LA is known for having some of the best restaurants in the world, and as someone who is a foodie and loves to eat, I always love looking for new places to eat and indulge myself at. Throughout my search this year, I've found three places that really stick out to me that anyone can treat themselves to, whether it be a huge meal or a tasteful dessert. Here's to you, food lovers! Enjoy my top three eateries in LA:
1. Bottega Louie
Inside Downtown Los Angeles, the glitzy Bottega Louie is a full Italian restaurant and dessert bar that has it all. Tall ceilings and marble-esque floors and walls give this establishment a modern and trendy look for any patron. From Italian-style pizza to pristinely packaged macaroons, there isn't a doubt you'll walk out feeling satisfied. Bottega Louie has a fast-paced atmosphere with tons of people bustling inside the restaurant, but provides a level of intimacy in the restaurant section with it's low lighting and candles. Waiters are dashing in and out between tables serving at your whim (as best as they can). The desert bar has three large glass cases filled with macaroons, cake, ice cream, and pastries that look like they could come out of a magazine. You have been warned; you're definitely not spending cheap there if you want the best, but it's totally worth it for that hankering sweet tooth you've been having the past week. Gosh, those Italians know how to do food well.
2. Sugarfish
As a huge fan of sushi and just all things Japanese food, I can't resist putting Sugarfish on my list. This trendy but intimate restaurant spreads across Los Angeles from Marina Del Ray, Santa Monica, to Beverley Hills with its smaller but clean dining atmosphere. Famous Chef Nozawa has curated a special menu of edamame and different types of sushi and hand rolls. Sugarfish is special because this restaurant has a pre-determined menu that they advise patrons to order, and I'm telling you, order it. Chef Nozawa knows what he's doing. The food starts off with edamame, then goes into raw tuna, various nigiri rolls (the fish with the rice underneath), then to hand rolls. Each course is given a special amount, and by the end of the meal, I promise that you'll feel full (but not a sickly feeling of full). One should be warned though: If you do not like raw fish or sushi in general, this may not be the place for you. However, you can order sides and speciality pieces but at a more pricey expense. Regardless, you get what you pay for and are guaranteed a fresh, fantastic meal.
3. Bud Namu
Korean BBQ lovers read now! This cheap and extremely authentic restaurant is definitely the place for you. Filled with local Koreans and packed with tables for cooking, Bud Namu is fast-paced and a popular hot spot. If you've ever been to Korean BBQ before, you'll know you'll sit down and get a glass of water and order from the pre-determined menu of fish or meat of what to cook on the grill in front of you. Typically, I like to go for any steak dish like bulgogi but anything goes. They also give you dishes of flavoring like special Korean-like soy sauce, Sriracha, etc. Bud Namu gives you large portions for a small price; it's a pretty good deal if you ask me. Definitely go in a group cause you'll be stuffed after round two if it's just a couple of people, but there's nothing wrong with a couple people; just come super hungry. Bud Namu is worth the drive into Korea town and the price you pay for the food!
Dig in, LMU; there's nothing wrong with having a good meal every now and then! Happy eating!
