This post was updated Feb. 10 at 8:40 p.m.
The best way to deal with the winter cold? Stay inside and eat some good food.
This winter season, Los Angeles will see a plethora of iconic restaurants opening their doors, providing high-quality and diverse food to eager diners. From upscale steakhouses to innovative fusion cuisines, Angelenos are in for a treat with a range of culinary experiences that will surely keep them coming back this winter.
Let’s dive into the Daily Bruin’s carefully curated list of top restaurants making their debut this season.
Very Thai
Food lovers in LA are eagerly anticipating the latest culinary arrival from overseas: Very Thai. This esteemed brand of the Taiwan-based Tai Tong Food & Beverage Group is set to open its first location in the United States at Westfield Century City after a nearly two-year delay. With a blend of traditional Thai flavors intertwined with an upscale urban aesthetic, diners can expect a contemporary take on Asian dining.
The Century City location, boasting 131 seats, a full bar, and a private dining area, captures the chic vibe of its original Taiwanese flagship. Established in 1995, Very Thai has garnered acclaim in Asia, alongside its sister brand Thai Town Cuisine. Charles Hsu, founder of TTFB, chose LA for its vibrant food scene and global influence, ensuring the restaurant reflects the bold colors and modern aesthetics teased on its website. This opening not only signifies an exciting chapter for Very Thai but also serves as a potential launchpad for additional locations across the U.S.
Foodies will not want to miss this fresh spin on a beloved Asian chain.
– Gwendolyn Lopez
Lucky’s Steakhouse
Lucky’s Steakhouse is set to bring a dash of luck to food lovers in the Arts District. The chain will unveil its fifth location on Mateo Street later this month, adding to its existing establishments in Montecito and Malibu. Concealed within a renovated industrial building from 1923, this new spot boasts a private outdoor patio that complements its stylish interior.
Renowned for its high-profile clientele, the Montecito location has welcomed celebrities, including Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. Lucky’s Arts District menu is expected to mirror its successful predecessors, offering steakhouse classics such as steak frites and filet mignon, alongside an impressive selection of potato dishes, salads, and appetizers. Although the upscale pricing may challenge some budgets, those lucky enough to secure a table are in for a delightful dining experience.
– Reid Sperisen
Sushi Samba
East meets West with the latest opening of Sushi Samba in West Hollywood, where Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines converge to create an extraordinary dining experience. Established by entrepreneur Shimon Bokovza in New York City in 1999, Sushi Samba has expanded globally with locations in London, Dubai, and Singapore.
Guests can expect a vibrant menu that features everything from nigiri and sashimi to arroz chaufa. The new West Hollywood location draws inspiration from the streets of Rio de Janeiro, providing an open-air rooftop seating area that overlooks the stunning LA skyline. With ambient lighting and lush greenery, the atmosphere perfectly complements the fusion cuisine. The sushi bar and robata grill will enhance the diners’ experience, allowing them to witness the artistry of dish preparation under the guidance of corporate chef John Um, known for his innovative culinary approach.
While returning to its roots, Sushi Samba promises to offer a delicious assortment of globally influenced dishes.
– Julia Kinion
Noma
For those with an appetite for exclusivity, look no further than Noma’s upcoming residency in Los Angeles, set to run from March 11 to June 26. This renowned three Michelin star restaurant, which frequently tops The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, sold out in just 60 seconds — even with a staggering price point of $1,500 per seat.
Founded by Claus Meyer and René Redzepi in 2003 in Copenhagen, Noma is known for its innovative take on New Nordic cuisine. The LA pop-up will continue this ethos, transforming local ingredients into culinary masterpieces with a focus on sustainability and seasonality. The price includes an exquisite tasting menu paired with beverages, tax, and gratuity. As the team, composed of over 130 members, experiments with local ingredients like American honey ants and various cacti, this promises to be one of the year’s most talked-about dining experiences for those fortunate enough to have secured a reservation.
– Presley Liu
