🍽️ Summary:
LAist’s food editor Elina Shatkin offers practical and insightful tips for dining out in Los Angeles, a city known for its vibrant and diverse food scene. From how to find hidden gems to what etiquette to follow at popular spots, her advice helps both locals and tourists make the most of LA’s culinary offerings.
🔑 Key Points:
- Explore beyond the trends: Don’t just chase viral restaurants—some of the best meals come from family-run or lesser-known places.
- Trust your nose and eyes: A busy, good-smelling restaurant with happy diners is often a great sign.
- Support small and immigrant-owned businesses, especially those that may not have a flashy online presence.
- Use cash when you can, particularly at smaller spots where credit card fees are burdensome.
- Be patient and respectful: Many beloved spots are short-staffed or under pressure—kindness goes a long way.