An illustrator and designer based in LA, Tyler Mishá’s use of intricate patterns, bold shapes and bright colors is inspired by the energy, people and moments that make up LA’s vibrant Black culture. Here is her guide to Black dining in LA.
Less“This spot is kind of a landmark in LA. It’s a beautiful community staple, a place that really feels like home and just has this comforting, vibrant, community feeling to it. Their focus is healthy food and they have a really big menu with smoothies, Jamaican patties, and a bunch of healthy options. It’s really cool too because they have a wellness store that’s attached to the restaurant and you can buy books, vitamins, and other natural products. My go-to is their "Down Home Sunday Dinner."
“This is a little local ice cream shop that I love stopping through on a hot LA day. The owner is really nice and always greets everyone with a big smile. I’m dairy free and they have a lot of plant based, dairy free, and gluten free options in addition to the classic ice cream flavors - which is really cool. My favorite ice cream flavor is the dairy free strawberry ice cream.”
“This is the first and only wine bar in Inglewood and was founded by 2 sisters. They have a beautiful selection of wine which includes many Black-owned brands. You can get a charcuterie board, wings, sliders, soups, salads and the entrees are great too. I really enjoy their steamed black mussels. They also have live music and a DJ. People love to come dressed up. There's a multi-generational feel, so you’ll see a little bit of everybody eating, drinking, dancing and just enjoying the ambiance."
“This is my favorite coffee shop where I’ll sit and work for a couple hours. They’re always playing R&B and neo-soul. It has a really cool vibe about it that’s comforting. It’s just a quiet, calm place to relax or work. Sometimes I’ll do meetings here too. My favorite drink is the Honey Lavender Latte. I'll usually get that with a pastry. Their pastries and desserts are really good.”
“My go-to meal here is the Grilled Chicken Bowl with plantain, jasmine rice, and grilled vegetables and they have a house sauce that’s super 🔥 with honey chipotle, peppers, and garlic in it. This is a place I usually go to and pick up a quick lunch. They have a little pick up window where you can just pull up and grab your food. I first discovered this place as a food truck at an event I was at. Now they have a couple brick & mortar locations, and I love to pop in.”
“This place is in West Adams - which is a historic area. The decor has this depth to it that you feel as soon as you walk in. There’s a really cool wine bar that’s attached to the restaurant and they have tastings where they feature Black-owned wines. On Wednesdays they play vinyls, and there's a really nice outdoor dining area with beautiful trees. My go-to is the oxtails. I try to not get them every time I go but I can’t stop. The cocktail menu is highly curated. They care about the details."