We love you, L.A. and it’s not just because you’ve got great views, exciting culture, awesome street style, and the West Coast. These food spots we found over in the city of angels make this round up list because of their unique takes and memorable atmospheres. If you find yourself in the big little city of Los Angeles, do yourself a favor and stop in.

1. Met Him at a Bar

Yeah, we’ve put a spot light on this brunch spot and his sister dinner spot before, but let me just say, it’s worth repeating.From the overnight oats to the fried chicken and waffles, to the crispy french toast – there’s a little something for everyone. Bonus points for having all sauces housemade and original. 

What we ordered (the standouts): Chicken and Waffles – Seth ordered this one (but we definitely all stole a bite or two). This dish really showcased the owners’ unique blend of their respective Italian and Thai backgrounds and how that inspires their kitchens.
“Oh Wow Crispy French Toast”– Brooks (resident sweet tooth) ordered this one and it did not disappoint. The perfect level of sweetness, complimented by delicious berries. Craving it as I’m typing this…

• Things we loved about Met Her at a Bar: The diner itself is adorable. Walls are covered with photos from Thailand and quirky decor throughout. The staff was friendly and knowledgable. Owner Mindy took time to chat with us and tell us about her story. Food came out fresh and delicious
• Things we’d change: Nothing!
• Food: 5/5
• Staff: 5/5
• Atmosphere: 5/5
• Overall tastebuds rating: 5/5

2. Met Her at a Bar

Again, no apologies for the repeat. This is the first time most of us had seen flowers served on pasta, and let me just tell you, the meal was as insanely delicious as it was Insta-worthy.

What we ordered (the standouts): Charcuterie Board – The only right way to start dinner at an Italian joint. This board featured a variety of hard and soft cheeses, breads, mustards, meats, and (a group favorite) the ultra sour tiny pickles called cornichons
All the pasta– How else do we put it? We all ordered pasta dishes and each one was uniquely delicious. Special shoutout to the Rigatoni Vodka and Truffle Ravioli though – these are must orders.

• Things we loved about Met Him at a Bar: Like it’s sister restaurant across the street, the atmosphere is charming and intimate. Our server was friendly and made great recommendations, and, again, the story of owners Vince and Mindy’s relationship and how their personal backgrounds influenced the menus is endearing and enough to bring you back again and again
• Things we’d change: Nothing!
• Food: 5/5
• Staff: 5/5
• Atmosphere: 5/5
• Overall tastebuds rating: 5/5

3. King & Queen Cantina

We’re not going to lie, being super hungry for lunch definitely makes any kind of Mexican food sound extra delicious. However, this spot does rightfully make the list for its interesting menu and great happy hour. We had a great time enjoying our afternoon cocktails and sharing everything from familiar favorites to more exotic small plates as we hung out in this indoor/outdoor dining spot.

What we ordered (the standouts): Pork Belly Bites – rich and wildly flavor packed, this appetizer is not one that we were necessarily all sold on by the name, but Bradley ordered for the plate and we were pretty much fighting over every bite. This is a dish that, when done well, you can really get hooked on. King & Queen has someone in the kitchen who knows what they’re doing!
Shrimp Ceviche– Fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. Exactly the snack you want as you’re sipping a cocktail and waiting for your tacos.

• Things we loved about King & Queen: The unique menu options ranged far beyond your typical tacos and quesadillas, and we loved that. The tacos were also served with a double tortilla, which is perfect for scooping up all the extras that fall out, and the portions of everything were great for sharing.
• Things we’d change: We may have just hit an off time (as happens), but our server was a bit MIA, and the music videos playing on the big screen TV were very loud. That being said, by the time we finished up, I think we all got more accustomed to the space. Maybe just not the spot to bring your grandma!
• Food: 4/5
• Staff: 3/5
• Atmosphere: 3.5/5
• Overall tastebuds rating: 4/5

If you’re heading over to the city of angels, we highly recommend you make a stop and one (or all!) of these tried and true food joints. The best part of all three has to be the way they made interesting takes and creative concepts really successfully and deliciously work. When it comes to being creative with food, it only works if it works, but these spots get the green flag!

Thanks for reading, and remember – it’s your move!

We love you, L.A. and it’s not just because you’ve got great views, exciting culture, awesome street style, and the West Coast. These food spots we found over in the city of angels make this round up list because of their unique takes and memorable atmospheres. If you find yourself in the big little city of Los Angeles, do yourself a favor and stop in.

1. Met Him at a Bar

Yeah, we’ve put a spot light on this brunch spot and his sister dinner spot before, but let me just say, it’s worth repeating.From the overnight oats to the fried chicken and waffles, to the crispy french toast – there’s a little something for everyone. Bonus points for having all sauces housemade and original. 

What we ordered (the standouts): Chicken and Waffles – Seth ordered this one (but we definitely all stole a bite or two). This dish really showcased the owners’ unique blend of their respective Italian and Thai backgrounds and how that inspires their kitchens.
“Oh Wow Crispy French Toast”– Brooks (resident sweet tooth) ordered this one and it did not disappoint. The perfect level of sweetness, complimented by delicious berries. Craving it as I’m typing this…

• Things we loved about Met Her at a Bar: The diner itself is adorable. Walls are covered with photos from Thailand and quirky decor throughout. The staff was friendly and knowledgable. Owner Mindy took time to chat with us and tell us about her story. Food came out fresh and delicious
• Things we’d change: Nothing!
• Food: 5/5
• Staff: 5/5
• Atmosphere: 5/5
• Overall tastebuds rating: 5/5

2. Met Her at a Bar

Again, no apologies for the repeat. This is the first time most of us had seen flowers served on pasta, and let me just tell you, the meal was as insanely delicious as it was Insta-worthy.

What we ordered (the standouts): Charcuterie Board – The only right way to start dinner at an Italian joint. This board featured a variety of hard and soft cheeses, breads, mustards, meats, and (a group favorite) the ultra sour tiny pickles called cornichons
All the pasta– How else do we put it? We all ordered pasta dishes and each one was uniquely delicious. Special shoutout to the Rigatoni Vodka and Truffle Ravioli though – these are must orders.

• Things we loved about Met Him at a Bar: Like it’s sister restaurant across the street, the atmosphere is charming and intimate. Our server was friendly and made great recommendations, and, again, the story of owners Vince and Mindy’s relationship and how their personal backgrounds influenced the menus is endearing and enough to bring you back again and again
• Things we’d change: Nothing!
• Food: 5/5
• Staff: 5/5
• Atmosphere: 5/5
• Overall tastebuds rating: 5/5

3. King & Queen Cantina

We’re not going to lie, being super hungry for lunch definitely makes any kind of Mexican food sound extra delicious. However, this spot does rightfully make the list for its interesting menu and great happy hour. We had a great time enjoying our afternoon cocktails and sharing everything from familiar favorites to more exotic small plates as we hung out in this indoor/outdoor dining spot.

What we ordered (the standouts): Pork Belly Bites – rich and wildly flavor packed, this appetizer is not one that we were necessarily all sold on by the name, but Bradley ordered for the plate and we were pretty much fighting over every bite. This is a dish that, when done well, you can really get hooked on. King & Queen has someone in the kitchen who knows what they’re doing!
Shrimp Ceviche– Fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. Exactly the snack you want as you’re sipping a cocktail and waiting for your tacos.

• Things we loved about King & Queen: The unique menu options ranged far beyond your typical tacos and quesadillas, and we loved that. The tacos were also served with a double tortilla, which is perfect for scooping up all the extras that fall out, and the portions of everything were great for sharing.
• Things we’d change: We may have just hit an off time (as happens), but our server was a bit MIA, and the music videos playing on the big screen TV were very loud. That being said, by the time we finished up, I think we all got more accustomed to the space. Maybe just not the spot to bring your grandma!
• Food: 4/5
• Staff: 3/5
• Atmosphere: 3.5/5
• Overall tastebuds rating: 4/5

If you’re heading over to the city of angels, we highly recommend you make a stop and one (or all!) of these tried and true food joints. The best part of all three has to be the way they made interesting takes and creative concepts really successfully and deliciously work. When it comes to being creative with food, it only works if it works, but these spots get the green flag!

Thanks for reading, and remember – it’s your move!