Food & culture · Los Angeles
What to Eat in Los Angeles: A Food Guide
A food guide to Los Angeles: the dishes worth seeking out, what to drink, dining etiquette and the neighbourhoods to eat in.
Updated 2026-07-25
What to eat in Los Angeles
Taco al pastor at Leo's / Guisados / Villa's
LA's Mexican food is among the best in the US — Boyle Heights + East LA are ground zero.
In-N-Out Burger
California drive-through classic — Double-Double Animal Style US$5.50.
Korean BBQ (K-Town)
Park's BBQ, Quarters, Kang Ho-dong Baekjeong — America's largest Koreatown.
Sushi in Little Tokyo / Sawtelle
Sushi Ginza Onodera, n/naka (Michelin), Sugarfish for approachable premium.
What to drink
Tap water safe and drinkable. In-N-Out Neapolitan shake and Diddy Riese ice-cream sandwiches (Westwood, US$3) are LA classics. California wine everywhere; craft beer scene strong (Golden Road, Angel City).
Dining etiquette and practicalities
Tipping 18–22% at restaurants + US$1–2/drink at bars is expected.
California sales tax (~9.5%) + Tourism Assessment fees added at checkout.
No smoking in restaurants, bars, beaches or public parks — LA is strict.
Where to eat in Los Angeles
Santa Monica
Beach-front hotels, pier, Third Street Promenade and easy Venice bike access.
West Hollywood
Design hotels, Sunset Strip nightlife, Melrose shopping.
Beverly Hills
Grande-dame hotels around Rodeo Drive — Beverly Hills Hotel, Peninsula, Waldorf Astoria.
Downtown LA (DTLA)
Arts District lofts, Grand Central Market, Broad museum, walkable dining.
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Everything in this guide is bookable through Marhaba's licensed partners.
