I was given the task of curating photos of dishes from some of my favorite restaurants in Los Angeles, capturing the essence of the city’s diverse culinary scene, to showcase the “Flavors of LA.” Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the abundance of delectable options available, especially considering the prestigious closing night event, LA Times The Taste, which takes place during the vibrant Labor Day weekend festivities.

Wolf (closed)

I started out, hoping Marcel Vigneron’s Wolf would be on that list! And IT WAS! If you’ve followed along on my foodie journey long enough, you may remember my writeup back in April including Wolf. I’ve been a big fan ever since. I was already salivating thinking about going back to have the Fish Caramel Brussels Sprouts (not pictured) and the Miso Glazed Cod. I also found a new favorite Summer cocktail called Smoke Season (scotch, cream sherry, orange, lemon, almond, hibiscus tea). I’m usually an Old Fashioned or red wine drinker so this was a refreshing change. One of the specials the evening I went in was a Chicken Liver Paté, so I obviously had to order that as well! It did not disappoint. If you have a sweet tooth (or teeth) like me, definitely order a couple desserts. Their presentation is stunning and the flavors are not those of the usual desserts around town. Just trust me, order, and don’t look back.

Guisados

We all know that Mexican food is an important Flavor of LA and Guisados is one of my favorite spots. My go-to order is the Taco Sampler, so you can try a ton of different flavor combinations!

My favorites: Cochinita Pibil — shredded pork cooked in sweet, red achiote spice atop black bean (topped with pickled red onions & habanero chile) // Tinga de Pollo — shredded chicken breast braised with tomatoes, cabbage, chorizo, chipotle (topped with chipotle chile and avocado) // Mole Poblano — shredded chicken breast in nutty poblano style mole (topped with sour cream, queso fresco, red onion and dried chile)

The Springs (closed)

Vegan and vegetarian food is popular and prominent in Los Angeles, but I find it hard to find delicious enough food that will keep me coming back for more! I am nowhere near vegetarian (especially not vegan; I basically worship eggs and cheese) but I do enjoy vegetables and appreciate dishes that showcase them successfully! The Springs is doing it right; I already want to go back! The space is stunning, also doubles as an event space, yoga studio and has some cool wall art in front AND back (basically a fashion or lifestyle blogger’s dream)!

My favorite dish: Forbidden Fried Rice + poached egg! // Other must order dishes: Smashed Avocado Toast, Fruit & Nut Toast, Mateo Rancheros, and the Salted Caramel Ice Cream Sandwich (or whichever one is on the menu when you go in)!

Cento Pasta Bar

This spot is open Monday – Saturday from 11 – 3 in DTLA! – 2022 update: they are now located 4921 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016 // Hours: Tuesday – Sunday for dinner & have revamped their menu! I still have yet to visit, but I plan to when I am back in LA this Summer.

Must order: Beet Pasta, Uni Pasta, Gnocchi. The menu does change, but you really can’t go wrong because everything is handmade and so fresh!

I am definitely excited to see what these and the rest of the restaurants participating in LA Times The Taste, come up with! If you want a chance to win a pair of tickets to LA Times The Taste, the Flavors of LA event closing night 9/4, head on over to my instagram to find out how to enter! Giveaway ends this Sunday 8/28!

Happy Eating,

Corey