Fab Hot Dogs

One of my first “food adventures” in Los Angeles was driving an hour to Reseda for Fab Hot Dogs and a wonder from New Jersey called a Ripper. I learned about Fab and the Rippwr from an LA Weekly article by the renowned Jonathan Gold. The Ripper is a dog plunged into boiling oil until it explodes. A must if you’re deep in the Valley.

19417 1/2 Victory Blvd Reseda, CA 91335
818-344-4336

OUVO

UOVO in Studio City is an Italian noodle oasis in the Valley. OUVO is a mini chain in LA with several locations including Marina Del Rey & Pasadena. The real story behind OUVO is they make pasta in Bologna, Italy and then flown here overnight, so yeah it’s legit.


12833 Ventura Blvd, Ste 157, Studio City, CA 91604
747-212-2690

Gorilla Pie

What’s Pittsburgh-style pizza? I still don’t know but in 2021 the Valley finally got quality pies and the best lemon pepper  chicken wings this side of Atlanta.

12417 Burbank Blvd, Valley Village, CA 
818-821-3777

Aj’s Tex-Mex & Barbecue

I discovered Al’s through a random episode of Bar Rescue and that might be the best thing that show has ever done. At Aj’s, they took the time to smoke some amazing meats and everything was so fresh. Pork ribs & brisket sandwiches are must-try.

12123 Riverside Drive Valley Village, CA 91607
818-505-8865