All FJM Food Articles

TLV Tapas Bar brings Tel Aviv inspired Mediterranean tapas to Tarzana, pairing a sleek modern space with a shareable, kosher forward menu. Standouts include Hummus Msabbaha, Bluefin Crispy Rice, short rib pappardelle, Chilean sea bass, and charcoal roasted Arais. Located at 5442 Yolanda Ave, Tarzana, CA, TLV Tapas Bar is a top pick for elevated dinners and events in the Valley.

Food Journal Magazine steps inside Casaléna, the radiant new Italian concept on Ventura Blvd in Woodland Hills built around "Lena," a fictional spirit who crafts houses of light. We sampled spicy bluefin tuna crispy rice, truffle pizza, sweet corn agnolotti, and a showstopping whole branzino, then sat down with owner Chloe Makhani, who welcomed us like family.

Tucked inside a strip mall on Ventura Boulevard in Encino, Pasta Bar is a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrated for its innovative tasting menu, seamlessly blending contemporary American cuisine with rich Italian influences. The stylishly modern space sets the stage for an intimate, chef-driven experience where the menu pushes well beyond the borders of traditional Italian cooking, think handmade pastas built around hyper-local, seasonal ingredients and unexpected flavor com

Tucked into Los Angeles’ ever-evolving dining scene, La Monique offers a refined yet inviting experience that feels both intimate and elevated. With a focus on thoughtfully prepared dishes, balanced flavors, and a warm, modern ambiance, the restaurant captures the essence of contemporary dining while maintaining a sense of timeless charm. From its carefully curated menu to its attention to detail in every plate, La Monique stands as a notable addition for those seeking good f

Located inside Citizens Market Hall, Casa Dani brings modern Andalusian cuisine to life. Led by Dani García and Chef Luis Mayoral, the menu blends tradition with innovation, from rich oxtail brioche to refined seafood paella. Warm, elegant, and flavor-driven, Casa Dani offers a transportive Spanish dining experience in the heart of LA.

Perched high above the city at Merois, Wolfgang Puck’s rooftop concept delivers a striking fusion of Southeast Asian flavors with modern California finesse. Set atop the iconic Pendry West Hollywood, the restaurant pairs sweeping skyline views with a menu that feels both elevated and adventurous—where dishes like Japanese milk bread with coconut kaya, crispy shrimp, and lacquered meats are executed with precision and flair.

At the heart of Bacari Sherman Oaks is Executive Chef Lior Hillel, whose culinary background reflects a balance of fine-dining technique and vibrant Mediterranean inspiration. After studying classical culinary arts at Le Cordon Bleu, Hillel sharpened his skills in the kitchen of Jean-Georges, the celebrated New York restaurant from legendary chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, which has earned three Michelin stars.

Emporium Thai Market is a hidden gem where authentic Thai flavors meet specialty market finds. From fragrant curries and perfectly balanced pad Thai to hard-to-find imported snacks and spices, this cozy spot delivers a true taste of Thailand in every bite. It’s part restaurant, part cultural experience and a must-visit for anyone craving bold, vibrant Southeast Asian cuisine.

Redbird LA stands out as one of Downtown’s most iconic dining destinations, where Chef Neal Fraser’s seasonal California cooking meets an unforgettable historic setting. From beautifully crafted entrées to Ligia Rossi’s inspired desserts, every bite reflects why this restaurant is often mentioned among the best food in Los Angeles. For anyone building the ultimate LA dining bucket list, Redbird is an essential stop.

Bianca Sicilian Trattoria is Downtown LA’s gateway to Sicily, serving bold Mediterranean flavors with a modern edge. From fresh seafood to house-made pastas and rustic coastal specialties, every dish feels both authentic and elevated. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone craving true Sicilian cooking in the heart of the city.

Chick Me Out in North Hollywood is redefining clean eating with zero seed oils and a commitment to real ingredients. From grass-fed steak bowls to wild salmon and organic rotisserie chicken, every dish is thoughtfully crafted using olive oil and avocado oil—proof that healthy food can still deliver serious flavor.

UMIAI Hand Roll & Sake Bar delivers a refined yet approachable take on the hand roll experience, where pristine seafood, warm rice, and crisp nori come together in perfect balance. With an intimate counter setting and a thoughtfully curated sake selection, UMIAI captures the essence of Japanese craftsmanship while offering a modern, Los Angeles–centric dining moment that feels both elevated and effortlessly inviting.

The Surfing Fox blends coastal cool with elevated California comfort food, delivering a laid-back dining experience just steps from the ocean. Whether you’re stopping in for a vibrant brunch, savoring fresh seafood plates, or unwinding with craft cocktails at golden hour, The Surfing Fox captures the spirit of beachside dining with style. With its breezy atmosphere, chef-driven dishes, and a menu that feels both nostalgic and modern, it’s the kind of spot that keeps you comin

Grand Central Market is a vibrant snapshot of Los Angeles. This is where cultures, flavors, and local traditions come together under one historic roof. With more than 40 vendors offering everything from global street food to timeless classics, the Market remains one of LA’s most iconic and flavorful destinations. Below is your guide to every vendor shaping this legendary culinary hub today.

Tucked discreetly inside the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica lies SOKO, a jewel-box eight–seat sushi counter led by the masterful hands of Chef Masa Shimakawa.

Ayara Thai is more than just a restaurant—it's a culinary Michelin Guided love letter to generations of family tradition, bold flavors, and the vibrant spirit of Thailand.

Uchi West Hollywood reimagines Japanese dining with bold flavors, refined balance, and the creative touch of Chef Joel Hammond.

Some of the best food in Los Angeles is at Rokusho LA. Modern Japanese cuisine in Hollywood, Ca.

Mariscos El Barracuda, a humble food truck that is a true temple to seafood and some of the best food in Los Angeles, California!

La Popular isn't just another taco joint. This is an elevated, high-energy dining experience straight from the heart of Mexico City, one of the world's great gastronomic epicenters.