Los Angeles residents looking for new dining options have a few distinct spots to consider, from a Korean cafe and market in Highland Park to a "swanky" sports lounge in Hollywood, an intriguing sandwich shop on Melrose, and an "unsung" Argentine-Uruguayan restaurant in Studio City. These establishments offer a range of experiences, whether you're after a quick coffee, a lively game night, or a unique dinner.
In Highland Park, **Mokja** has opened its doors as a Korean cafe and market, tucked behind Yi Cha at 5719 North Figueroa Street. The venture is a collaboration between Chef Debbie Lee and Frank La of Be Bright. Since opening just over a month ago, Mokja has been noted for its "yuzu cold brews" and "musubi stacked with salty Spam and a fluffy slab of egg." An early hit has been the "mayak egg sando," alongside a "fall apart tender oxtail handpie." For lunch, customers can build their own ramen, and the pastry case, featuring a "black sesame chocolate pie," is also a highlight. Rebecca Roland noted that Mokja feels like a place poised to become a neighborhood staple, suitable for catching up with friends or a quick meal.
For those in Hollywood seeking a more upscale sports viewing experience, **Pawn Shop** has emerged as a new sports lounge at 5901 Melrose Avenue. Mona Holmes found it to be the "right kind of sports bar" for enjoying beer or cocktails and food amidst "obsessed Angelenos" cheering for local teams like the Dodgers, Clippers, Lakers, Rams, or Kings. The venue boasts 53 television screens, including a massive main room and seven private suites, ensuring every fan can catch their game. On the menu are beef tallow fries, lemon pepper wings, and a hot dog topped with caviar, charred cabbage, and branzino. Cocktails by Jason Kilgore, such as the tequila-infused "Amber Waves," contribute to what Holmes described as a "pure vibe." Those planning a visit might want to book a spot early to experience its "ambitious elements."
Meanwhile, a "cult-favorite" has been gaining traction on Melrose Avenue at **Little Fish**, located at 5035 Melrose Ave. While the spot is already known for its "beloved fried fish sandwich," attention has turned to its "beach sandwich." Hilary Pollack initially heard the concept of cured mussels on ciabatta sounded "weird" via word-of-mouth. However, after trying it, the hype became clear. The soy-cured mussels are described as "tiny umami bomb" additions, complemented by pickled guindilla peppers for acidity and heat, and mayonnaise for tang and coolness. The sandwich also offers a dual crunch from the crispy pan de cristal bread and "nostalgia-inducing shards of potato chips." Pollack suggested ordering both the beach sandwich and the fried fish sandwich to share.
Finally, in the San Fernando Valley, **Alto** in Studio City continues to offer a distinct Argentine-Uruguayan dining experience. Located at 12969 Ventura Boulevard, on a stretch where corporate chains are common, Alto has persevered for over a year, recently celebrating a significant anniversary. Nicole Fellah characterized it as the Valley’s "most unsung restaurant," suggesting it is "far undercovered" given its unique offerings. Chef-owner Juana Castellanos Lagemann and co-owner chef Esteban Klenzi oversee a menu that includes a kombu-cured pork txuleta, tempura squash blossoms with ground shrimp, "puffy, leopard-spotted beef empanadas," and a rib-eye with flaky potato terrine. A standout dish highlighted was the gluten-free, cheesy tapioca "Chipa bread," served with tomato compound butter and hazelnuts. Fellah noted the space as "stunning" and dedicated to the foodways of the Pampas region, recommending it as a reservation to make for a weekend dinner.
These Los Angeles dining spots represent a cross-section of the city's diverse culinary landscape, from quick bites and casual hangouts to a more refined dinner experience, each bringing something new or distinct to local residents.
