California’s sheer vastness, both in geographical territory and cultural ideology, presents a daunting challenge for food enthusiasts and critics alike.
This Golden State, renowned for its beautiful yet complex and diverse character, stands as a culinary powerhouse that has repeatedly reshaped the way Americans dine.
In particular, Los Angeles serves as a microcosm of this evolution, impressing critics with its eclectic dining landscape.
As the world began to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, a wave of curiosity washed over the culinary scene: How was dining in California evolving, and what establishments were telling the richest stories of this transformation?
A year of exploring California’s diverse coastlines resulted in a compelling exploration of the state’s dining experiences.
Driving through the stunning landscapes, from winter-covered mountains to vibrant green hills, I encountered an array of dining options.
From taquerias to tasting menus, dumplings to nigiri, and kebabs to pho, the variety of cuisines offered a glimpse into the state’s culinary richness.
Special moments from this culinary journey crystallized in my mind: fluffy, corn-filled pasta served in a rustic San Francisco dining room, a revitalized 91-year-old diner in Sacramento where the owner created her own beloved burger, and a glamorous Vietnamese dining space in San Diego adorned with dramatic lighting.
The journey to compile these culinary highlights was an organic extension of an ongoing project — listing the 101 best restaurants in Los Angeles, a venture I’ve participated in since 2013.
My approach to the concept of ‘best’ has always emphasized ‘essential’ dining experiences.
Instead of mere accolades, I aimed to showcase restaurants that not only serve outstanding food but also reflect deeper, meaningful aspects of life in California.
In the past seven years, Los Angeles has truly become my home, as I also hold a rich history with the Bay Area thanks to my tenure at the San Francisco Chronicle nearly two decades ago.
Rather than subscribing to the age-old rivalry of ‘L.A. versus S.F.,’ I find it remarkable that California, roughly the size of Morocco and boasting one of the world’s largest economies, houses two urban centers of such distinct culinary prowess.
Yet, the culinary journey does not stop within these boundaries.
There is an overwhelming abundance of flavors to discover across California, far beyond the confines of this list.
The culmination of this statewide survey materialized into a carefully curated selection of 101 restaurants, representing diverse cuisines at various price points.
It’s notable that I chose to omit several iconic fine dining establishments such as Chez Panisse, Spago, and the French Laundry, acknowledging their familiarity and encouraging diners to visit if they desire.
Many restaurants included in this exploration are complemented by ‘extra helpings’ — a nod to other establishments that embody culinary excellence worth recognizing.
This extensive journey has also inspired deeper guides to beloved destinations such as San Francisco, San Diego, and Palm Springs, with more to be revealed in the future.
Such a monumental endeavor requires input from the broader food community; I extend my gratitude to the fellow food writers and well-fed friends who guided me through this extensive culinary adventure.
As California continues to evolve, so too does its dining landscape, each meal telling a story of innovation, culture, and community.
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/food/list/best-restaurants-california-guide
