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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Van Nuys

Authentic spots

Sometimes the only thing that hits the spot is a meal that tastes exactly like it came from a home kitchen.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small izakaya-style spot offers authentic Japanese vibe with artful sushi and a top-tier sake selection. Warm, intimate space plays soothing jazz, creating a Tokyo-like atmosphere loved by locals.

Hidden in an odd strip mall, the place offers an authentic izakaya ambiance that feels like Tokyo. The Japanese food is very authentic, with many Japanese patrons and artful sushi that stands out.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is fantastic."

"The sake selection here is unparalleled and exclusive."

"I found the izakaya food to be authentic and felt like I was in Tokyo."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for parties larger than four.

2

Parking is free and abundant in the plaza.

3

Expect to spend at least an hour and a half for the omakase experience.

02
Saqartvelo Georgian Cuisine image 1

Small cafe offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional Georgian music and fresh baking scents. Dishes deliver rich, homemade flavors with a friendly, authentic vibe. Perfect for those seeking genuine Georgian cuisine in a warm, inviting spot.

Dishes feature rich, traditional flavors and taste homemade. Staff provide a friendly, authentic atmosphere that reflects true Georgian cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the Georgian food here to be truly authentic and meticulously crafted."

"The salad here is topped with walnuts."

"Parking is available and a security guard helps if you're dining."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be difficult to find.

2

The restaurant has an affordable price range of $15-20.

3

It primarily operates as a takeout spot with limited seating.

03
Bafang Dumpling image 1
Asian restaurant

Bright space with Asian Pop vibes and an open ceiling feels clean and spacious. Enjoy authentic Taiwanese dumplings and handmade potstickers with excellent flavor. Casual dining with condiment and soda stations supports a fast-food style experience.

Authentic Taiwanese dumplings stand out with excellent flavor and quick service. The diner captures a very authentic Taiwanese style throughout its menu.

People are saying

"The pot stickers are crispy, juicy, and well-filled."

"The wonton soup here is so comforting and made my day better."

"I found the authentic Taiwanese food here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally available, shared with LA Fitness and other restaurants.

2

The space is very clean and friendly.

3

Veggie dumplings are a dollar more than the signature dumplings.

04
LA Ruta Catracha image 1

Cozy space offers a family atmosphere with authentic Honduran flavors that taste like the coast. Friendly warmth and peaceful setting make dining relaxing. Beautifully maintained, it feels inviting and super delicious.

Food delivers authentic Honduran flavors with seasoning true to the Honduran coast. Dishes taste like they come straight from Honduras, offering a super delicious experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The service here is great and the staff are very kind."

"I found the Honduran food here to be so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

LA Ruta Catracha offers authentic Honduran food at affordable prices.

2

The average meal price is around $10-$15 per person.

3

Expect a casual dining atmosphere; no formal dress code is required.

05
Kao Hom Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Casual spot offers authentic Thai flavors with Bangkok style dishes and generous portions. Sunny, cozy space with heartfelt service and easy parking makes dining chill and welcoming.

Food shows authentic Thai flavors with Bangkok style dishes and consistent, delicious taste. The chef personally checks for authentic spiciness to match preferences.

People are saying

"This family-owned spot serves the most authentic and flavorful Thai food."

"I found the Thai food here to be the best and most authentic."

"I found the Thai food here to be the most authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find in a small lot out front.

2

Prices are fair, with a total bill for four dishes averaging around $72.

3

The restaurant can get busy during lunch hours, especially in summer.

06
Yasu Guys image 1
Restaurant

Small spot in a busy strip mall offers authentic Greek flavor with fresh, simple ingredients. Cozy space plays Greek rap music, creating a unique vibe. Quick service and high-quality gyro meat make it a standout despite limited seating.

Greek dishes come with authentic flavor and use simple ingredients prepared with care. Every meal is fresh and packed with genuine taste.

People are saying

"The beef gyro here is on another level, perfectly savory and juicy."

"The crunch wraps here are spot on with great flavor."

"The Greek food here is so authentic and made with incredible care."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited within the small shopping plaza, with additional street parking available.

2

Yasu Guys is open late, making it a good option for dinner.

3

The gyro costs about $18, which is reasonable for the quality of food.

07
Kalamala Online Grocery image 1

Online store offers authentic Persian spices and fresh herbs with careful packaging ensuring freshness. Prices stay competitive, making it a top choice for Persian ingredients and nostalgic foods.

Fresh herbs, spices, and specialty items make up the authentic Persian selection here. Saffron and other ingredients come from reputable sources and are carefully packaged for quality.

People are saying

"This grocery store's customer service is friendly and helpful."

"I experienced fast and prompt delivery."

"I found authentic Persian ingredients that reminded me of home."

Good to know

1

Shipping is quick and everything is carefully packaged.

2

Products are fresh, authentic, and of high quality.

3

Kalamala has the best Persian grocery selection available online.

08
Assam Indian Kitchen image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space with cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors creates a calm, family-friendly vibe. Spices aroma fills the air, making it feel like a home-cooked meal in an intimate spot. Creative twists keep traditional tastes fresh and inviting.

Indian dishes offer authentic flavors with a creative twist. The cuisine stays true to traditional tastes while delivering excellent quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The owner/chef is so friendly and willing to fix mistakes."

"I found the Indian food here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late until midnight, which is rare in the area.

2

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

3

They offer take-away and delivery services.

09
Sasoun Bakery image 1

Armenian bakery serves authentic lahmajune and cheese borek with fresh, flavorful fillings. Offers affordable prices and large portions in a clean, fast lunch spot. Welcomes both meat lovers and vegetarians with tasty, light dishes.

Offers authentic Armenian food with a great selection including borek and lahmacun. Everything stays fresh and reasonably priced, with flavors that are tasty and not too heavy.

People are saying

"This bakery has the freshest, most authentic Armenian food."

"The zaatar bread here is so flavorful and fresh."

"I found the borek and lahmacun to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Sasoun Bakery offers a variety of Armenian delicacies for quick lunches and snacks.

2

Prices at Sasoun Bakery are reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The portions at Sasoun Bakery are large and satisfying.

10
MagicasGemas image 1
Rock shop

Rock shop offers authentic crystals and shiny bracelets that radiate energy. Peaceful, cozy space invites calm and healing. Services like chakra readings and sound healing add a personal, spiritual touch.

Collection features authentic crystals and beautifully shiny bracelets that radiate energy. The space feels genuine and healing.

People are saying

"I found the most beautiful necklaces and crystals here."

"The owner is so knowledgeable and patient with kids."

"Raul's authentic store offers magical stones and chakra diagnostics."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a wide variety of crystals and gemstones.

2

Prices for stones and crystals are generally affordable.

3

Raul provides knowledgeable insights about the properties of gemstones.

11
Sam’s Kebab By Beck Cuisine image 1

Small shop serves authentic Armenian dishes with charcoal-grilled meats. Food tastes like home-cooked meals with perfect seasoning. Cozy spot offers simple seating and friendly service.

Food offers authentic Middle Eastern and Armenian flavors with the right amount of seasoning. Meals taste like home cooked dishes and stay true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

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

"I found the BBQ kebab here to be the best in LA."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait during peak hours.

2

Reservations are recommended for to-go orders to avoid delays.

3

You can choose to dine in or take your order to go.

12
Xochipilli Taco Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican street food in a cozy spot with vibrant raza music and Mexican-style decor. The atmosphere is laid-back and intimate, perfect for savoring refreshing margaritas and micheladas.

Mexican street food shines with authentic flavors and a relaxed vibe. This spot delivers some of the most genuine Mexican dishes outside Mexico.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food here to be outstanding."

"The flavors here are so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted menu items.

2

Parking is limited; street parking is often necessary.

3

The menu features a variety of fillings, including carne asada and vegan options.

13
Puro Sabor Peruvian Restaurant image 1

Cozy space feels like the Peruvian countryside with a warm atmosphere. Menu shines with authentic flavors like ceviche and lomo saltado. Quiet pace makes it perfect for genuine dining and hearty, home-cooked meals.

Food offers authentic Peruvian flavors with home-cooked style and generous portions. Breakfast dishes come nicely presented and full of genuine taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the lomo saltado."

"I found the ceviche here to be the best in town."

"I found the authentic Peruvian cuisine to be hard to beat."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

2

Expect prices to be higher than average for Peruvian cuisine.

3

Cash is preferred, but credit cards are accepted.

14
The Rancherito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining room with homey atmosphere and loud Mexican music sets a lively mood. Food offers 100% authentic flavors with high quality ingredients. Portions are very big and prices stay reasonable, perfect for quick meals or gatherings.

Food delivers 100% authentic Mexican flavors with high quality ingredients. Dishes taste absolutely delicious and true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food here to be excellent and very tasty."

"I found the authentic flavors and fresh ingredients here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

They offer good parking, but the lot is small and hard to navigate.

2

The prices are reasonable, with meals averaging about $13 per person.

3

Expect large portions; one plate can serve up to three people.

15
Machu-Picchu Peruvian Restaurant image 1

Peruvian restaurant offers authentic cuisine with dishes like fresh ceviche and lomo saltado. Friendly atmosphere and great music create a genuine vibe. Prices stay reasonable despite some parking challenges.

The food serves authentic Peruvian cuisine with delicious flavors. The atmosphere feels genuine and the prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

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

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

"The Ceviche De Pescado was delicious and had so much flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Peruvian food with a diverse menu.

2

Parking can be challenging to find near the restaurant.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other Peruvian restaurants.

16
Sam Woo Village BBQ image 1
Chinese restaurant

Dining tables blend into the kitchen, creating a lively, noisy space filled with the strong scent of barbecue. Classic Cantonese dishes offer authentic flavors, especially the standout fried rice. The vibe is casual and traditional, perfect for comfort food lovers.

Classic Cantonese cuisine shines with rich, authentic flavors that match dishes found in Asia. The fried rice stands out as genuinely traditional, and the overall vibe feels suitably authentic.

People are saying

"This takeout is authentic Chinese comfort food done right."

"I loved their seafood noodles and pan-fried noodles with generous seafood portions."

"I found the authentic Cantonese food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect to sign up to queue upon arrival.

2

Parking can be difficult in the plaza due to high demand.

3

The restaurant now accepts credit cards for payment.

17
Birrieria Lupita #2 image 1

Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with dishes like birria tacos and burrito ahogado. Atmosphere feels like real Mexico, making every meal genuine. Portions are generous, especially the taco de chivo, perfect for traditional food lovers.

Food offers excellent freshness and authentic Mexican flavors. Dishes consistently reflect traditional recipes and preparation.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, fresh, and authentic."

"I found the food to be excellent and authentic."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and well-priced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Check for daily specials that may offer better value.

3

Parking is limited; consider using public transport.

18
Royal India Spice Land image 1
Indian grocery store

Indian grocery store shines with authentic spices and Ayurvedic supplements in a clean, organized space. Vibrant atmosphere welcomes shoppers seeking fresh produce and rare items. Prices run high and tags are often missing, but quality and variety stand out.

Shelves stock a wide range of authentic spices, fresh produce, and Ayurvedic products. Everything stays clean, well-organized, and filled with hard-to-find Indian items at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The staff here is so helpful and welcoming."

"I found this Indian grocery store to be the best in Van Nuys."

"The spices here are so fresh, aromatic, and authentic."

Good to know

1

Prices are not displayed on products, which can lead to unexpected charges.

2

Frozen samosas are priced at $8.99, while they cost $3.99 elsewhere.

3

The store has a wide selection of organic spices, beans, and natural vitamins.

19
Morazan image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small spot feels like home with warm atmosphere and affordable prices. Pupusas offer insanely authentic flavor with generous fillings. Locals love the flavorful curtido and salsa that complete the experience.

Salvadorian pupusas here taste insanely authentic and delicious. The food overall delivers a ridiculously amazing authentic flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"The pupusas here taste insanely authentic and amazing."

"The breakfast here is very good with excellent seasoning."

Good to know

1

The prices at Morazan are very affordable.

2

This place offers homemade Salvadoran food without traveling to San Salvador.

3

Tuesday and Wednesday are pupusas special days.

20
Abuelita's Restaurant image 1
Guatemalan restaurant

Guatemalan restaurant serves authentic traditional dishes with live marimba music on weekends. Atmosphere is loud and lively, featuring large screen TVs showing sports. Family-friendly but noise may not suit young children.

Menu offers a small selection of traditional Guatemalan dishes packed with authentic flavor. Food stays true to Latin American roots with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and surprisingly large."

"The chilaquiles with eggs tasted decent."

"My overall experience wasn't bad."

Good to know

1

Karaoke and live marimba music happen on weekends at Abuelita's Restaurant.

2

Fried eggs with fried plantains cost $9 on the menu.

3

Expect higher bills than menu prices; mine was $18.50 for breakfast.

21
Birrieria Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small spot with authentic Mexican cuisine shines with excellent birria and menudo. Weekdays bring chill vibes and peace, while Sundays get busy with wait times. Parking is tough and a card fee applies.

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a strong, genuine flavor. Food consistently tastes authentic and delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

"The birria here is the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on Sundays due to high traffic.

2

A $1.50 fee applies for credit card payments.

3

One order is enough for two or three people.

22
Pao's Pastries & Cafe image 1

Small, cozy spot serves authentic Bolivian dishes like flaky salteñas and sopa de maní with large portions. Warm, friendly vibe fits those craving traditional flavors despite minor misses in peanut soup. Parking is tough, adding to its hole-in-the-wall charm.

Offers a Bolivian culinary experience with food that tastes super delicious and authentic. The peanut soup lacks a bit to fully capture authentic flavor.

People are saying

"I found the Bolivian food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I really enjoyed their empanadas and salteñas."

"I found the food to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging; the nearest structure is two blocks to the east.

2

Portion sizes are large enough to feed up to three people.

3

Enjoy a 2 for $8 Salteña deal and a $5 breakfast special with free coffee.

23
Gev's Kitchen image 1
Armenian restaurant

Armenian restaurant offers a warm ambiance with stylish design. It serves authentic Georgian flavors with standout dishes, though khinkali is less traditional. Operates as to-go only, focusing on juicy, flavorful Mediterranean food.

True authentic Georgian flavors shine through most dishes, supported by impeccable service. Khinkali, however, does not match traditional authenticity.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I found the Armenian Mediterranean food here to be truly authentic."

"You have to try their khinkali; it's the best thing I ever tried."

Good to know

1

Gev's Kitchen is a to-go only place with no seating available.

2

Catering services are available for events and gatherings.

3

Prices for popular items are higher than average, reflecting quality.

24
Cemitas Don Adrian image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves authentic flavors with gourmet cemitas that are toasty, cheesy, and spicy. Seating is ample with parking in the rear, but space feels run down and less airy. TVs play quietly behind plexiglass, muffling conversation.

Cemitas here deliver authentic Mexican flavors with a taste that feels just like home. The flavorful cemitas offer a comforting and genuine experience.

People are saying

"The cemitas here are authentic and packed with flavor."

"The tacos de cecina were packed with flavor and cooked to perfection."

"The bread here is warm, fresh, and fluffy."

Good to know

1

Cemitas Don Adrian offers ample seating and parking in the rear.

2

The average cost of a meal is around $15.

3

They serve tacos and quesadillas in addition to cemitas.

25
Macondo Kitchen 🇨🇴 image 1
Colombian restaurant

Cozy Colombian spot offers authentic bandeja paisa in a quiet atmosphere with warm, friendly vibes. National music adds a soothing environment while nearby store sells cultural decorations enhancing the experience.

Food shows authentic Colombian flavor with dishes like bandeja paisa that stay true to tradition.

People are saying

"I found the Colombian food here to be delicious and authentic."

"These empanadas are crispy, full of flavor, and totally delicious."

"The food here tastes fantastic and authentic."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the restaurant next to the Colombian store.

2

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases.

26
Kyushu Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, quaint ramen spot offers authentic Japanese dishes and a peaceful ambience with lively Japanese chatter. Intimate seating enhances the cozy atmosphere. Affordable beer adds to the varied menu experience.

Menu offers a varied selection of authentic Japanese dishes beyond just ramen. Employees and Japanese customers create an atmosphere that feels like being in Japan. Tipping follows American custom, which is the only non-authentic aspect.

People are saying

"I tried most of the ramen around and it's my new top pick."

"It feels like you're actually in Japan here."

"You have to try the spicy garlic edamame."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Parking can be challenging; it's located at the back of the building.

3

The restaurant is open late, serving food until midnight on Mondays.

27
Chios Peruvian Grill image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant serves authentic flavors like ultra-fresh ceviches and grilled chicken. Spacious seating creates a family-friendly atmosphere. Ample parking makes access easy and convenient.

Food offers authentic Peruvian flavors with dishes that taste delicious and very authentic. The menu looks appealing and delivers a genuine experience for those seeking authentic cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic Peruvian cuisine."

"The seafood rice was delicious and in a generous portion."

"The ceviche here is so tasty and ultra-fresh."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is pet friendly, allowing dogs on the patio.

3

The menu offers a variety of quality dishes at reasonable prices.

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Van Nuys, Los Angeles

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