Mike was kind enough to tell me a few of his go-to things he loves to eat in the city. I actively tried to bribe him to let me waltz into his West Hollywood restaurant Norah at any time of day, unannounced, and be presented with a free plate of his freshly made ricotta with no questions asked. He balked, if you can believe it. However, he makes up for it with a list of dishes which includes both a an excellent queso dip AND a biscuit. So we’re good.
Frozen Foie Gras with Smoked Maple, Coffee Granola, and Carrots from Alma
Hollywood
When I tasted that dish I remember thinking, “this is the most exciting bite of food I’ve had in my adult life” and it still might be.
Pazole Verde from Rustic Canyon
Santa Monica
Perfectly seasoned and full of flavor, with chewy kernels of rancho gordo hominy and crispy tortilla strips… it hits all the notes.
Chicken Mole Poblano Taco From Guisado
Various Locations
While you can’t go wrong with any of the tacos here, the mole really stands out to me. It’s perfectly balanced and so complex, and tastes so good with their amazing tortillas.
Tonkotsu Ramen from Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles Annex
West Los Angeles
It’s the richest, most flavorful ramen broth around, served with fat chewy noodles and tons of porky goodness.
Tori Paitan Ramen from Tentenyu Ramen
Sawtelle Japantown
“This is a much lighter chicken based ramen broth. I take my 2-year old daughter here almost once a week, she loves it! You can eat this bowl of noodles and not feel so weighed down afterwards.”
ANY Cookie from Cookie Good
Santa Monica
All the cookies from Cookie Good in Santa Monica. This place is just awesome.
Fish Tacos from Tacos Punta Cabras
Santa Monica
The fish is always super fresh, perfectly fried, and their sauces are amazing. Not to mention the delicious house made tortillas.
Cavatelli Alla Norcina from Bestia
Arts District
This dish needs no introduction, it’s been a hit since they opened, and it’s still the real deal.
Bacon Cheddar Biscuits from MB Post
Manhattan Beach
As a proud biscuit maker myself, the first time I tried these I was just a little jealous. So good.
Queso Dip from Bar Ama
DTLA
Topped with chorizo, guacamole, and pretty much anything else you could ever want…
Audie Metcalf Ruyle is the Head of Digital Strategy at Los Angeles magazine and LAMag.com. Follow her here on Facebook and Instagram. She also wrote Chef Mark Peel Shares His 10 Favorite Dishes in L.A.
