Glendale's Best-Kept Foodie Secrets Near LA
Secret Los Angeles
Billie Eilish’s Favorite Restaurant in Los Angeles The Grain Café is a peaceful spot featuring an eclectic menu of vegan, natural, and organic options, including sandwiches, pizzas, and more. With delicious offerings like sandwiches, salads, and calzones, you have to try the huevos con chorizo breakfast to see why it’s a local favorite (and a hit with Billie too!). Oh, and don’t miss the crepas and chilaquiles for the complete dining experience!
Kathy
YUME is a hidden gem that offers Japanese dishes with a modern twist 🍣✨ ✔️ Perfect for a date night spot with its cozy minimalist interiors that makes you feel as if you’re in Japan 🇯🇵 ✔️Had an AMAZING meal here and everything was packed with flavors 🫶 You can tell that they only serve fresh fish for sushi and sashimi, so you won’t be disappointed✨
Life by Vivien
Pink Pepper Thai My favorite Thai restaurant in LA is such a vibe - whether you’re dining indoors with lovely floral decor or on the outdoor patio with a breeze and plenty of natural lighting, this spot is perfect for delicious authentic classic Thai dishes. Every dish had incredible flavors and textures and the portions were generous! Here’s everything we tried: Appetizers : Kan Tok - Thai Platter** (you HAVE to try this, it’s incredible, their fried coconut shrimp is made in house!) : Chicken Satay* Soup :Tom Kha soup with Chicken *the broth is so tasty Main : Khao soi Beef Short Rib *noodles are so flavorful : Curry Salmon **salmon is so tender! : Pad Thai with Shrimp *so flavorful! Dessert : Mango Sticky Rice **perfect melt in your mouth flavors : Fried Banana *so tasty, perfect complementary textures I enjoyed every single dish I tried and happily enjoyed all the leftovers for days - it was still so good!
Los Angeles4 everybody
Jiro Style Ramen, right here in Los Angie. At Tsujita Annex in West LA, Jiro-style ramen is a specialty that aligns with the authentic features of this style. Tsujita Annex is known for its rich, flavorful ramen and adheres closely to the traditional Jiro-style with its robust broth, substantial portions of toppings, and emphasis on a hearty, satisfying meal. The restaurant’s approach to Jiro-style ramen aims to capture the essence of the original while catering to the local palate. — Jiro-style ramen is a distinct type of ramen that originates from Ramen Jiro, a famous ramen shop in Tokyo, Japan. It’s characterized by its hearty, rich, and indulgent style. The key features of Jiro-style ramen include a thick, flavorful broth, a heavy dose of garlic, a significant amount of bean sprouts, and a generous portion of fatty pork. The noodles are usually thick and chewy, and the dish is often topped with extra slices of pork and sometimes a raw egg.
Time Out LA
Nossa Caipirinha Bar What: $10–11 cocktails and wines, $5–8 beers, discounted food items When: Daily 4–6pm Why we love it: After a short stint as a sit-down restaurant, this Brazilian eatery in Los Feliz flipped into a neighborhood watering hole inspired by the country’s botecos. Now, Nossa Caipirinha Bar offers five well-balanced renditions of its namesake drink—Brazil’s national cocktail—as well as a host of traditional bar snacks like cheese bread and coxinhas (chicken and paprika croquettes). At happy hour, snack on discounted bites like $9 chicken heart skewers, $14 fried calamari and $13 coxinhas.
Los Angeles Fun Events
Film, Music & Entertainment Night Dive into an evening of creativity and connection at Weary Livers, the go-to spot for professionals and entrepreneurs in the Film, Music, and Entertainment industry. It's the perfect scene to mingle, find your next project partner, or simply kick back with fellow creatives. Don't miss this chance to network, share stories, and spark collaborations! 🍸 Exclusive Drink Mix: Toast with our handcrafted Soju cocktails. Explore our curated selection of craft beers and wines. Delight in non-alcoholic beverages ensuring there's something for everyone! 🎲 Entertainment & Games: Compete or collaborate in shuffleboard and darts. Relish in an ambiance designed for making meaningful connections. 🔞 Age Restriction: 21 and over only. 🌟 Why You'll Love This Night: Networking: Connect with creatives and professionals from the Film, Music, and Entertainment industry. Relaxation: Take a night off to relax in a setting designed for leisure and laughs. Inspiration: Exchange ideas and get inspired by the journeys of others in the creative community. 🎟️ Admission: Absolutely FREE! Spaces are limited, so act quickly to secure your spot. Sep 24, 2024, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Time Out LA
Maple Block Meat Co. Barbecue What: $9 five-piece wings, $10–12 nachos, $10 sliders, BOGO drinks When: Mon 5–9pm, Tue–Fri 5–6pm Why we love it: Meat butchered on premise, brisket smoked over peach wood logs, a pitmaster from Texas—this Culver City barbecue joint checks all the right boxes, including an excellent happy hour menu. Steeply discounted bar bites are available before 6pm, including nachos topped with your choice of smoked brisket or pork belly, a set of smashburger sliders and smoky, juicy wings with house white barbecue sauce or honey Sriracha. Best of all, it's available all night on Mondays. For drinks, there's a buy-one-get-one free deal on nearly all drinks, which you can also get the last hour of service any day of the week. (Some top shelf label exceptions do apply.)
See also
Top Anonymous Recommendations in Fairfax - Discover Trending Suggestions & Local Reviews Near LA
Los Angeles Fun Events
New to Los Angeles Social Night + Happy Hour New in town? Looking to make connections in a relaxed setting? Weary Livers is your destination for an evening of networking, fun, and discovery. This event is designed for newcomers and anyone eager to dive into the local scene. 🍸 Enjoy Our Welcoming Mix: Taste our specially crafted Soju cocktails. Discover a variety of craft beers and wines. Non-alcoholic options to ensure everyone's included! 🕹️ Games & Entertainment: Jump into games like shuffleboard and darts. A perfect backdrop to spark new friendships and professional connections. 🔞 Age Limit: 21 and over only, please. 📅 Date: Wednesday, September 18th 🕖 Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Kathy
Ramen Akira is a newly opened modern ramen spot in Koreatown that brings amazing flavors in a bowl 🍜 ✔️The server recommended the yuzu ramen, and I decided to be adventurous and try it. I was a bit worried it would be too citrusy, but the broth was super creamy with a subtle hint of yuzu 🍊 I definitely recommend trying it if you want to experience something different! :) ✔️I wanted to eat outside cause of their super cute patio, but it was way too hot 😭 I’ll be definitely back to enjoy the patio 👀🌸
Kathy
The art room DTLA is a hidden gem located in DTLA where you can enjoy some artworks while sipping on amazing cocktails. 🖼️🍸 ⤷ I got the coconut and my friend got Margo’s, and we both loved our drinks 💗 If you’re looking for a summer drink, I highly recommend the Fridas Coconut 🥥 ✔️ They have many pieces of artwork hanging around, so be sure to check them out while enjoying your drinks 👀✨ ✔️ I think their menu is fairly priced considering their location and that tax is included in all menu prices 👍
Secret Los Angeles
Have a martini at Musso & Frank Cinephiles, this one’s for you. Pretend it’s the 1920s and take your date out for a romantic night of Old Hollywood charm at the legendary Musso & Frank. Known as the oldest restaurant in Hollywood and often referred to as the “genesis of Hollywood,” this iconic steakhouse in LA, feels like you’ve stepped back into a bygone era. The restaurant was known as the go-to spot for the Hollywood elite, even boasting a secret back room for industry insiders. It’s been memorialized in countless films, most notably Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Cozy up in one of the old-school wooden booths and order their world-famous martini for a night to remember.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Enchant LA! Sometimes pretty places aren’t equally tasty but I would say this place has both down. I got to dress and have some sweet quality time over good korean flavors (kim chi pasta & bulgogi quesadillas were really good!) 🌸Garden Style Brunch&Bar🌸 ☕Modern Asian Fusion🥂Wine🍸Cocktail Kept things light w a citrus shrimp salad but then indulged in other great menu items. We went for lunch but it’s good for dinner dates tooooo 🤓
Secret Los Angeles
Stowaway This basement-level piano bar is subtly marked by a small arrow-shaped light at its entrance. While lacking a traditional stage, the setting boasts a fairly grand ambiance, featuring a curving wood bar, a 7-foot grand piano, and a charmingly kitschy old oil painting portraying a reclining blond burlesque dancer. The menu offers indulgence with its selection of cocktails. Despite its subterranean setting, the venue’s wooden floors and high ceilings create an atmosphere that easily transports guests away from the basement vibe.
Ally Grammin
Mariscos Zazazá Located in an alley just off the LA River Bike Path you’ll find a lunch window serving up the prettiest seafood plates in a sunlit patio that will transport you straight to a resort in Mexico. The yellowtail tostada with crisped capers is a must and their bottled hot sauces are some of the best in the city.
See alsoSocializing in Fairfax Near LA: Local Community Interactions & Anonymous Discussions
Ally Grammin
TARTINE If you are looking for a solid cafe for meetups with friends, brunch with the parents or a spot to work for a few hours - this is the all purpose place. 🥐 All of the pastries are excellent but I have a particular fondness for the seasonal cornmeal tea cake. 🍞 Whatever you order, do NOT skip their bread. Tartine’s country loaf is in regular rotation in my house.
Secret Los Angeles
Roscoe’s Hollywood Harlem native Herb Hudson opened this Hollywood staple in 1975, and their tasty soul food has been enjoyed by generations of Angelenos and celebrities including Shaquille O’Neil, Stevie Wonder, and Barack Obama. The menu goes beyond the staple chicken and waffles to include classics like corn bread, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy. The Hollywood location is open until 4am on weekend nights, but you’ll find a handful of other Roscoe’s outposts in L.A. that are serving food until midnight.
Happening in DTLA
LAX-C is a large Asian supermarket known for its extensive selection of Thai and other Asian groceries. The store, often referred to as “Thai Costco,” offers a variety of products, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, sauces, and packaged goods. Its bulk-buying model provides customers with competitive prices and a broad assortment of goods. LAX-C caters to both individual shoppers and local restaurants, making it a central hub for authentic Asian ingredients and culinary supplies in the area. The store’s layout and offerings reflect its commitment to serving the diverse community of Los Angeles with high-quality, specialty items. I go for their hot foods often bc it’s made fresh and so authentically. All a true taste of Thailand in LA :)
Secret Los Angeles
Grab a sweet or savory slice at Quarter Sheets Quarter Sheets in Echo Park serves up unique savory and sweet slices. Chefs Hannah Ziskin and Aaron Lindell create a menu that feels like an elevated, adult version of a fun kids’ birthday party. Their pizza and cake offerings have earned them “Best Restaurant” rankings from the New York Times and Los Angeles Times in 2023, plus a spot in the California Michelin Guide. Try their creative pizzas with toppings like Funyuns or shrimp cocktail, and don’t miss Ziskin’s gourmet slab cakes. Staff favorites include their Bar Pie and Vodka Pesto. And yes, expect a line when you get there!
Gluten Free Girls LA
BBCM is a chic cafe in West Hollywood. I ordered an oat milk latte and a glutenfree orange cranberry muffin. My gluten-free muffin was moist and tasted great. Wish they had more options, but grateful for the muffin. I asked and they also have gluten free toast (although it’s not listed on the menu). Will definitely be coming back again!
Gluten Free Girls LA
Millie's Cafe is incredible and also vegan friendly! Today I went with the vegan/gluten-free waffles (whipped cream is also vegan).. the texture and flavor was perfect. My mother who isn’t a fan of gluten free texture even approved! You can add chocolate chips, blueberries, bananas, strawberries etc.. I also got a Lavender oat milk latte and vegan sausage. Next time I plan on trying the gluten free pancakes! Will definitely be coming back. 10/10
The Restaurant Guide
Xuntos: Great tapas bar in Santa Monica with traditional bar bites from Asturias, Catalonia, the Basque region and Galicia. Cordero designed XUNTOS, “together” in Gallego, to be warm, fun, not too serious, with plenty to eat. Occupying two storefronts of a 1926 building at 516 Santa Monica Boulevard, the space includes two kitchens, two mezzanines, a dining room & a bar room. XUNTOS serves pintxos & tapas, unrefined: small plates from the farmer’s market around the corner to traditional dishes of Galicia, Asturias, Catalunya & the Basque Country, as they’re eaten in Spain. Natural Wines from these regions are the centerpiece of the ambitious beverage program curated by beverage director Scott Baker, with a full bar featuring cocktails by friend Kim Stodel, gin tonics, chupitos (Galician after-dinner drinks), brandies, vermuts & cold cervezas.
See alsoNightlife in Fairfax near LA: Discover Local Hotspots, Trending Bars & Rooftop Fun
The Restaurant Guide
Donna’s LA: Upgraded Italian American classics in a fun, flower-bombed room in Echo Park. Donna’s is inspired by an east coast, red sauce joint. The menu is made up of those Italian-American classics that you expect, but done really well with California ingredients. Here at Donna’s we’re loud and lively, with warm and familiar service. We’ll remind you what comfort feels like. And you’ll have the best night out (since the last time you were here).
Gluten Free Girls LA
Amara kitchen -A farm to table restaurant with two locations in Los Angeles (Highland Park and Altadena). This cozy cafe has multiple CLEARLY marked gluten free options (desserts and main dishes) and is good for celiacs with no cross contamination when mentioned. Today I had the “green eggs” -two poached eggs (I asked for mine over hard), roasted sweet potatoes, mixed greens, avocado, pesto, beet puree, pickled cabbage, pickled carrots and cherry tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds, served with house-made bread whole grain gluten free bread. The house made gluten free bread was fantastic. The eggs and veggies were definitely good, although next time I would probably order something I couldn’t find elsewhere. I also bought their gluten free chocolate chunk cookie which was excellent. They even make a vegan version. Highly recommend this place and will definitely be coming back.
The Restaurant Guide
Leona’s sushi house LA: Michelin Guide ‘23! Choose between the charming sushi bar, the high-ceiling dining room facing Ventura Boulevard, or center patio lounge to enjoy Japanese Peruvian food with an Italian touch. Influencers and foodies alike are raving about Leona’s. Their Michelin-recognized cuisine and crafted cocktails are a must-try. Take your dining experience to the next level. 🌟🥩🍣
citygirlvibes
LAVO Los Angeles - a sophisticated Italian eatery located in the heart of the Sunset Strip. Always a consistent great time, with delicious food and a lively vibe. The perfect dinner before a night out! Enjoy a selection of LAVO's greatest brunch and dinner hits with our specially curated prix-fixe menus, available July 12th-26th, during the LA Restaurant Week.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Broken Shaker is an elevated oasis in the heart of Downtown LA, located on top of the lovely Freehand Los Angeles. Colorful, bright and buzzing, the rooftop comes surrounded with amazing and panoramic views over the Los Angeles skyline and the downtown area. Open from noon to midnight, this is a venue to enjoy both sunny poolside hours, as well as fun filled evenings under the LA stars. As a winner of Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award, it should be no surprise that Broken Shaker serves up delicious cocktails. While dips in the refreshing rooftop pool is reserved for guests staying at the hotel, anyone is welcome up to the rooftop for an abundance of drinks, vibes and views.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Perch LA with amazing views over the whole city or among the skyscrapers. Located in downtown, and offering fantastic views of the entire city, Perch operates both as a bar and a bistro, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a place to eat and drink. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating options as well as comfortable lounge furniture and a relaxed ambience, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming spot to watch the sunset while enjoying some drinks. With classy furniture, lush plants, fire pits and fireplaces, and stylish decor that transports you straight to the French Riviera, Perch stands out in more ways than one; Here, you'll be able to shed your worries and the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the moment.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Chinese in West Hollywood! Modernized Dim Sum fa sho 😋 🥟 Ok, I have one traditional place for dim sum and it is in the SGV, it’s meant to family time and Sunday Breakfast. Soooo, West Hollywood + Dim Sum for dinner never went together in my mind. Buutttttt, BAO DIM SUM HOUSE reinvented that. And I am here for it bc it’s actually good. Shiu Mai (we got chicken) was very hefty, Har Gow was shrimp filled with a light wrap, sauces on the table were on point and other items like Spare Ribs were prepared very traditionally. Now, if you live in LA proper, you don’t always have to go to the valley for your dim sum fix 😋 🥟
See alsoExperience Fairfax: Top Local and Trending Insights near LA
Secret Los Angeles
Mr. Beef From The Bear Will Pop Up In L.A. This Weekend Only With Authentic Italian Beef Sandwiches! This weekend only — you can experience Mr. Beef from FX on Hulu’s The Bear in Los Angeles. For two days only, July 13 and 14, L.A.’s Uncle Paulie’s will host this special pop-up featuring Chicago’s renowned Italian beef sandwiches with giardiniera. It’ll be a warm weekend so you’ll also get a chance to enjoy refreshing Italian ice from Coco’s to Go-Go, courtesy of the show’s culinary producer, Courtney Storer who will also be on site. Don’t miss out — sandwiches are available exclusively in person from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.
DTLA Insider
🔥 Stumbled upon a little hidden gem of a 🇲🇽 restaurant today and am still 🤯…. Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez🌶🔥 • Tortas Ahogadas, Carne En Su Jugo + more • Michelin Bib Gourmand • 5 STARS 🌟 on Yelp Come and try our delicious Molcajete and pair with our tasty Michelada 🍹with your choice of beer 🍺. 🍴 Have You??
Discover Local Food Secrets in Glendale
Nestled near the sprawling city of Los Angeles, Glendale is an underrated gem for food enthusiasts. Whether you're a dedicated foodie or someone who just wants a great dining experience, this guide will unveil some of Glendale’s best-kept culinary secrets. From trendy eateries to hidden gems, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. Read on to discover where to go for the best local food in Glendale.
Start Your Day with a Brunch Adventure
Glendale's brunch scene is truly exceptional, offering options that range from classic to innovative. One local favorite is "Porto's Bakery & Cafe," a family-owned Cuban bakery that has become a local institution. Famous for its pastries and breakfast sandwiches, Porto's is where locals flock for weekend brunch, often forming a line out the door.
For a more modern brunch experience, check out "Panini Kabob Grill." Known for their Mediterranean-inspired menu, they offer a unique twist on brunch staples. Their avocado toast topped with feta and poached eggs is a must-try. With outdoor seating, it's an ideal spot to savor your meal while enjoying Glendale’s pleasant weather.
Dive Into Authentic Ethnic Cuisines
Glendale is a cultural melting pot, reflected beautifully in its diverse food scene. Venture into "Raffi’s Place," where you can indulge in some of the best Persian cuisine in Los Angeles. The succulent kebabs, perfectly seasoned rice, and fresh herbs make this place a paradise for food lovers. Locals rave about their juicy chicken kabob and must-have lamb shank.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit spicier, "Din Tai Fung" offers mouth-watering Taiwanese dumplings. Located in the Americana at Brand shopping center, this famous eatery is known for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and comprehensive menu of other Taiwanese delights. Get there early, as it’s highly popular among both residents and visitors.
Experiencing Fine Dining in Glendale
When it comes to an upscale dining experience, few places compare to "The Morrison." Known for its contemporary menu and chic ambiance, this dining spot attracts both locals and tourists. The steak, cooked to perfection, is a highlight, while their cocktail menu features unique concoctions that you won’t find anywhere else.
For a unique dinner outing, "Bacari GDL" offers a small plates menu that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It's the perfect spot for those who enjoy sharing and sampling a variety of dishes. From truffle fries to lamb-stuffed dates, the diverse menu makes for an unforgettable dining experience.
Explore Trending Eateries and Hotspots
Glendale is home to several trending eateries that have recently captured the hearts of foodies. One such place is "Midnight Taco," a pop-up that appears at different locations around the city. Known for their fresh, late-night tacos, it's a haven for those who finish their day with a tasty snack. Follow local forums like Kikihub to get the latest info on where they'll be next.
If you’re a fan of the plant-based lifestyle, "Green's Vegan" is the place to be. Offering thoughtful, delicious vegan options, it's rapidly gaining popularity. Their jackfruit tacos and cashew-based cheeses are so flavorful that even non-vegans find themselves coming back for more. The cozy café vibe adds to its charm, making it an Instagram-worthy dining destination.
An Exceptional Cocktail Experience
No dining guide is complete without mentioning where to find the best cocktails in Glendale. "The Famous" is a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind an unmarked door. Locals in the know appreciate its luxurious ambiance and the array of expertly crafted cocktails. From classic martinis to inventive signature drinks, this place has something for every taste.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, "Mr. Furley's Bar" offers a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. Known for its affordable happy hour and friendly atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for after-dinner drinks. Don’t miss their Moscow Mule, a local favorite, which perfectly complements a night out in Glendale.
Insider Tips for Dining in Glendale
While restaurants and bars are the face of Glendale’s food scene, knowing local secrets can elevate your culinary journey. First off, always check review sites for the latest feedback, but don't overlook forums like Kikihub for real, unfiltered opinions. Locals often share their favorite dishes, the best times to visit, and lesser-known spots that may not be on your radar yet.
Parking can be a challenge, especially in popular areas like the Americana. Opt for public transportation or rideshare options whenever possible. Also, dining early can save you from long waits—many popular spots tend to fill up quickly during peak hours.
Finally, always keep an eye out for pop-up events and food festivals. Glendale frequently hosts culinary events that offer an excellent opportunity to sample a variety of dishes. These events often feature up-and-coming chefs and new eateries, providing yet another avenue to discover the vibrant food culture of Glendale.
