If you’re seeking out international cuisine, classic deli sandwiches or trendy food hall options, Los Angeles has countless lunch options sure to please every palate.
Feature photo: Courtesy of Pascal Shirley
1300 Factory Pl, Los Angeles
213.996.6000
True to its name, the Factory Kitchen is indeed located in a factory space in LA’s Arts District. Serving up classic Northern Italian fare is Chef Angelo Auriana. One reason the Factory Kitchen was awarded the Michelin Guide 2019 Bib Gourmand Award are menu items that bring on memories of comfort food with a signature touch. To savor: a starter of thinly sliced Parma prosciutto with lightly fried sage dough and Stracciatella, followed by the Mandilli di Seta, thin, handcrafted handkerchief egg-pasta with basil-almond, Parmigiana, olive oil, and Ligurian style pesto. Want to spend a bit more time basking in this memory-evoking cuisine? Order the Polpettone, a baked turkey meatloaf with braised Umbrian lentils, cherry tomatoes and roasting jus.
414 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills
310.274.0101
Another LA dining institution is Nate ‘n Al’s Delicatessen. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, it’s been going strong since 1945. Menu classics like the matzo ball soup and the deli’s namesake pastrami sandwich are sure bets. Guaranteed, too, is a pickle spear and sides of macaroni salad or coleslaw. There are libations to be had, but it’s hard to resist a coffee in a cup adorned with Nate ‘n Al’s. This will, of course, be the perfect accompaniment to a black and white cookie.
9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills
310.887.2777
This quintessential Beverly Hills restaurant brings with it that thrill of “someone famous dined here.” The trademark pink and green décor is cheery, and the patio feels like an escape, but there are opportunities to see and be seen. On to the menu. Start with some steak tartare or polo crab cakes. Follow with the famous McCarthy salad with its very specific ingredients: iceberg and romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, beets, avocado, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, smoked bacon, and balsamic vinaigrette. What to sip? The basil Collins with Hendrick’s gin, basil syrup, fresh lemon, club soda and Peychaud’s bitters will do quite nicely, thank you.
220 Rose Ave, Venice
310.399.0711
This Venice neighborhood favorite has been drawing regulars for over 36 years. Peruse the menu, and it’s easy to understand why. Starters like octopus ceviche or Peruvian Bay scallops on a half shell are a nod to the restaurant’s beach location. Follow with the Impossible Tokyo burger with its flavors of Japanese curry, avocado, miso mayo, and teriyaki. On the side, some curry fries. After lunch, explore the shops on Main Street, take in skateboarding at Dogtown, then commune with the Pacific Ocean.
11222 Washington Pl, Culver City
310.391.5780
Sometimes, lunch is more than a meal; it’s an experience. A moment to embrace some Los Angeles nostalgia, or in the case of Tito’s Tacos, some darned good Mexican fare. This Culver City-based taco stand/beloved institution was opened in 1959 by Benjamin Davidson. These days, Davidson’s granddaughter, Lynne, is carrying forth Tito’s legacy. The reason for the daily lines ranges from the desire for Tito’s “folded” hard tacos, burritos, tamales, enchiladas… It’s all good. Worried about the line waiting to order at the window? Order online for pick-up at Tito’s Express takeout window or delivery.
