As a food enthusiast and a frequent visitor to Los Angeles, I must say that the dining scene in this city is truly extraordinary! From the bustling streets of Melrose Hill to the vibrant heart of Koreatown, there’s always something delicious to discover.
The charm of Hollywood lunches has faded: nowadays, it’s all about virtual meetings, working from home, and shrinking budgets for meals. This transformation is due to the prevalence of online conferences, the endurance of remote settings, and the decline in corporate entertainment funds.
Although some established restaurants like Toscana, Hamasaku, and The Polo Lounge continue to thrive, several popular eateries such as Spago, Mr Chow, Pizzeria Mozza, and Musso & Frank have recently decided to skip the lunch service. It’s not hard to see why – their delicate profit margins, weakened years ago by a city that reduced its afternoon drinking, are now facing additional pressure from increasing labor costs.
In recent times, fresh competitors have emerged without traditional practices such as tablecloths or reservation systems. Instead, orders for tables costing over $100 are typically placed at the counter. Remarkably, these establishments are managing to attract dedicated clientele. Whether they will stand the test of time remains to be seen, but there’s a possibility that one could fill the void left by the legendary Ago, Ammo, Kate Mantilini, and Barney Greengrass – essentially, timeless classics.
Mae Malai
The recently opened noodle restaurant in the bustling Thai district, known for its culinary competitions, is conveniently located near Netflix, Paramount, Technicolor, and other landmarks. This eatery has been recognized with Michelin’s Bib Gourmand award and prides itself on its minimalistic atmosphere. Their signature dish is Boat Noodles. Please note that reservations are not accepted, so there might be a queue. 5321 Hollywood Blvd. (paraphrased)
Civico
Indeed, many adore the charming Italian-American eatery Little Dom’s. However, its new contemporary neighbor at 2064 Hillhurst Ave., specializing in Calabrian cuisine, provides a more diverse menu. It offers hearty paninis and pastas, as well as numerous gluten-free and vegan options, and an impressive selection of nonalcoholic cocktails – keep an eye out for the No-groni.
Bar Sinizki
Your Eastside client would rather choose the location for our meeting. It’s a unique fusion of Vienna and Prague, situated in a bustling part of Atwater Village. Upon entering, you’ll find an inviting atmosphere with globe lights, checkered floors, and a curved bar. The menu offers a variety, ranging from tartines, baguettes, salads, to a burger served on Bub & Grandma’s bun. You can find it at 3147 Glendale Blvd.
Belle’s
Located in Highland Park, this modern deli has a nostalgic atmosphere, offering an experience quite different from the gruff service at Canter’s. Instead of the usual brusque service, expect friendly and welcoming staff. The menu pays homage to Langer’s No. 19 pastrami, as well as sweet noodle kugel, scallion latkes, a pickle platter, matzo ball soup, and a schnitzel sandwich with marinated cabbage on griddled challah bread. You can find it at 5022 York Blvd.
Lorenzo
The tiny Beverly Hills spot is justly hailed for its eponymous Florentine-style sandwich: mortadella, parmigiano pate, toasted pistachios, roasted red bell peppers. It’s an absolute must-order. But don’t miss the sleeper-hit gnocchi with ragu. The adjacent city parking lot makes for easy, in-out meetings with denizens of the Golden Triangle. 9529 S. Santa Monica Blvd.
Dante
Among the rare post-work-mandate launches offering a luxurious dining experience, Dante situated atop the Maybourne hotel on 225 N. Canon Drive in Beverly Hills, provides breathtaking vistas stretching beyond the city. Primarily Italian cuisine is served, with a focus on pizzas. Buck the workday abstainers and complement your meal with Dante’s must-try signature cocktail, the Garibaldi (Campari mixed with whipped orange juice).
Iki Nori
At this highly praised new spot on Sunset Boulevard that’s a Hollywood equivalent to L.A.’s sushi king Kazu Nori, seating is limited to a 12-seat bar and walk-ins only. The menu extends beyond sushi rolls (including premium choices like A5 Wagyu), offering crispy tuna tacos, mushroom soup, mochi ice cream, and natural wine as well. Address: 6464 Sunset Blvd.
Little Fish
At this lively Echo Park eatery located at 1606 Sunset Boulevard, you’ll discover mushroom congee and smoked whitefish tartines. However, the main attraction that your Eastside friends are excited to savor is the renowned fried fish sandwich: Pacific striped bass served with pickles, melted American cheese, and Kewpie mayo on a potato roll. This delectable sandwich has been creating quite a buzz!
Burgette
As a gamer, I’ve noticed that the eatery next to Bar Monette in Santa Monica, which used to be Stout, has undergone a transformation with a distinct French touch. Now, it’s serving up a compact menu of smashed Wagyu patties, finely chopped onions, gribiche aioli, and, you guessed it, Brioche buns. This isn’t light fare for those watching their weight or planning an afternoon of productivity. 111 Santa Monica Blvd.
Café Telegrama
The neighbors running the sometimes temperamental, lively Etra eatery have started offering enhanced daytime essentials (the ham and cheese sandwich is now prosciutto cotto and gruyère) at this understated spot in the rapidly developing art gallery district of Melrose Hill, right next to the Paramount lot. 737 N. Western Ave.
Origin BBQ
After dining at this Koreatown spot located at 3465 W. 6th St., you’ll indulge in a generous meal that might leave you feeling its effects later on. Your clothes will carry the tantalizing aroma of barbecue afterwards. The price tag may make it an expense, but it’s worth every penny. This newcomer to the scene is incredibly attentive to detail, and their signature dishes like corn cheese and brisket hotpots are simply unmatched in quality. You won’t hesitate to return.
Broadway Cuisine
Jake, you’d be making a wise choice by dining at Chinatown – it’s perfect for discreet business lunches or meals. The expansive dining area was once home to the Plum Tree Inn and now offers a diverse menu of 242 Cantonese and Chinese-American dishes, ranging from moo shu pork to egg foo young. You can find it at 913 N. Broadway.
Ditroit Taqueria
Visit this hidden gem of a taqueria in the Arts District, L.A., run by the chef behind Pujol (Mexico City) and Cosme (NYC). This restaurant offers an impeccable taco selection. In addition to the fantastic tacos, don’t miss out on the fish flautas, esquites, tamales, and what many consider the best churros in town! You can find it at 2117 Violet St.
Crudo e Nudo
Heed this: The south Santa Monica raw bar and wine store you’re about to visit operates on an order-at-the-counter system, but fear not, it exudes chic vibes! While the pricier choices range from traditional Italian dishes featuring dressed fish to mini uni tacos, caviar nachos, and grilled prawns, you’re welcome to bring your furry friend to enjoy the outdoor seating. Address: 2724 Main St.
Sobar
At this Del Rey eatery nestled between the Sony lot and Venice’s creative hub, I’ve found a hidden gem that specializes in refreshing, homemade soba noodles. From light and crispy fried tofu, slow-cooked tender duck breast, to traditional Kyoto-style egg omelettes, their array of appetizers is impressive. A side note worth mentioning: These authentic Japanese buckwheat noodles are gluten-free and a testament to their commitment to quality. You can find them at 12404 W. Washington Blvd.
The Brothers Sushi
Lately, there have been delightful expansions to Santa Monica and Culver City on the Westside. However, when you’re in the heart of the West Valley at midday, the cherished original Woodland Hills location, conveniently situated near the 101 freeway, is a must-visit. Their lunch offerings, such as the affordable twelve-course omakase, are quite appealing. 21418 Ventura Blvd. (This version maintains the original’s meaning while sounding more conversational and easy to read.)
“The article you’re reading was published in the October 30th edition of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Consider subscribing for more insightful stories like this one.
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2024-11-04 22:26