Los Angeles continues to be a vibrant hotspot for culinary innovation, with recent exciting restaurant openings that cater to various tastes and dining experiences.
From iconic establishments featuring renowned chefs to charming neighborhood spots and pop-ups transitioning into permanent locations, the Southland’s dining scene is bustling with activity.
Badash Bakes in Pasadena has quickly captured the attention of sweets lovers since its debut on April 29.
Owner and pastry chef Ashley Cunningham has enchanted patrons with her ceremonial grade-matcha cinnamon rolls and an array of delectable treats including red velvet cake, banana bread, and freshly assorted cookies.
With lines often extending for over an hour, Badash Bakes is a testament to Cunningham’s significant TikTok following and her culinary expertise honed in LA’s competitive food scene.
Though the grand opening is slated for May 31, the buzz around her beloved pastries is already palpable.
In Chinatown, Baby Bistro took its first steps on May 8 after a series of successful pop-up dinners from chef Miles Thompson and partner Andy Schwartz.
Nestled within a quaint, century-old Victorian bungalow, this cozy venue offers a menu focused on seasonal farmers market ingredients paired with carefully curated wine selections.
The dining experience may echo a tasting menu format, but Thompson emphasizes the casual nature of the offerings, inviting guests to explore unique dishes such as turnip tofu and delightful onion bread.
On May 7, AC Barbecue opened in Century City, spearheaded by the talented Black comedians Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer.
Inspired by their culinary journeys from Compton to St. Louis, this food court restaurant features a menu designed by pitmaster Burt Bakman, offering an array of smoked meats, including St. Louis ribs and pulled pork.
The duo’s food court site at Westfield Century City has quickly established itself as a go-to for barbecue enthusiasts.
Koreatown welcomed back Baekjeong on May 7 after its closure earlier in January 2024.
Having built a solid reputation over its decade-long history, the newly opened flagship location promises the lively atmosphere and high-quality Korean BBQ that made it popular in the first place.
Under the guidance of chef Samuel Kim, guests can enjoy a menu featuring exquisite grilled meats and a unique dry-aging program, as well as delicious lunch bowls.
May 10 marked the West Coast opening of Miznon in Downtown Los Angeles, introduced by acclaimed Israeli chef Eyal Shani.
Specializing in pita sandwiches, this new eatery showcases signature dishes such as the cheeseburger a la pita and roasted cauliflower with tahini.
As with previous locations, Miznon will offer a unique signature pita that reflects Los Angeles’s regional flavors later this year.
Cento Raw Bar, the latest venture from the team behind Cento Pasta Bar, debuted on May 12 in West Adams.
This seafood-oriented establishment creates an otherworldly dining ambiance akin to a sun-drenched sea cave, with a menu featuring seafood towers, crudos, and caviar sandwiches.
Guests can indulge in a variety of fresh raw shellfish curated in custom-designed glass towers, complemented by hamachi crudo and cocktails.
Hollywood’s Bar Benjamin emerged on May 13 after transforming the upper space of its Melrose venue.
This cocktail bar offers a menu inspired by the founders’ travels around the world, blending innovative drinks with classic flavors.
Noteworthy signature cocktails include a miso-infused Manhattan and a unique tom kha-flavored drink, alongside bar bites such as beef tartare and deviled eggs.
On the same day, Hasi Bread opened its first retail shop and cafe in the Del Rey/Mar Vista area, becoming a viral sensation among locals.
Known for its artisan yellow-and-blue sourdough, this bakery showcases pastries and coffee within a charming setting that was formerly Hot Cakes Bakes.
Founded by baker Matias Barang, Hasi Bread quickly established itself as a farmer’s market favorite, delighting patrons with its creative and flavorful offerings.
Mixtape, a concept by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, opened on May 19 in Westlake Village’s Neighborly food hall.
This innovative burger spot offers a unique twist, focusing on gluten-free chicken and vegetarian options.
Diners can enjoy double-stacked chicken patties and crispy chicken sandwiches served on soft gluten-free buns, highlighting a health-conscious approach to traditional fast food fare.
On May 28, the upscale Afro-Caribbean restaurant Lucia made its entrance on Fairfax, spearheaded by owner Sam Jordan.
Partnering with executive chef Adrian Forte, Lucia showcases a vibrant menu that draws from a plethora of Caribbean and African recipes.
Signature dishes include stuffed Jamaican patties and a vegan ceviche made with lychee, reflecting the rich culinary traditions these cuisines offer.
Bar Avoja, a Roman-inspired cocktail lounge, opened its doors on May 30, conceptualized by chef Evan Funke and his partner Giancarlo Pagani.
Situated in a location that resonates with the past, this intimate bar presents guests with handheld Roman street food, pizza, and cocktail pairings.
Funke has crafted a menu featuring delectable items like frittatina di carbonara and cocktails that enhance the dining experience.
Finally, La Ola celebrated its grand opening on May 30 atop the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.
This coastal Mexican restaurant showcases a menu created by executive chef Jesus Medina, offering a variety of tantalizing dishes, from shrimp aguachile to carne asada plates and refreshing cocktails.
The distinct offerings range from casual tacos served during the day to sophisticated entrees perfect for the evening crowd, catering to diverse tastes.
As Los Angeles continues to evolve, these new establishments promise to enrich the city’s already dynamic culinary landscape, showcasing the creativity and passion of their chefs and owners.
Food enthusiasts and casual diners alike can look forward to exploring these latest experiences, affirming LA’s reputation as a gastronomic paradise.
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