Don’t leave LA without trying these foods! Your visit will not be complete without tasting these 20 most iconic LA foods. Los Angeles is a city bursting with vibrant flavors and diverse food traditions. From quick bites to gourmet dishes, these foods reflect the dynamic culture of the city. Each dish tells its own delicious story and captures the hearts and stomachs of Angelenos and visitors!
Cheeseburgers
LA is often credited with creating the cheeseburger, and it’s a must-try in the city! The classic combination of a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles in a soft bun is pure comfort food. In LA, you’ll find many versions with unique twists, but the traditional style remains a beloved staple.
Cobb Salad
Invented at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, the Cobb salad is a hearty meal in a bowl. It’s packed with crisp greens, chicken breast, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, avocado, tomatoes, and Roquefort cheese. The dish is tossed with a red-wine vinaigrette, making it both refreshing and rich. This salad is perfect for those who want a lighter option without sacrificing taste
Tacos
Los Angeles is a taco lover’s paradise, with a rich variety of styles and flavors. From street tacos with simple ingredients to fancy creations, there’s something for everyone. The soft corn tortillas filled with seasoned meats, fresh salsa, and cilantro offer a burst of authentic Mexican flavor. Tacos in LA are more than food; they’re a cultural experience.
Strawberry Donut
The strawberry donut from The Donut Man in Glendora is legendary. It’s a massive, fluffy donut filled with fresh strawberries and a sweet glaze. The combination of the juicy fruit and the soft, sugary dough makes it a standout treat.
French Dip Sandwich
Originating from LA, the French Dip Sandwich is a hearty favorite. Thinly sliced roast beef on a French roll, served with a side of savory au jus for dipping, creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. The sandwich’s simplicity is its strength, letting the quality of the beef and the richness of the dip shine. It’s a warm, comforting bite that’s perfect any time of the day.
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast might be a trend everywhere, but in LA, it’s an art form. Creamy avocado spread on artisanal bread, often topped with extras like poached eggs, radishes, or chili flakes, makes for a healthy and delicious snack. It’s a go-to for breakfast or brunch, providing a perfect mix of flavors and nutrients.
Egg Rolls
LA’s egg rolls are a beloved appetizer found in many Chinese restaurants and food trucks across the city. These crispy, fried rolls are typically filled with a savory mixture of cabbage, carrots, and sometimes pork or shrimp. They’re served hot with a side of sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce for dipping.
Prime Rib
Lawry’s The Prime Rib is known for its signature prime rib served tableside from silver carts. Typically slow-roasted to perfection, prime rib is served in thick slices with au jus and horseradish sauce on the side. It’s a luxurious dish that highlights LA’s love for high-quality meats and traditional steakhouse dining.
Dodger Dog
A visit to Dodger Stadium isn’t complete without a Dodger Dog. This iconic ballpark food features a long, juicy hot dog served in a steamed bun. You can top it with classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, and relish, or go all out with onions and sauerkraut.
Chili Dog
The chili dog is another LA classic, especially famous at Pink’s Hot Dogs. A beef hot dog smothered in rich, meaty chili and topped with cheese and onions is a messy but delicious treat. The combination of the spicy chili and the savory dog is pure comfort food.
Smoked Salmon Pizza
Pioneered by Chef Wolfgang Puck, the smoked salmon pizza is a gourmet twist on the traditional pie. A crisp, thin crust is topped with dill cream, smoked salmon, red onions, and capers. It’s a sophisticated dish that combines the best of pizza and bagels with lox. Each bite is a delightful mix of crunchy, creamy, and smoky flavors.
Chopped Salad
Chopped salads are a staple in LA, offering a refreshing and healthy meal option. They typically feature a mix of finely chopped vegetables, proteins like chicken or turkey, cheese, and a tangy dressing. This salad is a perfect example of LA’s love for fresh, balanced, and flavorful food.
California Roll
The California roll is a sushi classic that, according to some historians, originated in LA. It features crab (or imitation crab), avocado, and cucumber rolled in seaweed and rice, often topped with sesame seeds or fish roe. This roll is accessible for sushi beginners and beloved by enthusiasts. Its clean, fresh flavors make it a staple in Japanese restaurants across the city.
Pastrami Sandwich
LA’s Jewish delis are famous for their pastrami sandwiches. Thick slices of tender, juicy pastrami piled high on rye bread with mustard create a hearty and flavorful meal. The pastrami’s smoky, peppery taste pairs perfectly with the tangy mustard and crusty bread. It’s a beloved classic that showcases the city’s rich deli tradition.
Ice Cream Sandwich
Coolhaus and other local spots have turned the ice cream sandwich into a fancy treat. It’s basically an ice cream nestled between two freshly baked cookies, quite resembling an icebox cake. The flavor combinations are endless, from classic vanilla and chocolate chip to more adventurous options like brown butter bourbon ice cream with snickerdoodle cookies. It’s a nostalgic treat with a sophisticated twist.
Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ has become a significant part of LA’s food culture. Diners grill their own meats at the table, creating a fun and interactive dining experience. The marinated meats, from beef bulgogi to spicy pork, are packed with flavor. Accompanied by a variety of banchan (side dishes), it’s a meal that’s both delicious and communal.
In-N-Out Burger
No list of LA foods would be complete without In-N-Out Burger. Known for its fresh ingredients and secret menu, this fast-food chain has a cult following. The Double-Double, Animal Style fries, and thick shakes are iconic.
Chicken and Waffles
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles has made this soul food classic famous in LA. The combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles drizzled with syrup is unexpectedly perfect. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
Elote
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a popular street food in LA. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered in mayonnaise, sprinkled with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The result is a smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy treat.
Ramen
LA’s ramen scene is booming, with countless shops offering their take on this Japanese noodle soup. Rich, flavorful broths are filled with tender noodles, meats, and vegetables. From tonkotsu to shoyu, each bowl is a comforting, savory hug. Ramen in LA showcases the city’s appreciation for authentic, hearty cuisine.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things P A R E N T I N G.
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