As summer temperatures continue to make a strong showing across Southern California, finding dining spots that offer a refreshing reprieve or simply a noteworthy meal remains a local preoccupation. Editors recently highlighted several Los Angeles restaurants, noting distinct options from Westside to the San Gabriel Valley, providing a look at places that stand out in the current dining landscape.
Out on the Westside, a Pakistani restaurant has drawn attention for its distinct offerings. Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen, located at 115 Santa Monica Boulevard in Santa Monica, offers a halal menu that includes Pakistani, Indian, and Afghani dishes. Mona Holmes, editor for Eater Southern California/Southwest, observed that a restaurant of this type feels uncommon in the area, with similar establishments often found further south in Artesia or the South Bay. Chef Imran Ali Mookhi’s menu keeps things varied, featuring dishes such as eggplant baingan, made with ginger, Roma tomatoes, and coriander, served with garlic yogurt, chili oil, and micro radishes. With its location less than a block from Palisades Park, the restaurant also offers the bonus of a Pacific Ocean breeze, a welcome feature during recent scorching weather.
Over in Silver Lake, a space on Sunset Boulevard has seen several restaurants come and go over the last decade. The latest establishment, Amiguita, a Caribbean diasporic restaurant, is finding its footing after the prior occupant's departure. Nicole Fellah, Eater editorial manager, noted some promising aspects, including a well-priced menu, an intimate dining room with good conversation nooks, and solid food. While the “frio” cold bar section was described as underwhelming, the hot dishes garnered praise. Highlights include crispy yuca latkes served with homemade applesauce and chive-pocked lemon creme fraiche, sweet corn pudding with spicy shredded chicken, and a confit duck leg smothered in jerk sauce. The restaurant also benefits from ample parking, a practical convenience in the often-crowded Silver Lake area.
In Pasadena, Loli Farms at 885 E. California Boulevard focuses on the classic rotisserie chicken. Kat Thompson, audience editor for Eater Southern California/Southwest, described the restaurant's rotisserie chicken as top-tier, featuring subtle flavors of garlic and cumin. It pairs well with the restaurant’s spicy, cilantro-forward aji verde. Other recommendations include the garlic fries and passionfruit juice. After a meal, patrons can also browse market goods and pick up coconut-crusted alfajores for dessert.
Finally, for those seeking a lighter, chilled mid-day meal that offers more than a supermarket salad, hand roll bar Uoichiba operates locations in Sherman Oaks and Downtown. Rebecca Roland, deputy editor for Eater Southern California/Southwest, highlighted the variety of hand rolls available, including fatty tuna, prawn, and crunchy crab, which can be ordered à la carte or in sets. A less traditional option, the Toasted Lox Bagel, is filled with lox schmear, steelhead, scallions, and pickled onions. Both Uoichiba locations are connected to The Joint, a fish market selling fresh, dry-aged, and smoked fish, along with pantry items like sushi rice and furikake. The Joint also provides hand roll sets to go, offering an option for a sushi night at home.
