LA Food

A GUIDE TO THE CITY’S DIVERSE FOOD STOPS

Written by Alyse Messmer Photo by Elijah Hickman and Alex Iannone

Los Angeles is the home of many different attractions, venues, museums and more. But one thing L.A. is known for is its diverse food choices and Instagram-worthy restaurants. Whether looking for a new favorite coffee shop, a celebrity-favorite Chinese restaurant, or just an off-campus pizza or taco place, L.A. is home to many famous food stops to satisfy any and every craving.

YANG CHOW RESTAURANT

Yang Chow Restaurant is home to the famous Slippery Shrimp dish that brings celebrities and food bloggers alike to visit. Found in Chinatown, the storefront could be easily overlooked, but inside it is home to acclaimed food such as Orange Chicken, Yang Chow Lamb, Lemon Scallops, Kung Pao Squid and other traditional Chinese cuisine. Yang Chow Restaurant is known as an LA staple and has walls covered with photos of celebrity customers such as Mel Gibson and Jack Black. Yang Chow Restaurant is located at 819 N Broadway Street and is open daily from 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m.

Yang Chow is famous for its traditional Chinese orange chicken with a modern twist.

CARRERA COFFEE

Carrera Coffee is a trendy, modern coffee shop and is known for its aesthetic atmosphere and printed coffee drinks. Careera Coffee is able to take any photo and print it on the foam of lattes, tea or other hot drinks. Kia Illulian, Managing Partner of Carrera Coffee, says their shop strives to offer customers an experience other coffee shops do not.

“We have the unique ability to print any type of artwork on your latte or cappuccino beverage, providing our customers with an Instagrammable moment that is delicious and memorable,” Illulian says.

The coffee shop is also across the street from the famous LA photo opportunity, The Pink Wall. Carrera Cafe is located at 8251 Melrose Ave. and is open daily from 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

Carrera Coffee uses 3D-printing technology and coffee extract to print personalized photos onto customers’ coffee.

Carrera baristas prepare the coffee prior to the drink receiving its printed photo on top.

LA ESTRELLA RESTAURANT

This street-side taco stop, La Estrella Restaurant, is known for its carne asada tacos, traditional burritos, tortas and other Mexican foods. The bright blue building is surrounded by vivid painted murals and outdoor seating for its customers, as well as affordable prices for college students. La Estrella is a great place for a quick bite or a late night dinner. The restaurant is located at 6103 N. Figueroa Street and is open daily from 8 a.m.–3 a.m.

La Estrella has a variety of traditionally Mexican tacos, such as chicken and carne asada, topped with cilantro and onions.

CASA BIANCA

Casa Bianca is a family-owned restaurant that was opened in 1955, and it is one of the most popular L.A. spots for traditional Italian food. Recognizable by the bright neon sign outside, Casa Bianca is known for its pepperoni pizza, homestyle pastas, soups, sandwiches and appetizers.

The family’s traditional recipes remain consistent as they have continuously been passed down over the years. Its familial atmosphere and celebrity appeal makes the restaurant all the more popular. The waiting area is full of photos featuring celebrities such as Steve Carell. Casa Bianca is located at 1650 Colorado Blvd. and is open Tuesday through Thursday, from 4 p.m.–Midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m.–1 a.m.

As these food stops offer visitors unique dining experiences, award-winning dining and unique L.A. flavors, adding these stops during your next L.A. visit is sure to provide an exciting experience and great food for every visitor. ◆