Los Angeles Restaurants
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities on Earth. With inhabitants from everywhere on the planet, the city’s ethnic restaurants are an experience not to be missed. Whether you like Indian, Thai, Mexican, Japanese or Lebanese, you will be able to find a meal to fit your tastes. Here are some of my favorite ethnic restaurants, in no particular order:
Gaby’s Mediterranean:
Located on Venice Boulevard, Gaby’s may be my favorite restaurant in Los Angeles. With a casual and relaxing atmosphere, Gaby’s gives you a break from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. The complementary zataar, tomatoes, onion and pita bread that start each meal force you to practice restraint, especially if you arrived already hungry. The entrees are very large, and nearly all come with sides of rice pilaf and salad. While everything I’ve tried there has been excellent, the favorite entree among those i’ve eaten with has been the Lamb Kebab dinner. The lamb cubes are well spiced, tender, and when paired with their Lebanese garlic sauce they are simply irresistible. It is also worth mention that Gaby’s has no corkage fee, and has hookahs available in the outdoor (covered) seating area.
La Estrella Tacos:
Fresh made tortillas cooked just right are the cornerstone of this simple but authentic taco stand. Carne Asada tacos are a standard in Los Angeles, and La Estrella’s do not disappoint. They are topped with a generous portion of spiced carne asada and a chipotle based salsa roja that complement each other perfectly. With a wedge of lime squeezed over the top, they are sure to please. The wait can be longer than an average taco stand as they cook most of their food to order, but it will be worth your time.
Bombay Tandoori and Banquet:
A fresh and tasty Indian Restaurant that consistently delivers authentic cuisine, Bombay Tandoori is the go to spot for Indian near the Ocean. Located near Redondo Beach, Bombay has both a lunch buffet and a dinner with traditional service. At $13 the lunch buffet is a great deal with all the standards as well as a few unique dishes. It includes a drink (champagne is an option), and is well worth the stop. The waitstaff are simply superb and their attentiveness make Bombay Tandoori an outstanding way to experience Indian cuisine in Los Angeles.
Tacos Leo:
On weekend nights a large spit is surrounded by flame outside the Tacos Leo truck at the corner of Venice and La Cienega. The spit is piled high with Al Pastor (marinated pork) and topped with a pineapple. The juicy pork tacos with pineapple and self serve onions, cilantro, lime, and avocado sauce are the best i’ve had. At $1 each, these tacos are a delicious and inexpensive way to eat outstanding Mexican food in Los Angeles.
Canter’s Deli:
This Jewish deli has barely changed since they moved to their current location in 1951. The art deco décor and out of date cash register seem kitschy, but you will forget about those things as soon you see the food. The menu is enormous, and the portions even larger. They have everything from breakfast to dessert, with sandwiches, salads, and entrees to cover you in between. Over the years, Canter’s claims they have sold: 2 million pounds of lox, 9 million pounds of corned beef, 10 million matzo balls, 20 million bagels and 24 million bowls of chicken soup.
Center’s Deli is open 24/7 every day of the year except Jewish holidays.
Musha Restaurant
This unique Japanese restaurant is located next to the 3rd street Promenade near the beach in Santa Monica. Musha offers a large variety of Japanese dishes expertly prepared. While their portions are small, the prices are reasonable, allowing you to try a variety of different dishes. You won’t find sushi rolls on their menu, instead you will food ranging from the tame Tofu French Fries to the more outlandish Takotama (Octopus Omelette and Noodles). Their risotto with cheese and bacon is cooked table side and is certainly a highlight on an excellent menu. Not to be missed if you are in Santa Monica. Make a reservation here as they can get quite busy.
Amy Malbeck is a blogger and food lover who’s tried only a fraction of the international food bounty LA has to offer. She’s a particular fan of Mexican food and Asian dishesand, reviews online ingredient resources for ZiiBest.com.
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