LA’s restaurant scene reflects the diverse melting pot of cultures that exists within the city itself. Considered a “foodie paradise” by insiders, Los Angeles prides itself on innovative dining experiences that go far beyond the norm. Alongside major culinary masterminds, like Nobu Matsuhisa, Wolfgang Puck, and José Andrés, you’ll also find humble food trucks, farmers’ markets, food festivals, rooftop/poolside spots, and more. In addition to the new and the avant-garde, don’t miss out on Hollywood classics, like Mr. Chow and Cecconi’s. From the best steakhouses and sushi restaurants to the freshest seafood and satisfying Tex-Mex, Savoir Flair‘s guide to dining in Los Angeles covers all the bases.
Read on for a complete overview of Los Angeles’ can’t-miss restaurants, then click here for the best places to rest your head after a hearty meal.
Perch
Francophiles need look no further than Perch for their next meal in Los Angeles. This Downtown LA hotspot, which towers 15 floors above the city, serves up spectacular views, live music, and French cuisine. Tip: If your order doesn’t include ‘Cordon Bleu’ and ‘Shake and Bake Drumsticks’, you’re missing out.
Average price for two: AED 367/SAR 375
Tel: (+1) 213 802 1770
www.perchla.com
Bottega Louie
Voted one of the top 25 most Instagrammed restaurants in America, Bottega Louie is a gourmet market, café, and patisserie all wrapped up in one. The lobster hash is a savory and rich must-try dish.
Average price for two: AED 220/SAR 225
Tel: (+1) 213 802 1470
www.bottegalouie.com
Mr Chow – Beverly Hills
Mr Chow offers the three ‘C’s: Chinese cuisine, celebrity clientele, and (unbeatable) chicken satay. The high-end restaurant’s black-and-white tiled floor is consistently one of the chicest spots for the well-heeled to place their feet (and forks) in LA. The ‘Mr Chow Noodles’ are wildly popular, but you’d be remiss if you didn’t try the green prawns or green shrimp too.
Average price for two: AED 588/SAR 600
Tel: (+1) 310 278 9911
www.mrchow.com
Cecconi’s
This relaxed, elegant Italian restaurant has been a staple of the Los Angeles food scene since 1978. Snag a spot on the patio for prime people-watching real estate, and enjoy a wood-fired pizza, fresh seafood, and a refreshing drink. Insiders know to order the secret “off-menu” tiramisu.
Average price for two: AED 220/SAR 225
Tel: (+1) 310 432 2000
www.cecconiswesthollywood.com
Bestia
Husband-and-wife team Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis are responsible for the innovative Italian menu at Bestia. Seasonal produce makes it pop with vibrant color, and the kitchen is skilled at turning unexpected elements (like chicken gizzards) into culinary marvels.
Average price for two: AED 367/SAR 375
Tel: (+1) 213 514 5724
www.bestiala.com
Mrs. Fish
This beautifully decorated underground supper club is a popular destination for hipsters and foodies. From a carefully curated craft-cocktail menu and tasty “small bites” to live music and a huge aquarium that lines the ceiling, Mrs. Fish has it all. Get fancy with salmon caviar and truffles, and finish with ‘Sticky Finger’ cookie sandwiches.
Average price for two: AED 220/SAR 225
Tel: (+1) 213 873 4444
www.mrsfish.com
Matsuhisa
When Nobu Matsuhisa‘s name is on the marquee, you know you’ve found one of the best dining spots in Los Angeles. Take a seat at the “chef’s table” to be served a tasting menu of unforgettable dishes directly by the master sushi chefs behind the bar of this iconic establishment.
Average price for two: AED 448/SAR 457
Tel: (+1) 310 659 9639
www.nobumatsuhisa.com
Mastro’s
Calling all carnivores! Mastro’s offers up the best steaks in Los Angeles, with multiple locations around the city. It also serves out-of-this world seafood, including an ‘Alaskan Truffle Crab Gnocchi’ dish. Tip: Hip crowds tend to prefer the Penthouse location to the original (and more traditional) Steakhouse location.
Average price for two: AED 367/SAR 375
Tel: (+1) 310 888 8782
www.mastrosrestaurants.com
Spago
Wolfgang Puck embraces the farm-to-table concept at this beloved Los Angeles restaurant. A four-star dining experience, comfortable atmosphere, and imaginative menu await you at Spago. Be sure to request patio seating and don’t miss the ‘Duck Dinner for Two’.
Average price for two: AED 448/SAR 457
Tel: (+1) 310 385 0880
www.wolfgangpuck.com
The Rooftop Grill at The Montage Beverly Hills
One of Beverly Hills’ best breakfast spots is located on the rooftop of The Montage. If you want to kill a few hours relaxing poolside, The Rooftop Grill is a sought-after LA destination. While enjoying one of its many iterations of eggs benedict, don’t forget to order an amazing pressed juice – made in-house!
Average price for two: AED 220/SAR 224
Tel: (+1) 310 860 7990
www.montagehotels.com/beverlyhills/dining/
Upstairs at the Ace Hotel
This glamorous sky-high spot boasts an incredible view of Los Angeles, a posh atmosphere, and a light menu featuring sandwiches, snacks, and delicious desserts. Did we mention there is an option to dine poolside?
Average price for two: AED 265/SAR 270
Tel: (+1) 213 623 3233
www.acehotel.com/losangeles
The Bazaar
Award-winning chef José Andrés is the mastermind behind The Bazaar’s incredibly sophisticated and imaginative menu. One visit and you’ll understand why it’s been voted the best restaurant in Los Angeles and one of the best hotel restaurants in the world. Deconstructed tapas are a huge attraction, but the most raved-about menu item is undoubtedly the ‘Cotton Candy Foie Gras’.
Average price for two: AED 367/SAR 375
Tel: (+1) 310 246 5555
www.sbe.com/restaurants/brands/thebazaar
The Lobster
Since it reopened in 1999, The Lobster has become the premiere seafood dining spot in greater Los Angeles. Come for the stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and stay for the ‘Maine Lobster Tail’. If it’s in season, don’t miss the ‘Spiny Lobster’ dish; it is out-of-this-world delicious.
Average price for two: AED 462/SAR 472
Tel: (+1) 310 458 9294
www.thelobster.com
Bar Amá
Bar Amá is renowned for its elevated Tex-Mex cuisine. If you’re in search of spicy comfort food, try ‘Nana’s Frito Pie’ or a heaping helping of queso. The hotspot also hosts a Super Nacho (Happy) Hour, which starts in the afternoon and continues well into the night.
Average price for two: AED 479/SAR 489
Tel: (+1) 213 687 8002
www.bacomercat.com
Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel
The classic setting inside Tower Bar will transport you right back to Old Hollywood. With a stacked menu of upscale bar food, an extensive drinks menu, and live jazz music, it’s a great spot for socializing. While you snack on lobster tacos, keep an eye out for celebrities. This is a great lowkey spot for catching a glimpse of undercover A-listers.
Average price for two: AED 479/SAR 489
Tel: (+1) 323 848 6677
www.sunsettowerhotel.com