Local Delights: The Top Dining and Drinking Spots in Los Angeles

I may sound like a culinary novice, but I've always had a soft spot for buffets.

It’s not just the all-you-can-eat aspect that attracts me; it’s the incredible variety. Imagine finding pasta, orange chicken, and enchiladas all in one place—that’s pure bliss. This same appreciation is why I adore dining in Los Angeles. Venture into a neighborhood famous for its Armenian cuisine, and you might also discover exceptional Peruvian dishes and a nearly century-old steakhouse inspired by the South Pacific, all within a single block.

The neighborhood I’m describing is Glendale, where I reside. Tourists don’t often visit unless they’re heading to the Glendale Galleria or the upscale outdoor shopping venue across the street, the Americana at Brand. However, this beautiful area of LA County (which is technically its own city) borders Griffith Park, the Verdugo Mountains, and the Angeles National Forest, making it definitely worth a visit. Since this is my local area, you’ll find my restaurant recommendations focused on Glendale. That said, I’m not against enjoying the occasional dinner in Santa Monica, especially if it features a mix of Malaysian, Thai, and Indian cuisine. You can also find me in Highland Park for breakfast, downtown LA for lunch, and East Hollywood for drinks.

Here’s my list of favorite spots to eat in Los Angeles…

Breakfast

Forget the myths about LA's bagels. The cacio e pepe bagels at Belle’s Bagels in Highland Park could impress even the most devoted New Yorker. They're perfectly chewy and bursting with cheesy-peppery goodness, but they often sell out by 11am on weekends, so get there early.

You can visit Canter’s anytime; this deli offers breakfast—thick-cut bacon, challah French toast, and huevos rancheros—24/7. An LA institution since 1931, it’s been featured in shows like Mad Men, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Entourage. Another great all-day breakfast spot, which is essential for my weekends, is the vegan bakery and cafe Just What I Kneaded in Frogtown. Their breakfast burrito, filled with soyrizo, tofu egg scramble, and avocado, is delicious, but the real stars are the baked treats, like the strawberry 'pop tarts,' often adorned with cartoon designs, which are both charming and tasty.

Coffee

For an exceptional cup of coffee in Glendale, I recommend Regent Coffee. This no-frills shop on Brand Ave offers small-batch, bourbon barrel-aged beans and seasonal specials at their Eagle Rock location, crafted with fresh ingredients and housemade syrups. You can grab a cup to enjoy on the spot or take home some beans. If you're looking for a more elaborate experience, visit Bloom & Plume Coffee in a charming historic building with a striking purple facade, just a 10-minute stroll from the Echo Park Swan Boats. Co-owned by the stylish florist Maurice Harris, this spot features stunning monochromatic bouquets alongside unique drinks like the Channel Orange Latte, reminiscent of a chocolate and orange Creamsicle.

Lunch

I often joke that for Glendale locals, the hottest accessory of the season is a to-go bag from Porto’s Bakery & Cafe. This beloved Cuban spot is always bustling with customers eager for carry-out medianoche sandwiches, featuring slow-roasted pork, sweet ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles, as well as crispy potato balls. As you stroll through the area, you'll likely spot many of those iconic yellow bags with brown lettering. Don’t be deterred by the line at the bakery; it moves swiftly.

If you prefer a more relaxed lunch, make your way to the charming 1920s Spanish Colonial Hotel Figueroa in downtown LA. Dining here is as much an artistic experience as it is a culinary one. The lobby features a rotating art exhibition and is home to Cafe Fig, where even the grilled cheese sandwich (made with sourdough, caramelized onions, and a hint of spicy mustard) feels elevated. On Sundays, however, I save my appetite for Chifa, a unique Chinese and Peruvian restaurant in Highland Park, known for its dim sum lunch. Enjoy shrimp dumplings alongside a refreshing Inca Kola, available only on Sundays.

Aperitivo

For a delightful drink before dinner or after a shopping spree, my favorite spot is The 1894 in Pasadena. Nestled within Southern California’s oldest and largest independent bookstore, Vroman’s, this bar serves cocktails inspired by literature. Whiskey enthusiasts should order the 'Pitcher In The Rye', while fans of soju will enjoy 'Paradise Sauced'. On the other hand, Bar Lis at the rooftop of Thompson Hollywood is a chic scene perfect for people-watching, where locals dress to impress. With a decor blending Southern California vibes and the French Riviera, their Summer Spritzes (Casamigos Blanco, Lillet Blanc, grapefruit, orange blossom water, and bubbles) are as inviting as the views of the Hollywood Hills.

Dinner

Cobi’s in Santa Monica serves delicious South Asian dishes, including pork dumplings, wok-tossed vegetables, and curries (be sure to try the butter chicken). The charming decor—floral wallpaper, fringed lampshades, and eclectic china—creates a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of dining at your favorite aunt’s house, if she happened to be an antique lover from Thailand.

At Carousel in Glendale, every meal feels like a celebration. This Lebanese-Armenian restaurant offers generous family-style meals with per-person pricing starting at $28. Friends often think they’ve stumbled into a private event as the lively ambiance sets a festive tone.

While Glendale is famous for its Middle Eastern cuisine, the area surprises with outstanding Peruvian options. Lola’s Peruvian Restaurant serves authentic ceviches and delicious saltados (stir-fries), alongside perfectly fried yuca. Just across the street, the tiki-themed Damon’s, established in 1937, whisks you away to the South Pacific with its prime rib roast (available Friday to Sunday) and tropical cocktails—be sure to browse the menu with a mai tai in hand.

Bar

Perfectly located next to the Pasadena Playhouse, Bar Chelou is ideal for a drink after a show. As a martini enthusiast, I highly recommend the Olivette (a mix of gin, St-Germain, dry vermouth, and bitters). If you’re hungry, it also serves as a full-service restaurant, described as a “quirky French bistro.” With a dedicated lounge area surrounded by tropical plants, it’s a great spot for just a cocktail. Another favorite of mine is Lolo Wine Bar in East Hollywood. Choose from their extensive wine list—I particularly enjoy a natural orange—and sink into the candlelit, couch-filled bar area. Lastly, for a fun night out, Zebulon in Frogtown offers an indoor-outdoor dance scene with live music and themed DJ nights, like '80s parties and indie dance events. Dance to a few tunes, then grab a barstool or head outside to the beer garden to relish the LA night air.