Los Angeles Best Value Restaurants


Westside
Beverly Hills/Hollywood/Midtown
Santa Monica/Marina Del Rey/Malibu
Downtown
San Fernando Valley
San Gabriel Valley/Pasadena
South Bay

Inland Empire

WESTSIDE

Asahi Ramen Japanese
Quick Bite
2027 Sawtelle Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
310-479-2231
Folks sometimes line up for Asahi Ramen, a wait justified by huge bowls of bargain-priced, flavorful Japanese soup noodles. More...

Beacon Asian
14/20
Dining Room at Beacon, Culver City, CA Helms Building
3280 Helms Ave.
Culver City, CA 90034
310-838-7500
A metro-centric offering mixes East and West in a classic building. More...

Bel-Air Bar & Grill California
13/20
Dining Room at Bel-Air Bar & Grill, Los Angeles, CA 662 N. Sepulveda Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-440-5544
The place remains very much along the lines of a California café, though there are some traces of elegance. Expect pastas, grilled fish, meats and homemade desserts. More...

Clementine Bakery
Quick Bite
Dining Room at Clementine, Los Angeles, CA 1751 Ensley Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-552-1080
Simple, rustic dishes made with time and care. More...

Cora's Coffee Shoppe Diner
13/20
1802 Ocean Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-451-9562
Tiny, tony Italian-inflected diner with both indoor and outdoor seating. More...

Delphi Greek Cuisine Greek
12/20
1383 Westwood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-478-2900
Unassuming neighborhood charmer with consistently strong renditions of Greek staples such as spanakopita, moussaka, roasted lamb and more. More...

Gyu-Kaku Japanese
13/20
10925 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
310-234-8641
A hip Japanese do-it-yourself approach to charcoal-grilled communal eating. More...

Hu's Szechwan Restaurant Chinese
13/20
10450 National Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
310-837-0252
There’s almost always a wait for a table at Hu’s, because the food has made a name for itself. More...

Kiriko Sushi
15/20
Dining Room at Kiriko, Los Angeles, CA Olympic Collection
11301 W. Olympic Blvd., Ste. 102
Los Angeles, CA 90064
310-478-7769
Kiriko offers the highest quality traditional sushi, as well as intriguing dishes like uni risotto, rice-turtle soup and pan-fried monkfish salad. More...

Le Saigon Vietnamese
13/20
11611 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
310-312-2929
Keeping it simple at this charming Vietnamese bistro. More...

Mr. Cecil's California Ribs Barbecue
Quick Bite
12244 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
310-442-1550
Mr. Cecil's satisfies the desire for great, meaty ribs and all the fixin's, including baked beans, hushpuppies and coleslaw. More...

Monte Alban Mexican
Quick Bite
11927 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
310-444-7736
Try the higaditos (shredded chicken with eggs and tomatoes) for breakfast and the mole negro for its intense sauce. More...

Nook Neighborhood Bistro American
14/20
Dining Room at Nook Neighborhood Bistro, Los Angeles, CA 11628 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
310-207-5160
A modern neighborhood Cali-bistro. More...

Orris Japanese
14/20
Dining Room at Orris, Los Angeles, CA 2006 Sawtelle Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
310-268-2212
Hideo Yamashiro’s cozy Westside eatery puts the spotlight on a multicultural mélange of small plates. More...

Sushi House Sushi
13/20
12013 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
310-479-1507
A good value sushi joint on Pico Boulevard. More...

Tampopo Japanese
Quick Bite
3760 S. Centinela Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90066
310-915-0442
Flavorful, generous, bargain-priced Japanese soup noodles and other casual dishes. More...

Tanino Italian
13/20
1043 Westwood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-208-0444
In a beautiful landmark building, Tanino Drago serves authentic regional Italian fare with contemporary touches. More...

Tlapazola Grill Mexican
14/20
Barrington Gateway Center
11676 Gateway Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
310-477-1577
Well-regarded seafood, grilled meats and all those moles, in a quietly understated setting. More...

BEVERLY HILLS/HOLLYWOOD/MIDTOWN

All' Angelo Italian
15/20
Dining Room at All 7166 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
323-933-9540
Italian cuisine and fine wines from around the world in a comfortably stylish space. More...

A.O.C. Mediterranean
14/20
Dining Room at A.O.C., Los Angeles, CA 8022 W. Third St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-653-6359
A.O.C. features tapas-style dining and an extensive selection of wines by the glass, carafe and bottle. More...

BLD American
13/20
Dining Room at BLD, Los Angeles, CA 7450 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-930-9744
Stylish yet laid-back spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner (BLD), by the team behind Grace. More...

boe Eclectic
13/20
Dining Room at boe, Beverly Hills, CA the Crescent
403 N. Crescent Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-247-0505
A hip gathering spot for cocktailing and noshing, boe also boasts an intriguing wine list and a moderately priced, creative menu. More...

Cassell's Hamburgers Burgers
Quick Bite
3266 W. Sixth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90020
213-480-8668
Beloved for its made-to-order, two-third-pounders featuring the freshest ingredients, Cassell's burgers are worth standing in line for. More...

Cube Italian
13/20
Dining Room at Cube, Los Angeles, CA 615 N. La Brea Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-939-1148
Italian café serving an array of charcuterie, cheeses, wood-fired brick oven pizzas, meats and fresh pasta dishes. More...

Da Pasquale Italian
13/20
9749 S. Santa Monica Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-859-3884
We could live on the bread alone. More...

Don Felix Peruvian
12/20
305 N. Virgil Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90004
323-663-1088
This bare-bones setting is a good place to sample Peru’s cooking. More...

The Edendale Grill American
14/20
2838 Rowena Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90039
323-666-2000
American fare in a wood-warmed setting draws Silver Lake locals, groups and flirting twosomes. More...

Fred 62 Coffee Shop
Quick Bite
1850 N. Vermont Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
323-667-0062
This hip version of the classic American coffee shop, open 24/7, offers twists on all the traditional favorites, and is plenty of fun. More...

The Gumbo Pot Cajun
Quick Bite
Farmers Market, Stall 312
333 W. Third St.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-933-0358
Great Cajun/Creole food in the Farmers Market. More...

Hirozen Japanese
13/20
Dining Room at Hirozen, Los Angeles, CA 8385 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-653-0470
Chef Hiroji's cuisine is full of surprises---unique specials of the day plus tempura, udon and sushi. More...

Hugo's Healthy
13/20
8401 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
323-654-4088
Hugo's looks like its roots as a chic butcher shop where Hollywood-heavyweights hang out---especially over breakfast. More...

The Kitchen American
13/20
4348 Fountain Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90029
323-664-3663
One of Silver Lake's best values, The Kitchen serves up flavorful comfort fare into the wee hours. More...

La Korea Korean
Quick Bite
Farmers Market
633 W. Third St., #510
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-936-3930
A limited range of filling, authentic Korean barbecue choices at a modest stand in the original Farmers Market. More...

La Poubelle French
Quick Bite
5907 Franklin Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90028
323-465-0807
A genuine French neighborhood café featuring basic, comforting food in comfortably shabby surroundings. More...

Lola's American
No Rating
Dining Room at Lola 945 N. Fairfax Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
323-654-5652
Celeb hangout known for its martinis and a kitchen serving till the wee hours. More...

Mulberry Street Pizzeria Pizza
Quick Bite
240 S. Beverly Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
310-247-8100
New York-style pizza, topped with everything from pepperoni and cheese to chicken Parmesan. More...

O-Bar American
14/20
Dining Room at O-Bar, West Hollywood, CA 8279 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
323-822-3300
A strikingly modern environment from its designer-owners is the backdrop for a menu of familiar American favorites laced with contemporary touches. More...

Palms Thai Thai
13/20
5273 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
323-462-5073
In addition to familiar Thai fare, you'll also find dishes like deep-fried trout in mango sauce. More...

Pink's Famous Chili Dogs Hot Dogs
Quick Bite
709 N. La Brea Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
323-931-4223
Pink's has been slinging ripe, bursting-with-flavor beef hot dogs into fresh buns for longer than almost anyone can remember. More...

Porta Via Italian
13/20
Dining Room at Porta Via, Beverly Hills, CA 424 N. Canon Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-274-6534
Warm atmosphere and accessible Italian cuisine draw a steady crowd for breakfast, lunch and dinner. More...

Real Food Daily Vegetarian
12/20
414 N. La Cienega Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90048
310-289-9910
Out of the ordinary vegetarian fare on Restaurant Row. More...

Sa Rit Gol Korean
14/20
3189 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90006
213-387-0909
Koreatown restaurant that serves spicy comfort food in traditional confines. More...

Taste California
13/20
Dining Room at Taste, West Hollywood, CA 8454 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
323-852-6888
California food at reasonable prices in a handsomely transformed house on Melrose Avenue. More...

Taylor's Steak House Steakhouse
14/20
3361 W. Eighth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90005
213-382-8449
An old-time favorite steakhouse with an up-to-date clientele. More...

Tonys Italian
13/20
8570 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-289-1145
Tony Riviera’s casually upscale Italian steakhouse offers Sunset Strip perks without the hefty price tag. More...

Zankou Chicken Chicken
Quick Bite
5065 W. Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
323-665-7845
Part of a small, family-owned chain, this fast-food outlet clips the wings off its big corporate competitors. More...

Zen Grill Pan-Asian
Quick Bite
9111 Olympic Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
310-278-7773
Artfully presented Asian favorites are the hallmark of this eatery; try the tuna rice tower. More...

SANTA MONICA/MARINA DEL REY/MALIBU

Aunt Kizzy's Back Porch Southern
13/20
4325 Glencoe Ave.
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
310-578-1005
Long before Southern, soul food or Cajun were trendy, then hot, then not, Aunt Kizzy’s was serving up platefuls of flavor from the deep South. More...

Blue Plate American
12/20
Dining Room at Blue Plate, Santa Monica, CA 1415 Montana Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-260-8877
Old-fashioned American food cooked with a surprisingly sophisticated touch in a chic but homey storefront. More...

Chandni Indian
12/20
1909 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-828-7060
Chandni reveals the vast and satisfying variety of Indian vegetarian cuisine, ready to sample off an extensive dinner menu or a bargain-priced lunchtime buffet. More...

The Counter Burgers
12/20
2901 Ocean Park Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-399-8383
Taking the “have it your way” mantra to the extreme, The Counter creates a safe haven for even the pickiest eater, while managing to serve up great food fast. More...

Father's Office Burgers
Quick Bite
Dining Room at Father 1018 Montana Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-393-2337
Accomplished chef Sang Yoon serves Spanish-inspired tapas and one of the best burgers you'll find anywhere. More...

Gilbert's El Indio Mexican
Quick Bite
2526 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-450-8057
Family-run Gilbert's packs in the faithful, for straight-ahead versions of Mexican favorites, home-style specialties, margaritas by the pitcher and terrific chips, salsa and pickled carrots. More...

Malibu Seafood Seafood
Quick Bite
25653 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Malibu, CA 90265
310-456-3430
This funky little place is a genuine slice of California beach culture. More...

Marmalade Café American
12/20
3894 Cross Creek Rd.
Malibu, CA 90265
310-317-4242
Homey farmhouse environment and a massive menu figure into a good family dining option. More...

Sapori Italian
13/20
13723 Fuji Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
310-821-1740
A cozy restaurant with casually elegant touches and menu items that outshine standard L.A. trattoria fare. More...

sugarFISH Sushi
14/20
Dining Room at sugarFISH, Marina del Rey, CA Waterside Marina del Rey
4722 Admiralty Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
310-306-6300
A no-fuss place with good and very fresh sushi. More...

Tlapazola Grill Mexican
14/20
Dining Room at Tlapazola Grill, Marina del Rey, CA 4059 Lincoln Blvd.
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
866-377-7930
Vibrant Oaxacan restaurant's second branch matches the West L.A. original with well-priced, intricately-sauced dishes and earthy, artistic décor. More...

Versailles Cuban
12/20
10319 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
310-558-3168
Prepare to wait for a table at this noisy, hipster-filled Cuban restaurant famous for garlicky chicken. More...

DOWNTOWN

ABC Seafood Chinese
Quick Bite
205 Ord St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-680-2887
Dim sum rules during the day while at night fresh Cantonese seafood is the specialty. More...

Checkers Downtown New American
No Rating
Dining Room at Checkers Downtown, Los Angeles, CA Hilton Checkers Los Angeles
535 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-891-0519
A classic oasis of calm civility with exquisite food to match. More...

e3rd Steakhouse & Lounge Steakhouse
13/20
Dining Room at e3rd Steakhouse & Lounge, Los Angeles, CA 734 E. Third St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213-680-3003
A steakhouse with an Asian flavor from the owner of neighboring Zip Fusion. More...

El Caserio Ecuadorian
13/20
401 Silver Lake Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
213-273-8945
Ecuadorian and Italian cuisines meet in a stylish small house tucked away by the Hollywood Freeway in trendy Silver Lake. More...

El Tepayac Café Mexican
Quick Bite
812 N. Evergreen Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90033
323-267-8668
The most gigantic burritos imaginable are what make this East L.A. eatery legendary---come with a big appetite or plenty of friends! More...

Empress Pavilion Chinese
14/20
Dining Room at Empress Pavilion, Los Angeles, CA 988 N. Hill St., Ste. 201
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-617-9898
This ornate, bustling Hong Kong-style seafood restaurant looks like it was plucked right out of...well...Hong Kong. More...

Frying Fish Japanese
12/20
120 Japanese Village Plaza
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-680-0567
What you can’t find on the conveyor belt at this Little Tokyo eatery, the sushi chefs will make to order. More...

La Casita Mexicana Mexican
13/20
Dining Room at La Casita Mexicana, Bell, CA 4030 E. Gage Ave.
Bell, CA 90201
323-773-1898
Located in a forgotten corner of South L.A., this colorful restaurant is producing some of the most ambitious Mexican food in the city. More...

Langer's Deli Deli
Quick Bite
704 S. Alvarado St.
Los Angeles, CA 90057
213-483-8050
Its neighborhood has seen better days, but Langer's continues to be one of L.A.'s top delis---the pastrami may be the best in town. More...

Nickel Diner Diner
No Rating
524 S. Main St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213-623-8301
A hipster haunt with upscale diner eats. More...

Philippe The Original American
Quick Bite
1001 N. Alameda St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-628-3781
One of L.A.’s oldest and most beloved eateries, this is the place for French dip sandwiches, devoured at communal tables. More...

Soot Bull Jeep Korean
Quick Bite
3136 W. Eighth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90005
213-387-3865
Smoky and noisy, this is one of the city's best spots for cook-it-yourself Korean barbecue over a tabletop charcoal grill. More...

Spring Street Smoke House Barbecue
Quick Bite
640 N. Spring St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-626-0535
Authentic Carolina-style barbecue on the fringe of Chinatown near downtown Los Angeles. More...

Takami Sushi & Robata Restaurant + Elevate Lounge Sushi
12/20
Dining Room at Takami Sushi & Robata Restaurant + Elevate Lounge, Los Angeles, CA 811 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
213-236-9600
Sushi and robata in a downtown penthouse with sweeping city views. More...

Warung Café Asian
12/20
118 W. Fourth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213-626-0662
A hip restaurant offering a wide selection of small plates with diverse Asian influences along with exotic cocktails and attractive prices. More...

Yang Chow Chinese
13/20
Dining Room at Yang Chow, Los Angeles, CA 819 N. Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-625-0811
A Chinatown favorite, folks line up here for sweet-and-hot “slippery shrimp,” and a massive menu that includes a wealth of well-prepared dishes. More...

Zip Fusion Sushi
12/20
744 E. Third St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213-680-3770
A hip, stylish venue in a warehouse-turned-arts district, Zip offers a colorful candlelit dining room, sushi bar and lovely courtyard patio. More...

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

The Bear Pit Barbecue
12/20
Dining Room at The Bear Pit, Mission Hills, CA 10825 Sepulveda Blvd.
Mission Hills, CA 91345
818-365-2500
Since the 1950s, The Bear Pit has maintained a loyal following for its hickory-smoked barbecue, including excellent baby-back ribs and generous sandwiches. More...

Bistro Provence French
14/20
Dining Room at Bistro Provence, Burbank, CA 345 N. Pass Ave.
Burbank, CA 91505
818-840-9050
Chef-owner Miki Zivkovic's inviting shopping center bistro offers items like plump diver scallops, bistro steak and paella at winning prices. More...

Boneyard Bistro Barbecue
13/20
13539 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-906-7427
The loud atmosphere shouldn't deter diners from stopping in at this lively bistro that serves up loads of barbecue and ribs. More...

The Buchanan Arms British
Quick Bite
2013 W. Burbank Ave.
Burbank, CA 91506
818-845-0692
A real slice of the British Empire in Burbank. More...

Chili My Soul American
Quick Bite
4928 Balboa Blvd.
Encino, CA 91316
818-386-9966
Not one, but over 30 varieties---and counting---of the Valley’s best chili are served in this primarily take-out spot. More...

The Great Greek Greek
12/20
Dining Room at The Great Greek, Sherman Oaks, CA 13362 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-905-5250
Zorba would feel at home in this taverna where the partying overshadows the food. More...

Guantanamera Restaurant Cuban
13/20
Burbank Terrace
916 W. Burbank Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91506
818-846-8500
Bustling restaurant with a very authentic Cuban menu, including croquetas, Cuban tamales, ropa vieja, oxtail in wine sauce, and paella. More...

Hugo's Healthy
13/20
12851 Riverside Dr.
Studio City, CA 91607
818-761-8985
A variety of organic products factor into lunch dishes such as salads and pastas, and dinnertime fare like rib-eye and grilled sea bass. More...

Jinky's Café Eclectic
Quick Bite
14120 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-981-2250
A beloved neighborhood joint, Jinky's is incredibly popular for its big breakfasts, and equally adored for massive bowls of salads. More...

La Frite Café French
12/20
15013 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
818-990-1791
This tiny café looks like the real thing and its menu includes everything from pâtés to poached salmon in Champagne sauce. More...

Le Petit Restaurant French
13/20
Dining Room at Le Petit Restaurant, Sherman Oaks, CA 13360 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-501-7999
A homey neighborhood bistro in classic French style. More...

Les Sisters Southern Kitchen Southern
13/20
21818 Devonshire St.
Chatsworth, CA 91311
818-998-0755
A neighborhood spot offering soulful gumbo and jambalaya, cornmeal-crusted catfish and barbecue with all the fixin’s. Deserts include cobbler, bourbon bread pudding, and buttermilk pie. More...

Picanha Brazilian
12/20
269 E. Palm Ave.
Burbank, CA 91502
818-972-2100
One of the better Brazilian churrascarias in town, with a handsome dining room and reasonably good food. More...

Restaurant Sho Japanese
Quick Bite
10658 Riverside Dr.
Toluca Lake, CA 91602
818-508-3001
This strip-center tenant may not look promising, but the quality of sushi served here far exceeds most suburban sushi bars. More...

The Stand Hot Dogs
Quick Bite
17000 Ventura Blvd.
Encino, CA 91316
818-788-2700
One of the more elaborate hot dog eateries you'll ever encounter, this place offers nice digs in which to enjoy a variety of dogs. More...

Yummy House Korean
Quick Bite
10648 Balboa Blvd.
Granada Hills, CA 91344
818-363-5897
A hip, bright little neighborhood spot featuring boba drinks and traditional Korean dishes including authentic barbecue. More...

Zankou Chicken Chicken
Quick Bite
5658 Sepulveda Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91406
818-781-0615
Part of a small, family-owned chain, this fast-food outlet clips the wings off its big corporate competitors. More...

SAN GABRIEL VALLEY/PASADENA

A' Float Sushi Sushi
12/20
87 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-792-9779
Sushi chefs load their creations onto little boats that are propelled in an artificial stream around the sushi bar, and customers simply grab their favorites. More...

All India Café Indian
13/20
Dining Room at All India Café, Pasadena, CA 39 S. Fair Oaks Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-440-0309
Once you've enjoyed the unique fare at this friendly little eatery, you'll find it hard to settle for the predictable menus at most area Indian restaurants. More...

Azeen's Afghan
13/20
110 E. Union St.
Pasadena, CA 91103
626-683-3310
A charming dining room with linen-clad tables, Azeen's offers traditional Afghan dishes such as bulanee (turnovers filled with leeks, scallions and herbs), kebabs and superb lamb dishes. More...

Bar Celona Spanish
No Rating
Dining Room at Bar Celona, Pasadena, CA 46 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-405-1000
A hip, contemporary scene in Old Pasadena serving reasonably authentic Spanish fare, Bar Celona offers a wide range of tapas to enjoy with a pitcher of sangría. More...

Big Mama's Rib Shack Southern
12/20
1453 N. Lake Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91104
626-797-1792
Big Mama's offers a vast menu of barbecue and Southern standards in a smartly set room. More...

Briganti Italian
14/20
1423 Mission St.
South Pasadena, CA 91030
626-441-4663
A sleek but casual dining room with candlelit tables and spirited Italian specialties. More...

Café Bizou French
13/20
91 N. Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91103
626-792-9923
Chef-owner Neil Rogers' modern French cooking in a setting a bit more stylish than the original location. More...

Central Park Contemporary
13/20
219 S. Fair Oaks Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-449-4499
This brick-lined dining room serves salmon-and-shrimp cakes drizzled with chipotle cream, pizzas, and a very respectable plate of short ribs. More...

Chang's Garden Chinese
14/20
627 W. Duarte Rd.
Arcadia, CA 91007
626-445-0707
Modern Shanghai-style restaurant that elevates Arcadia strip mall dining through inspired cooking. More...

China Islamic Restaurant Chinese
14/20
7727 E. Garvey Ave.
Rosemead, CA 91770
626-288-4246
Chinese Halal dishes, based primarily on lamb and beef. More...

Din Tai Fung Dumpling House Chinese
13/20
1108 S. Baldwin Ave.
Arcadia, CA 91007
626-574-7068
Taiwan-based dumpling shop specializing in soup dumplings. More...

Divina Cucina Italian
13/20
3730 Verdugo Rd.
Montrose, CA 91020
818-248-3077
A very engaging family-run operation on the edge of Montrose's quaint downtown, serving everything from simple pastas to sophisticated entrées, generously portioned and fairly priced. More...

El Portal Mexican
12/20
Arcade Lane
695 E. Green St.
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-795-8553
Charming Mexican restaurant featuring the favorites, plus Yucatan classics like poc-chuc and cochinta pibil. Specialties include crab-stuffed enchiladas de Jaiba and carne asada. More...

Elena's Greek Armenian Cuisine Greek
14/20
1000 S. Glendale Ave.
Glendale, CA 91205
818-241-5730
Sophisticated preparations of Greek and Armenian classics, served in a simple setting at affordable prices. More...

EuroPane Bakery
Quick Bite
950 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91106
626-577-1828
Opened by a former Campanile chef, this tiny bakery specializes in breads that go easy on fat, sugar and dairy. More...

Galley (at Fish King) Japanese
Quick Bite
722 N. Glendale Ave.
Glendale, CA 91206
818-244-2161
The fast-food arm of Fish King has charbroiled or fried fish, a sensational lobster bisque, and a better spicy tuna roll than you'll find at most sushi bars. More...

Gourmet Delight 501 Chinese
12/20
501 S. Atlantic Blvd.
Monterey Park, CA 91754
626-284-3227
Drawing a diverse clientele, Gourmet Delight serves all the familiar favorites---honey-walnut shrimp, kung pao chicken, Szechwan spare ribs---without sacrificing Chinese culinary authenticity. More...

Green Street Restaurant American
13/20
Dining Room at Green Street Restaurant, Pasadena, CA 146 Shoppers Ln.
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-577-7170
This breakfast destination for locals offers salads and burgers come lunchtime; dinner looks to steaks, seafood and chicken options. More...

Kansai Japanese
Quick Bite
36 S. Fair Oaks Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-564-1560
Elegant Japanese restaurant featuring robust noodle dishes, attractive presentation and bargain prices. More...

La Cabañita Mexican
13/20
3447 N. Verdugo Rd.
Glendale, CA 91208
818-965-3530
La Cabañita is a little, family-run establishment with a strong following for its Mexican cooking. More...

Larkin's Soul Food
13/20
1496 Colorado Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041
323-254-0934
Contemporary restaurant serving distinctive soul food in a beautifully restored century-old Craftsman cottage. More...

Lebanese Kitchen Lebanese
12/20
1384 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91104
626-296-9010
A good find for Lebanese and Armenian fare, this smart looking dining room serves up traditional specialties. More...

Luscious Dumplings, Inc. Chinese
14/20
704 W. Las Tunas Dr.
San Gabriel, CA 91776
626-282-8695
Tiny family-run restaurant offering some of the best dumplings and noodle soups in the San Gabriel Valley. More...

Mike & Anne's American
13/20
1040 Mission St.
South Pasadena, CA 91030
626-799-7199
An unpretentious American bistro offering items like grilled John Dory with raisin-caper sauce, an upscale burger and steak with violet mustard bordelaise. More...

Noodle Planet Pan-Asian
Quick Bite
700 W. Valley Blvd.
Alhambra, CA 91803
626-282-8855
Every imaginable kind of noodle dish---from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, China---can be found in this retrofitted Bob's Big Boy. More...

The Peach Café American
13/20
141 E. Colorado Blvd.
Monrovia, CA 91016
626-599-9092
Southern-tinged café that produces unique breakfast items, pastries and coffee drinks. More...

Sachi Sushi Japanese
12/20
Arcade Lane
696 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-578-1877
Value is the trademark at this charming mom-and-pop Japanese eatery. More...

Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant Chinese
14/20
3939 N. Rosemead Blvd.
Rosemead, CA 91770
626-288-3939
Abalone dishes to fit any budget. More...

Shiro French
14/20
Dining Room at Shiro, South Pasadena, CA 1505 Mission St.
South Pasadena, CA 91030
626-799-4774
Spare and stylish storefront space for owner-chef Hideo Yamashiro's creations. More...

Smitty's Grill American
13/20
110 S. Lake Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-792-9999
A tribute to all-American comfort cuisine. More...

Soumarelo Fresh Mediterranean Grill Armenian
Quick Bite
1090 N. Allen Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91104
626-791-0999
The rotisserie chicken here gives Zankou a run for its money. More...

Sushi of Naples Japanese
13/20
735 E. Green St.
Pasadena, CA 91101
626-578-1123
A longstanding popular neighborhood spot for a wide selection of sushi favorites. More...

Taylor's Steakhouse Steakhouse
13/20
901 Foothill Blvd.
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
818-790-7668
Handsome, old-fashioned steakhouse for quality steaks at a reasonable price. More...

Zankou Chicken Chicken
Quick Bite
1415 E. Colorado St.
Glendale, CA 91205
818-244-1937
Part of a small, family-owned chain, this fast-food outlet clips the wings off its big corporate competitors. More...

Zeke's Smokehouse Barbecue
13/20
Dining Room at Zeke 2209 Honolulu Ave.
Montrose, CA 91020
818-957-7045
Top-drawer barbecue in sleepy downtown Montrose. Ribs, Texas brisket and Carolina pulled pork are excellent. More...

SOUTH BAY

Al-Noor Pakistani
13/20
15112 Inglewood Ave.
Lawndale, CA 90260
310-675-4700
Skillfully prepared, authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine at bargain prices. More...

Al-Watan Indian
13/20
13619 Inglewood Ave.
Hawthorne, CA 90250
310-644-6395
Bare-bones Indian-Pakistani restaurant features knockout tandoori dishes and curries. More...

Benley: A Vietnamese Kitchen Vietnamese
14/20
8191 E. Wardlow Rd.
Long Beach, CA 90808
562-596-8130
Benley's French-accented Vietnamese cuisine warrants a special trip to dine at this out-of-the-way café. More...

Bistro Miyoda & Sushi Ichiriki Japanese
13/20
1220 Beryl St.
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310-376-1081
Neighborhood restaurant with a balanced menu of home-style Tokyo classics and Chinese favorites. More...

BJ's Chicago Pizza, Grill & Brewery Italian
Quick Bite
5258 E. Second St.
Long Beach, CA 90803
562-439-8181
This location in the center of the Belmont Shore area is very popular with the late-night crowd that flocks in for deep-dish pizza, hot wings, sandwiches and salads. More...

Captain Kidd's Fish Market & Restaurant Seafood
Quick Bite
209 N. Harbor Dr.
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310-372-7703
Quick, affordable seafood with surprisingly good wines. More...

Farm Stand Mediterranean
14/20
422 Main St.
El Segundo, CA 90245
310-640-3276
A hearty mix of Italian, Persian and American cuisine, served in a funky setting near LAX. More...

Flossie's Soul Food
Quick Bite
3566 Redondo Beach Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90504
310-352-4037
A homey setting featuring authentic Mississippi-style soul food in the South Bay. More...

Gaja Moc Japanese
13/20
2383 Lomita Blvd., Ste.102
Lomita, CA 90717
310-534-0153
Fun Japanese café specializing in the savory cook-it-yourself pancake called okonomiyaki. More...

Havana Mania Cuban
12/20
3615 Inglewood Ave.
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
310-725-9075
The South Bay’s leading provider of mojitos, roast pig and live Cuban music. More...

Kantaro Sushi Japanese
14/20
Carson Plaza
1542 W. Carson St.
Torrance, CA 90501
310-320-0200
Chef Kantaro showcases impeccable fish in subtle ways at this warm restaurant. More...

King's Hawaiian Bakery & Restaurant Hawaii Regional
Quick Bite
2808 Sepulveda Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90505
310-530-0050
A taste of the Hawaiian Islands with sweet bread, sweet sauces and sweet desserts. More...

Ma Po Korean Restaurant & Grill Korean
12/20
22757 Hawthorne Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90505
310-373-8340
Sleek Korean restaurant specializing in an array of barbecued meats. More...

The Ragin' Cajun Cajun
11/20
422 Pier Ave.
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
310-376-7878
This delightful little hangout has been referred to as the Cajun embassy, with good reason. More...

Restaurant Christine Pacific Rim
13/20
Dining Room at Restaurant Christine, Torrance, CA Hillside Village
24530 Hawthorne Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90505
310-373-1952
Chef-owner Christine Brown prepares modern Pacific Rim cuisine with Mediterranean influences. More...

Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen Japanese
Quick Bite
2015 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., #C
Gardena, CA 90247
310-329-1335
This Hakata-style ramen house ladles some of the best noodle soup in the South Bay. More...

Thelen's Mermaid American
Quick Bite
11 Pier Ave.
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
310-374-9344
Owned by former Hermosa Beach Mayor Boots Thelen, this restaurant features seafood and views of the Pacific. More...

Uncle Bill's Pancake House American
Quick Bite
1305 Highland Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
310-545-5177
The South Bay's most celebrated breakfast hangout has spent over four decades perfecting pancakes and omelets. More...

Yuzu Japanese
14/20
Plaza del Prado
1231 Cabrillo Ave., Ste.101
Torrance, CA 90501
310-533-9898
Notable, often innovative Japanese cuisine served in a contemporary setting. More...

INLAND EMPIRE

Caprice Eclectic
13/20
104 E. State St.
Redlands, CA 92373
909-793-8787
Tucked into an office building, Caprice surprises with an eclectic menu displaying the chef’s diverse talents. More...

Casablanca Middle Eastern
13/20
Packing House
500 W. First St.
Claremont, CA 91711
909-626-5200
A casual, festive Mediterranean restaurant offering hummus, falafel, kebabs and more in a pleasant indoor-outdoor setting. More...

Centro Basco French
12/20
13432 S. Central Ave.
Chino, CA 91710
909-628-9014
This rambling restaurant offers hearty, wholesome country cooking at tremendous values. More...

Harry's Pacific Grill Hawaiian
13/20
Victoria Gardens
8009 Day Creek Blvd.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
909-463-1400
A trip to the Pacific, with Hawaii taking center stage, awaits at this shopping center-adjacent restaurant with a sophisticated air. More...

Vince's for Spaghetti Italian
12/20
1206 W. Holt Blvd.
Ontario, CA 91762
909-986-7074
This sprawling old-school Italian---going strong after 60 years---offers big plates of red-sauced pasta dishes at prices that reflect a bygone era. More...

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Los Angeles Dining

Restaurant Awards
Restaurant Awards

Our annual restaurant issue features the Best Cheap Eats and our top 40 U.S. selections, including Patina, Providence, Urasawa and more!

BottleRock in Downtown Los Angeles

Review of the Week

The second branch of BottleRock, located Downtown at the Met Lofts, is larger than the original and boasts an impressive wine shop along with an extended menu offering dishes such as fava and pistachio falafel and pork belly risotto. Desserts include ice cream floats made with beer. After your meal, make it a Dinner and a Movie night with one of our featured films.

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