As Your Next Bite embarks on the next chapter in life – in a new city with new biteries to explore – I couldn't leave without giving you the final say on my all time favorite Los Angeles spots. (Not to mention, I've still got more packing to do).
Some are brand new, others are well-known, and most are on speed dial in my phone.
The LA Grubdown:
1.) Providence – Best Tasting Menu Ever
There's a reason why I chose chef Michael Cimarusti's Providence as my "Last LA Supper". Because deep down inside, I knew it would blow my dine. The way the menu is crafted and the dishes are portioned are absolutley perfect. (Blog post on this upscale seasonal seafood restaurant is soon to come, so stay tuned.)
2.) Son of a Gun – Best Casual Seafood
Don't get me wrong. The levels of flavor in chef Jon Shook & Vinny Dotolo's food is nothing but casual here. But the fish tackle & picnic table atmosphere makes you feel at home. (Again, blog post coming soon.)
3.) Izaka-Ya by Katsu-Ya – Best Casual Sushi
For a slew of months, the hand model & I were averaging once a week here. This low key version of sbe Katsu-Ya's chain offers friendlier service, eclectic decor, and better prices of your same favorite foods (like Creamy Rock Shrimp and Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice.)
4.) Loteria Grill – Best Casual Mexican
I've blogged about the Hollywood location, but never their Farmers Market, where I've been known to frequent almost twice a month. Their Oaxacan food hits the spot on a Friday night coupled with a pitcher of beer. (You guessed it, follow up Farmers Market blog post to come shortly!)
5.) Little Next Door – Best Breakfast & French Macaroons
Located on W. 3rd Street's never ending brunch lined lane, Little Next Door is definitely worth the wait, from their Smoked Salmon on Brioche to their unique Macaroon flavors. I'll buy one of each (6 to 8 depending on the day), eat them all in one sitting, and not think twice about it. (The link above is about their dinner, but I'm sure you can guess that a breakfast post is part of my plan.)
6.) D'Amores – Best Pizza Delivery
Not only is D'Amores the healthiest pizza in all of Los Angeles, but it's the tastiest too. During baseball season, the hand model & I order The Combo Pizza with extra Pepperoni instead of Sausage, and Neopolitan style Thin Crust.
7.) Father's Office – Best Burger
With so many burger spots popping up left, right, front, and center, it's hard to hone in on the goods. Unless you're the originator of course. Sang Yoon's ridiculously drool-worthy signature burger is heaping with tender Beef, Caramelized Red Onion Jam, and Spicy Arugula to balance the sweet.
8.) Tanzore – Best Upscale Indian
Don't try to order takeout here because it just won't be the same. Tanzore's bold colors & sexy atmosphere compliment its beautiful dishes, like creamy tomatoey Chicken Tikka Masala and spicy sweet Baingan Bharta Eggplant (that even a non-vegetarian would love).
9.) Zengo – Best Brunch Deal
Bottomless Cocktails. Endless Japanese Latin Fusion Tapas. DJ spinning tunes on the balcony with peek of ocean view. All for $35. Need I say more?
10.) Ink – Best Inventive Meal
Top Chef Michael Voltaggio doesn't mess around. Besides eating his incredibly, thought provoking, deconstructed works of art, the best part is watching him work his madness in the open kitchen. (Well crafted blog post coming soon.)
So there you have it. Your Next Bite's must eats of Los Angeles. (If it weren't for their closing, Cobras & Matadors would be on the list of course.)
Cheers to a whole new world of OC biteries, with bits of LA sprinkled in from time to time for good measure.
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