So visiting Los Angeles, or even living here, can be a little daunting. Where do you start? There's no end to the multitude of lists, blogs, and sites that provide an array of often unorganized information on visiting Los Angeles. You just want to find out already which restaurant you should go to, and if you can't figure it out soon you're going to give up and go to Mickey D's!
Don't do it! Here, in a clear and concise list, are the top five restaurants that will satisfy your taste buds and keep your wallet from running away from you.
1) The Crave Cafe
Website: www.cravecafes.com
Address: 14504 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
What to expect: A relaxed setting with endless options on fresh salads, piping hot soups, warm paninis, and an array of sweet and savory crepes you won't want for anything. Do make an effort to leave room for the freshly baked goods displayed in their freshly frosted glistening splendor behind glass at the front counter. However, if you're just looking for a good hot cup of tea then then this is definitely the place. With reasonable prices for the generous portions this needs to be a stop while you're on this side of the Valley.
2) Mel's Drive In
Website: www.melsdrive-in.com
Address: 14846 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
What to expect: A complete gimmick, the second you walk in you'll wish you were wearing a poodle skirt or had the Fonz's leather jacket, but regardless it's really fun to pick your songs from your table on your mini jukebox and savor the amazing chocolate malt. Mel's offers traditional American fare from burgers to chicken tenders. There's something for everyone. With phenomenal prizes for quality taste, the whole family will be happy. On a date? Order one malt, with two straws!
3) Hugo's Tacos
Website: www.hugostacos.com
Address: 4749 Coldwater Canyon, Studio City, CA 91604
What to expect: One taste and you may think these tacos were made in heaven before being plated for you to devour. A delicious and vast menu that in no way neglects all Mexican fare, you can find anything to satisfy your craving from nachos, to tostadas, to tortas just in case you're not feeling tacos that day. Order a large horchata to wash it all down with and you'll experience true Latin cooking on a dime.
4) Sushi Ichiban Kan
Website: /www.sushiichiban-kan.com
Address: 19723 Ventura Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
What to expect: Great service and great quality. When you're looking for sushi on a budget, the one thing you don't want to do is sacrifice the quality. Sushi Ichiban Kan carries incredibly fresh fish, and everything is made to order, it's not just hanging out in the fridge. If you're a sashimi lover, you'll be especially happy with what they have to offer. In a rush? Order a couple Tekka Do to go, they're tuna sashimi with rice and wrapped in seaweed for a nice little package that you can run with.
5) Salvemini's
Website: www.salveminiskitchen.com
Address: 15030 Ventura Boulevard #2, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
What to expect: Down home Italian cooking is one type of meal that will make anyone happy. From their gourmet pizzas, to their scrumptious subs, pastas, and salads you'll be happy to find that everything is made fresh, the portions are shareable, and to feed a family of four you won't break $40. It may look like a little hole in the wall, but don't let that sway you, the pizzas are better than anything you'll find at Pizza Hut or Domino's.
Happy eating!
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