Highland Park, located in Northeast Los Angeles, is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood that offers a plethora of dining options for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Jewish deli fare, innovative fusion cuisine, or classic Mexican dishes, Highland Park has something to satisfy every craving. Here are 15 of the best places to eat in Highland Park that you should definitely check out.
One of the standout spots in Highland Park is Belle’s Delicatessen, a newly transformed Jewish deli that serves up classic favorites like hot pastrami on double-baked rye and scallion latkes. The retro charm of the dining room, complete with leather booths and tchotchkes, adds to the overall experience. Belle’s is the perfect place to grab a bagel sandwich in the morning or enjoy a pickle martini in the evening.
Highly Likely is another must-visit spot in Highland Park, offering an all-day cafe experience that transitions into a sit-down dinner spot in the evening. With dishes like pappardelle bolognese and mushroom piccata, Highly Likely is a great choice for a casual meal with friends. The standout feature of this cafe is its outstanding backyard patio, where you can relax with a fig negroni and enjoy the ambiance.
For a unique dining experience, head to Amiga Amore, a fusion restaurant that combines Mexican and Italian flavors in creative ways. From elote agnolotti to chorizo and clams with chile de arbol toast, the menu at Amiga Amore is sure to impress. Whether you’re on a date or dining with a group, the innovative dishes at this tiny spot will leave a lasting impression.
If you’re in the mood for tacos, Villa’s Tacos is the place to go in Highland Park. This taquería takes a more-is-more approach with its fully loaded tacos, featuring a variety of toppings and salsas. The Villa’s Trio, a sampler of three tacos with different fillings, is a popular choice among diners looking to sample a bit of everything.
Mariscos El Faro is a seafood truck that offers Sinaloa-style dishes like fresh oysters and aguachile in a spicy Clamato-y sauce. Located outside a park off Figueroa, this truck is a favorite among locals for its delicious seafood offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a michelada or a plate of fresh ceviche, Mariscos El Faro is a great choice for a casual meal.
The Greyhound is Highland Park’s go-to sports bar, known for its crispy, meaty wings and solid bar fare. Whether you’re a sports fan looking to catch a game or just craving some classic pub food, The Greyhound is a reliable choice for a casual night out.
For vegan options in Highland Park, look no further than Maciel’s, a deli that specializes in plant-based meats and dairy-free cheeses. Their classic Italian sandwich, loaded with meat-free salami and pastrami, is a fan favorite. If you’re looking for vegan comfort food that doesn’t break the bank, Maciel’s is the place to go.
Hippo is a kind-of-Italian spot in Highland Park that offers a menu full of crudos, pasta, and big plates of meat. The high ceilings and graphic floral designs on the walls create a stylish ambiance, perfect for a night out with friends. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh crudos or hearty pasta dishes, Hippo has something for everyone.
Rosty’s is a Peruvian restaurant on Figueroa that has quickly become a neighborhood favorite. Their menu features Peruvian staples like pollo a la brasa and lomo saltado, as well as unique dishes like la copa nostra, a mixed ceviche served in a glass goblet. With its flavorful and zesty dishes, Rosty’s is a great choice for a taste of Peru in Highland Park.
Goldburger is a popular burger joint in Highland Park that offers substantial smashburgers with a variety of toppings. From the classic Goldburger to the loaded LA Special, these burgers are sure to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to order a side of their kind-of-spicy curly fries for the perfect meal.
Joy is a Taiwanese restaurant in Highland Park that offers a variety of dishes, from cold appetizers to noodle and rice bowls. Their homemade scallion sesame bread sandwiches are a highlight, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch. With affordable prices and quick service, Joy is a convenient option for a delicious meal on the go.
Jeff’s Table is a hidden gem in Highland Park, offering a variety of deli sandwiches with unique twists. From the „Jeff’s Special“ with hot pastrami to the „Dirty Baby“ with turkey salad, the sandwiches at Jeff’s Table are packed with flavor. Don’t miss out on their spicy, creamy Thai peanut mac salad for a perfect side dish.
La Fuente is an old-school Mexican restaurant on Figueroa that serves up hearty and flavorful dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. The El Rey burrito, filled with a variety of ingredients, is a popular choice among diners. With generous portions and friendly service, La Fuente is a great spot for a satisfying meal.
Triple Beam is a hidden gem in Highland Park, offering some of the best pizza in the neighborhood. Priced by the ounce, their slices are affordable and delicious, making it easy to try a variety of flavors. With a fantastic patio in the back, Triple Beam is a great spot to enjoy a slice of pizza in a relaxed setting.
For dessert, head to Donut Friend on York Blvd. for some of the best vegan donuts in LA. Their fully loaded donuts come in a variety of flavors, from coffee-infused cake to matcha tea glaze. Whether you’re a vegan or just a donut enthusiast, Donut Friend is a must-visit spot in Highland Park.
In conclusion, Highland Park is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste. From traditional Jewish delis to innovative fusion restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal with friends or a special night out, Highland Park has you covered with its array of delicious eateries. So next time you find yourself in Highland Park, be sure to check out these 15 best places to eat for a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.