Best New Burger of 2024 — Smack Burger

In LA I try a lot of new burgers yearly, but for 2024 it’s the big yellow throwback burger joint on Western Smack Burger.  Originally from the Bay Area these guys are turning out the crispy smash burger, the best onion rings and this monstrosity the aptly named Hellapenño.

Best Ramen of 2024 — Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai

Torrance got lucky to receive the newest outpost of Kitakata City’s best ramen. The in house made chashu pork is the real star of the show, smokey melt in your mouth flavor bombs.

Best Breakfast of 2024 — Arabic Breakfast at Saffy’s

My favorite meal of 2024 came early in the year when a friend of mine took me to Saffy’s for breakfast. I was floored by the intense flavors in the Arabic Breakfast a weekend special. Excellent Shakshuka, olives, toasted in-house baked Challah with honey. 

Best Pastrami of 2024 — Johnny’s Pastrami

Sure a lot of other places in LA claim to have the best pastrami; and while I don't want to fight I have to say the thick smoked chunks on West Adams are truly the tastiest. 

Best Sandwich of 2024 — Tre Mani

Tre Mani in Santa Monica serves Roman style flat bread sandwiches on Jyan Isaac bread. Sandwiches come with Italian deli proteins like prosciutto, mortadella, salami, porchetta and my favorite Eggplant.

Best Sunday Morning Spot 2024 — Gardena Bowl Coffee Shop

After a long night out; the bowling alley in Gardena and its coffee shop are the perfect way to unwind. This place fills up early and with an eclectic group of characters.

Best Barbecue of 2024 — Moo’s Craft

This summer I thought I found a new king of BBQ in LA, well it’s January, and Moo’s is still on top. With this and being featured in Michelin’s Bib Gourmand they must be ecstatic 

Best Pizza of 2024 — La Sorted’s

Echo Park hole in the wall La Sorted’s having a great year, hard work and a quality product (check out the sandwiches also) have earned them a 2nd location in Chinatown. 

Best Street Tacos of 2024 — Tacos Gianella

Wow, I was surprised by this West Carson taco stand. The Al Pastor is the real reason to come but with charred pork like that you know it’s all worth trying.

Best Coffee of 2024 — Hooked Venice

I know I’m a broken record, but the coffee being served by Nicely is the best in the city. This expertly crafted cappuccino is available at the Hooked pop-up currently in Dudley Market.

Best Slice of 2024 (now closed) — Shin’s Pizza

It’s not that often you’re compiling your best-of-year list when you get the news that a spot is closing. Well in LA it’s happening more and more. I always really liked Shin’s, it added something charm to Cypress Park. I’m sad to see its beautifully crafted slices disappear.