Whether you go for Hollywood or the beaches, L.A. has striking views, distinct neighborhoods, and unexpected pockets of charm to impress even the most seasoned traveler. And if that’s not enough, Los Angeles’ restaurant scene is buzzing, with top American chefs flocking to the city for its more affordable rents and its emphasis on creativity. And it’s not all vegan fare and green juices (though there is plenty of that on offer too if it happens to be your thing) the city boasts one of the most diverse culinary scenes in the country, with everything from first-rate sushi and upscale Mexican food to good-old American staples like hot dogs and burgers. With top restaurants spread across the urban sprawl, you need to be prepared to travel – but it will be worth it.
Tinseltown. La La Land. Los Angeles is easily reduced to cliché. But it doesn’t take much to discover there’s so much more than the glitz and glamor for which it’s renowned. What definitely tugs you are the diverse culinary scene. The city of angels brims with celebrity-studded restaurants where the stars and the starry-eyed eat. But peel away the layers and Los Angeles reveals a history of iconic institutions—both classic American diners and food that celebrates the life of its migrant communities. Korean barbecues, vegan cafés, and Japanese sushi places abound, as do more modest joints where age-old recipes rule hearts. Many foodie trends have started in LA’s kitchens, from fusion sushi to Nuevo Latino fare. Best of all, the region’s cuisine keeps redefining and refining itself – and the way the rest of America eats.