The Westside of Los Angeles is home to some of the best restaurants in the city. With a diverse range of cuisines and atmospheres, there is no shortage of places to dine. In this article, we will explore the top restaurants in the area, according to experts and locals.

One standout restaurant on the Westside is Gjelina, located in Venice. This restaurant, known for its wood-fired pizzas and farm-to-table dishes, has been named one of the best restaurants in the country by Food & Wine. With a rustic-chic décor and outdoor patio, Gjelina offers a unique dining experience.

For seafood lovers, Connie & Ted’s in West Hollywood is a must-visit. This restaurant, owned by chef Michael Cimarusti, serves sustainable seafood and has been featured in numerous food publications. The raw bar and classic New England dishes make for a delicious meal.

Another restaurant making waves on the Westside is n/naka in Culver City. This Japanese restaurant, with a focus on kaiseki cuisine, has been praised by critics and celebrities alike. Chef Niki Nakayama creates masterful dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious.

For a taste of Italy, head to Felix Trattoria in Venice. This restaurant, owned by chef Evan Funke, specializes in handmade pasta dishes. The décor, inspired by Italian design, adds to the overall experience.

One restaurant that has been a favorite of locals for years is The Tasting Kitchen in Venice. This restaurant, known for its small plates and inventive cocktails, has a laid-back atmosphere and is perfect for a night out with friends. The menu changes frequently, keeping things interesting.

If you’re in the mood for something more casual, head to Tacos Tu Madre in Westwood. This restaurant, with a colorful interior and playful menu, serves unique tacos with unexpected toppings. Their margaritas are also a hit.

The Critics\’ Picks

When it comes to dining on the Westside, the critics have their favorites as well. Jonathan Gold, the late Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic, named and loved Rustic Canyon in Santa Monica. This restaurant, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, has a relaxed vibe and delicious food. Another critic favorite is Dialogue in Santa Monica, where chef Dave Beran serves an elevated tasting menu in an intimate setting.

The Local Favorites

For those looking to dine where the locals go, Father’s Office in Santa Monica is a must-visit. This gastropub, known for its craft beer selection and famous burger, has been a staple on the Westside for years. For Italian food, locals head to Toscana in Brentwood, where the homemade pastas and beautiful outdoor patio make for a memorable dining experience.

The Newcomers

With new restaurants opening all the time, it can be hard to keep up. One newcomer worth checking out is Birdie G’s in Santa Monica. This restaurant, owned by chef Jeremy Fox, serves comfort food with a twist. The retro décor and inventive dishes make for a fun dining experience. Another new addition to the Westside is Lunetta All Day in Santa Monica, a café by day and restaurant by night. The all-day menu features pastries, sandwiches, and salads, while dinner focuses on elevated comfort food.

The Sustainable Picks

For those looking for environmentally conscious restaurants, the Westside has plenty of options. The Misfit in Santa Monica focuses on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable seafood. The restaurant also has a zero-waste cocktail program. Another sustainable restaurant on the Westside is Plant Food + Wine in Venice. This plant-based restaurant, owned by chef Matthew Kenney, serves creative and delicious dishes that are good for both the body and the planet.

The Westside of Los Angeles truly has something for every palate, from high-end tasting menus to casual taco joints. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to explore all that this foodie paradise has to offer.