Where are the Best Cheap Eats in Los Angeles, California?
This is one of LA most controversial burger spots, and all the excuses for the nay-sayers are illegitimate, to put it lightly. Adored by all the folks I grew up with on the Westside, the Apple Pan is a historical landmark of epic tastiness. Pricey? Yes. Worth it? HELL YEAH! I highly suggest the “Hickory Cheesey,” the Hickory Burger with a thick slice of Tilamook cheddar, and their near-perfect fries. The burger’s barbecue sauce in combination with the chunk of hand-leafed iceberg lettuce “set off” this burger. It is my favorite burger in LA (along with the Double-Double, and the burger at Father’s Office)The place hasn’t changed much in the past 50 years, as you may notice from the original counter top and swivel stools. The waiters range from the smugly rude little fella on the left counter, to the always smiling Gordon on the right side. Gordon is the gray-haired monster of a man who is always working late nights, and is always happy to refill your ketchup plate without you needi
If you are looking for fanciness and a stuck-up atmosphere, this place is not for you. No “pasta a la marinara” or any other weird sounding names. Grub basically sticks to an’ All-American’ menu but raises it up several notches . I have been to this neighborhood haven several times and I must admit that most of the food is tasty without that artificial taste that comes from prepackaged ingredients. Grub’s most outstanding plate on the menu are their famous Friggin’ Amazing Croissant French Toast. They are covered in a delicious batter with every single ingredient is a perfect amount; the toast basically melts in your mouth and you can’t help but to feel sad they are gone. Of course they were only the appetizer, since our main entree was only waiting for us. I asked for the BBQ sandwich and my friend asked for the Afterschool Special sandwich. Both were delicious and went beyond to what we expected. The BBQ sandwich was specially different, with a tartness that separates the usual s
You don’t go to Pinks to have a healthy meal; you go to have a chili cheese dog and double chili bacon cheeseburger. Pinks is definitely an LA experience–lots of hype, lines, celebs and no parking. It’s always busy and the food is good, so be patient and prepared to wait or walk over and back. I recommend parking on La Brea mid-day during the week in the Fall or Spring. Forget about it during Summer–it’s way too busy with tourists. The food and staff are both first class.
I know, I know – Chicken & waffles on a plate – together?? YES! This Hollywood eatery seats only about 50 people and any weekend will find a line outside the door – don’t EVEN try to go after after 12 noon on a Sunday when the after church crowd arrives! Celebrities frequent this spot – including Magic Johnson & Jessica Simpson / Nick Lachey.This is authentic soulfood – not overly done, inexpensive and with enough variety that on any visit you’ll find MANY ethnicities enjoying the food. My favorite – and the dish I suggest for newbies – is the #13 – or the Anna C special – one lucious fried chicken breast with one specially seasoned waffle. For those of you who prefer dark meat, you can get that too. There are options for gravey or giblets. Order greens on the side or french fries. They have it all! If you are visiting the area – it’s worth a visit to the spot that is even talked about in movies & TV shows! Drive by Pinks hot dogs and forget trying to get in to one of the f
I’m responding to City Guide’s list of LA’s best margarita’s. Being a fan of the drink myself, and knowing how to make the perfect one, I must disagree. El Coyote is a great place to go for atmosphere. But by no means is it authentic. The margarita’s are good, but their made from mix, so they’re no better than most places. The food is maybe three steps up from Alcapulco IE the Mexican Denny’s. Go there for fun and atmosphere.
