The Best 10 Filipino Restaurants in Los Angeles, CA: A Guide to the City’s Top Filipino Eateries
Los Angeles is a city known for its diverse food scene, and Filipino cuisine is no exception. With its rich flavors and unique dishes, Filipino food has become increasingly popular in recent years. In Los Angeles, there are many Filipino restaurants to choose from, each offering its own take on traditional Pinoy dishes.
For those looking to experience the best Filipino cuisine in Los Angeles, 10 restaurants stand out above the rest. From historic Filipinotown to La Cañada, these restaurants offer a range of dishes that showcase the best of Southern California’s Filipino food movement. Whether you’re craving crispy lumpia, savory adobo, or sweet halo-halo, these restaurants will satisfy your taste buds.
Each restaurant on this list has been carefully selected based on its reputation, menu offerings, and overall dining experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Filipino food or a newcomer to the cuisine, these 10 restaurants are a must-try for anyone searching for delicious and authentic Filipino cuisine in Los Angeles.
Understanding Filipino Cuisine
Filipino cuisine uniquely blends indigenous, Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. It is known for its bold flavors and use of garlic, rice, coconut, vegetables, and seafood. Its geography heavily influences the cuisine, with over 7,000 islands, each with culinary traditions.
One of the defining characteristics of Filipino cuisine is its use of garlic. Garlic is a staple ingredient in many dishes, and it is used to add flavor to meats, vegetables, and rice. The cuisine also features a lot of rice dishes, which are often served with meat or seafood.
Coconut is another key ingredient in Filipino cuisine. It is used in various dishes, including curries, stews, and desserts. The coconut milk is used to add richness and flavor to dishes.
Filipino cuisine also features a wide variety of vegetables, including eggplant, okra, and bitter melon. These vegetables are often used in stews and soups and are a key part of many vegetarian dishes.
Seafood is also an important part of Filipino cuisine, with the country’s long coastline providing a rich variety of fish and shellfish. Some popular seafood dishes include grilled squid, shrimp adobo, and fish sinigang.
Finally, indigenous ingredients play an important role in Filipino cuisine. These include ingredients like calamansi (a type of lime), ube (a purple yam), and bagoong (a fermented fish paste). These ingredients add unique flavors and textures to many dishes.
Top Filipino Restaurants in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is home to a vibrant Filipino community that has brought with it a diverse and delicious cuisine. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are the top Filipino restaurants in Los Angeles, each offering a unique experience and delicious food.
Kuya Lord
Address: 5003 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States
Kuya Lord is a unique and flavorful restaurant concept by renowned Chef Lord Maynard Llera that celebrates his childhood memories in Lucena City, Quezon Province, Philippines. From the La Cañada garage where it all began, Kuya Lord has expanded to an East Hollywood storefront.
Here, diners can enjoy classic Filipino dishes like sisig and adobo and modern twists like their ube macapuno pie. Affordable and flavorful, Kuya Lord is the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal that is sure to satisfy the taste buds.
Sari Sari Store
Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States
Sari Sari Store is a Filipino restaurant located in Grand Central Market. They offer a selection of classic Filipino dishes like lumpia and pancit and unique items like their ube horchata. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is delicious, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat while exploring the market.
Lasita
Address: 727 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA, United States, California
Lasita is the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends! Located in Historic Filipinotown, this Filipino restaurant offers classic and modern dishes, like lechon kawali and chicken tinola, as well as unique vegan options like mushroom adobo.
Longtime friends Chase & Steff Valencia and Chef Nico de Leon, who first worked together at the Filipino-American fine dining restaurant, LASA, had a vision to create a lively Filipino rotisserie & natural wine bar. During the pandemic, they pivoted the LASA space to make their vision come to life, and Lasita was born! Here you can enjoy fun, food, and natural wine in a laid-back atmosphere.
Kusina Filipina
Address: 4157 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90065, United States
Kusina Filipina is the go-to spot for a true taste of the Philippines in Los Angeles. With a team of experienced Filipino chefs boasting over 25 years of culinary experience, Kusina Filipina offers an authentic selection of classic and unique Filipino dishes, such as pork adobo, kare-kare, and garlic fried rice. Enjoy a delicious and traditional Filipino meal in a warm and family-friendly atmosphere at Kusina Filipina in Eagle Rock.
Dollar Hits Pinoy Street Food
Address: 2432 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States
Dollar Hits is a Filipino restaurant in Historic Filipinotown that offers a unique dining experience. Customers can choose from a selection of skewered meats, vegetables, and seafood, each priced at just one dollar. The food is cooked over an open flame and served on a stick, making it a fun and affordable option for a quick meal.
Little Ongpin
Address: 1700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States
Tucked away in Eagle Rock, Little Ongpin is a hidden gem for Filipino cuisine. Serving up classic dishes like pancit and lumpia, as well as unique items like their signature chicken curry, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends.
Locals love it here, and it’s easy to see why – the warm and laid-back atmosphere, the friendly and attentive staff, and the delicious Chinese and Filipino dishes that will make your taste buds sing! Plus, the prices are just right. So come on over to Little Ongpin for an unforgettable dining experience!
Big Boi Filipino Comfort Food
Address: 2027 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025, United States
Big Boi is the go-to spot for a unique and memorable culinary experience. From the trendy and upscale atmosphere to their reasonably priced menu, you’ll find yourself wanting to come back for more! Whether you’re looking for a special occasion or a casual date night, Big Boi offers an array of classic and modern Filipino dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
From the pork belly adobo to the chicken inasal, you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. But what truly sets Big Boi apart from other Filipino restaurants in the area is their freshly baked Pandesal. Soft, fluffy, and totally irresistible, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal or even on its own.
Neri’s Casual Filipino Dining
Address: 3377 Wilshire Blvd #100a, Los Angeles, CA 90010, United States
Come to Neri’s and treat yourself to some delicious Filipino cuisine! Enjoy the crispy pata, lumpia, and lechón, all cooked to perfection. And don’t forget to try their famous halo-halo! Wash it all down with one of their refreshing fresh juices. Not only will you get a tasty meal, but you’ll also be treated to great service and friendly staff. And all at a price that won’t break the bank! So come to Neri’s and experience the charming atmosphere for yourself.
Lutong Bahay Restaurant
Address: 3756 W Ave 40, Los Angeles, CA 90065, United States
Lutong Bahay Restaurant in Los Angeles is a haven for lovers of Asian cuisine. With an extensive menu of over 100 dishes, the restaurant offers an array of traditional Filipino dishes such as Adobo, Kare Kare, Filipino Beef Steak, Beef/Goat Caldereta and Sisig. The restaurant’s chefs use only the freshest ingredients to create authentic dishes that will satisfy the taste buds.
From the succulent Adobo to the savory Sisig, Lutong Bahay Restaurant has something to satisfy everyone’s cravings for delicious Asian cuisine. Additionally, the restaurant offers an array of other dishes from various parts of Asia such as Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Indian and Japanese. With a wide selection of dishes and flavors, guests can enjoy a truly unique dining experience. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a family gathering, Lutong Bahay Restaurant in Los Angeles is the perfect place to enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine.
Manila Sunset – Los Angeles
Address: 1016 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, United States
Manila Sunset is the go-to spot for unique and hard-to-find Filipino treats like Bibingkang Galapong and Puto Bumbong, which are usually only available in church plazas and roadside stalls during Christmas.
Their star dish, Pancit Malabon, is cooked from a secret recipe from the fishing village of Malabon, where its name originates. Come and experience the true taste of Filipino cuisine at Manila Sunset.
Signature Filipino Dishes
Filipino cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. Here are some of the signature dishes that you can find in the best Filipino restaurants in Los Angeles:
Adobo
Adobo is a classic Filipino dish that features meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. The meat is then simmered in the marinade until it is tender and flavorful. Adobo is often served with rice and is a staple in Filipino households.
Sisig
Sisig is a popular dish that originated in Pampanga, a province in the Philippines. It is made from parts of the pig’s head (such as the cheeks, ears, and snout) that are boiled, grilled, and then chopped into small pieces. The meat is then mixed with onions, chili peppers, and vinegar to create a tangy and spicy flavor. Sisig is often served on a sizzling plate and topped with a raw egg.
Lumpia
Lumpia is a Filipino version of the spring roll. It is made with a thin wrapper that is filled with a mixture of vegetables (such as carrots, cabbage, and bean sprouts) and sometimes meat (such as ground pork or shrimp). The lumpia is then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. It is often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Lechon
Lechon is a whole roasted pig that is a centerpiece of many Filipino celebrations. The pig is stuffed with lemongrass, garlic, and other herbs and spices before it is roasted over an open flame. The result is crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Lechon is often served with rice and a dipping sauce made from vinegar and soy sauce.
Pancit
Pancit is a noodle dish that is often served at Filipino gatherings. It is made with thin rice noodles that are stir-fried with vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and cabbage) and sometimes meat (such as chicken or pork). Pancit is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
Influences on Filipino Cuisine
Filipino cuisine is a blend of various cultures and influences that have shaped the country’s culinary landscape. The cuisine is a reflection of the country’s history and cultural diversity. The following are some of the major influences on Filipino cuisine:
Chinese Influence
Chinese influence on Filipino cuisine is evident in the widespread use of soy sauce, a staple ingredient in many Filipino dishes. Chinese immigrants introduced soy sauce to the Philippines, quickly becoming a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine. The Chinese also introduced noodles, used in dishes like pancit, a Filipino stir-fry dish.
Spanish Influence
The Spanish colonized the Philippines for over 300 years, and their influence on Filipino cuisine is significant. They introduced onions, garlic, and tomatoes, which are used in many Filipino dishes. They also introduced vinegar, which is a common condiment in Filipino cuisine. The Spanish also introduced dishes like adobo, a Filipino stew made with meat, vinegar, and soy sauce.
American Influence
The American colonization of the Philippines in the early 1900s also had an impact on Filipino cuisine. The Americans introduced ingredients like corn, potatoes, and tomatoes, which are used in many Filipino dishes. They also introduced fast food chains, which have become popular in the Philippines.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a staple ingredient in many Filipino dishes and is used to add flavor and richness to curries, stews, and soups. The use of coconut milk is believed to have originated from the Malay and Indonesian cultures.
Desserts in Filipino Cuisine
Filipino cuisine is known for its vibrant and diverse flavors, and its desserts are no exception. From sweet and creamy ube to refreshing halo-halo, Filipino desserts offer a unique and delicious experience. Here are some of the most popular desserts in Filipino cuisine:
Ube
Ube is a purple yam that is commonly used in Filipino desserts. It has a sweet and nutty flavor and is often used to make ube halaya, a popular dessert made with mashed ube, coconut milk, and condensed milk. Ube is also used to make cakes, ice cream, and other sweet treats.
Buko Pandan
Buko pandan is a dessert made with young coconut and pandan-flavored gelatin. It is often served with sweetened cream or condensed milk. Buko pie, a pie filled with young coconut meat and sweet custard, is another popular dessert that features buko.
Halo-Halo
Halo-halo is a popular Filipino dessert that is sure to tantalize your taste buds and cool you down on hot summer days. The name literally means “mix-mix” in Tagalog, and it is made with a delightful combination of shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and various toppings such as fruits, beans, and jelly.
The result is a colorful and refreshing treat that can be customized to suit individual preferences. To top it off, some people enjoy adding evaporated milk, ube ice cream, or other sweet toppings to their halo-halo.
Other Desserts
Filipino cuisine offers a wide variety of other desserts, including leche flan (a caramel custard), bibingka (a rice cake), and turon (a fried banana spring roll). These desserts are often made with coconut milk, rice flour, and other ingredients commonly found in Filipino cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best Filipino restaurant in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is home to many excellent Filipino restaurants, making it hard to choose just one. Some of the top-rated Filipino restaurants in Los Angeles include Kuya Lord, LA Rose Cafe, Tita Lina’s, The Park’s Finest, Dollar Hits, Sisig, Spoon & Pork, Neri’s, Lasita, and Kusina Filipina Los Angeles. Each of these restaurants offers a unique and delicious take on traditional Filipino cuisine.
What are some of the most popular Filipino dishes?
Filipino cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. Some of the most popular Filipino dishes include adobo, a savory stew made with chicken or pork, vinegar, and soy sauce; sinigang, a sour soup made with tamarind and vegetables; and lechon, a whole roasted pig that is a staple at many Filipino celebrations. Other popular dishes include pancit, a stir-fried noodle dish, and lumpia, a type of Filipino spring roll.
What is the most famous Pinoy restaurant in Los Angeles?
There are many famous Filipino restaurants in Los Angeles, but one of the most well-known is Kuya Lord. Kuya Lord started as a small catering business in La Cañada and has since expanded to a popular fast-casual restaurant in East Hollywood. The restaurant is known for its delicious Filipino dishes, including adobo, sisig, and lumpia.
Where can I buy Filipino food near me?
If you’re looking to buy Filipino food near you, there are many options in Los Angeles. Some of the most popular Filipino grocery stores in Los Angeles include Seafood City Supermarket, Island Pacific Supermarket, and FilStop. These stores offer a wide selection of Filipino ingredients and products, including fresh produce, meat, and seafood.
What is Filipino food known for?
Filipino cuisine is known for its bold flavors, unique combinations of ingredients, and strong Spanish and Chinese influences. Many Filipino dishes feature a mix of sweet, sour, and salty flavors, and often include ingredients like vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Filipino cuisine is also known for its use of rice, which is a staple in many Filipino dishes.
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