The culinary team at Eater LA has been indulging in an array of remarkable dishes this week, showcasing the vibrant food scene of Los Angeles. From comforting classics to innovative creations, these standout meals are a testament to the diverse dining experiences the city has to offer.
One dish that has captured attention is the crab fried rice from Miya on Lake in Altadena. This charming Thai restaurant, operated by David Tewasart, stands as a beacon of hope for the Altadena community, which has been reeling from the Eaton Fire’s impact. The restaurant features a sleek dining room and a back space that evokes the atmosphere of a stylish Bangkok alley. The crab fried rice is generously packed with tender chunks of sweet crab, and the fluffy rice is expertly fried in the wok. After indulging in this delicious dish, the restaurant quickly filled with patrons, symbolizing the community’s resilience and readiness to bounce back. You can find Miya at 2470 Lake Avenue, Altadena, CA.
In Santa Monica, Pasjoli has made a significant resurgence with a revamped menu and a refreshed dining space. Chef Dave Beran shifted the restaurant’s focus from a prix fixe offering to a more casual a la carte experience. Diners can now enjoy popular bar menu items, alongside classic bistro fare such as steak frites and roast chicken. A highlight from the new menu is the French onion souplette, a delightful miniature version of the iconic French onion soup. This indulgent dish is topped with a thick layer of melted cheese that conceals sweet, braised onions swimming in a rich vegetable broth. Instead of the traditional baked bread, two petite breadsticks are served for dipping, and the dish is presented in an adorable ceramic pot, hot to the touch. Be sure to save room for the delectable sundae drizzled with a sweet and salty duck fat caramel. Pasjoli is located at 2732 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405.
Virgil Village’s Budonoki is celebrating creativity in the culinary realm with its summer collaboration series, featuring special dishes in partnership with other Los Angeles restaurants. One standout collaboration was the saag paneer katsu curry, which united the talents of Budonoki and Pijja Palace in a deliciously imaginative way. The dish features crispy breaded and fried paneer served over a bed of rich, vibrant saag. Although the dish was available for only a single night, it left a lasting impression and will surely be missed. The restaurant has previously collaborated with other notable spots like Soban and Mini Kabob, and fans are eagerly anticipating future offerings. Budonoki can be found at 654 Virgil Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004.
As the food scene mourns the impending closure of Here’s Looking at You in Koreatown, one last meal at this beloved establishment proved to be unforgettable. The restaurant announced it would close its doors permanently on June 13, prompting many to savor their last bites here, myself included. HLAY has been a cherished community restaurant for a decade, known for its intimate 50-seat environment and unique menu offerings. Star dishes from the kitchen included the deep-fried frog legs, perfectly battered and paired with a delightful salsa negra, scallions, lime, and chiles. Other memorable dishes, such as the pink grapefruit tart and heirloom tomato bagna cauda salad, will also be missed. Dining at Here’s Looking at You embodied comfort and familiarity in a city bustling with culinary options, leaving lasting memories. The restaurant was situated at 3901 West Sixth Street, Los Angeles, CA 90020.
These culinary highlights illustrate the incredible variety and quality of Los Angeles’ dining scene. Each dish tells a story, reflecting not just the flavors and techniques involved, but also the community spirit and creativity of the chefs behind them. As Los Angeles continues to evolve, these standout dishes serve as reminders of the innovation and passion that define its ever-changing gastronomic landscape.
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