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Los Angeles food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Los Angeles.
What to eat in Los Angeles
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Tacos de Carnitas
Slow-cooked pork shoulder, crisped to perfection and served in warm corn tortillas, these tacos are a quintessential LA street food experience, bursting with savory flavor.
French Dip Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a French roll, served with a side of rich, savory au jus for dipping. Its origins are debated, but LA claims this hearty classic.
California Burrito
A substantial burrito filled with carne asada, cheese, pico de gallo, and crucially, French fries, offering a satisfying, indulgent meal.
Kogi BBQ Taco
A Korean-Mexican fusion masterpiece, this taco features Korean BBQ short rib with a spicy salsa roja and a refreshing Asian pear-kimchi slaw, a true LA innovation.
Avocado Toast
Simple yet iconic, mashed avocado spread on toasted artisanal bread, often seasoned with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. It's a symbol of LA's health-conscious, trend-setting food scene.
Ramen
While not native, LA has embraced ramen with incredible dedication, offering rich broths and perfectly cooked noodles that rival those in Japan, especially in its Japantown.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bustling, historic food hall with a vast array of vendors.
Vibrant and energetic, known for its 24/7 dining and karaoke culture.
Authentic Japanese enclave with traditional restaurants and modern eateries.
The heart of LA's Mexican-American culture, with authentic street food and family-run eateries.
Dietary notes
Los Angeles is exceptionally accommodating for various dietary needs. Vegetarian and vegan options are abundant across the city, from dedicated plant-based eateries to mainstream restaurants offering extensive meat-free menus. Gluten-free choices are also widely available, with many establishments clearly marking GF items or offering modifications.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary for service staff; 18-20% is standard at restaurants and bars.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •While many places accept cards, it's wise to carry some cash for street vendors and smaller establishments.
- •LA is a car-centric city, so be prepared for driving and parking, or utilize ride-sharing services.
Plan the rest of your Los Angeles trip
Food guides elsewhere