Its hard to sum up Los Angeles in one word but if you had we think the best word to describe our beloved city is “diversity”.
We have so many different beautiful cultures reflecting in daily life the hard work everyone does to shine a light on them. And one of the best ways to share and learn about cultures is food! So many talented people share their culture through flavors and creative edible presentations.
Although LA is well known for great warm weather thanks to our integrations with other cultures we have some amazing Winter treats and dishes available from dozens of countries around the world. We hope you go taste them all and enjoy the wonderful winter comfort food and maybe learn a little bit more about one of Los Angeles diverse cultures at the same time.
Happy holidays and stay warm with some amazing Winter and Holiday comfort food from around the world right here in Los Angeles!
1 – Pot Roast at The Jar
Description:
Nothing says the Winter Holiday season quite like a meal of savory pot roast. This yummy dish served with all the warm flavors of gravy and perfectly cooked meat and veggies, can also be found in LA when you cant take a plane back to grandma’s house.
If that sounds yummy to you then you must visit The Jar on Beverly Boulevard. This upscale restaurant serves excellent fine food, and wine, but our favorite for Winter of course, is their signature Pot Roast. Try it, it will melt in your mouth. Portions are big, so you can order to go and share with some loved ones.
Take out available Wed-Sun from 5 to 9 pm.
Location: 8225 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Pic Credit: @winerelaxdine
2 – Feast of the Seven Fishes
Description:
Are you a fan of the Italian American Tradition of seafood for Christmas? This delightful experience has captivated many people who celebrate Christmas while at the same time enjoying delicious warm seafood flavors.
Union Restaurant in Old Town Pasadena has many residents hooked to their interpretation of Northern Italian cuisine and now it invites all its followers and fans to come together on December 24th and take part in their huge holiday feast.
So whats on the menu? A fabulous 8 course tasting menu for $135 per person, and wine paring option for an additional $45.
You can make your reservations on line at https://www.unionpasadena.com/ for this once a year only experience.
Location: 37 Union St, Pasadena, CA 91103
PIC Credit: @unionpasadena
3 – Latkes and Vodkas at Akasha
Description:
Akasha is a great spot in Culver City with a nice dining room, plus front and back patios. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring a changing seasonal menu.
But what really brings this spot to our list, is their Latkes and Vodkas. The Hannukah staple dish is available for dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. from December 18th until December 23rd. Take out and delivery are also available.
What about Christmas dinner take out? Akasha has it! You can find an incredible Christmas Take out menu that includes items such as lamb shank, oven ready marinated turkey, and many other surprises.
This awesome restaurant proves once again why Culver City is one of the best dining destination in Los Angeles for foodies.
Location: 9543 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
PIC Credit: @akashacc
4 – Tamales
Description:
Tamales during the holidays is a very popular tradition among many countries in South America, and that tradition has made its way to the U.S. and Los Angeles. If you don’t know someone who makes holiday tamales to bring to your potluck, don’t worry because we have a few great recommendations here for you, where you can tame your craving for this delicious holiday dish.
Visit La Indiana Tamales, a true gem that is a family owned business serving Angelenos for more than 20 years but still saying they are one of LAs best kept secrets. This authentic spot makes tamales from scratch, and they even ground their own chile for their sauce. Stop by or order your tamales online by the dozen or a la carte.
Vcho’s Truck provides Salvadorian treats at their best and can be found parked on 5905 Wilshire Blvd. This season they are featuring banana leaves wrapped chicken tamales, with sliced carrots, and potatoes and tomato and sweet pepper sauce. Is your mouth watering yet?
Have you ever tasted a Colombian tamal? There are two versions of these ethnic dishes due to the diversity of the regions in Colombia. But you can find both Tolimenses and Vallunos at Sabor Colombiano located at 847 S. Union Ave, Los Angeles.
We have to warn you that this place is popular and parking is a challenge. But if you love good Colombian food it will all be worth it!
Location: various
PIC Credit: @jaimeandramiro
5 – Churros Calientes Santa Monica
Description:
This amazing place is home to some of the most incredibly delicious churros. Churros are one of Los Angeles favorite decadent desserts so its not easy to stand out from all the competition. But Churros Calientes in Santa Monica does just that with its amazing churros made with organic flour, and they are crispy, sweet and very tasty.
These delicious treats are perfect for the holiday season and are available in different varieties including the classic style showered with sugar. But they also have served con chocolate, with a cup of Spanish style house-made chocolate. Or enjoy them filled and topped with your favorite flavors, and even ice cream.
But the fun doesn’t stop there, no ladies and gentlemen, Churros Calientes also brings the joy of the Spanish style hot coco – chocolate caliente, also chocolate latte, and café Cubano.
Stop by the next time your in the mood for the perfect Winter treat, you won’t be sorry.
Location: 11521 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
PIC Credit: @angelika.nikola
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!