Whether your visit to L.A. is work-related or strictly vacation vibes only, these five restaurants will never steer you wrong for any L.A. dining experience you might be itching to get. Be open to trying new things and experiencing life as a true native because you and your taste buds are in for a wild ride. Make sure to have your cameras out and know that without a doubt, your food gram game will be too irresistible to not snap a pic!
1. Jon and Vinny's: the hotspot for deconstructed Italian
Jon and Vinny's is an exclusive restaurant that serves a modern spin on Italian food located on Fairfax Avenue which is the hippest street-wear area in West Hollywood. The restaurant is among many stores making this city a hot place for millennials to flock such as Supreme, Golf, BAPE and the renowned Canter's Deli. The interior of Jon and Vinny's has a modern wood finish that many say invokes a spa sauna vibe. There are only about 8 tables inside of this quaint space so reservations are a must. The menu amplifies classic pizza, pasta, and salad dishes into deconstructed masterpieces for the many food critics and high-profile celebrities who spend their Sundays catching a quick bite to eat within these walls. Not only does the restaurant offer a divine lunch and dinner, but also my favorite brunch in Los Angeles. Their avocado toast and buttermilk salted pancakes make for an excellent savory and sweet combo. Looking for a wine to go with your "LA Woman burrata pizza?" Not to worry, there is a hidden wine seller in the back of the restaurant with picturesque neon light signs to guide the way.
2. Gracias Madre: for the perfect Mexican-vegan night on the town
This wouldn't be an accurate L.A. food tour guide if there wasn't a contemporary vegan restaurant on this list. The idea of Mexican-vegan fusion might excite some, but repel others taste buds. No need to fear, cashew cheese and tempeh chorizo substitutes might just be even tastier than the real deal. Gracias Madre has healthy tasting Mexican bowls with fresh vegetables and grains that leave you feeling satisfied and full. The BLT wrap is one of their most popular items on the menu which includes: coconut bacon, avocado, pico de Gallo along with a side of whole wheat tortilla and a mini caesar salad. In the mood to drink with your girlfriends for a night on the town? Gracias Madre is in the center of all the action so order a fruity hibiscus rose cocktail or a classic mimosa before you hit the clubs.
3. The Rose Venice: Instagram-able beach grub for the boho chicks
Los Angeles La gif
The Rose Venice is located on Main Street, just a walking distance from the infamous Venice Beach Boardwalk. For tourists looking for a decadent bite to eat after a long day shopping on Abbott Kinney or spending hours watching bodybuilders do acrobats on Muscle Beach, this is the place to feast. Dress this restaurant up with a cute mini dress or come wearing your beach cover-up, the dining atmosphere is versatile and serves to the customers' needs. The walls of this restaurant are covered in painted rose murals, for those of you who enjoy a good Instagram photo-op this is the place to be. The Rose Venice offers indoor and outdoor dining as well as an abundance of bar seating. The vibes are boho-chick chic which is fitting for the locations' beach town vibes. The menu has a variety of baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, fish tacos, crispy brussel sprouts, and even baked calamari options. Chefs are used to the picky lifestyle of Los Angeles locals with distinct dietary restrictions such as keto, paleo, vegan, ovo-lacto vegetarians and any diet you could possible demise. The Rose Venice will cater to your needs. Come here for brunch, lunch or dinner and I guarantee it will not disappoint!
4. Perch LA: city lights and French delights
Fourth on the trendiest restaurants in LA list is a little bit pricier than the rest. This is only because you are paying for the live outdoor music, glorious views of downtown Los Angeles, and undeniably delicious French food. Perch LA is mainly for special occasions but can be casual if you are in the mood to spend a pretty buck. There is seating outdoors for couples on the prowl for a romantic night under the stars or should I say the smog layer. If you are a fan of French onion soup, it is one of their best appetizers. The filet mignon is one for the books, perfectly cooked with a side of fries for the kids or yourself of course. Don't forget to order a "Midnight in Paris" to fit into the French fantasy theme or any other drink from their lengthy menu. The view of the city lights while eating a plate of delicate French soup is what this city is all about.
5. Katsuya Hollywood: the sushi lover's utopia
Hungry Sushi
Katsuya in Hollywood is one of the many Katsuya restaurant locations in the Los Angeles area. The cuisine is authentic Japanese infused with the American adaptation of Japanese culture. All of their fish is fresh and paired with complementary sauces to bring out the fish's natural taste. For those of you that aren't raw fish lovers, there is a variety of cooked options that are just as appetizing. Their vegetable tempura is one of my favorite items on the menu along with their baked crab hand rolls. Another perk of Katsuya Hollywood is its location. The restaurant is right in the center of Hollywood by the Pantages Theatre for broadway lovers looking to grab a bite to eat after the show. The servers will accommodate to your schedule if you are in a time crunch and anxious to get to your seat. The dining room decor style is called the "dragon room" because of its fierce decor and cave-like aura. Pictures of traditional Japanese women in Kabuki and Geisha make-up helps diners transport from the streets of Hollywood to traditional Japan.
Hopefully, these five restaurants offer some insight into the life of an authentic California lifestyle foodie and spark your desire to try the other hundreds of restaurants this beautiful city has to offer. Trendy food stops are constantly opening in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and basically anywhere you might find yourself. Be sure to do your research and spend a pretty buck on the cuisine L.A. has to offer. Don't spend your money on irrelevant souvenirs, when a dining experience will last a lifetime!
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
