His favorite bites range from an acclaimed taco truck to a Downtown high-rise hotel restaurant
With the 2016 debut of Kali, Kevin Meehan proved his adoration for California gastronomy. The Melrose Avenue restaurant was like a love letter to the Golden State, earning (and maintaining) a Michelin star for refined local cuisine. Over the summer, Meehan and team entered Kali’s next chapter by transforming the restaurant into a classic Hollywood steakhouse. Instead of a tasting menu experience, diners relish ice-cold martinis and expertly sourced steaks; it’s a new approach, but one with Kali’s same quality standards. Here, Meehan recalls his top plates in Los Angeles — ones from eateries that all offer good food, community and joy.
Grilled Octopus
71Above
The gnocchi and octopus dishes are consistently exceptional. The combination of refined technique, bold flavors and the unparalleled setting makes this a dining experience that feels quintessentially Los Angeles. Prices vary, 633 W 5th St., Downtown, 71above.com
Bossam
Kobawoo House
Korean cuisine holds a special place in my heart, and Kobawoo House delivers it in its most soulful and communal form. Its bossam pork is the dish I return to time and again — tender, juicy, and perfectly fatty slices of pork wrapped in lightly fermented cabbage leaves, layered with an array of toppings that bring brightness and depth. Prices vary, 698 S Vermont Ave., Koreatown, #109, kobawoola.com
Tacos de Camaron
Mariscos Jalisco
For me, no food journey through Los Angeles is complete without Mariscos Jalisco. Their crispy shrimp tacos are iconic — a perfect balance of texture, flavor and comfort. $3, Various locations, mariscosjalisco.net