Hidden Gems: Burbank's Best Dining Secrets
Los Angeles magazine
Beyond Fest Horror, Sci-Fi and "genre" film have the ultimate showcase at this popular cinema fest, which this year, includes 82 features and 16 world premieres. This 12th edition presented by Neon, takes place at the Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theatre, Los Feliz 3, and Vista Theatre and features appearances by big names, including Al Pacino during a Scarface screening, Kiyoshi Kurosawa after a 7-film retrospective, plus Sam Raimi, Tarsem Singh, Kyle MacLachlan, Sarah Paulson, Ron Perlman, and Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock for the 30th Anniversary Speed. Other anticipated movies and stars: Gary Dauberman’s take on Stephen King’s Salem's Lot, Brady Corbet's The Brutalist (in 70mm); the 35mm debut of Sean Baker's Anora (with star Mikey Madison); Marielle Heller’s Nightbitch starring starring Amy Adams, Steven Soderbergh’s Presence; Barry Keoghan and Christopher Abbott’s Bring Them Down and Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3 (read our interview with the latter here next week). Sept. 26-Oct. 9
Time Out LA
Founders Ale House What: $6 well drinks, $7 cocktails, $5 wines, $6 beers; $7–10 bar bites; $3.50 sliders, taquitos and meatballs When: Mon–Thu 4–7pm, 10pm–close; Fri 3–7pm, 10pm–close; Sat, Sun 1–7pm, 10pm–close Why we love it: Filled to the brim every weekend, this longtime Pico-Robertson bar offers casual neighborhod pub atmosphere (and prices). Board games, dart boards and arcade fun upstairs keep locals occupied most evenings and weekends, but Founders Ale House turns into a party on game nights, when the bar breaks out a large-scale projector. Founders Ale House’s newer happy hour menu bucks the trend of rising prices with a selection of affordable bites priced by the item, including $3.50 sliders with vegan options, a $10 smashburger and $7 nachos.
Food Baby
Used jetlag to our advantage today to line up before the opening of FONDRY, easily one of the best bakeries in LA, including some of the very best croissants. 👶🏽🥐 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽 They proudly introduce two new offerings: - Brown Butter Financier 🧈 - The Hazelnut 🌰 Enjoy 😋
Los Angeles Fun Events
Healthcare Industry Social Night Join Us for a Night of Fun and Networking at the Healthcare Industry Social Night! Calling all healthcare professionals! Get ready to unwind and connect with your peers at the Healthcare Industry Social Night at Weary Livers in Santa Monica. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of fun, laughter, and great conversations. Event Details: Date: Friday, October 11th Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Whether you're a doctor, nurse, admin or healthcare technician, this is the perfect opportunity to socialize and network with fellow professionals in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Enjoy delicious drinks and the chance to make lasting connections in your field. Bring your colleagues and friends for a fun night out at a new Santa Monica Speakeasy. We can't wait to see you there! Highlights: Exclusive gathering for healthcare professionals Lively bar setting with fun, social ambiance Drinks, games, and plenty of networking opportunities RSVP now and be a part of the Healthcare Industry Social Night. Let's make this evening a memorable one!
Secret NYC
Reframing Dioramas: The Art of Preserving Wilderness The Natural History Museum is famous for its life-size diorama halls, displaying over 75 different habitats representing global ecosystems including the Arctic tundra, the jungles of Tanzania, and the Great Plains of North America. To honor the 100th anniversary of the dioramas, the NHM will reopen a diorama hall that has been closed for decades. See newly restored dioramas that showcase this unique union of art and science. 🎟️ Tickets: Reframing Dioramas is viewable with general admission tickets to the Natural History Museum. 🗓️ Dates: Sept. 15, 2024 – Sept. 15, 2025
Los Angeles Fun Events
The Horror Movie Watch Club It's Horror Movie Night! Every Thursday in October! Two movie times: 8PM & Midnight But here’s the twist: the movie remains a secret until the day of the event! Will it be a classic slasher, a paranormal thriller, or a psychological horror? You’ll have to join us to find out. We’re setting the stage with eerie decorations, creepy cocktails, and spine-tingling vibes to make your Thursday nights creepy AF. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or just love a good scare, this is the perfect way to celebrate spooky season. Mark your calendars, grab your friends, and come early to secure your spot. It’s going to be a scream! 👻 Spooky vibes await… if you dare! See you there, if you’re brave enough. 🍿🔪
Los Angeles4 everybody
Exciting news! Just discovered a hidden gem – Trail Canyon in LA County! 🌟 It’s not your average hiking spot; here, you can immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty for free. 🌲 Imagine trekking through rugged canyons, listening to the gentle whispers of the wind, and feeling the thrill of conquering challenging terrain. 💧 It’s an adventurer’s paradise! Can’t wait to explore this scenic trail with you! 🤩
See also
Top Anonymous Recommendations in Fairfax - Discover Trending Suggestions & Local Reviews Near LA
Secret Los Angeles
Lumen: The Art and Science of Light This engaging new Getty Center exhibition examines how different authorities studied the science of light during the “Long Middle Ages” (800-1600 CE). Compare the perspectives of philosophers, theologians, and artists layered with their respective Christian, Muslim, and Jewish ideologies. In addition to ancient works from Western Europe, you’ll see several contemporary artwork installations that add to the themes of light and darkness. 🎟️ Tickets: Lumen is viewable with free general admission to the Getty Center. 🗓️ Dates: Sept. 10 – Dec. 8, 2024
Secret Los Angeles
Expansive Presentation of Andy Warhol The Broad presents a showcase of work by legendary American artist Andy Warhol, who is best known as a leading influence in the pop art genre. This installation takes the viewer through 26 of Warhol’s works, eleven of which are on view for the first time at The Broad. The major artwork to seek out is Liz [Early Colored Liz], which is a silkscreened image of Elizabeth Taylor from 1963. Other items on display include Warhol’s iconic Campbell’s Soup Can (Clam Chowder – Manhattan Style) [Ferus Type] and 40 Gold Marilyns. 🎟️ Tickets: Expansive Presentation of Andy Warhol is free to visit at The Broad. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing Whether you’re an art lover, hosting visitors, or just want to change up your weekend plans, we love the Los Angeles exhibitions for a chance to experience the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.
Kathy
If you’re on a mission to find an aesthetic coffee shop that actually serves quality coffee, then you should put LOQUAT COFFEE on your list💛🖤 ✔️I absolutely LOVE their mascarpone🖤 Not only does the drink has the perfect amount of sweetness, the cream also doesn’t overpower the flavor of espresso✨ ✔️My friend got the iced ceremonial matcha and she also enjoyed her drink 🍵 ✔️Street parking only but I never had trouble finding one 🚙
Secret Los Angeles
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms are turning heads from San Francisco to New York, and we’re lucky to have two of them available to visit for free right here in LA. Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away: An enclosed mirror-lined space filled with flashing LED lights that visitors physically step into. Since guests enter the space one group at a time, The Broad requires that you make a timed reservation to foster the best possible experience. Find it on the first floor of The Broad. Longing for Eternity: A mirrored chamber filled with pulsating neon lights that guests peer into one by one. There’s no need to make a reservation for this, so just join the line on the third floor. 🎟️ Tickets: Free to visit at The Broad, but a reservation is required for Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing
Secret Los Angeles
The Art of Movie Making: The Godfather The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures presents an array objects and artifacts from The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II (1974), an opportunity for film buffs to learn about the making of one of Hollywood’s most storied film franchises. See costumes, props, scripts, and equipment, many of which have never been presented to the public, and all of which provide valuable insight to the process of filmmaking in the ’70s. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Jan. 5, 2025
Secret Los Angeles
Best in Low This new Petersen Museum exhibition takes us through the craft of lowrider culture, including paint, metal finishings, interiors, and hydraulics. Now that cruising bans have been lifted in California, lowriders are rolling into a new era on local streets. Learn all about the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these immaculate vehicles. 🎟️ Tickets: Best in Low is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum 🗓️ Dates: Open now through April 2025
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.
See alsoSocializing in Fairfax Near LA: Local Community Interactions & Anonymous Discussions
Los Angeles Fun Events
Blues Music Social Mixer Socialize, Mix and Mingle with Blues Music Night!! Dive into a dynamic evening at Weary Livers, tailored for People interested in enjoying the Blues Music. This special gathering is designed for those eager to connect with fellow music creators, explore potential collaborations, or simply relax in an atmosphere that vibrates with musical energy. Seize this opportunity to share your sounds, discover new inspirations, and build lasting partnerships in the music industry! 🍹 Exclusive Drink Offerings: Enjoy our signature cocktails, crafted to stir your creativity. Savor a select range of fine wines and craft beers. Choose from various non-alcoholic beverages to suit all tastes! 🔞 Age Restriction: 21 and over only. Sep 25, 2024, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Los Angeles Fun Events
Hiking + Speed Dating - Baldwin Hills (Ages 30+) Join our group hike where we will rotate hikers through a series of 1:1 speed dates on the trail! Date: Saturday, July 6th Time: 10 AM: Meet at Boneyard Dog Park on Duquesne for a warm welcome and check-in to speed dating program (no downloads required!, but you will need a smartphone!) 10:30 AM: We will explain how we will be using the speed dating program and introduce you to your first date before we begin the hike. - 10:35AM - 1:30PM : Our hike will commence, as we climb to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, you will be paired 1:1 for dates, along with breaks and mixing/mingling.
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.)
Los Angeles Fun Events
Goth Night at Weary Livers Embrace the Shadows at Goth Night! Join us for a relaxed and enchanting evening at Weary Livers Bar with a playlist of all goth music, all night long. Date: Thursday, September 19th Time: 7 PM Enjoy the laid-back, gothic ambiance with subtle decorations and a comfortable atmosphere. Dress in your favorite casual gothic attire and unwind with fellow goth enthusiasts.
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
Secret Los Angeles
Fulfill your cravings at Grand Central Market! Nothing beats soaking up the city vibes like going out to eat, right? While Los Angeles offers dining options for every taste, from Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks, you don’t need to explore the whole city to find them. At Grand Central Market, you’ll find countless affordable choices, from seafood to tacos. Almost every one of the more than 35 vendors has menu items priced below $15, making it one of the best cheap activities in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the place can be packed, so it’s best to go early and be patient.
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Secret Los Angeles
Explore your creativity at Remainders! This second-hand, sustainable craft store in Pasadena offers a wide range of items for your next craft adventure, whether solo or with friends. From yarn and fabric to picture frames, you’ll find everything at very affordable prices. The store is dedicated to giving donated items a second life, making art more accessible to everyone. In addition to shopping, you can also join classes and workshops on sewing, crochet, and embroidery. It’s a perfect budget-friendly plan for your next weekend!
Los Angeles Fun Events
Single Teachers Social: Back to School, Back to Fun! 📅 Date: Thursday, September 12th ⏰ Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Age: 21+ School’s back in session, and so is your social life! 🍎✏️ Calling all single educators—whether you’re grading papers or prepping lesson plans, it’s time to take a well-deserved break. Join us for a night dedicated to teachers like you. Meet fellow singles who understand the joys (and challenges!) of being in the classroom. Expect an evening full of laughs, great conversations, and the chance to unwind with others in the education community. Whether you’re swapping teaching tips or just looking to make new connections, this is the place to be! You give your all to your students—now give yourself the gift of a fun night out. See you there! 📚🍷
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 👀🌸
Time Out LA
Shirubē Japanese Santa Monica $5 beers, $6–9 sake, $8 “whiskey” cokes, $5–9 bar bites When: Mon–Thu 5–6:30pm; Sat, Sun 4–6pm Why we love it: This Tokyo-based restaurant chain serves seasonally inflected Japanese drinking fare on the northern edge of Santa Monica. The Westside location is the family-run company’s first location outside Japan, and while the regular dinner menu is excellent, the happy hour menu is a downright steal. Shirubē's ultra-popular corn ribs are on the menu as is the restaurant's surprisingly tasty negitoro over garlic bread. Snacky fare like pork belly tacos, edamame and garlic shrimp ($12) are also on offer during happy hour.
Secret Los Angeles
Hike your way up to the Hollywood Sign Whether you’re looking for a way to work out, explore nature, or simply enjoy stunning sunset views over the city, a quick hike to the Hollywood Sign is always a great idea. If you’re already familiar with the area or prefer to make plans on your own, just lace up your sneakers and head up there, which is free. If you enjoy socializing with others and you’re new in town, you might want to book a ticket to join a group hike.
Los Angeles Fun Events
LA & Santa Monica Tech Night + Social 📅 Date: Tuesday, September 10th 🕖 Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Join us for a relaxed & social evening at Weary Livers, where professionals and entrepreneurs in tech come together to connect, share ideas, and unwind in style! Whether you're looking to network, find your next collaborator, or just have a great time, this event is for you. 🍹 Enjoy Our Exclusive Mix: Sip on our signature Soju cocktails, crafted to perfection. Relish a selection of fine craft beers and wines. Non-alcoholic options available to keep everyone in the mix! 🎯 Games & Entertainment: Challenge your peers in a game of shuffleboard or darts. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere perfect for making new connections. 🔞 Age Restriction: This event is 21+.
megan li
I was on a coffee streak during this trip. Apparently Maru has the best matcha in LA? I didn’t get to try it 🤣 their barista recommended the cream top, and it was delicious. I’d already had three cups of coffee by this point so the tiny cup was the perfect size. Such a cute space and I’ll definitely try their matcha next time 🤩
See alsoExperience Fairfax: Top Local and Trending Insights near LA
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 🤓
Los Angeles Fun Events
LGBTQ+ Singles Mixer Looking for a fun and inclusive night out? Come to our LGBTQ+ Singles Party on Friday, Sept 6th, from 7-11 PM at Weary Livers Bar in Santa Monica! Event Details: Date: Friday, Sept 6th Time: 7 PM - 11 PM Location: Weary Livers Bar, Santa Monica Celebrate diversity and meet amazing new people in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Our LGBTQ+ Singles Mix and Mingle is the perfect place to connect, make friends, and maybe even find that special someone. Enjoy: A lively and inclusive environment Icebreaker games and activities A great mix of music to keep the vibe upbeat Delicious drinks and snacks Dress Code: Be yourself! Wear whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable. Whether you're looking for love, friendship, or just a fantastic night out, this event is for you. Don't miss out on an unforgettable evening of fun, laughter, and connections.
Discover the Best Local Restaurants in Burbank: A Foodie's Guide
When it comes to finding the best local restaurants in Burbank, near LA, there's no better place to start than with local secrets and real opinions. Whether you're a foodie seeking the ultimate dining experiences or simply looking to enjoy a delightful meal, Burbank has a variety of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Top Trending Spots for Brunch in Burbank
Brunch enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn about the best places to enjoy late morning feasts in Burbank. A popular choice for locals is Porto's Bakery. Known for its pastries and Cuban sandwiches, this spot is often buzzing with both locals and tourists. Another beloved brunch spot is Olive & Thyme, offering a cozy atmosphere and a delicious menu featuring everything from avocado toast to truffle fries.
If you're in the mood for something more upscale, The Castaway offers panoramic views of the valley and an impressive brunch menu that includes mouthwatering dishes like lobster benedict and buttermilk pancakes. For those who prefer a more casual setting, Red Maple Café is a hidden gem that serves up delightful pancakes and a variety of egg dishes in a relaxed, homey atmosphere.
Unforgettable Dining Experiences in Burbank
Burbank is home to a myriad of dining experiences that go beyond just a meal. If you're seeking a unique culinary adventure, look no further than The Smoke House. This vintage restaurant near Warner Bros. Studios is an iconic spot known for its steak and seafood. The restaurant's vibrant history and classic Hollywood feel make it a must-visit for those wanting to dine in a piece of LA's past.
For a modern twist, visit Commonwealth Restaurant, offering farm-to-table cuisine with a rotating menu based on seasonal ingredients. Diners rave about their innovative dishes and the intimate ambiance. Another local favorite is Malbec Argentinean Cuisine, where you'll find an array of authentic Argentine dishes, including succulent grilled meats and savory empanadas, providing a rich, cultural dining experience.
Burbank's Best Dinner Options
When it comes to dinner in Burbank, the choices are diverse and delicious. For lovers of Italian cuisine, Fratelli's Pizza can't be missed. Well-loved by locals, this pizzeria offers not only incredible pizza but also delectable pasta dishes, perfect for a casual yet satisfying dinner. Another Italian gem is La Bamba Ristorante Italiano, serving traditional and contemporary Italian dishes in a charming setting.
If you are craving Asian flavors, Mo's House of Axe is where you can enjoy Japanese and Korean fusion cuisine. Their sushi rolls and Korean BBQ plates are a true testament to the fusion of flavors. For a more intimate dinner setting, Priscilla's Gourmet Coffee serves upscale comfort food in a quaint café atmosphere, perfect for a date night or a relaxing evening out.
Cocktails and Nightlife: Burbank's Hidden Gems
As the sun sets, Burbank transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination with numerous bars and lounges. One standout is Tonys Darts Away, boasting an impressive selection of craft beers and a lively environment ideal for socializing and unwinding. For a more classic cocktail experience, head over to Blue Room, a speakeasy-style bar known for its expertly mixed drinks and retro ambiance.
Those who prefer a chic and trendy setting will find The Backstage an excellent choice. Located near Universal Studios, this bar offers innovative cocktails and a stylish interior that attracts a savvy crowd. For a local secret, try 1886 Bar, an unassuming spot tucked away in an old Victorian house, where you can sip on expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, historical setting.
Local Insights and Hidden Foodie Hotspots
One of the best aspects of dining in Burbank is uncovering the hidden hotspots known only to locals. A must-visit is Waffle Hut Bistro, a delightful café that serves some of the best waffles in town, accompanied by unique toppings and gourmet coffee. For a lesser-known yet fantastic sushi experience, check out Yakiya, a small restaurant that offers fresh, high-quality sushi and friendly service that keeps patrons coming back.
For those with a sweet tooth, Milk Jar Cookies, though well-loved by those in the know, still maintains a low profile despite serving up some of the best cookies and ice cream sandwiches around. Finally, for an extraordinary burger, visit The Oinkster, where the juicy gourmet burgers and hand-cut fries will have you savoring every bite. Burbank's culinary secrets provide a treasure trove of dining experiences for any foodie eager to explore this vibrant area near LA.
