Having gone to Los Angeles quite a bit for work over the last few years, I’ve been really impressed by the culinary scene in the city known for eschewing carbs and calories in favor of juice cleanses.
Read on for our guide to the best restaurants in Los Angeles.
Cleo: Also in West Hollywood is Cleo, a Mediterranean restaurant with awesome cocktails and tons of great sharing plates. This is the perfect spot to go to with a group of friends. We ordered everything from hummus and tzatiszki to eggplant and scallops. The drinks are stiff, and the black and white checkered floor makes a wonderful backdrop for your insta shots.
The Ivy isn’t just for celebrity spotting, although chances are that you’ll spot a celeb or two if you dine here. This Robertson Blvd. institution is impressive on a number of levels. Let’s start with the decor, which in a word was simply charming. The restaurant feels like you are walking into a friend’s home. Brightly colored bouquets adorn the entire restaurant and beautiful mixed pattern china hangs on the wall and is used to serve tea and coffee. I had dinner at The Ivy and was greeted with a glass of champagne — it was like they knew me!
Surprisingly, the food was just as lovely as the atmosphere. I opted for an amazing grilled vegetable salad with grilled shrimp and it was absolutely delicious. Added bonus: The Ivy is on a great street for shopping, so save some time before or after your reservation for retail therapy!
Craft Los Angeles: From the owners of New York’s Colicchio & Sons, Craft LA is a bright and sleek restaurant with great eats. My girlfriend and I had lunch here and were really impressed by the fare. The restaurant is apt for dining out with friends or for a business dinner or lunch. I opted for a delish salad with roast chicken and my friend had the avocado and tomato salad. Don’t worry, we did splurge a bit with brussel sprouts and bacon and mashed potatoes.
Jean Georges at the Rooftop of the Waldorf Astoria: Also in Beverly hills, this famous chef turns out impeccable bites in a great setting. Grab a table on the roof of the Waldorf for lunch or dinner while taking in amazing views of Los Angeles and its palm tree lined streets. Some of our favorites are the guacamole, tacos, crab burger, calamari and wedge salad.
Cut: A trip to LA wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Beverly Hills and the famed Beverly Wilshire. Here you will find Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant, Cut. Cut attracts a sexy clientele who flood their banquettes. The food and wine is absolutely delicious, and added bonus, the night I ate there, Wolfgang was on the premises making the rounds. The star of the show here is steak, but the menu had other great options and sharing plates.
Read More of Our California Travel Guides:
Malibu Day Trip: The Malibu Cafe
Travel Guide: San Francisco’s Onsen
Travel Guide: San Francisco
Where To Eat In San Francisco
San Francisco’s Best Boutique Fitness Classes
Travel Guide:San Francisco’s Muir Woods
Napa Valley Travel Guides:
Where to Stay In Napa Valley: The Meritage Resort & Spa
Travel Guide: The Perfect 24 Hours in Napa Valley