Why is Los Angeles the ultimate destination for food lovers?

Los Angeles is renowned for its diverse and innovative culinary scene, and one of the standout spots for plant-based dining is *Planta Cocina in Marina del Rey. This Canadian and American plant-based restaurant chain made its debut in 2023 and has since become a favorite among both vegans and omnivores. The restaurant offers a variety of stunning dishes, such as ahi watermelon nigiri and the firecracker roll, which is layered with sweet potatoes, avocado, unagi, gochujang mayo, and chili salt.

The menu also features a selection of items cooked on a robata grill, including mushrooms, corn, and Japanese eggplant. For those looking for something different, the hearts of palm “crab” tostada, al pastor taco bowl, and pasta verde with Woodland mushrooms and tomatillo salsa are excellent choices. Complementing the food is an inventive cocktail menu, an excellent wine selection, and some of the best non-alcoholic options in the city.

One of the unique aspects of dining at Planta Cocina is the adjacent city-operated water taxi service, which costs just $1 to cruise around the Marina. This adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience, especially during the cooler temperatures of the evening.

Address: 4625 Admiralty Way, Suite 104, Marina Del Rey, CA, 90292

Lucky’s Pizza: Hollywood’s Late-Night Pizza Haven

For those seeking a late-night pizza fix in Hollywood, Lucky’s Pizza is the place to be. Luigi Erausquin, who initially started selling delivery and take-out pizzas in Canoga Park, has expanded to a brick-and-mortar storefront on Hollywood Boulevard. The restaurant serves a menu of sourdough thin-crust New York-style pizzas with toppings that range from the classic cheese and pepperoni to more adventurous options like spicy barbecue and buffalo chicken.

One of the standout pizzas is the Sabrosa, which features a unique and satisfying mix of sausage, pineapple, basil, barbecue sauce, Canadian bacon, and ají limo Peruvian chile. Erausquin has built a strong following through a savvy social media marketing strategy, but it’s the genuinely tasty pizza that keeps customers coming back.

Address: 6541 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 101, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Kanomwaan: A Hub for Contemporary Thai Desserts

In the heart of Thai Town, Kanomwaan has quickly become a beloved spot for Thai-inspired desserts since its opening in December 2023. Owned by Champ Jansaeng and his wife Chanita Maneekarn, the dessert shop has garnered a warm reception and is now as bustling as the neighboring restaurant Ruen Pair, which Jansaeng’s parents opened 30 years ago.

Kanomwaan offers a variety of Thai sweets, including dragon fruit tamarind gelati and elaborate shaved ice presentations. One of the most popular items is the amply-portioned bing su, inspired by the traditional bua loi dessert, which comes with four accouterments: chewy purple rice balls, salted egg yolk sauce, sweetened condensed milk, and Biscoff cookie crumbs. The shaved ice is crowned with whipped cream and a scoop of the signature Candle Smoke Salted Egg gelato, making it a perfect treat to share with friends.

Address: 5261 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Na Na Thai: Authentic Thai Flavors in Santa Ynez Valley

Located off Highway 101 in Buellton, Na Na Thai offers a delightful Thai dining experience in the Santa Ynez Valley. Run by husband-and-wife team Nik and Ashley Ramirez, the restaurant’s name is a nod to the street they lived on in Thailand, Nana Plaza, an entertainment district in Bangkok. The red-painted walls and mid-century sconces create a charming ambiance, making it a perfect first stop on a Central Coast road trip.

The menu is brimming with authentic Thai flavors, from the sour, sweet, salty, and nutty notes of the dishes. Some of the best bets include gai tod (fried Jidori chicken with vinegary nam jim jaew), pla tod (fried whole seabass with fried garlic sauces), and the classic pad thai with massive grilled shrimp. The restaurant also offers a selection of local wines, perfect for toasting to the weekend.

Address:* 225 McMurray Road, Unit E, Buellton, CA 93427

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city that never ceases to amaze with its culinary diversity and innovation. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. For occasional travelers, we recommend taking advantage of the city-operated water taxi service in Marina del Rey when dining at Planta Cocina. It’s a unique and affordable way to enhance your dining experience while enjoying the scenic views of the Marina.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the lesser-known culinary gems in the surrounding areas of Los Angeles, such as Buellton’s Na Na Thai. These hidden spots often offer some of the most authentic and memorable dining experiences, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In conclusion, Los Angeles continues to be a vibrant and dynamic culinary destination. From plant-based innovations to late-night pizza, contemporary Thai desserts, and authentic Thai flavors, there’s something for every palate. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, make sure to explore the diverse food scene that this city has to offer. Happy dining!