18 Fresh Dining Spots Bringing Big Flavor to Los Angeles

Los Angeles never stops reinventing its dining scene, and 2025 is already serving up plenty of reasons to eat out. From a Koreatown sushi spectacle to plant-based dim sum in Echo Park, these new restaurants prove the city’s appetite for flavor, design and unforgettable experiences is as insatiable as ever. Expect global influences, seasonal California ingredients and dining rooms you’ll want to post about before your first bite. Whether you’re craving Andalusian seafood, Moroccan tagines or grass-fed Wagyu, these spots are rewriting the rules of what’s possible in LA dining. Here are 18 of the best new openings to book right now because in this city, you’re only as good as your last reservation.

 

Casa Dani

Casa Dani brings Andalusian energy to the polished corridors of Westfield Century City. Michelin-starred chef Dani García crafts a menu that blends traditional Spanish flavors with modern creativity, from oxtail brioche to tuna carpaccio and paella meant for sharing. The 17,000-square-foot space, designed by Rockwell Group, pairs warm earth tones and artful textures with plush banquettes and an open kitchen. There’s even a chic outdoor garden shared with its neighboring Katsuya. Whether you’re popping in for the three-course lunch or settling in for an indulgent dinner, Casa Dani makes mall dining feel like a night in Marbella.

Location: Century City

 

Lucia

Lucia turns Afro-Caribbean fine dining into a glamorous, flavor-packed night out.Founded and led by Sam Jordan with a menu crafted by chef Adrian Forte, the Fairfax hot spot marries jerk-spiced tomahawk steaks, coconut-fried chicken and oxtail pepper pot with a design that blends midcentury style and tropical flair. The 118-seat Preen-designed space features sculptural palms, golden mirrored alcoves and a dramatic central bar that draws the eye from every table. After 8 p.m., the dining room transforms into a lively lounge with music and late-night bites. Lucia doesn’t just feed you; it seduces you.

Location: Fairfax District

 

Men & Beasts

Men & Beasts reimagines the Chinese tea lounge as a vibrant, plant-based dining experience. The Echo Park newcomer offers a menu rooted in tradition yet free of animal products, featuring salt-and-pepper “wings,” zhajiangmian and kung pao tofu alongside an extensive tea program. Each tea is served with ceremony, encouraging you to slow down and savor. The warm, modern space, once home to Cosa Buona, welcomes guests with a mix of rich woods, soft lighting and attentive hospitality. Men & Beasts isn’t just a plant-based restaurant; it’s a gathering place where familiar flavors meet conscious cooking, proving that comfort food doesn’t need to compromise.

Local Insight: At brunch, you’ll find creative dishes like the Binglish Muffin with truffle “butter” or an avocado bao topped with tofu-lime mayo, both offered with an optional steamed egg,

Location: Echo Park

 

Sushi Zanmai

Koreatown’s Chapman Market got a jolt of excitement with the US debut of Sushi Zanmai, a Tokyo-born institution famous for its tuna mastery. Opening day featured a live bluefin tuna butchery demonstration, a sign that this spot values culinary theater as much as flavor. Inside, the atmosphere is buzzy yet approachable, with counter seating that puts diners right in the middle of the action. The menu covers affordable sushi, sashimi and hand rolls that stay true to Japanese technique while keeping things lively for late-night crowds. Sushi Zanmai delivers both the spectacle and satisfaction that sushi lovers crave.

Location: Koreatown

 

Blue Magpie

Blue Magpie takes Taiwanese cuisine to refined new heights in Arcadia. The menu showcases both beloved staples and unexpected innovations, from three-cup duck and mala popcorn chicken to fermented-rice short ribs and dragon whisker salad. Named after Taiwan’s national bird, the restaurant’s interiors nod to cultural heritage while embracing modern elegance, with private dining rooms for intimate gatherings. Chef Leo Lo blends tradition with creativity, resulting in dishes that feel both comforting and new. Whether you’re exploring Taiwanese flavors for the first time or seeking a fresh take on favorites, Blue Magpie delivers an elevated dining experience worth traveling for.

Location: Arcadia

 

Cento Raw Bar

Cento Raw Bar is a seafood lover’s daydream brought to life in West Adams. Known for chef Avner Levi’s handmade pastas, Cento has expanded into the world of pristine oysters, seafood towers and crudos. The sleek interior features soft pastels, curved banquettes and a bar lined with shimmering shellfish on ice. Expect playful yet elegant plates like caviar sliders, scallop crudo and housemade pasta tossed with uni. With an atmosphere that manages to feel both relaxed and refined, Cento Raw Bar is a place for lingering lunches, date nights and everything in between.

Location: West Adams

 

Matū Kai

Matū Kai brings grass-fed New Zealand Wagyu to Brentwood with an upscale yet approachable touch. The menu takes steakhouse classics in fresh directions: think rib-eye ragu, tenderloin satay and cheesesteak sliders alongside traditional cuts. A four-course prix fixe dinner keeps things streamlined, while the open kitchen fills the room with a warm, smoky aroma. The space channels modern minimalism with moody lighting and wood accents, offering the perfect backdrop for both casual dinners and special occasions. Matū Kai is proof that exceptional steak doesn’t have to feel formal.

Location: Brentwood

 

Koast

Koast brings a breezy coastal sensibility to Melrose, marrying the freshness of seafood with a relaxed, neighborhood vibe. The menu draws on both coasts (Maryland crab dip meets West Coast oysters) alongside dishes like scallop cakes, grilled prawns and bright, citrusy salads. The dining room features oceanic hues, a glass-bottom water feature and a subtle nautical nod that never tips into kitsch. Ideal for after-work drinks, a light lunch or a celebratory seafood feast, Koast captures the feeling of a day by the water without leaving the city.

Local Insight: Melrose diners will tell you Koast’s crab dip and martini combo is pure post-shopping bliss.

Location: Melrose

 

Kasbah

Kasbah transforms its West Hollywood space into a Moroccan-inspired hideaway filled with jewel-toned textiles, carved wood accents and the warm glow of lantern light. The menu offers fragrant tagines, couscous and grilled meats alongside mezze platters meant for sharing. Spices like saffron, cumin and cinnamon weave through each dish, creating layers of flavor that transport you far from LA’s streets. With live music on select nights and a cocktail list that blends Moroccan flavors with California spirits, Kasbah is equal parts dinner destination and atmospheric escape.

Location: West Hollywood

 

Alba LA

Alba LA offers a sophisticated yet approachable take on Italian dining in the heart of West Hollywood. The menu highlights regional specialties and seasonal California produce. Hand-rolled pastas include pappardelle with wild mushrooms and saffron risotto with scallops. Mains feature whole branzino and slow-braised osso buco. Each dish arrives beautifully presented, balancing flavor and texture with artistry. The airy dining room features warm wood accents, soft lighting, and minimalist artwork. The space feels elegant but never pretentious. Guests can sip a glass of Barolo or explore the curated wine list of Italian and California producers. Alba LA works for date nights, celebratory dinners, or a simple pasta indulgence under West Hollywood’s dreamy evening glow.

 

Location: West Hollywood

 

Marea Beverly Hills

Marea Beverly Hills brings the elegance of its acclaimed New York flagship to Southern California, specializing in coastal Italian cuisine. Guests can expect pristine crudos, handmade pastas and seafood entrées like lobster burrata, grilled branzino and black sea bass with roasted fennel. The interior features plush banquettes, polished marble and warm lighting that set the tone for a refined yet welcoming experience. Service is attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that each course arrives perfectly timed. The wine program offers a deep selection of Italian and global labels, making it easy to pair your meal with something special. Whether it’s a business lunch, a romantic dinner or an indulgent weekend treat, Marea delivers an experience that feels both cosmopolitan and distinctly Beverly Hills.

Location: Beverly Hills

 

Javier’s DTLA

Javier’s DTLA blends upscale Mexican dining with dramatic, transportive design. The space is a visual feast with hand-carved wood, intricate tilework, and the warm glow of low lighting. Together, they create a luxurious atmosphere. The menu reinvents traditional dishes with premium ingredients. Expect mesquite-grilled carne asada, fresh ceviche, enchiladas in housemade mole, and Baja-inspired seafood plates. The cocktail program highlights artisanal tequilas and mezcals. Margaritas stay perfectly balanced and always made to order. Guests can share a quiet dinner for two. Or they can celebrate in plush booths with friends. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase dramatic views of the downtown skyline. Each visit feels like a special occasion in the city’s heart.

Location: Downtown LA

 

Cosetta

Cosetta pairs rustic Italian charm with a modern, lively spirit, offering a menu anchored in fresh food and wood-fired pizzas. The interior’s exposed brick walls and warm lighting set the tone for a cozy yet energetic dining experience. Signature dishes include the Chicken Milanesi alla Thai Checca, shrimp scampi with housemade foccacia, and the Lo Spagnolo Ricco pizza with lemon, uni butter, and spanish clam conserva. The wine list spans Italian classics and New World favorites, curated to complement the kitchen’s bold yet balanced flavors. Whether guests are tucked into a corner booth for a romantic evening or sharing pizzas at the bar with friends, Cosetta’s mix of Classic Cal-Italian and Santa Monica vibrancy makes it a welcome addition to the local dining scene.

Location: Santa Monica

 

Attagirl

Attagirl moves seamlessly from day to night, offering coffee and pastries in the morning before transforming into a stylish evening destination. By day, the café serves expertly brewed espresso, matcha lattes and fresh-baked goods in a setting filled with eclectic décor and soft natural light. In the evening, the atmosphere shifts—cocktails take center stage alongside shareable plates like charcuterie, shrimp toast and seasonal flatbreads. The space’s blend of cozy seating, playful accents and inviting energy makes it ideal for lingering, whether you’re starting your morning with a cappuccino or wrapping up the day with an espresso martini. Attagirl’s versatility and charm make it a true neighborhood staple that’s hard to leave once you’ve settled in.

Location: Hermosa Beach 

 

Beethoven Market

Beethoven Market combines the warmth of a neighborhood gathering place with the execution of a destination restaurant.

The menu at Beethoven Market blends California flavors with Italian flair, spotlighting wood-fired pizzas, seasonal pastas, crisp salads, and hearty mains like herb-roasted chicken. An indoor-outdoor design sets the stage for breezy lunches or candlelit dinners, with greenery and soft lighting adding to the charm. Local craft beers and a rotating wine list make finding the perfect pairing effortless. Warm service and a welcoming vibe encourage lingering over good food, great company, and that at-home feeling in Mar Vista.

Local Insight: Sunday afternoons are a must. The patio comes alive with live music as the scent of fresh pizza fills the air.

Location: Mar Vista

 

Asakura

Asakura offers an intimate omakase experience where precision and artistry take center stage. Each course highlights the freshest seasonal fish, from buttery Hokkaido uni to expertly torched otoro. The chef prepares each piece directly in front of guests, ensuring the perfect balance of flavor, texture and temperature. The minimalist space features pale wood counters and subtle lighting, keeping the focus on the craftsmanship of the meal. Seating is limited, creating a sense of exclusivity and allowing for meaningful interaction with the chef. For sushi enthusiasts, Asakura delivers an experience that is both refined and personal, making every visit feel like a masterclass in Japanese culinary tradition.

Location: Westside

 

Backbone

Backbone brings together French culinary training with Spanish and Asian influences to create a modern dining experience. The menu shifts with the seasons, using the highest-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Preparations are done simply yet with care, showcasing fine-dining skill in approachable dishes. Think corn agnolotti, sea bream with miso honey sauce, wild-mushroom risotto, roast duck breast and more. Wine lovers will appreciate Wine Collector Wednesdays where Backbone waives the corkage fees, making it easier to say yes to another glass. So settle in to the airy dining room’s warm ambiance and enjoy a casual weeknight dinner or relaxed gathering with friends.

Location: Glendale

 

Baby Bistro

Baby Bistro captures the romance of a Parisian café while keeping the ease of a neighborhood favorite. The menu focuses on bistro classics like steak frites, mussels in white wine and croque monsieur, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Desserts such as crème brûlée and profiteroles add a sweet finish, while a well-curated wine list leans toward French selections. The dining room, accented with vintage-inspired tile and warm lighting, feels timeless and inviting. Whether stopping in for a leisurely lunch, enjoying a pre-theater dinner or simply sipping wine at the bar, Baby Bistro delivers a charming, satisfying experience that feels both special and familiar.

Location: Chinatown

This year’s crop of new restaurants shows LA dining at its most ambitious and playful. Chefs blend heritage with innovation. Designers transform dining rooms into works of art. Menus pull flavors from every corner of the globe. Make a list and grab your friends. Start eating your way through the city. In a place this hungry, the next great meal always waits just around the corner.