WHY Fried chicken and big waffles, of course. WHAT The name pretty much says it all. The original location of this small chain of gut-busting L.A. soul-food cafés, Roscoe’s is a Hollywood institution, and it’s a haven for people who can’t bear one more vegan scramble or nonfat chai latte. The fried chicken, waffles and [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY Addictively sweet-savory teriyaki chicken, served over noodles and rice. WHAT A staple place for a hearty but not junky quick lunch and takeout meals after too long a day at work. We’re hooked on the teriyaki chicken, but others swear by the Korean-style beef and the tasty noodle soup. Interesting spinach and bean-sprout side [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY A lively sushi bar, an engaged staff and very good Japanese food, including lots of appealing vegetarian choices. WHAT Don’t let the home-lettered signs and uninviting, tunnel-like space dissuade you from discovering this fine and eclectic spot. The knowledgeable staff can’t wait to introduce you to the live sea urchin, the exotic sake collection [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY Peru’s Chinese influence is evident in the wonderful fried-rice dishes; also try the fried calamari and classic pescado saltado with french fries, and wash it down with an Inca Kola. WHAT This rival to Mario’s goes a little easier on the chiles but turns out Peruvian food that’s still powerfully flavorful. It’s a pleasant [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY A charming patio and simple, satisfying, affordable Italian food that goes down well after a movie or a play. WHAT We love this place, not for the food (which is just fine) but because of ebullient owner Fabio and the convenience to the ArcLight and the Pantages. Prices are modest, the Chianti is entirely [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY Vacuum-packed fresh foie gras, French nut oils, whole French cheeses and some wine buys. WHAT Several times a year (get on the e-mail list) this wholesaler of gourmet imported products opens its doors to the public, permitting a sometimes-chaotic supermarket sweep through aisles of plus-size food items (three kilograms of Valrhona dark chocolate, anyone?). [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY For a short, delicious menu of Brazilian dishes, including a fabulous (and massive) chicken pot pie made with hearts of palm, corn, roasted potatoes and olives. WHAT The bright, minimalist space in the heart of the Fashion District is warmed with yellow flowers, the rich flavors of Brazil and the presence of the owner/chef, [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY For the best taquitos around, and a place to eat on Olvera Street that isn’t a tourist trap. WHAT This plain-jane stall in the middle of Olvera Street has a few tables and downright delicious taquitos. You can also get pan dulce, enchiladas and a few other things, but most everyone gets the taquitos. [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY For Chinese and Asian herbs and vegetables, from lemongrass to bok choy, as well as fresh noodles of many types, a remarkable selection of tofu and good, very cheap knives. WHAT Locals have been known to call it ‘the stinky-meat market’—not that there’s anything wrong with the meat, mind you. It’s just aromatic. Anyway, [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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WHY Very fresh char-broiled fish (yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, catfish, swordfish) that is not overcooked like it usually is at these kinds of places, served with rice or perfect fries. WHAT Don’t be put off by the paper plates, concrete picnic tables or lunchtime crowds—this seafood-market and café has fish better than at many a [...]
October 28, 2011 | Posted in
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