Los Angeles County, CA is known for its vibrant and diverse culture, with people from all over the world calling it home. This melting pot of cultures has resulted in a rich and diverse culinary scene, with each neighborhood offering a unique taste of their heritage. In this article, we will explore some of the neighborhoods in Los Angeles County that are known for their cultural diversity and ethnic cuisine.
The San Gabriel Valley
The San Gabriel Valley, located in the eastern part of Los Angeles County, is a hub for Asian communities. This area is home to a large Chinese population, as well as other Asian communities such as Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, and Thai.As a result, the San Gabriel Valley is known for its authentic and delicious Asian cuisine.
Monterey Park
is often referred to as the "Chinese Beverly Hills" due to its large Chinese population. Here, you can find some of the best Chinese restaurants in the county, serving up dishes like dim sum, hot pot, and Peking duck. One of the must-try spots in Monterey Park is Din Tai Fung, a famous Taiwanese restaurant known for its mouth-watering soup dumplings.Alhambra
is another neighborhood in the San Gabriel Valley that is known for its diverse Asian cuisine. Here, you can find a mix of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese restaurants.One of the most popular spots in Alhambra is Savoy Kitchen, which serves up delicious Hainanese chicken rice.
Koreatown
Koreatown, located in central Los Angeles, is home to one of the largest Korean populations in the country. This neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, but it is also a foodie's paradise. Here, you can find a variety of Korean restaurants, from traditional BBQ joints to trendy fusion spots.Kang Ho-dong Baekjeong
is a popular spot in Koreatown, known for its delicious Korean BBQ. The restaurant is always packed, so be prepared to wait in line, but trust us, it's worth it.Another must-try spot in Koreatown is BCD Tofu House, which serves up delicious and comforting bowls of soft tofu stew.
Little Ethiopia
Located in the Fairfax district of Los Angeles, Little Ethiopia is a small but vibrant neighborhood known for its Ethiopian community and cuisine. Here, you can find a variety of Ethiopian restaurants serving up traditional dishes like injera (a sourdough flatbread) and wot (stew).Merkato Ethiopian Restaurant
is a popular spot in Little Ethiopia, known for its authentic and flavorful dishes. The restaurant also has a lively atmosphere, with live music and traditional coffee ceremonies. Another must-try spot is Rosso Blu, which offers a modern twist on traditional Ethiopian cuisine.Boyle Heights
Boyle Heights, located east of downtown Los Angeles, has a rich history and is home to a diverse community.This neighborhood is known for its Mexican-American community and has some of the best Mexican food in the county.
Guisados
is a popular spot in Boyle Heights, known for its delicious tacos made with homemade tortillas. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options. Another must-try spot is El Tepeyac, which serves up massive and delicious burritos that are perfect for sharing.Thai Town
Located in the Hollywood area, Thai Town is a small but vibrant neighborhood known for its large Thai community. Here, you can find a variety of Thai restaurants, from casual street food spots to upscale dining experiences.Jitlada
is a popular spot in Thai Town, known for its authentic and spicy Southern Thai cuisine.The restaurant has been featured on numerous food shows and has even attracted celebrity customers. Another must-try spot is Night + Market, which offers a modern twist on traditional Thai dishes.