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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Food finds in Central LA

Made for those who find satisfaction only in the pursuit of dining spots that remain off the mainstream radar.

Based on 579 Opinions
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01
Ulew Coffee & Juice image 1
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Space blends Guatemalan culture with minimalist wooden decor and unique art pieces. Atmosphere stays quiet and welcoming, ideal for working or relaxing with mellow music. Separate seating and community areas support a calm, social vibe.

Delicious food pairs with tasty coffee to create a satisfying meal. The flavors evoke a strong sense of place and the overall quality stands out.

A true hidden gem inside the mall offers fresh, flavorful drinks with a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Coffee balances bitterness and sweetness well, paired with great food.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh with bright flavors."

"It's a hidden gem with great coffee and flavorful drinks."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available at Ulew Coffee & Juice, and street parking is hard to find.

2

The entrance is through the mini mart and you can't miss the plant store at the entrance.

3

Parking is limited on the curb, but you can enter through the flower shop into the indoor shopping center.

02
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Small cafe with high ceilings and a brick wall creates an open, stylish space. Atmosphere stays calm and cozy with pleasant music and bright, clean design. Tables spread out for a relaxed vibe, welcoming for breakfast or lunch.

Food comes out made to order with quality ingredients. Coffee and dishes both taste delicious and homemade.

Offers a quiet spot tucked away from busy areas. Stays under the radar despite being close to Hollywood.

People are saying

"I found the food here really delicious."

"You'll find the food here is amazing and succulent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right out front, but it's metered.

2

Expect a higher charge on your bill due to extra fees.

3

The cashier handles money and food without changing gloves, raising food safety concerns.

03
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Izakaya restaurant offers a cozy, trendy vibe with warm wooden decor and lively music. The space feels intimate and inviting, often quiet at the sushi bar for a personal experience. It stays open late, attracting a crowd that appreciates quality sushi and a relaxed atmosphere.

Food shows great attention to detail in both flavor and presentation. Dishes come out fresh and delicious, with care taken to accommodate food allergies safely.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with excellent quality that often surprises visitors. It supports local business vibes and offers a unique experience away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the ingredients are fresh."

"You'll find the freshest fish and beautifully presented sushi here."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $3 cash only for 90 minutes with validation.

2

The restaurant offers a late night happy hour from 11 p.m. to closing.

3

Happy hour includes a 'buy 1, get 1' beer and sake promotion.

04
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Small sushi spot offers a cozy, minimalistic atmosphere with Afrohouse and Rufus music playing softly. The space includes just a few tables and bar seats, creating an intimate vibe. Sushi is fresh and affordable, with standout dishes like smoked tuna and miso black cod.

Food arrives quickly and stays fresh and delicious. The happy hour menu offers a large variety of tasty options at a good price.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with its unique charm and quality that often goes unnoticed. It offers a quiet atmosphere and authentic flavors that surprise many.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well presented."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers many options, most under $10.

2

Free parking is available in the back after 6 pm.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours as there's often only one person serving.

05
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Brick oven pizza cooks in a rustic garden setting surrounded by chickens, ducks, and rabbits. Picnic tables sit in the shade amid lush greenery creating a casual, cozy atmosphere that feels like a quiet retreat from the city.

Amazing food shines in a fun hole-in-the-wall setting. Staff and owner show genuine care, making the experience warm and welcoming.

A recently opened spot offers local pizza that changes expectations. It stands out as a hidden gem with a fresh take on classic flavors.

People are saying

"I tasted the heart and passion in every amazing pizza."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem with top-tier ingredients."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 30 minutes during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a beautiful garden area for outdoor dining.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

06
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Small restaurant with modern, clean decor offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like eating in Japan. The menu features unique chicken-based ramen with savory, buttery broth and high-quality chicken, setting it apart from typical ramen spots.

Food offers real Japanese quality with every bite being joyful. Ramen serves as a light meal without the heaviness typical of tonkotsu broths.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with exceptional ramen that surprises many. It offers a unique find away from typical ramen places.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and satisfying."

"This place is a hidden gem for killer ramen done right."

Good to know

1

Torisoba Tonsho does not have a liquor license.

2

There is free parking with validation in the hidden lot behind the building.

3

Street parking can be difficult on Wednesday nights.

07
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Coffee shop blends floral art with a cozy, relaxed atmosphere filled with beautiful flowers and soft music. Space feels like a family-run oasis where quiet work and casual chats happen amid fresh blooms. Dog-friendly with free parking, it offers a calm retreat in a busy city.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and pairs well with superb coffee. The menu offers top tier dishes that match the coffee's high standard.

A spot that truly blooms with beauty and flavor stands out quietly off Melrose. It offers a great hidden gem vibe that surprises with its charm.

People are saying

"The egg sandwich food is so good, I'd never get tired of ordering it."

"You have to try their lavender latte; it's floral and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Parking is available just in front of the place, allowing for quick access.

2

Seating is limited, so plan to arrive early if you want a spot.

3

They make their own cream and lavender syrup, ensuring high quality.

08
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Shop offers authentic Thai desserts with an open kitchen and colorful decor playing upbeat Thai pop music. Atmosphere feels cheerful and vibrant with a chill vibe. Variety includes ice cream, baked goods, and fresh durian, allowing tasting before choosing.

Food here shows clear care and quality in every dish. The menu includes exotic flavors like durian and a variety of ice creams, all prepared in a clean, open kitchen.

Fresh durian and Thai sweet treats stand out alongside oven-baked bread. This spot offers unique flavors not commonly found in typical Thai dessert places.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly balanced."

"I found this spot a hidden gem for delicious Thai desserts."

Good to know

1

The sago (coconut pudding) costs only $3.50.

2

Each cup of ice cream costs $5 and allows for 3 toppings.

3

They offer a variety of Thai desserts and snacks imported from Thailand.

09
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Small space with spacious indoor seating and a calm, inviting atmosphere featuring Korean street food flavors. The vibe stays low-key and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate authentic, bold Korean cuisine.

Bold flavors and traditional Korean cuisine stand out here, with dishes like kimbap and spicy rice cake. The food stays fresh and crunchy even after a long drive, showing solid quality and care.

Tucked away in a small corner, this spot stands out as a hidden gem. It offers a quiet, less obvious place to discover.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"These hidden gems offer generous portions, enough for several meals."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but limited in the small lot.

2

Expect to pay around $20 per plate, with extra charges for certain items.

3

Takeout is a popular option, especially during busy lunch hours.

10
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Coffee shop offers cozy seating and a tiny urban back patio with red brick that feels tucked away from the city. Atmosphere is warm and eco-friendly, with friendly and laid-back vibe and good music. Patio provides peace and quiet, ideal for relaxation or work.

Breakfast food stands out as delicious and pairs well with organic coffee blends. The owner shows passion for crafting excellent food and drinks.

Patio seating stands out as a hidden gem in the neighborhood. The overall vibe offers a quiet retreat that feels tucked away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"The food and coffee here are delicious."

"I found this place to be an awesome neighborhood spot with great vibes."

Good to know

1

Seating can be tight during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are reasonable for LA, making it an affordable coffee option.

3

The shop is black-owned, supporting local businesses and community.

11
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Rooftop restaurant offers open-air seating with wax celebrity figures for unique photo opportunities. Atmosphere ranges from peaceful and quiet to occasionally loud and chaotic with music. Guests enjoy cocktails and diverse food while escaping street-level noise.

Food here is flavorful and high quality with every dish perfectly prepared. The salmon stands out for its rich flavor and freshness.

A well-hidden gem sits on the rooftop of Madame Tussauds, offering a unique spot away from the usual crowds. This place stands out as a hidden gem with a quiet, tucked-away vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly prepared."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the food is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails and appetizers for around $20.

2

The happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The venue is accessible via elevator, but it requires staff assistance.

12
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Cozy spot with authentic Thai decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly, and music adds to the vibe. Staff are polite, creating a pleasant dining experience.

Food here is authentic Thai with dishes like chive cakes, green curry, and crab curry standing out. Meals come out fast and fresh, consistently delivering excellent taste.

Quiet and tucked away, this spot stands out as a hidden gem with a vibe that feels like a well-kept secret. It earns genuine compliments for its understated charm and consistent quality.

People are saying

"I had the best Thai food I've ever tasted here."

"You have to try their authentic Thai dishes, like the Shrimp Paste Rice."

Good to know

1

An automatic 15% service charge is added to all bills without prior notice.

2

Parking options include valet service and limited street parking for one hour.

3

The restaurant offers parking validation for customers.

13
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Modest interior preserves a 90s sushi place vibe with a Korean feel and homey atmosphere. The restaurant stays busy with long lines during peak hours, reflecting its 30-year family-run legacy. Sushi and sashimi stand out for their freshness and quality, complemented by traditional drinks like sake.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful. Dishes deliver delicious and satisfying tastes every time.

Offers a quiet spot with authentic Japanese dishes tucked away from busy streets. Serves as a low-key dining option that many overlook.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and delicious."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.

2

Prices for sushi can range from $75-100 per person.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long waits.

14
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Caribbean restaurant with a homey, cultural aesthetic and spacious, welcoming interior filled with fresh flowers. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing with reggae music and plenty of TVs showing sports. The vibe blends fun and tradition, creating a unique dining experience.

Authentic Caribbean flavors shine through every dish, capturing the essence of the islands. The food offers a rich, soulful taste that feels close to home for those familiar with Caribbean cuisine.

Nestled inside a busy shopping plaza, this spot stands out as a hidden gem on Santa Monica Blvd. It offers a unique find that surprises many who stumble upon it.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and packed with flavor."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the flavors are rich, comforting, and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for night owls.

2

Expect large portions that are well worth the price.

3

Parking is convenient for a location in Hollywood.

15
Los Compadres De Oaxaca Restaurant ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ image 1
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Mexican restaurant with authentic Oaxacan decor and lively music, including live performances. Spacious interior features two well-lit dining rooms creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The vibe is fun and festive, enhanced by colorful decorations and a homely feel.

Food features authentic Oaxacan dishes served in huge portions with freshly prepared ingredients. The flavors are consistently delicious and tasty.

Offers a hidden gem vibe tucked away in Chinatown and DTLA. Stands out for its authentic atmosphere that feels off the beaten path.

People are saying

"The Oaxacan food here is authentic, tasty, and delicious."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The restaurant validates parking for 1 hour.

2

Parking in front costs $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends.

3

Be careful with payment methods; cash offers a different price than card payments.

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Central LA, Los Angeles

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