Every Friday, our editors compile a trusty list of recommendations to answer the most pressing of questions: “Where should I eat?“ Here are four places to check out this weekend in Los Angeles. And if you need some ideas on where to drink, here’s our list of the hottest places to get cocktails in town.
For deep-fried dough delight: El Moro in Echo Park
Churros are always a good idea, especially when they’re from Mexico City’s legendary churrería, El Moro, which just opened its second Southern California location in Echo Park. There will likely be a line forming down Laveta Terrace or Sunset Boulevard when you arrive, but it moves quickly. After ordering, you can observe the preparation process, easily visible from the outside. The patio makes a delightful place to eat long churros dipped in sugar and cinnamon or bite-sized moritos with El Moro’s classic hot chocolate. If hankering for something savory, the al pastor torta will do nicely. Be sure to douse it in salsa and down it with the not-too-sweet iced jamaica. Come with a group, order heavy (a churro ice cream sandwich cannot be missed), and spread the table with the goods while marveling at this CDMX export in all its blue-and-white glory. 1524 West Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90026. — Mona Holmes, editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest
For breakfast in bed with your beloved: Söbuneh (multiple locations)
As someone who has eaten two emotional support breakfast burritos in the span of as many days, I know the reviving power of eggs, avocado, potato, and cheese wrapped in a supple tortilla. The combination can also be fodder for a romantic breakfast burrito in bed situation with your partner this weekend, if you’re having a lazy Valentine’s and need some nourishment to get the day going. Söbuneh, the Iranian-influenced breakfast burrito pop-up-turned-permanent operation — think “beef bacon” breakfast burritos cut with honey chipotle aioli and pickled onions, or “the sig” with spiced beef chorizo — would be a ripe choice. Pull out a tray, lay out the salsas, and maybe split one burrito so you have something to savor the next day. If you’re the type to never bring food into bed, Söbuneh, which means breakfast in Farsi, just opened a new shop in West Hollywood with a charming, well-lit seating area and coffee drinks infused with Iranian diasporic flavors. Locations in West Los Angeles (delivery and pick-up) and West Hollywood. — Nicole Fellah, Eater editorial manager
For casual cocktails and wine on tap: The Grant in Glassell Park
The Grant is everything you want a neighborhood bar to be. There’s almost always a seat available (even on weekend nights) and, while it hums inside, the room is never deafening. You can find classics such as an Old Fashioned and an espresso martini alongside signatures like the Rodriguez with mezcal, bianco vermouth, and Amaro Angeleno. A rotating menu of wines spans Italian reds, French whites, and more available by the bottle or glass (some are even on tap). A small menu of snacks, including Bub & Grandma’s focaccia and gorgonzola-stuffed olives, sates without accidentally becoming an entire meal. Everyone looks good in the soft, warm lighting emanating from the globe-shaped pendants overhead. 3515 Eagle Rock Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90065. — Rebecca Roland, deputy editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest
For a romantic dinner just off the beach: Si! Mon in Venice
My last trip to Si! Mon fell in October to celebrate an anniversary, which is why it immediately came to mind as a place to go to for Valentine’s Day weekend. The space inside Si! Mon remains a huge draw; where other restaurants focus on dimmed lights and tapered candles, Si! Mon feels airy and beachy — relaxed, even — while still romantic. The food has always been the main attraction: My favorite dishes include the fluffy sweet corn bolo, which strikes a balance between the honeyed flavor of the corn and the guajillo chile oil. (Get yuca fries and fried chicken drumsticks to share, too.) There’s a reason we have Si! Mon listed as one of the most romantic restaurants in Los Angeles. 60 N. Venice Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291. — Kat Thompson, audience editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest