New (ish) LA Restaurants to Try in 2025
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Mala Class
Location: Highland Park
Mala Class brings a modern twist to traditional Szechuan cuisine in Highland Park, serving bold flavors in a cozy, minimalist setting. Must-tries include the Dan Dan noodles, mushroom fries, and addictive mala wings. With quick service, vegan-friendly options, and a perfect balance of umami and heat, this intimate spot is a haven for spice lovers.
The Hummingbird
Location: Echo Park
The Hummingbird in Echo Park combines Peruvian flair with Nikkei-inspired innovation, offering standout ceviches and handrolls. Chef Ricardo Zárate, nicknamed “The Hummingbird,” infuses his love for Peru’s culinary diversity into every dish. The cozy, romantic vibe makes it ideal for dinners with friends, birthdays, or anniversaries.
Tomat
Location: Westchester
Tomat elevates Westchester’s dining scene with upscale, farm-to-table cuisine in a chic, community-focused setting. Co-owned by Natalie Dial and Harry Posner, the space features a rooftop terrace, event areas, and a garden, all designed with purpose and sustainability in mind. Each dish is beautifully presented, reflecting the team’s attention to detail and passion for creating a memorable dining experience.
Tijuanazo
East LA
Tijuanazo is a taco lover’s dream, serving perfectly seasoned, flavor-packed dishes with just the right amount of spice. While the tacos are exceptional, the real star is the mulitas—don't miss them! Fully loaded with toppings, they offer a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more.While there's no alcohol, refreshing sodas and water are available—just plan ahead for limited parking.
Companion
Location: Venice
Companion is a cozy neighborhood café that focuses on simplicity, sustainability, and a familial vibe. The restaurant serves organic coffees, wines, and dishes made from sustainably sourced ingredients. Standout menu items include the vibrant Big Salad, flavorful gnocchi & meatballs, and champagne-paired Chicken Parm. But the real highlight is the unforgettable olive oil cake with ice cream and sea salt—don't miss this dessert!
Danny Boy’s Pizza
Location: Westwood
Danny Boy’s Pizza has been one of the go-to pizza spots in DTLA, and in 2024 they opened their Westwood Village location! In addition to your same favorite pies, hot hero sandwiches, salads, and classic appetizers you’ve come to enjoy at their DTLA spot, they’ll also be serving beer and wine at their new location. Eventually add new items that’ll be exclusive to this location, like grab ‘n’ go sandwiches and spaghetti & meatballs.
Chez Mia
Location: West Hollywood
Chez Mia is a hidden gem that oozes romance and charm with its stunning décor, plants, and soothing ambiance. The food is simply outstanding, with dishes like the perfectly cooked lamb chops and hamachi carpaccio standing out. Each plate is beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. While the wine list is solid, the true star is the exceptional cuisine. Ideal for date nights or special occasions, this spot ranks among LA’s finest.
Modu Cafe
Location: Highland Park
After years of pop-ups, Jiyoon Jang opened Modu Cafe in Highland Park, offering a delightful selection of pastries like chewy dark chocolate mochi brownies, hojicha mochi muffins, and miso cookies. The bakery’s menu also features barley tea-infused boricha madeleines and black sesame chocolate chip cookies. Pair these treats with a full coffee and tea menu, highlighting matcha, served in sculptural cups for a unique, flavorful experience.
Backbone
Location: Montrose
Backbone, the New American restaurant from former McCall's Meat & Fish Co. owners Karen Yoo and Nathan McCall, blends French technique with Spanish and Asian influences. Known for using the finest, seasonally available ingredients, they deliver a compelling dining experience in the foothill communities. McCall’s masterful meat preparations and Yoo’s unforgettable desserts make this one of the toughest reservations to snag right now.
Helms Bakery
Location: Culver City
After 12 years of development, chef Sang Yoon opened Helms Bakery, reimagining the historic space into a vibrant daytime café, bakery, and shop. Led by executive chef Nanor Harboyan and head baker Jacob Fraijo, the menu features pastries, bread, and hearty dishes like fried chicken, pastrami sandwiches, and chicken pot pie. Don't miss the freezer section, stocked with ice cream options, including nostalgic Thrifty pints.
Lost
Location: Downtown Los Angeles
Located in downtown LA, this Mexico City-inspired rooftop cocktail and taco bar offers craft cocktails, fresh tacos, and curated sounds under the DTLA skyline. Opened by the owners of Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen, the spacious 6,000-square-foot bar accommodates 300 people and provides a vibrant spot to enjoy a lively evening. Situated on Hill between Seventh and Eighth Streets, it's the perfect place to unwind with great drinks, food, and music.
Zaytinya
Location: Culver City
Zaytinya, José Andrés’s Mediterranean concept, takes over the former Etta space. The 10,000-square-foot spot showcases the vibrant flavors of Turkey, Greece, and Lebanon with dishes like hommus, baba ghannouge, wood-fired kebabs, and whole grilled fish. Paired with a curated wine list featuring regional and modern favorites, Zaytinya offers an immersive taste of the Eastern Mediterranean’s rich culinary traditions.
Fitoor
Location: Santa Monica
Fitoor offers contemporary Indian cuisine inspired by the diverse coastal regions of India. The menu features small plates perfect for sharing, along with larger entrees that blend vibrant Indian spices with seasonal California ingredients. Catering to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, Fitoor also boasts an extensive beverage program with unique bottles, premium wines by the glass, craft beers, and show-stopping cocktails that elevate the dining experience.
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