New Year, New Goals —My LA Eats Wish List for 2025

Jan 3

The Short List of Where I Want to Eat Around LA

Frogtown’s Loreto for sleek Mexican; I am daydreaming about trying their blue corn tortillas and, did I hear someone say, seafood tower?? OMG yes. It’s around the corner from Waxpaper and La Columbe Frogtown Cafe and Roastery; perfect for a walk along the LA River and a romantic sunset evening with wine on the patio. I’m envision the perfect date night spot. Other menu highlights I can’t stop thinking about: Chicharrón de Pescado, Ceviche Magdalena, and Branzino with a side of tortillas. For dessert, I want to try the Lime Ice Cream. Another sweet fact, Loreto is the sister restaurant to the Downtown rooftop vibe-y La Cha Cha Cha, which I love for happy hour drinks, and effortless cool.

Yunomi Handrolls, for their handrolls! Especially eager to swing by their new Downtown Culver City location, as it’s a few blocks from my office. They also have locations in Downtown LA and Toluca Lake.

Jang Su Jang for traditional Korean food in Torrance. Known for it’s good variety ranging from bibimbap to Korean cold noodles, soon tofu and their mandoo dumplings. Portion sizes are coming in on the larger side and highly recommend for those leaning towards the vegetarian dishes (just right for me!). Yes, they have Banchan (Korean side dishes) which are also a standout; I cannot wait.

Azizam for Home-Cooked Persian in Silverlake: I heard it feels as much like a casual hangout draws in post-workout eaters, friends catching up, and solo diners. It’s the best laid-back option for quality, home-cooked Persian flavors. One guest raved that maman’s fried potatoes were crispy, golden, and addictive, topped with spicy habanero chatni (yes, please!).

Tuk Tuk Thai on Sawtelle; for Thai food without needing to trek to Thaitown. People are talking that the Pad Thai noodles are spot on—perfectly cooked and coated in a rich, flavorful peanut sauce. The service is warm, and the vibe was super cozy. So when I want a solid Thai fix on the Westside, I’ll be at Tuk Tuk.

Wake & Late for Breakfast Burrito Cravings

(Burritos get their own section, read on!)

Nothing I want more when I wake up on a slow morning than to embark on a journey to try the latest, casual breakfast spot. Cue Wake & Late for your breakfast needs. Wake & Late is known for their made-to-order, LA breakfast burritos, just blocks from Clifton’s Downtown.

My mouth is watering as I eye their vegetarian burrito: pasture-raised eggs, organic avocado, pickled jalapeños, tater tots, and cheddar with a choice of cilantro crema, hot sauce, or chipotle aioli. So curious about their gluten-free coconut-cassava tortilla—never had a cassava tortilla before!

For carnivores, they have mouthwatering bacon and steak burrito versions and for those who want more carb-forward, there are bagels and cream cheese options, and a side of coffee.

Three LA locations already (Hollywood, Pasadena) and 3 more coming soon (Marina Del Rey, WeHo, and Santa Monica); so this tells me they are very successful and/or aggressively growing their audience. Either way, I must try their burritos.

Rumor has it these burritos deliver bold flavors, an irresistible crunch, and a comforting, mouthwatering bite—paired with sauces that bring the heat. Reviewers say the cost ranges from $18 - $22, so it’s not cheap. Size is giving mid (not too big and not too small). While on the higher end of the burrito budget, it is very LA so I give in. It’s on my Want-To-Try list!

Wake & Late Downtown, 105 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014. Additional locations in WeHo, Pasadena.

*Linhda doing what she loves, being out in LA!*

About Linhda

Linhda thrives on being a tourist in her own city, generously sharing over 10 years of Los Angeles knowledge with fellow enthusiasts!

An enthusiastic bike-to-work cyclist, also known as a commuter, Linhda has recently embraced the world of roller skating. If you have any questions about LA, drop her a line, or simply say HELLO! Meeting new people brings her immense joy. Cheers! linhdy@outlook.com

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