United States · tool
Los Angeles food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Los Angeles.
Photo by Lukas Souza on Unsplash
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
$2–$4
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.
Where to try: Street stands and taquerias throughout East LA, particularly around Boyle Heights.
French Dip Sandwich
$12–$18
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.
Where to try: The historic Grand Central Market downtown, and diners in the surrounding financial district.
California Burrito
$8–$15
A substantial burrito filled with carne asada, cheese, pico de gallo, and crucially, French fries, offering a satisfying, indulgent meal.
Where to try: Numerous taquerias and Mexican eateries across San Diego and Southern California, including many in LA's beach communities.
Kogi BBQ Taco
$4–$6
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.
Where to try: The Kogi BBQ truck, which roams various locations across the city, and its brick-and-mortar restaurants.
Avocado Toast
$9–$16
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.
Where to try: Brunch spots and cafes in West Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Silver Lake.
Ramen
$14–$20
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 to try: Little Tokyo and Sawtelle Japantown.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Grand Central Market
Bustling, historic food hall with a vast array of vendors.
Diverse global flavorsCasual lunchFoodie exploration
Koreatown
Vibrant and energetic, known for its 24/7 dining and karaoke culture.
Korean BBQLate-night eatsSpicy stews
Little Tokyo
Authentic Japanese enclave with traditional restaurants and modern eateries.
SushiRamenJapanese sweets
East Los Angeles
The heart of LA's Mexican-American culture, with authentic street food and family-run eateries.
TacosTamalesRegional Mexican specialties
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