The bright, floral interiors, a nod to Poppy & Rose’s Flower District location, is just one reason diners keep returning to this casual cafe that’s been open since 2014. Locals know that brunch is the best time to visit so they can get the buttermilk chicken and waffles or biscuits, all prepared by chefs and owners Ryan and Diana Lamon. Drop in any day of the week for lunch and order sandwiches such as the juicy patty melt and the herby grilled vegetable creation.

The Tcholakians debuted Carousel in 1994, and nearly four decades later this Armenian staple is still pulling in diners for its small plates and live music alongside belly dancing performances. Get comfortable in the airy dining space and share plates of kibbeh, mini meat pies (shish barak), and turnovers stuffed with white cheese (fatayer). You might even find yourself dining next to one of the Kardashians one evening; Carousel happens to be a family favorite.

Neighbors have been drawn to Quiadaiyn’s wide range of moles since it opened in 2018. The Martinez family, who run the restaurant, prepares six different kinds, including a cilantro and jalapeño creation and a vegan option. Beyond the mole, the Martinezes highlight dishes from San Marcos Tlapazola in Oaxaca, including fish marinated in adobo sauce and shrimp tossed in chintextle, a smoked chile paste. The restaurant is open all day every day, which makes it convenient for locals.

Succulent charbroiled meats and hearty stews are front and center at this Persian restaurant in West LA. Regulars frequent this spot for its generous portions, ideal for bringing friends or sharing with neighbors. Get settled in the lively dining room, and dig into standout dishes such as beef koobideh, ground meat that’s seasoned with sumac and turmeric and cooked on skewers. There’s a reason Javan is considered one of the best Iranian restaurants in Los Angeles.

For nearly five decades, Tujunga favorite Joselito’s has been drawing in diners with its guacamole prepared tableside and its wide selection of tequila-based cocktails. Myrna Grijalva and Jose Grijalva Sr. opened the restaurant in 1977 before passing it off to their son Jose and daughter-in-law Tumara in 2010. One tradition that’s remained is the “especiales de la casa,” dishes that are special to the family. On a warm night, grab a seat on the patio.

Given its location, it’s no surprise that Sasabune is a celebrity favorite. But the real reason Beverly Hills residents have been returning to this restaurant since 2012 is the formidable menu created by late chef and owner Nobi Kusuhara. Even today, the restaurant serves up a beloved omakase experience that includes a host of seafood options, including sea urchin, salmon roe, and monkfish liver. Grab a seat at the counter and get up close to the sushi-making action, or sit at a wooden table.

This casual, family-owned Israeli restaurant is a love letter to vegetables. Owner Tal Zaiet has created a menu of seasonal dishes spotlighting Mediterranean flavors and rotating desserts. There’s nothing quite like it in the neighborhood, which has endeared it to locals since its opening in 2020. In true Israeli fashion, the meal starts with small plates of hummus, babaganoush, and stuffed grape leaves, before moving on to larger dishes.

Locals know they’ll likely be embraced by a live mariachi band and unparalleled Oaxacan mole when they enter Guelaguetza, a Koreatown staple of nearly 30 years. Today, siblings and co-owners Bricia, Fernando Jr., and Paulina Lopez are keeping the lively and welcoming atmosphere going, having taken over the business from their parents Maria Monterrubio and Fernando Lopez. Grab a seat in one of the cozy booths and order the mole with grilled pork, chicken, or beef.

Right next to LA legends Jon & Vinny’s and Canter’s Deli, this modern Indian restaurant has carved out a name for itself and a loyal following. Regulars make sure to pick up a glass of homemade oat milk chai, Indian cola, or sweet yogurt drinks such as mango lassi. When they’re dining in, diners are enthralled by the menu created by Pawan Mahendro and his sons Nakul and Arjun Mahendro. Order some of the Indian street foods such as the chickpea batter-coated fried fish.

Luv2Eat Thai Bistro is a testament to why Angelenos love to eat at their local strip malls. Chefs and owners Noree Pla and Fern Kaewtathip have been serving up family recipes at this Hollywood staple since 2014. Come here for creamy Phuket-style crab curry, jade noodles, and grilled pork skewers. The interiors here may be simple, but it’s really the food that will blow you away. Don’t leave without one of the various Thai snacks for sale on the front shelves as you enter the restaurant.