Perched high above the Los Angeles basin, Griffith Observatory offers one of the most iconic views in Southern California. Whether you are catching a planetarium show, hiking the surrounding trails in Griffith Park, or simply watching the sunset over the Hollywood Sign, the experience naturally works up an appetite. The area surrounding the park is not just a tourist destination; it is a gateway to some of the most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods in Los Angeles, including Los Feliz, Thai Town, and Little Armenia.
Finding a great meal near such a major landmark can be tricky if you are unfamiliar with the local terrain. You might expect the immediate vicinity to be filled with overpriced tourist traps, but the reality is quite the opposite. Just a short drive down the hill, you will find a rich culinary landscape that ranges from historic diners and classic French bistros to some of the best Thai food in the entire country.
The neighborhoods bordering Griffith Park cater to a mix of Hollywood creatives, local families, and adventurous foodies. This unique demographic blend means the restaurants here must maintain high standards to survive. You are just as likely to find a perfect smash burger as you are an authentic bowl of boat noodles or a high-end omakase experience.
Because the Observatory is a destination you might visit at any time of day, the dining options vary wildly in atmosphere. You might need a quick, casual breakfast before a morning hike, or perhaps you are looking for a romantic dinner spot with a view after the sun goes down. The list below accounts for this variety, ensuring you have the perfect spot regardless of your itinerary or budget.
Traffic and parking in Los Angeles are always considerations, but most of these restaurants are located within a 10 to 15-minute drive of the Observatory’s parking lot. Many are also accessible via the DASH Observatory shuttle, which connects to the Metro Red Line, making it easy to combine your sightseeing with a car-free meal.
To help you navigate the culinary scene around this historic landmark, we have curated a list of the best spots that combine atmosphere, quality, and convenience. These are the places locals actually eat at, avoiding the generic chain restaurants in favor of unique, high-quality dining experiences.
Beachwood Cafe Hollywood
| Address | 2695 Beachwood Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 871-1717 |
The food was really good and everyone was friendly! I had the Chipotle Steak Wrap and my husband had a cheeseburger with bacon.
We waited about 40 minutes for our table, but we passed the time with a walk around the neighborhood before sitting in their back waiting area. Once we were seated, our server was prompt and our order was out quickly!
The food is always great here. My chillaquiles went perfectly with their red ale. We also had their burger, French toast, steak wrap, matcha, and Bellini. We also love the old Hollywood hills location. Great service, just be patient with parking.
The food was excellent! The service and quality were a 9/10. The restaurant has a warm, cozy, and beautiful atmosphere. I highly recommend it for a delicious brunch or breakfast. The wait time was about 30 minutes on a Sunday morning, and it was definitely worth it. ** The only thing missing was free refills on the regular coffee.***
I’ve lived in the area for 29 years and had never heard of this café, even is close to the Hollywood sign.
My waitress was kind, but the service was extremely slow. It was so slow that I ordered a coffee, finished my entire breakfast, and still had to cancel it because it never arrived.
At one point I was choking and got up to ask for a glass of water. I asked another server, and he looked at me with an attitude and asked, “Are you eating here?” That didn’t feel right. I ended up going back to my waitress to ask for water. After that, I could see staff looking over at me and talking, which made me uncomfortable.
The food was okay. I ordered a dish with beans and it was flavorful. However, the waffles were terrible burnt, hard, and tasteless.
Also, I don’t understand why there’s an expectation of a 22% or higher tip for a simple breakfast, especially with this level of service.
First time trying this place. Everything was really good. Ordered a matcha raspberry my favorite thing for ever matcha, scrambled eggs with carnitas,lemon ricotta pancakes and chilaquiles with carnitas. Definitely coming back again.
Home Restaurant
| Address | 1760 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (323) 990-8016 |
10/10!! Everything about this place was exceptional - atmosphere is stunning for a morning brunch when sitting outside. Service was excellent & a very friendly team. The Banana Walnut Pancakes were absolutely DELICIOUS & stacked high. We also enjoyed the California Eggwich with perfectly made Aperol Spritz. Should out to David & Luana who made our brunch extra special with their 5-star service. Highly recommend!
This could easily be a 5 star location. I'll start with the things that drop it. But honestly, they are so small. Atmosphere, the main spot has it all, the side patio is still comfy but it feels segregated. The food is soo good, its just a few bucks over the average and would be the best if the same rate. There is a valet, but otherwise you have to find street parking. The chicken and waffles was the best. They paired up beautifully with taste. Couldn't tell you which was better. The servers and hostess are very friendly. Make you feel at home.
Great service, food, and drink options. The crispy chicken sandwich under the burgers section of the menu was amazing. The fries and the HOMEmade lemonade were great as well. Parking is a little rough in the area, but they do have a valet option available. As mentioned in other reviews the patio seating is very desirable.
Food was tasty. I didnt picture the green chilaquiles, those were also delicious. A little spicy, not too much though.
Pictured are the nachos, American burger i believe, truffle fries and kids spaghetti 🍝
This is also the passion fruit mojito 🤤
Atmosphere was pleasant.
The only thing was seating. We had a less than ideal spot due to "pending reservations".
But we spent about 2hours here and those seats were still vacant when we left.
Our server was a delight though. She was attentive and kind to us.
This place has a fantastic central patio with a fountain. It's peaceful and calming to sit in the shade and enjoy the delicious offerings from the Home kitchen. Try one of their cocktails like the Watermelon Cucumber Cooler paired with a salad.
Alcove
| Address | 1929 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 644-0100 |
One of the few restaurants I have seen that literally had it all. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, indoor and outdoor seating, counter order and servers, and a bar. The amount of outdoor seating is extensive but still fills up especially on weekends. The food is fantastic and very good value. They have valet parking or you can find nearby street parking. Staff are very friendly and helpful.
Lots of tasty food and drink options. If you order the chai tea, be sure to specific unsweetened, otherwise the default is with sugar (and it was too sweet to my liking). The vibe of the place is inviting and relaxing. The staff are friendly and attentive. The avocado toast was delicious and the lemon ricotta pancakes are a must!
Baller experience. The coffee is delicious, the eggs benedict are magnifique, with a side of black beans sour cream and yucateco.....what? Yes they have yucateco. To top it off the workers are super friendly and helpful, not once did i feel like i was being rushed to leave the place. Top notch experience. 6 7 yo!
Nice setting, especially outdoors on a nice day. Plenty of shade coverings. Lamb burger was fantastic, other breakfast items were hits as well.
Wonderful eclectic atmosphere and both inside and outside seating along with valet parking. Food portions are generous and tastes as good at the photo looks. Don't forget to stop by the bakery case to take something sweet and decadent home with you.
Franklin's Cafe - Griffith Park
| Address | 2650 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 545-0444 |
Updated menu - really good!
We got the Chipotle Turkey Sandwich, and Chicken Pesto Sandwich. Both were flavorful with quality ingredients. Fries were perfectly cooked and well seasoned.
Me and my friend had such an amazing and delicious lunch at Franklin's Cafe last Sunday, 11/02/25. Extremely welcoming staff, Lady R, Andy and Liv had big smiles the whole time and were very kind people, especially Lady R. I had my Husky Spirit with me and the staff was pet welcoming and made sure my Spirit had lots of love and attention and nice cool water. Lady R loved Spirit and he did too. She even offered to walk Spirit while we eat our delicious lunch, wow, it doesn't get any better. 🙂
I would recommend the smashed burger with fries, yummy, couldn't do it better if I made it myself. I will return with Spirit to explore more of the menu options and just to be there with the friendly and accommodating staff. btw: great pricing and a very clean bathroom.
You will be very happy to be there in the great atmosphere and wonderful food and above all the very kind staff. 🙂
Do not hesitate!
Nice spot here! Very cool decor. Adjacent to the golf facility. Usually enough parking in the lot out front. Cool minimalist ecstatic. Food and drink was varied and pretty deep in terms of selection. The pricing is likely on par with typical golf cafes (a little inflated).
Great coffee and great lemonade!
Franklin's Cafe & Market is a fantastic space with a great atmosphere. The prices on drinks are very reasonable considering the location and the taste is excellent as well.
It was open from 7am.
I had breakfast during waiting in line for the concert at the greek theater.
I ordered salmon quiche and coffee. The taste was just okay, but I could be chilled before the concert.
The Trails
| Address | 2333 Fern Dell Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 871-2102 |
Great place - and food looks good. But not worth the looooooooooong eaiting time. Especially since it would be so easy to improve this, with a bit of better organization.
15 Minutes waiting for a lemonade would have been fine - but in the end it took 35 Minutes for the roughly 10 people in front of us to be served.
Hope you change this...
Really awesome little cafe on the Ferndell Trail! The coffee and food is always good and the people working are really kind. Not overpriced and they have a lot of benches under the trees for you to sit at while you visit. Would highly recommend!
Had the advocado sandwich, which was really good, also had a coffee which was not so great. I would like to come back here and try some other items they have. Definitely a cool place to have a lunch and sit at one of the tables outside.
A very nice coffee shop; it feels like you're in the woods. The staff is friendly, the prices are reasonable, and there are plenty of tables and benches. The only downside is that the benches are concrete and cold. The apple pie was delicious, the coffee tasted a bit sour, but we really liked everything. They have internet, which is great because my phone's internet doesn't work. I recommend it.
I came here for breakfast before hiking up to Griffith Observatory. It’s such an amazing place. The Food was all delicious and I would have loved to try out some of the baked goods as well. Everything looked so good and the food I had was the best.
Fred 62
| Address | 1850 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 AM Friday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (323) 667-0062 |
Fantastic diner and service. Got in quickly and was able to sit immediately. Service was prompt and friendly. Food was delicious - especially the shake. They use real ice cream. Atmosphere had that retro vibe that I love. Bathroom was very clean.
This was, without a doubt, the most special and unforgettable food-experience of our entire trip to the USA. ❤️
I had wanted to visit Fred 62 for as long as I can remember, because of Charmed. I grew up watching the show, and ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of one day sitting inside this very place and pretending to be on that episode. Finally being able to make that dream come true felt almost unreal.
I still remember the moment I saw Fred 62 from across the street. I crossed the road, walked towards the restaurant and then stepped inside. The feeling that came over me is honestly difficult to put into words. I was deeply moved and incredibly nostalgic. For a moment, it felt as if I had somehow travelled back to the 90s and stepped right into the world of that episode of Charmed. I almost expected the Halliwells to walk through the door. 🥹
And then came the food… WOW. I had the chicken tacos with a Mexican Coke, and I genuinely have to say: I have eaten a LOT of chicken tacos in my life, but I have never had chicken tacos this good. They were absolutely perfect. So delicious, so flavorful and exactly what I could have wished for. I honestly think I may never eat chicken tacos that good again. My boyfriend also loved his food and drinks, and we both left completely happy.
But what made this place even more special was the atmosphere and, above all, the people. Everything was clean, welcoming and full of character. The staff were incredibly kind, warm and lovely. They even came over to talk to us, asked where we were from and genuinely made us feel welcome. That meant so much to us.
Fred 62 wasn't just a restaurant visit for me. It was a childhood dream coming true. It was nostalgia, happiness, great food and a little piece of the 90s all at once. It became one of my favourite memory of our entire USA trip, and I will carry that feeling with me for a very long time. ❤️
If I ever come back to Los Angeles, there is absolutely no question that I will return to Fred 62. I would go back in a heartbeat.
Thank you to the entire Fred 62 team for making this experience so incredibly special. Sending you all my warmest regards and lots of love from Switzerland. 🇨🇭❤️
Thank you for giving me a memory I will never forget. ✨
Really cool food spot solid menu and staff. I get the same thing mostly (crispy calamari or mac bites) but somebody in the kitchen played in my face tonight. Most of the calamari was 3 big salty rubber chunks and a bunch of fried bits 😒 i will say this is the first time tho
We ve been there several times and the experiences are usually the same, the service is excellent, our server was Mario and he is the sweetest person. The food is great, my wife loves the chicken enchiladas. Desserts and shakes are on the too sweet side for our taste. The atmosphere is OK, the music is a bit loud and at night it always plays non stop hip hop. I don’t know during the day. The AC is amazing this days but in colder seasons is a bit too cold for me. So for us it’s usually eat and leave, no hanging around with the cold temp and the loud hiphop.
I finally tried Fred 62 after driving by it so many times, and I'm glad I did. It's a cute little diner with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. They're open well past midnight, which is always a plus.
I loved the vibe--the car-style booths and the hip hop playing in the back gave it a fun, lively feel. Just a cool spot to end the night. Seated right away and greeted by a friendly + attentive waiter.
The coffee was a bit mediocre and watered down, but the food portions were solid and priced fairly. We tried the chicken tenders, a salad, and the cheeseburger--everything was okay. Happy to finally cross this place off my list.
Café at the End of the Universe
| Address | 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 661-2231 |
Unbelievably rude staff, zero signage, and a ruined experience!
I am absolutely furious and utterly incredulous at the abysmal treatment I received at Cafe at the end of the universe.
I had just purchased food and sat down on the outdoor patio to eat. I chose this specific spot and spent my money here for one reason: the sunset view. Right in the middle of my meal, an incredibly rude man marched out and aggressively ordered everyone to clear out of the deck immediately.
A five-minute warning. Five minutes! Are you absolutely kidding me? Who expects paying customers to shovel food down their throats in five minutes because you suddenly decide to close the deck? To make matters worse, there is not a single sign, plaque, or indicator anywhere stating the closing time for the deck area. How are customers supposed to guess this?
To top it all off, I was in the middle of shooting a sunset timelapse. Because of this sudden, hostile eviction and the complete lack of advanced notice, my entire project was completely ruined. With a measly five minutes, it was physically impossible to pack up my gear and safely relocate to another vantage point before the sun went down.
I feel completely insulted and outraged as a customer. You don't treat people who just gave you business like they are trespassing. If you want to close a section, post a sign or tell people before they buy food. Utterly unprofessional. Avoid this place if you actually want to enjoy your food and the view you paid for.
Everything was disappointing. The bread on the grab and go ham sandwich was dried out, and it was sparsely filled. The chicken tenders were luke-warm, despite the cafe having opened just minutes before. The mac-n-cheese was also tepid and not very cheesy. The website says there is a salad bar, but it wasn't set up.
We sat outside on the patio, where the view is amazing, but there were only two umbrellas for the whole length of the terrace, and one of them was broken. We ate quickly because the sun got to be too much very quickly.
I took a group of about 20 seniors on a trip to this cafe. Prior to the trip I called and spoke with the cafe manager, Carl.
He was very kind and answered my questions about ADA accessibility and the menu.
Day of, our group arrived. Had a wonderful selection of pre made sandwiches, a delightful salad bar full of fresh veggies, as well as a hot bar with a very tasty shepards pie and a surprisingly delicious Mac n Cheese and I’m black, so that’s REALLY sayin’ somethin! (We know our Mac’n’cheese 🙂
The entire staff there was so kind to us that I wanted to come back and leave a nice tip, as I only brought my company card and had no cash, but wasn’t able to due to our activities that day.
So I am leaving this review to say a big THANK YOU to Carl and staff for making our trip a delicious success and accommodating our community!!
I did not really feel like I wanted to eat there - too expensive. If it had a bar in a higher end atmosphere, it would be much better. The observatory could become the ultimate roof top bar, also attracting a crowd that does not usually has much contact with science, but as it is now it's pretty lame.
Yesterday, My friend and I had packaged sealed sandwiches (egg and also tuna salad) by 'Wolfgang Puck'. Both priced at $12.
The biggest issue, they were were DRY! The bread was dry and the filling did not have much mayonaise. What a horrible food option! Even after adding extra mayo it did not help.
In a food heaven that Los Angeles is, serving guests horrible and expensive tuna or egg sandwich is shameful.
Messhall Kitchen
| Address | 4500 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 660-6377 |
I've lived in Los Feliz for many years, and Messhall remains one of my favorite places to dine.
The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, the staff are consistently friendly and attentive, and the food is always fresh and beautifully prepared.
What I especially appreciate is the combination of excellent service and a menu that offers something for everyone. Every visit has been enjoyable, whether stopping in for a casual meal or meeting friends for a longer gathering.
It's refreshing to find a local restaurant that maintains such high standards while still feeling comfortable and unpretentious. Messhall is a true neighborhood gem, and I highly recommend it to both locals and visitors alike.
Five stars well deserved.
Went for Happy Hour and had a great time! Oysters and the loaded fries were the highlights. Service was excellent! We will be back to try other things soon!
Loved the cozy atmosphere here! It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed hangout. Great food and decent service. Recommended!
We got reservations for 8 and were seated on the patio. Our server was really kind, super patient and helpful, and cracked jokes with us — all around really fun! We ordered a bunch, of course, but some highlights were the French toast. My kid couldn’t get enough of it. He would have licked the plate if I’d have let him! One of us had the Cobb salad and she said “I was almost regretting my choice to get a salad but then it ended up being the best Cobb salad I have ever had!” So, glowing review there. Another at the table ordered the car cafe burger and was definitely happy with it! And a couple of us ordered the standard — eggs were cooked to perfection, the fruit selection was excellent, and the potatoes. My goodness, those potatoes. Worth a visit for those alone. I’m gonna be thinking about them often. Plenty of food to go around, and prices were fair for the quality! The only bummer (for me, perhaps not as much for others) is that they do allow dogs on the patio. There was some barking involved and overall it’s just not my favorite to have pets in a food establishment. I’m not knocking off an overall star though, the food was worth it!
Whoa, just had my first experience here, and man am I glad I stopped in. Passed many times, saw a sign for oysters, literally turned around to give it a try. Started with the baked oysters, a boldly flavored cheese encrusted affair, pure Americana. We then had the baby backs which fell off the bone with a delightfully Louisana style BBQ sauce, it's vinegar forward as this style should be and which I love, but may be an adjustment for folks used to sweeter BBQ sauce. The Mac and cheese was killer. The slaw and fries that came with the ribs were as good as it gets. Bar was fast and had a nice assortment of upscale special cocktails in addition to a full bar. The entire staff was very friendly and accommodating from the moment we arrived. For sure plan to come back!
The Front Yard
| Address | 4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (818) 255-7290 |
What a pleasant surprise.. decided to meet a friend and coming from out of town, decided on this spot for the right location that works for both of us. Well, it ended up being perfect in all directions - food, ambiance, service, and the reviews about valet ($9) with validation from the restaurant for 3 hours was super helpful. The coffee was fresh and the fries were tasty too! If I’m in the area again, I’d come back for more of the goodness this Front Yard has to offer.
All of our family were quite pleased to have this restaurant right on the hotel premises. The decor is very welcoming with tropical groovy vibes. I recall that most of staff were extremely friendly.
The spot can get busy as one morning. We were turned away without a reservation over the next morning we were able to just cruise in. As a vegetarian, there’s not a whole lot to order, but I was able to find a few things. The kids absolutely loved their stuffed French toast. Prices are on par for a hotel.
I appreciated all the different dining spot we could have our meal- from indoors to outdoors all; quite nice.
We ate here a couple of times for both breakfast and dinner during our stay at The Garland, and had a lovely time! In the morning they have a fantastic breakfast buffet with eggs, fresh juice, fresh fruit, etc. We had the wild mushroom flatbread and the cheeseburger for dinner, as well as a delicious biscuit appetizer that was recommended to us. I was pleasantly surprised with a large portion and everything was great! It has a great atmosphere both for breakfast and dinner.
The Front Yard was alright, but nothing especially memorable. The setting is nice and the patio has a good vibe, but the food were just average for the price. It’s a decent spot if you’re already nearby, though I wouldn’t go out of my way for it.
Got a couple of dishes and all were just okay. Some needed seasoning. The crab salad tasted like canned crab they threw on a salad. Hummus tasted homeade but lacked seasoning and flavor.
Took my mom here for brunch and overall we had a really nice time. The space is beautiful — very Palm Springs energy with the greenery, open patio, and warm California light. It feels like a little escape in the middle of Studio City. My mom loved it, which automatically makes it a win.
We had a couple glasses of wine and the bill actually came out pretty reasonable, which was a pleasant surprise for a place that looks this polished.
A couple things that were slightly annoying: they make you wait at the bar if your table isn’t ready (which is fine), but then you have to close out your tab at the bar before going to your table. It just feels unnecessary and breaks the flow. Not the end of the world — just mildly irritating.
Food-wise, it’s solid but not mind-blowing. There aren’t a ton of brunch options. The burger was easily the best thing we had — definitely recommend that. The chicken sandwich was… fine. Not bad, just kind of mid.
Parking isn’t the best, and fair warning: if you’re not paying attention, you can easily miss the entrance and end up doing an awkward U-turn near the freeway.
All that said — beautiful vibes, good energy, great for taking your mom or meeting friends for a laid-back brunch. I’d go back, probably for the burger and the atmosphere alone.
Little Dom's
| Address | 2128 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 661-0055 |
Lovely little neighborhood bistro in Los Feliz. The food was fresh and delicious and the service was attentive and friendly. We sat outside which was quieter than inside. Would highly recommend if you’re heading up to Griffith Park. We had the green salad which was enough to split, and the herb ricotta and prosciutto pizza. Ended the evening with icebox pie which was delicious.
Spent a rainy lunch here with a friend who insists on visiting every time they're in town and now I see why! The interior is adorable, with leather booths and a bar at the front where we sat. The windows are nice and large: the best place to people watch on the street with a latte.
Since they close after lunch, our server let us hang out at our table for over 2 hours to chat over tea and coffee. He was very accommodating and our food came out quickly and pipping hot!
To start, we split the rice balls appetizer, which were perfectly fried on the outside, yet warm and sticky on the inside with cheese and plump rice. It paired really well with the marinara sauce on the side and I appreciated the extra bit of Parmesan and fresh herbs on top to make the dish more visually appealing.
For my main course, I ordered the calabrese fried chicken sandwich and absolutely loved it! The toasted brioche bun was buttery, soft and slightly sweet. The chicken was very well seasoned, battered and fried, and well complimented by the acidity from the pickles tomatoes and heat from the aioli. The side salad was a great palate cleanser between bites too.
I ate a bite of the ricotta blueberry pancakes and can attest that they are very rich and heavy, so consider splitting it with someone if you aren't ravaging. Totally worth the order though because it is incredibly delicious!
Food was fantastic and the service was just as good. We got there at 5:00 with a reservation at 5:30 and they let us in early and we even got a booth which was really nice.
I found Little Dom’s while I was in the area. When I arrived, it was still closed, but they were about to open and there were already people waiting outside. Even without a reservation, they kindly let us in, but the place filled up very quickly, so I definitely recommend making a reservation.
The menu is simple, with just a few options, but everything was delicious. Portions are reasonable, not oversized like in some Italian restaurants, which I actually appreciated.
The atmosphere is very cozy and warm, with dim lighting that makes it perfect for a date or a relaxed conversation. Our server was extremely friendly, gave great recommendations, and honestly went above and beyond.
We really enjoyed the experience and would absolutely come back
Stopped for dinner before our concert at the Greek. Food, Service and Atmosphere were perfect. Loved the portions. Highly recommend the rice balls. We had cocktails and brought our own wine as well.
HomeState
| Address | 4624 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 906-1122 |
06/02/2026
I tried what they got for the first time and I think their food was great. Their tacos cost around $5 to $7 dollars each but the size and the meat portion was generous and the store is located in East Hollywood so it's reasonable. I ordered the "Tijuana Panther", "Trinity", and "Brisket" Taco and they were awesome. They also had a very clean restroom.
If you’re looking for one of those hidden gem, locals-only this is it.
From the moment you walk up, the vibe hits you. The rustic “Homestate” sign covered in greenery, bright yellow umbrellas, and that laid-back patio setup instantly set the tone. It feels like a perfect mix of Austin-style charm and SoCal casual. Super inviting, super chill.
Inside, it’s just as dialed. Clean, simple, and intentional. Wood textures, open kitchen, and that “Welcome Home” sign really says it all. You can tell this place cares about the experience just as much as the food.
Now the food…
The menu is stacked but not overwhelming, and everything feels thought out. Breakfast tacos are clearly the star, and rightfully so. Fresh flour tortillas, high-quality ingredients, and combinations that just hit. The Trinity, Migas, and anything with brisket stand out immediately. You can taste the difference, from the pasture-raised eggs to the house-made touches across the board.
The Band Tacos section is just as impressive, packed with bold flavors like the Tijuana Panther and Vaquero. Everything leans fresh, vibrant, and balanced. Nothing feels heavy or overdone.
Don’t skip the sides either, the queso and chips are legit, and the house-made salsas bring everything together. And if you’re into drinks, the coffee program and fresh aguas frescas/teas round it out perfectly.
What really separates this place though is the attention to detail. From sourcing (regenerative beef, organic ingredients) to presentation to the overall atmosphere, it all feels intentional without trying too hard.
Bottom line:
Incredible breakfast tacos, great vibe, quality ingredients, and a spot you’ll want to come back to again and again.
This isn’t just a taco spot… it’s a whole experience. BUT DONT TELL YOUR MOM.
We were in town for the weekend and decided to pop in. So glad we did. I love a simple and well executed menu. Breakfast tacos are non existent in the Bay Area. I appreciated the presumably handmade flour tortillas. The texture and flour (dust on hands) made them feel like mom made them. The fillings were tasty. The salsas were both flavorful. Loved the queso, so yummy. Great coffee. Simple.
Tried two tacos after Good Mythical Morning recommended. Pretty good overall, definitely in that fancy taco territory with lots of different components on the taco, up to you how you feel about that and what you're in the mood for.
The food was delicious, although the portion size was a bit small for the price. They offer two types of sauces—spicy and mild—and both paired perfectly with the tacos. Even though the restaurant is compact, it's very well-organized. I liked that the water, cups, and utensils were neatly arranged in one area.Single restroom, but neat and well-maintained.
Figaro Bistrot
| Address | 1802 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (323) 662-1587 |
The appetizers were great, escargot was the star of the day. Love the garlic parsley butter sauce that came with it.
Entrees were decent. Had the 1/2 roasted chicken which was amazing. The filet mignon was pretty moyen (mid). We paid an extra $5 upgrade for truffle fries, but they were really soggy and underseasoned. Recommend heavily salting the steak and fries before you eat.
The bread basket was bad. Expected fresh bread, but they were really crusty and burnt. Dissapointing for a french bistrot.
Overall, the environment was a 5/5 but as a foodie, I can only give the food at most a 3/5.
Quaint cafe in Los Feliz! We got a macchiato, cranberry scone, coffee eclairs and a cappuccino. Perfect mid day sweet treat & caffeine boost! Would definitely come back!
I had a great time here. I had the steak salad and it was delicious. Also, I ran into Becki Newton; she was very sweet. Forgive me for leaking your location, Becki!
This place is a brunch dream come true! The food is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Every bite feels like comfort and joy. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone. The vibe is relaxed and fun, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends over coffee (the huge late is a must), mimosas and great conversation. Definitely my go-to for a delicious brunch outing!
Figaro Bistrot has become one of my favorite institutions in Los Angeles. I’ve only been a handful of times, but each time, I’m always impressed. The staff, the atmosphere, the food quality… all superb.
My FAVORITE dish is the Prosciutto-Arugula Pizza. It’s really to die for. Some other favorites include the French Onion Soup, Goat Cheese Salad, Calamari (fried), and Burrata. Have also tried the Steamers, Escargot, and other amazing items. They DO have a happy hour, I forget the exact times and days, but be sure to check it out for some discounted dishes. Love their selection of wines and cocktails. And be sure to end your decadent feast with some Crème Brûlée. Can’t wait to get back here.
Tips for Dining Near Griffith Observatory
Navigating the dining scene near a major tourist attraction requires a bit of local knowledge to ensure you have the best possible experience. While the area is incredibly walkable in some parts, the hilly terrain and limited parking can present challenges if you are not prepared. Here are a few insider strategies to help you plan your meal around your visit to the stars.
Plan for Parking Realities
Parking at the Observatory itself is limited and can be expensive or completely full on weekends. If you plan to eat before going up the hill, it is often smarter to park in the Los Feliz neighborhood or use a ride-share service. Many restaurants in the area offer valet parking in the evenings, which can actually be cheaper and less stressful than circling the block for street parking.
Check the Observatory Hours
Griffith Observatory is closed on Mondays and has specific hours that change seasonally. If you are planning a late dinner after a star party or a late-night hike, check the park’s closing times. However, the restaurants in Los Feliz and Thai Town generally keep independent hours and are often open late, making them a great option even if the park gates are closed.
Explore Thai Town
You are geographically closer to Thai Town than you might realize. This stretch of Hollywood Boulevard is home to the only officially designated Thai Town in the United States. If you are craving bold flavors, spicy curries, or late-night noodles, driving an extra five minutes east of the park will reward you with some of the most authentic and affordable food in the city.
Make Reservations for Brunch
The neighborhoods surrounding Griffith Park are notoriously popular for weekend brunch. If you are visiting on a Saturday or Sunday morning after a hike, expect long waits at the popular diners and cafes. Making a reservation where possible, or arriving before 10:00 AM, will save you from waiting on the sidewalk while your post-hike hunger sets in.
Dress for the Occasion
While Los Angeles is generally casual, the temperature drops significantly when the sun goes down at the Observatory, especially in the winter months. If you are walking from dinner to the Observatory or vice versa, bring a layer. Additionally, while most casual eateries are fine with hiking gear, some of the more upscale dining rooms on this list might feel more comfortable with smart casual attire.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour
If you are visiting in the late afternoon to catch the sunset, you can save a significant amount of money by timing your meal with happy hour. Many of the upscale restaurants near the park offer discounted appetizers and drinks between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. This is a great way to experience fine dining quality without the fine dining price tag.
Exploring the area around Griffith Observatory offers a genuine taste of Los Angeles that goes far beyond the typical tourist trail. The diversity of the food reflects the history and culture of the neighborhoods that hug the base of the mountain, providing everything from quick bites to multi-course meals.
Whether you are fueling up for a day of exploration or winding down after watching the cosmos through a telescope, the right restaurant can elevate your entire experience. By venturing just a few minutes away from the peak, you ensure that your visit to one of LA’s most famous landmarks is accompanied by a meal that is equally memorable.
