Los Angeles County boasts a diverse and thriving culinary scene, offering a wide range of delectable options from authentic Mexican street food to upscale Japanese kaiseki dining. Whether you’re seeking a casual meal or planning a special occasion, here are the top 10 restaurants in Los Angeles County that deserve your attention.
1. n/naka
Located in Palms, n/naka is a prestigious two-Michelin-star restaurant led by chef-owner Niki Nakayama. Nakayama, a protege of the renowned Morihiro Onodera and a featured chef on Netflix’s Chef’s Table, specializes in kaiseki cuisine—a traditional Japanese culinary style emphasizing a meticulous progression of textures, temperatures, flavors, and seasonal ingredients. At n/naka, you’ll typically indulge in a 13-course tasting menu ($310), accompanied by wine and sake pairings. À la carte options are not available, but with dishes this exquisite, that’s more than acceptable.
Location: 3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034
2. Providence
Another two-Michelin-star gem, Providence, focuses on seafood and fine dining. Chef-owner Michael Cimarusti sources ingredients locally from fishermen and farmers, as well as globally, crafting elegant, creative, and mouthwatering dishes. The daily-changing menu showcases delicacies like abalone, uni, caviar, lobster, and truffles. You can choose from various tasting menus ($150-$350) or opt for the chef’s counter experience ($425) for an intimate culinary journey.
Location: 5955 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
3. Spago Beverly Hills
Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant, Spago Beverly Hills, pioneered the fusion of Californian and Asian cuisines. It’s a Hollywood institution where you can savor inventive, flavorful dishes. The menu features classics like smoked salmon pizza, roasted chicken with black truffle sauce, and veal chop with morels. Seasonal specials highlight the best of local produce. You can also explore the tasting menu ($175-$225) or reserve the private room for an exclusive dining experience.
Location: 176 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
4. Nobu Malibu
Offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and Malibu Pier vistas, Nobu Malibu is a beloved hotspot. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s innovative Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences is a crowd-pleaser. Signature dishes include black cod with miso, yellowtail with jalapeño, and rock shrimp tempura. Sushi, sashimi, and omakase options abound. The restaurant features a bar, lounge, and patio for cocktails and sunset enjoyment.
Location: 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
5. République
Set in a historic building once owned by Charlie Chaplin, République is a French-inspired restaurant and bakery in Miracle Mile/Fairfax District. Chef-owner duo Walter and Margarita Manzke craft rustic, refined, and delectable dishes using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes daily but typically includes delights like foie gras torchon, duck confit with lentils, and steak frites with béarnaise sauce. Don’t miss the award-worthy desserts and pastries by Margarita Manzke.
Location: 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
6. Crustacean Beverly Hills
Crustacean Beverly Hills is renowned for its Vietnamese seafood and Asian fusion dishes. The secret kitchen, reserved for family members, prepares signature dishes like garlic noodles, roasted crab, and lobster. The regular kitchen offers other delights like pho, spring rolls, shaking beef, and clay pot chicken. The restaurant also features a bar and lounge with live music and cocktails.
Location: 468 N Bedford Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
7. CATCH LA
CATCH LA, a trendy rooftop restaurant in West Hollywood, is a favorite among celebrities and influencers for its Instagram-worthy decor and cuisine. Seafood-centric dishes with global influences dominate the menu, including sushi, ceviche, lobster rolls, scallops with cauliflower and truffle, and crispy whole snapper. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, along with a bar and lounge offering stunning city views.
Location: 8715 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069
8. Guelaguetza
In Koreatown, Guelaguetza is a family-owned restaurant specializing in authentic Oaxacan cuisine. Mole, a complex sauce made with chilies, spices, nuts, seeds, and chocolate, is a standout. Guelaguetza offers seven different mole varieties, served with chicken, pork, beef, or vegetables. Explore other Oaxacan specialties like tlayudas, memelas, clayudas, and chapulines (grasshoppers), and pair them with mezcal or michelada.
Location: 3014 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
9. Maccheroni Republic
Located in Downtown L.A., Maccheroni Republic is an intimate Italian eatery known for its daily-made fresh pasta from organic flour and eggs. Enjoy pasta dishes featuring classic sauces like pesto, bolognese, carbonara, and amatriciana, along with other Italian delights such as salads, soups, risotto, and pizza. A thoughtfully curated wine list spotlights organic and biodynamic wines from Italy and California.
Location: 332 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
10. Cafe Gratitude
Cafe Gratitude is a vegan restaurant with a unique twist—it serves organic and plant-based dishes infused with positive affirmations. Menu items carry names like “I am grateful,” “I am whole,” and “I am awesome,” which you recite when ordering. The creative and satisfying offerings include quinoa bowls, kale salads, black bean burgers, cashew cheese nachos, and raw cheesecakes. The restaurant also offers a variety of juices, smoothies, teas, and coffees.
Location: 512 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291
Conclusion
In conclusion, Los Angeles County offers a culinary paradise with something for every palate and occasion. Whether you’re seeking casual or fine dining experiences, these top-notch restaurants in L.A. are sure to leave you satisfied.
