Living in LA, I am constantly exposed to new food trends. Whether it’s a poke fad or a cronut craving, foodies never fail to find new and interesting ways to grub. Through my own personal food pilgrimage, I have created a fool-proof list of trendy yet amazing restaurants varying from fresh caught sushi to the best burger you will ever have… enjoy!
1. Shibuya, Calabasas, CA: Shibuya is your typical hole in the wall gem. It is truly a treasure of the San Fernando Valley, and that is why you have to get there an hour before opening time to get a timely seat. I promise, this sushi is worth the wait. Although a very small restaurant, it fills up unbelievably quickly because of the fresh fish and incredible sushi innovation. My recommendation: the spicy tuna on rice cakes and the house roll. The spicy tuna has the perfect combination of flavors that balance the spicy and the sweet. The house roll contains a variety of fish including salmon, yellowtail, and tuna with crab and tempura asparagus. If the asparagus throws you off, then ask for it without it! The sushi chefs are more than happy to accommodate.
2. Pressed Juicery, Freeze: Pressed juice just stepped it up to a whole ‘nother level. Instead of the crisp taste of fresh juice, they have added to their menu with frozen pressed. This is the best snack anytime of the year not only because it is healthy, but also because there’s nothing better than a cold snack to brighten your day. The flavors vary from a more classic chocolate to greens and they also have a variety of toppings ranging from fresh fruit to sweets and treats. This food stop is definitely a must.
3. Sweetfin Poke, Santa Monica and Woodland Hills, CA: I’m sure you’ve all heard of the poke trend and are wondering, is it too hyped up? I can answer that question with a hard no. The poke trend is truly incredible and, I for one, hope the trend never dies. Not only can you create your own poke bowl with different fish, but also with different toppings. For example, my usual order is half sushi grade salmon and half sushi grade tuna with the classic sauce, fried onions, avocado, and seaweed salad. I honestly can think of nothing better.
4. Blu Jam Cafe, West Hollywood and Calabasas, CA: Blu Jam is more of a low key restaurant with incredible food. It has a range of options with to die for breakfast and impeccable lunch but my favorite thing at Blu Jam is the classic cheese burger. So simple but so good, this burger is mouth watering. It is cooked perfectly, with melted cheese and arugula to provide you with an array of flavors. 10/10 would high-key recommend.
5. Lilly’s Cafe, Malibu, CA: This is another example of a hole in the wall gem with the absolute BEST breakfast burritos. My first recommendation would be to call and pick up your order because of how busy it usually gets but again, the wait would be worth it. Whether you’re in the mood for a big breakfast or if you are looking for that perfect hangover cure, Lilly’s is the place to go. Stuffed with eggs, bacon, beans, and cheese, these burritos are absolutely to die for.
Photos courtesy of collegetimes.com and Masha Chernitskaya.