Restaurants

The Best Peruvian Food in Los Angeles

Lonzo’s Bread & Peruvian Eatery is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of downtown Culver city, and it offers a unique blend of Peruvian cuisine. This mom and pop style restaurant is a must try! The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with artwork and photos of Peru and a relaxed vibe that makes you feel right at home. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to make recommendations or answer any questions you may have.

But the real star of the show is the food. The menu offers a range of traditional Peruvian dishes, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, and a variety of fresh-baked bread, all prepared with the freshest ingredients and served with care. One of favorite dish was the seafood ceviche. Not only was it refreshing but a delicious dish that is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a light and flavorful meal. I pretty sure you can’t go wrong with ordering anything from the menu here.

Overall, Lonzo’s Bread & Peruvian Eatery is a gem of a restaurant that offers delicious food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner with friends, Lonzo’s is definitely worth a visit.

Address: 10804 Washington Blvd Culver City, CA 90232

Amorino Gelato: Artisanal Italian Ice Cream in the Heart

Amorino Gelato is a delightful gelato shop located in Los Angeles, California. This artisanal gelato maker is inspired by traditional Italian techniques, but adds a modern twist to its creations. The shop is famous for its high-quality, authentic Italian gelato, which is made using only the freshest ingredients, including locally sourced milk and fruits.

One of the most popular offerings at Amorino Gelato is the Gelato Flower, which is a work of art in itself. The flower-shaped scoops of gelato are arranged in a cone, making for a visually stunning and delicious treat. The Gelato Flower is available in a variety of flavors, including classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique and creative flavors like caramel, pistachio, and passion fruit.

Another must-try item at Amorino Gelato is the gelato macaron sandwich, which features two delicate macaron cookies filled with creamy, delicious gelato. Customers can choose from a variety of flavors to create their perfect macaron sandwich.

The space is has a few tables and seats so it is great for small groups or dates. Depending on what time you go, you can expect to run into a line during busy hours. If you are smart like me, you will come during mid day when it’s not as busy and you can enjoy your gelato with the option to sit indoors or outdoors.

Overall, Amorino Gelato is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Los Angeles area who loves high-quality, artisanal gelato. With its beautiful Gelato Flowers and delicious macaron sandwiches, this gelato shop is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So why not stop by Amorino Gelato and treat yourself to a delicious and unique dessert experience today?

Address: 9605 S Santa Monica Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210 | Tel: (424) 335-0317

How to Eat Your Way Through the City of Angels

When it comes to exploring and eating your way through Los Angeles, the city of angels offers a range of diverse places to dine at. From 5-star restaurants to food trucks, this city offers you many options for your buck. But how does a person know how to navigate their way through the Los Angeles dining scene?

Though there are numerous fantastic restaurants, bars and eateries around this large city, you may find yourself overwhelmed if you’re just trying to find a bite to eat. If that’s the case, then hopefully this list of Los Angeles food recommendations will be a perfect place to start! So, to save you the hassle of searching for places to eat in Los Angeles, I’ve narrowed your choices down to my favorite choices. This will leave both your heart and stomach full. Whether you’re looking to splash out on a high-end meal or make a way down to a food truck, I’ve got you covered with my list of the best places to eat in Los Angeles.

1. Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co.

Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co. is a must-visit pizza spot in Los Angeles. Located in the Boyle Heights neighborhood, this cozy little pizza joint serves up some of the best New York-style pizza in the city. The crust is crispy yet chewy, and the sauce is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spices. Their toppings are fresh and flavorful, and their specialty pies are inventive and delicious. In addition to their pizza, Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co. also serves up some delicious appetizers and salads. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Overall, Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co. is a great spot for a casual dinner or a quick slice on the go. Highly recommended for pizza lovers in LA!

2. Jon and Vinny’s

Jon and Vinny’s is one of my favorite. This relaxed, modern diner for all-day, Italian-inspired cuisine is a must on places you have to dine at in LA. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The menu is extensive with a variety of options for all tastes, and the portions are generous. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and have a crispy crust with fresh toppings. The pastas are homemade and cooked al dente, and the sauces are flavorful and well-balanced. I recommend giving the spicy fusilli a try. The salads are fresh and innovative with a variety of textures and flavors. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is prompt. Overall, Jon and Vinny’s is a great spot for a relaxed and enjoyable meal with friends or family. Highly recommended for Italian food lovers in LA!

3. Osteria La Buca

Osteria La Buca is the go to neighborhood spot that you can always count on. Even if you don’t live nearby, it’s worth the drive. Everything is made from scratch, the best part is you don’t have to blow through your wallet to have a high quality meal. Their short-rib ravioli and pork meatballs were by far my two favorite dishes on the menu. I’m pretty sure everything else won’t disappoint. The wine list is extensive, with a great selection of Italian and Californian wines. Overall the experience and service here were great. I’ll definitely go back again to try out more of their menu. Side-note, street parking can be difficult in the area so I recommend car share service.

4. Osteria Mamma

If you are looking for an old fashioned Italian restaurant, Osteria Mamma is the place to be. The menu is traditional Italian with a focus on homemade pasta dishes and Neapolitan-style pizzas. The pastas are cooked to perfection and the sauces are deliciously rich and flavorful. The beauty and exclusivity of this place is the kind of food they serve; you can find fresh pasta pretty much in all the Italian restaurants around LA but you can’t find great local home-style Italian food like Osteria Mamma. Everything is fresh, delicious and the great wine selection brings it all together. Let’s just say you can’t go wrong with freshly made pasta and a good glass of wine. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere with a small dining room that is decorated with vintage Italian posters and pictures. Overall, Osteria Mamma is a great spot for a cozy and delicious meal with friends or family.

5. The Girl and The Goat (Art District DTLA)

The Girl and The Goat is a trendy and upscale restaurant located in the art district of downtown Los Angeles. The restaurant has a sleek and modern design with a vibrant atmosphere. The menu is inspired by Asian and Californian cuisine, with a focus on small plates and shared dishes. The flavors are bold and creative, and the presentation is beautiful. Some of the standout dishes include the crispy pork belly, the wagyu beef skewers, and the roasted Brussels sprouts. The cocktails are also excellent and well-crafted, with a variety of interesting flavor combinations. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and the wine list. Overall, The Girl and The Goat is a great spot for a special occasion, date night, or a night out with friends. Getting a reservation can be extremely difficult so I recommend booking one in advance or just grabbing a seat at the bar. So make sure to get a table and enjoy an incredible time at The Girl and The Goat!

6. Yxta Cocina Mexicana

Yxta Cocina Mexicana is a vibrant and colorful Mexican restaurant located in the Arts District of Los Angeles that offers a modern twist to traditional Mexican cuisine using fresh, local and sustainable ingredients. The dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Some of the standout dishes include the ceviche, the mole poblano, and the tacos al pastor. The margaritas are also excellent and well-crafted, with a variety of interesting flavors. The atmosphere is festive and inviting with a lively bar area and plenty of seating options both indoors and outdoor seating area. Perfect for enjoying a meal on a sunny day. Overall, Yxta Cocina Mexicana is a great spot for a fun and festive night out with friends or family. Highly recommended for those looking for delicious Mexican food with a modern twist. Overall, it’s definitely worth adding Yxta to your “must try” list. The food, drinks and overall dining experience here is great.

7. Blasteran

So happy to have discovered this gem! This restaurant is located in Beverly Hills and everything about gets a high rating from me. Blasteran offers a unique blend of classic American and Indonesian cuisine. The restaurant’s veggie-forward American menu is complemented by a selection of delicious Indonesian dishes, making for a fusion of flavors that is both exciting and satisfying. The ambiance at Blasteran is unfussy, with a relaxed and comfortable setting that makes it perfect for a casual night out. The menu features a range of creative and innovative dishes that are packed with flavor and made with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the tempeh curry, the sambal chicken wings, cowboy burger and the shrimp noodles. For dessert, YOU HAVE TO TRY the bread pudding banana French toast. You’ll thank me later.

The manager and staff make you feel right at home with their excellent service. Overall Blasteran offers it all from delicious food, great service and down to the curated playlist playing the right selection of top 40 to classic r&b. I highly recommend Blasteran for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful dining experience in Beverly Hills.

8. The Sunset Restaurant (Malibu)

The Sunset Restaurant is a stunning oceanfront restaurant located out in Malibu, California. The restaurant’s prime location offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Malibu coastline, making it the perfect spot for any occasion. The menu at Sunset Restaurant features an extensive selection of fresh seafood, as well as a variety of meat and vegetarian options. The dishes are beautifully presented and packed with flavor, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the grilled octopus, pumpkin tortelloni, and the spicy ahi tuna tartare.

In addition to the delicious food, Sunset Restaurant offers an impressive wine list, with a variety of high-quality wines from around the world. Overall, Sunset Restaurant is a must-visit and highly recommended for those who appreciate great food and wine in a beautiful setting.

9. Lowboy Bar (Echo Park)

You have to grab a drink at Lowboy Bar! This is a must. If you’re looking for a super chill space to drink and hang out with friends in Echo Park, this is the place to go. The decor is great, the vibes are always good and the drinks are stellar. Also, gotta add; great music selection. They have weekly cocktails, all of which are always inventive and quite tasty.

10. Savage Tacos Food Truck

Last but not least, Savage Tacos Food Truck. There are tons of food trucks out here in the city, but there’s nothing like Savage Tacos Food Truck. To be quite honest, you’ll probably have some of the best meals from a food truck in this city. I’m telling you now if you have the time to stop by Savage Tacos, I promise you, you won’t be disappointed. Track them down and find out where this truck will be on a weekly basis.

Nobu: A Japanese Delicacy in the Heart of Malibu

Nobu Malibu is an exquisite restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience for its guests. Located in the beautiful city of Malibu, California, this restaurant has a stunning oceanfront location that provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. I had the pleasure of dining there and I must say, it was an exceptional experience.

From the moment I arrived, the ambiance was luxurious and relaxed, with the sound of the waves crashing in the background. The décor was modern and minimalist, with warm lighting and tasteful accents. The restaurant’s interior design seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of its surroundings, creating a truly breathtaking atmosphere.

Shrimp and Lobster with Spicy Lemon Sauce

But of course, the highlight of any dining experience is the food, and Nobu Malibu did not disappoint. The menu offers an extensive selection of Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes, all of which are exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented. The sushi and sashimi were particularly outstanding, with fresh and high-quality ingredients that made each bite melt in my mouth. The yellowtail with jalapeno and black cod miso were also standout dishes that I highly recommend.

Chilean Sea Bass in Dry Miso and Asparagus

The service at Nobu Malibu was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who were always on hand to offer recommendations and ensure that our dining experience was nothing short of perfect. The cocktails were also a highlight, with unique and creative flavor combinations that perfectly complemented the food.

Overall, I highly recommend Nobu Malibu to anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in a breathtaking setting. It’s not cheap, but for a special occasion or a treat, it’s definitely worth it.

Address: 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 | (310) 317-9140 | www.noburestaurants.com

Editors Choice of Plant-Based Eating in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is full of gems and Sage Plant Based Bistro and Brewery happens to be one of them. This is a delightful restaurant that offers a unique and flavorful vegan dining experience. The restaurant is located throughout LA country (Echo Park, Pasadena, Culver City, Agoura Hills) and is known for its organic and locally sourced plant-based cuisine, as well as its in-house brewed craft beer.

From the moment you step inside, you can feel the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant. The décor is modern and simple, with an open kitchen that allows you to see the chefs in action. One of the first things that struck me about Sage was the menu – it’s full of creative, inventive dishes that use fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthy meal, you will find something that suits your tastes. The restaurant also offers gluten-free options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

A must try dish at Sage Plant Based Bistro and Brewery is the Brazilian Avocado Plantain Wrap. This flavorful wrap is both comforting and indulgent. It was rich and satisfying without being too heavy. Another fan favorite is their cauliflower buffalo wings. These crispy, spicy, and tangy wings are made with fresh cauliflower and served with vegan ranch dressing, making them the perfect appetizer to share with friends. Sage Bistro also offers a wide range of craft beers on tap, all brewed in-house using traditional methods.

Will I come back to Sage again? YES. Quality food at an affordable price, you can’t beat that for a plant based restaurant. I would highly recommend Sage Plant Based Bistro and Brewery to anyone looking for a delicious, healthy meal in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to try something new, you won’t be disappointed!

Address: 1700 Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90026 | (213) 989-1718 | Sage Bistro

Bedford & Co.: A Sophisticated Dining Experience in the Heart of New York City

Dinner With Tayo comes to NYC! Can you feel my excitement through the screen? I was super excited to join the team and when I found out my first stop would be Bedford & Co, my mouth started to water.

I’ve always heard pretty, good things about this hidden Midtown East gem but was pleasantly surprised on how much I enjoyed the cuisine. Bedford & Co. is American cuisine but with an amazing twist – I’ll explain later.

Address: The Renwick, 118 E. 40th Street, New York, NY 10016 | www.bedfordandco.com | (212) 634-4040

After work, I trekked my way up from Financial District to Midtown East and let me tell you, I rarely visit that area. Between Grand Central and all the tourists, it is a headache & anxiety wrapped up with a pretty bow. However, Bedford & Co. is located on a quiet street on 40^th & Lexington and is very unassuming from the front. As soon as you walk in, there is a SUPER cute and quaint lounge area that is semi-tucked away from everyone… can you say, date vibes!

The overall vibe of Bedford & Co. is a merge between a dope speakeasy and a classic American restaurant. Now, I am a bar seater at its finest but since I was trying to have an overall experience of Bedford & Co. I decided to sit in the restaurant area. The overall restaurant area is dimly lit with tea candles and no matter where you sit, you can see the kitchen carefully working on your meal, I fell in love even more!

Of course, I started with a glass of Rose’ because well, spring is here! The waitress, who was super cool read off the specials to me and all I heard was “soft shell crab” and I was in. I’m from Maryland so the thought of having crabs, is an instant win in my book. When it arrived, it was beautifully plated and not sure how I can explain it but it was an Asian fusion on my taste buds. The soft shell crab was tempura fried, over a bed of mint, spring peas, and fermented chilies with a light ponzu sauce that was not overwhelming at all but so complementing. Oh and sesame seeds sprinkled on top. I mean, I devoured this dish! It was literally a party in my mouth!

Next up for my main was the leg of lamb! What sets this restaurant apart is they cook almost all the protein on a wood-fired grill, which gave a nice charcoal taste to the lamb. To me, the lamb was almost Mediterranean style with a rich herb glaze but then had an almost yogurt style sauce that went so well with the lamb. In addition, the crunchiness of the Brussel sprouts along with the walnuts, match made in heaven!

Unfortunately, I did not have any room for desert but if I did, the brownie has my name written all over it! Overall, Bedford & Co. is a super win in my book. The ambiance, well thought out menu and not to mention, the music – they were playing 90’s Hip Hop and R&B the entire time from Usher to Notorious B.I.G. If you are ever in that area I would definitely stop by for a dope vibe. Oh, and they have bottomless brunch on the weekends and us, New Yorkers, love that!

Appetizer:

Tempura Fried Ponzu Soft Shell Crab

Main Entree:

Colorado Lamb Leg with Brussel Sprouts & Walnuts

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