The Walk of Fame, the Hollywood sign, Beverly Hills the Santa Monica Pier: Los Angeles may have some of the most-renowned sites in America, which are also some of the most visited by tourists. However, if you are looking for a new approach to tourism that makes you plunge into the local customs through its celebre dishes, its traditional tastes and the local culture, this article is for you. Here is everything you need to know before going on a Los Angeles Food Tour.
What is a Food Tour?
Did you know that guides do not only work in museums? There are some specialists that join you in a tour through the city, from the most famous restaurants to some well-hidden jewels and local markets to get a taste of the must-know dishes and delicacies. In these food tours, you get a bite of the traditional culture, its history and the flavors that distinguish it.
LA Through its Flavors
Which are the not-to-miss-out-on dishes in any LA Food tour? Some indispensable ones are:
The French Dip Sandwich
Roast beef, pork or leg of lamb, turkey or even ham inside a crispy French roll with cheese, mustard and onions: this local delicacy, who has sometimes gained the status of “city’s signature sandwich” can be served in a variety of combinations and in a number of ways, from “single-dip” or “double-dip” to “wet”.
Philippe the Original and Cole’s are two restaurants that opened their doors in 1908 and that claim to be the birthplace of the recipe, for both of them have a story that explains the origins of the dish. The most celebre story argues that the plate came out of an accident: it goes that, back in 1918, a French chef dropped the roll in beef drippings and gave it to the customer anyway because he was rushed. However, the mistake led to the customer coming back the next day to order another sandwich, exactly like the one served the day before.
LA Tacos
While tacos can be found in a lot of places in the country, no city has the variety that Los Angeles has to offer: no matter the shape, the size or the topping, here you can find the most unique combinations. From beef and cheese to sour cream, salsas and avocado, without missing out on innovative ingredients, such as moronga and lamb, among others, you can find this delicacy in any city of LA food tour and everywhere: sit-down restaurants, street cars and even food trucks.
Burger and Fries
Another American classic, the cheeseburger with fries has been served in fast food restaurants and drive-ins, but also in diners. Besides the traditional, quarter-pound beef burger with cheese, you can also find wilder toppings, such as avocado or peanut butter. In some restaurants, you can even ask to have them cooked animal style: in mustard and topped with tomato, onions, lettuce, sauce and pickles.
Hot Dogs
Another simple-yet-efficient combination, hot dogs are taken to another level in Los Angeles: yes, you can have sauce or mayo, but you can also try sauerkraut and jalapenos, among others. Have a go at the renowned chili cheese hot dog (also known as chili dog), that comes with franks, chili, onions, cheese and different toppings. While you can find it in local eateries, it is also very well known in street stands and sport stadiums.
Pastrami Sandwich
Another one from the list of traditional sandwiches in LA, this delicacy originated on Jewish delis and became a classic. It is prepared with beef brisket that has been brined, spiced, smoked and finally steamed to create a unique taste. Some variations include coleslaw, Russian dressing and cheese inside rye bread.
Pizza
A single-serving pizza with thin crust and toppings that include a range from avocado and egg, among others has earned the name of “California-style pizza”. However, in Los Angeles you can find whatever pizza you may crave. Make sure to have a go at the wood-fired variety as well.
Ice Cream Sandwich
The third sandwich in our list is similar yet different, for it is a dessert. Simple and effective, this dish is ideal for the hot weather. You can find several takes of this sweet treat: from creative innovations (macarons, churros and cookies, among others) to artisanal preparations. We
Lobster Roll
As the name suggests, it includes lobster in hot dog rolls. However, before this, the meat is prepared with melted butter and it can be combined with lemon juice, black pepper and lettuce, to name a few. On the side, you can have french fries or potato chips.
While there is some debate as to where it first appeared, it has become a Maine classic and you can find different variations of the dish.
Cobb Salad
If you are used to eating salad on the side, this may not be for you, for the cobb salad is designed to be had as a main dish. It includes tomato, bacon, eggs, fried chicken, chives, greens, avocado and blue cheese. The final touch is the red wine vinaigrette that dresses the salad.
The story goes that this salad was invented at The Brown Derby, a restaurant owned by Robert Cobb, who in 1930 found leftovers (hard-boiled eggs, chicken breast, salad greens, avocado, bacon, tomato and blue cheese) and decided to combine them. The preparation became notorious when some movie stars, like Lucille Ball and Clark Gable started to order it. Nowadays, it has become a Californian symbol.
Avocado Toast
While this may seem simple, do not overlook it: the toast is served with avocado (one of the most LA-related ingredients), but it can also include ingredients like tomatoes, salmon, cheese, garlic, chives, radish, pickled onions, creme fraiche and many others.
Despite its easy preparation, it has made its way towards renowned restaurants.
Simple, effervescent and creative: do not miss out on Los Angeles’ outtake on different dishes. Make and taste the best out of your visit to the city.
