Our recent Thanksgiving week adventure took Jason and me on an unforgettable journey to the sun-kissed metropolis of Los Angeles. This trip was particularly special as it was our first opportunity to visit my brother, who had settled in LA a couple of years prior. Having a local guide transformed our experience, allowing us to venture far beyond typical tourist traps and dive deep into the authentic spirit of Southern California. While I’ve visited LA many times before, the city is a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving with fresh culinary trends and exciting new attractions. For Jason, it was his inaugural visit, making it even more thrilling to introduce him to its diverse wonders. Crucially, our exploration was empowered by a complimentary car rental from Silvercar, which granted us the freedom to traverse the expansive landscape of LA, even enabling a scenic drive all the way down to San Diego, a story for a future post!
Before we embark on our San Diego narrative, let’s savor the highlights of our Los Angeles escapade. We merely scratched the surface, yet every moment left a lasting impression, promising a swift return. The perpetually pleasant weather, a stark contrast to the East Coast, instantly captivated us. Beyond the sunshine, we were struck by the genuinely laid-back and amiable demeanor of the locals. When asked, “How are you doing?”, it wasn’t a mere pleasantry; Angelenos genuinely sought to connect and hear about your day. This authentic warmth added another layer of charm to an already vibrant city.
Discovering Coastal Charms: Marina del Rey, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach
Our journey began in Marina del Rey, my brother’s charming neighborhood, conveniently close to Santa Monica. On our first full day, he guided us to the picturesque canals, a hidden gem boasting incredible waterfront homes. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of water, with your boat docked right in your backyard – a true Californian dream! The tranquil beauty of these canals offered a serene start to our adventure.
From Marina del Rey, we ventured to the bustling heart of Santa Monica. Parking along the iconic Wilshire Boulevard, we took a leisurely stroll to the Third Street Promenade, a vibrant outdoor shopping and entertainment district. Street performers, lively crowds, and a plethora of shops created an exhilarating atmosphere. Our walk naturally led us to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, a quintessential LA landmark. The pier, with its iconic Ferris wheel and roller coaster, offered breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, setting the perfect stage for our West Coast exploration.
A short drive then took us to the bohemian allure of Venice Beach, where we walked alongside its famous pier. The boardwalk vibrated with an eclectic energy, a melting pot of artists, street performers, and unique vendors. The vibrant murals and distinct character of Venice Beach are truly captivating, offering a stark contrast to the more polished vibe of Santa Monica.
A Taste of LA’s Culinary Scene: Poké, Asian Fusion, and Sweet Treats
For months, the buzz about poké bowls had reached me on the East Coast, and I was determined to experience this Californian culinary trend firsthand. Californians, it seems, are always a step ahead when it comes to innovative food. Tucked just off the Venice Beach boardwalk, we discovered a charming little poké stop. My eagerly anticipated poké bowl was everything I had envisioned and more. As a huge fan of sashimi, I knew I would adore this dish, and it did not disappoint. The fish was incredibly fresh, expertly seasoned, and the vibrant array of toppings created a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It was a refreshing and utterly delicious introduction to West Coast food trends.
Our next culinary stop was truly epic: Komodo. Known for its innovative Asian fusion cuisine, Komodo is a must-visit for anyone seeking unique flavors in LA. Their menu boasts the most incredible Asian fusion tacos, but the real showstopper was their legendary ramen burrito. We indulged in an array of dishes, but the ramen burrito proved incredibly filling. Even sharing half with Jason, I found myself barely able to tackle the delicious tacos we had also ordered. The ramen burrito was a masterpiece of flavor and texture, featuring savory Chinese sausage, perfectly cooked ramen noodles, and a medley of other ingredients, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. It was an adventurous and deeply satisfying meal that truly exemplified LA’s creative food scene.
With our savory cravings satisfied, it was time for something sweet. We made our way to MILK, a delightful dessert spot. My brother opted for the intriguing combination of red velvet and Thai iced tea ice cream, while I couldn’t resist the fruity pebbles ice cream sandwich. To my surprise, this wasn’t just any ice cream sandwich; it featured vibrant ice cream nestled between two perfectly baked macarons! I had anticipated an artificially sweet flavor, but I was pleasantly mistaken. The fruity pebbles ice cream was light, refreshing, and genuinely fruity – a perfect treat. MILK proved to be a wonderland of creative ice cream concoctions, a must-visit for any dessert enthusiast.
Panoramic Views and Hawaiian Delights
As daylight began to wane, we swiftly headed to the iconic Griffith Observatory, a quintessential Los Angeles experience. Our timing was impeccable; we arrived just in time to witness a truly breathtaking sunset paint the sky in fiery hues, followed by the magical spectacle of the sprawling city of Los Angeles twinkling to life beneath us. The panoramic views from the Observatory are simply unparalleled, offering a stunning vista of the Hollywood Sign, the Pacific Ocean, and the vast urban landscape. It was a moment of serene beauty, capturing the essence of LA’s grandeur as the city transitioned from day to night.
Despite our earlier culinary explorations, the fresh LA air and extensive sightseeing had certainly built up an appetite for dinner. My brother, ever the expert guide, introduced us to L&L Hawaiian BBQ, a popular Hawaiian take-out establishment. This casual spot quickly became a favorite for its authentic and hearty flavors. I opted for the L&L Mix Platter, a delightful combination of savory Hawaiian BBQ beef, chicken, and tender short ribs. Jason enjoyed the classic chicken katsu, while my brother chose the flavorful chicken katsu with curry. Each dish was incredibly satisfying, bursting with robust island-inspired tastes. L&L Hawaiian BBQ is the perfect choice for a quick, delicious, and deeply fulfilling meal, a true taste of Hawaii right in Los Angeles.
Downtown Delights: Grand Central Market and Beyond
The following day, Jason and I ventured downtown with a specific culinary mission in mind: experiencing Grand Central Market and, more precisely, indulging in the legendary Eggslut. Grand Central Market itself is a vibrant, bustling food hall, a true foodie paradise offering an incredible array of cuisines. The energy inside is palpable, making it a fantastic spot to explore and savor diverse flavors.
Upon arriving at Eggslut, we found a line already snaking around the establishment. However, Angelenos are masters of efficiency, and the line moved surprisingly fast, so don’t let it deter you! The wait is absolutely worth it for their deliciously awesome breakfast sandwiches. Both Jason and I chose “The Fairfax,” a symphony of scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and sriracha mayo, all nestled within a warm brioche bun. Each bite was an explosion of rich, savory flavors and perfectly balanced textures – a truly iconic LA breakfast experience.
Our downtown culinary tour continued with a brilliant idea: coffee and waffles at G&B Coffee. The coffee here was nothing short of amazing. I savored an iced latte made with their incredible homemade macadamia nut milk, a revelation for my taste buds. To complement our coffee, we shared a corn flour yeast waffle, topped with homemade jam and creamy ricotta. The waffle was perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully tender inside, cooked to absolute perfection. This combination of exceptional coffee and a gourmet waffle created an unforgettable breakfast experience, a testament to LA’s vibrant specialty coffee scene.
Abbott Kinney’s Sweet Surprises and Coastal Beauty
The next morning, we made our way to Abbott Kinney, a trendy street in Venice, conveniently close to my brother’s place. Our mission: to get our Blue Star Donut fix. This artisanal donut shop is renowned for its unique and gourmet flavors. We selected the blueberry bourbon basil donut, an intriguing blend of sweet and savory, and the buttermilk lemon poppy seed. Both were exceptionally good, but I was particularly charmed by the buttermilk lemon one. I initially expected a standard lemon flavor, but the delightful tang of buttermilk added a unique and incredibly satisfying dimension. Blue Star Donuts truly elevates the humble donut to an art form.
Later that morning, we enjoyed brunch at an unassuming Italian restaurant just down the street from my brother’s house. It was so discreet, lacking any prominent signage, that we actually walked past it initially! The name unfortunately escapes me, but the experience of its delightful brunch lingered. The intimate atmosphere and delicious Italian fare made for a memorable meal. After brunch, my brother took us to his former stomping grounds in Manhattan Beach. He used to live a mere two blocks from this stunning coastal paradise! The pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and vibrant pier of Manhattan Beach offered a glimpse into a truly idyllic Californian lifestyle. It’s hard to imagine having such a gorgeous view every single day.
Acai Bowls, Fine Dining, and Sushi Perfection
One of Los Angeles’s dominant and delightful food trends is the acai bowl, a phenomenon yet to fully reach the East Coast. While similar to smoothie bowls, acai bowls offer a distinctly thicker, richer consistency, and the toppings we found in LA were exceptionally fresh and vibrant. Jason and I quickly became aficionados, enjoying an acai bowl almost every day of our trip – a testament to their irresistible appeal and healthy deliciousness. They provided a perfect start to many of our busy days, fueling our explorations with natural energy.
That evening, we returned to Abbott Kinney for dinner at Gjelina. While Gjelina is a highly acclaimed restaurant, we must admit it wasn’t a universal favorite for us. The ambiance, designed to be cool and “hipster,” resulted in an incredibly dimly lit dining room. So much so that even the servers resorted to using their cell phones to illuminate menus and take orders. While atmosphere is important, when visibility becomes a challenge for both staff and diners, it might be a sign to brighten things up slightly. Despite this, two dishes truly shone: the exquisitely braised pork meatballs and the grilled kabocha squash. The squash, in particular, was so inspiring that it became the muse for a recipe I later created (roasted acorn squash with arugula pesto and pomegranate).
For an unparalleled sushi experience, look no further than SUGARFISH. If securing a reservation at NOMA is proving difficult, SUGARFISH offers an equally sublime, if not more accessible, culinary journey. This establishment serves some of the freshest sushi I’ve ever encountered. For first-timers, I highly recommend opting for the “Trust Me” menu. This chef-selected omakase-style offering provides an incredible sampling of their freshest fish and signature preparations, ensuring a truly memorable meal. Even if raw fish isn’t typically your preference, their rolls are exceptional. We all chose the “Trust Me” menu and were treated to an exquisite progression of flavors and textures, each piece a testament to SUGARFISH’s commitment to quality.
Following our sushi feast, my brother and his friend surprised us with a visit to Aloha Pizza and Shave Ice Company. This seemingly ordinary pizza joint harbors a secret: it serves the most phenomenal shaved ice! What makes it truly extraordinary is the generous scoop of ice cream hidden within. A single order of this colossal treat perfectly served the four of us, and each spoonful was a burst of refreshing, sweet delight. I genuinely wish we had something similar on the East Coast! To complete our dessert experience, we also indulged in their homemade mochi ice creams. I chose chocolate and coconut, and the chewy, fresh mochi combined with creamy ice cream was simply divine – a perfect end to a day of culinary exploration.
Thanksgiving Feast and Malibu Dreams
On Thanksgiving Day itself, a slight miscalculation in our cooking schedule left us quite hungry by lunchtime. Embracing the opportunity for more culinary adventures, we headed to a Japanese restaurant for lunch, reserving our traditional Thanksgiving dinner for later. This restaurant served ridiculously awesome yakisoba, piled high with an incredible array of toppings. The most memorable, and frankly, freaky, were the bonito flakes – so light and delicate that the ambient air currents made them seemingly dance like living creatures on top of the noodles. This vibrant and theatrical dish was a unique and delicious twist on our holiday meal, a testament to LA’s diverse and surprising food landscape.
Our final full day in LA began with a breathtaking drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to Malibu, a coastal paradise that instantly captivated me. The scenic drive itself is an experience, with sweeping ocean views and glimpses of stunning beachfront properties. I found myself dreaming of a life by the coast, where the beach is always just a stone’s throw away and dining offers unparalleled ocean vistas. Malibu is home to many prestigious establishments, including NOBU, perched right off the PCH. For brunch that morning, Jason and I chose Malibu Farm, a charming restaurant where we dined practically on the water, savoring the most gorgeous views imaginable. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of the unparalleled beauty of coastal California. If only every day could start like this!
And speaking of Malibu, guess who we spotted while enjoying our time there? None other than my biggest chef idol, Giada De Laurentiis! Of course, the only celebrity I’d manage to see in LA would be a fellow food lover. We were in a shopping center, standing near an empty parking spot, when a bright orange, windowless SUV rolled in. Jason was immediately captivated by the car, eager to snap a photo, but then I recognized her distinctive voice. “Oh my god, Jason, it’s Giada, Jade, and her new boyfriend!” I exclaimed. I desperately wanted to ask for a photo, but they were clearly enjoying a private afternoon, grabbing lunch. I decided against approaching them, not wanting to be “that annoying person” and potentially ruin their peaceful day. Plus, I figured if I had stopped them, others would surely follow, creating a scene. It was a thrilling, if unspoken, celebrity encounter!
At Malibu Farm, I indulged in the coconut berry French toast “pudding,” a wonderfully sweet and comforting dish, while Jason opted for their savory salsa verde egg sandwich served on a soft brioche bun. Neither of us was disappointed; every bite was a delight. To complete our brunch, we enjoyed an extra spicy Bloody Mary, precisely to our liking – a perfect complement to the coastal views and delicious food.
Later that afternoon, we reunited with my parents and brother for a truly epic dim sum experience in Alhambra. Despite being a good 45-minute drive from Malibu, the journey was absolutely worth it. We ordered an astounding 21 dishes – a feat that probably left the staff bewildered – but this dim sum restaurant was, without a doubt, the best I have ever had in America. It utterly outshone any dim sum I’ve experienced on the East Coast, setting a new standard for authentic Cantonese cuisine. Each steaming basket and flavorful plate was a culinary masterpiece, leaving us thoroughly impressed and satisfied.
A Magical Sunset and Farewell to LA
On our very last night, Jason and I embarked on a spontaneous drive towards Manhattan Beach. However, we happened upon a small, unnamed beach stop that called to us, inviting us to witness the end of another beautiful day. We pulled over, eager to feel the sand between our toes and catch the sunset over the Pacific. And what a sunset it was! The sky erupted in a spectacular palette of colors – fiery oranges, soft pinks, and deep purples – as the sun dipped below the horizon. Sailboats glided gracefully across the water, their silhouettes adding a touch of romance to the scene, while iconic palm trees framed the picturesque view. It was a truly magical, picture-perfect moment, a serene and beautiful farewell to our incredible Los Angeles adventure.
Our Thanksgiving week in Los Angeles was a whirlwind of culinary delights, iconic sights, and cherished family moments. From the vibrant streets of Santa Monica to the serene beaches of Malibu, and the incredible flavors found throughout, LA truly delivered an unforgettable experience. We fell in love with its dynamic energy, diverse culture, and, of course, its phenomenal food scene. This trip was just the beginning of our Southern California escapade, and we eagerly anticipate sharing the next chapter: our incredible two days in San Diego, where we ate even more amazing food! Stay tuned for those delicious details.
Disclaimer: Silvercar generously provided us with a complimentary 8-day car rental for our trip, enabling our extensive exploration. All other expenses related to this adventure were covered out-of-pocket.