Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Los Angeles

This iconic Mexican dish features marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served in soft corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a quintessential street food in Los Angeles, reflecting the city's vibrant Mexican culinary scene.

A social dining experience where diners grill their own marinated meats at the table, often served with an array of side dishes (banchan). It's a beloved cuisine in LA, reflecting the city's strong Korean community.

Japanese noodle soup that has become immensely popular in Los Angeles, featuring rich broth, fresh noodles, and various toppings. LA's ramen scene is diverse, with styles ranging from tonkotsu to miso.

These crispy, deep-fried dough pastries are coated in cinnamon sugar and often served with chocolate or caramel dipping sauces. They are a popular snack at fairs and local eateries throughout LA.

A creamy, caramel custard dessert made with sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla, topped with a rich caramel sauce. It's a traditional Latin American dessert that has found a special place in LA's dessert scene.

A refreshing traditional Mexican beverage made from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. It's a popular drink in the hot California sun, often served alongside tacos and other Mexican meals.