Food! Food! Food!
Dining in Los Angeles is an adventure where the culinary options are endless! Whether you’re shopping on Rodeo Drive or lounging at the beach in Santa Monica, you’ll find the best offerings on almost any block- or food truck pulled up in the parking lot. You could quite literally play the “What are you in the mood for?” game until you can’t think straight. Since I’m in LA pretty frequently, I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite go-to restaurants when I’m in town.
SANTA MONICA
First Fridays on Abbot Kinney Blvd. is a fun food truck event right on Venice Beach in Santa Monica. Eat, drink, walk, have fun with your friends and family and enjoy the cute shops! It’s a great spot for people-watching. The first Friday of the month from 5-11pm.
Giorgio Baldi is not only great food but a fun place to see celebrities that live on the west side of LA. Be sure to try the pasta.
Capo Restaurant is another great spot on Ocean Avenue with fresh and delicious fish!
The Penthouse Restaurant perched atop Huntley Hotel has panoramic views and wonderful scallops.
To satisfy your sweet tooth, Vanilla Bake Shop is the place to go. Mom’s Birthday Cake cupcake with yellow cake and milk chocolate buttercream is a family favorite. To prepare for dinner parties, I often get a selection of small bites like mini key lime pies or cupcakes to finish off a great meal. Who doesn’t love dessert?
MALIBU
Malibu is another great food destination. Nobu is right on the ocean, Mr Chow and Mastro’s Steakhouse are all dining delights not to be missed!
BEVERLY HILLS
On-the-go in Beverly Hills? A quick lunch at Barney’s or Neiman Marcus are yummy and efficient. Both are great spots for a quick fix of fashion and feast!
To see movie stars, try Spago! Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck has great soup, pizza, salad and more. You may even meet Wolfgang himself who visits with his guests regularly.
Il Pastaio has the most wonderful fresh, Italian ingredients. With a great patio and celebrity clientele, you’re sure to have a great time.
Bouchon Bistro, Chef Thomas Keller’s creation, is a cafe and bakery with a French country flair!
The iconic Beverly Hills Hotel is always a sure thing.
And Mangia Mangia Cafe! You can never have too much Mangia in downtown LA.
