly hotel with a rooftop pool, solid cocktails, and big (by LA standards) rooms. The location is perfect for exploring the Sunset Strip and celeb-spotting.
Fairmont Century Plaza
Landmark hotel near Beverly Hills. Luxe for the price, with a great pool and lots of restaurant options nearby. Rooms are huge, service is solid.
Luxury Accommodation in Los Angeles
Hotel Bel-Air
The ultimate retreat—lush gardens, serene pool, and celebrity-approved privacy. Rooms are dreamy with top-tier amenities and perfect service.
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Design-forward, swanky rooftop pool, and just blocks from the ocean. Rooms are spacious and the whole vibe is peak California luxury.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
The Pink Palace is iconic for a reason—old Hollywood glamour, poolside bungalows, and tucked-away gardens. It’s a splurge with star power.
Maybourne Beverly Hills
Modern luxe with unbeatable spa and wellness offerings. You’re in the heart of Beverly Hills, and the rooms are genuinely beautiful.
The London West Hollywood
Sleek suites, killer rooftop pool, and an awesome location for nightlife. Breakfast is legendary and the service level matches the price tag.
