L.A. is arguably the premier dining destination on the West Coast. As the city is home to celebrities, wealthy business folk, and politicians, Los Angeles’s dining scene is often incredibly delicious and incredibly expensive. But don’t worry – there are plenty of affordable options for traveling families to enjoy while exploring this beautiful city. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites, plus a few options for super affordable cuisine and vegetarian diners. Or, if you do want to head out on a date without the kids, we’ve got some foodie recommendations for you, too. These restaurants are located in Los Angeles or nearby surrounding areas, and are within a quick drive of a few great LA attractions, so they can be easily worked into your family vacation itinerary.
Kid-Friendly Los Angeles Restaurants Art's Delicatessen
With an atmosphere designed for families, this Ventura Boulevard restaurant has served up exceptional kid-friendly options for decades. Art's has one of the most extensive kids' menus, spanning everything from hot dogs to meatloaf to pancakes and French toast. Coloring placemats and crayons are also available for the kids upon request.
Nearby Attractions: Studio City, Runyon Canyon Park, the Hollywood Sign
Carney's
This city landmark and food stop now has 2 convenient LA locations housed in repurposed train cars. Although they specialize in hot dogs and burgers, they also offer a variety of salads and sandwiches for the healthier eater. Since 1975, Carney's owners have been dedicated to finding the freshest ingredients on the market. Rave reviews leave no doubt that this has paid off.
Nearby Attractions: Madame Tussauds Hollywood,
Hollywood Museum, Ventura Boulevard
La Parrilla
Los Angeles is packed with a variety of Mexican restaurants, but if you're traveling with hungry children, La Parrilla is the stop for you. The prices are reasonable, the atmosphere is festive, and the menu is extensive. A small kids' menu for children 10 years and under includes smaller portions of simple quesadillas, enchiladas, and taquitos for a lower price. The rest of the menu is anything but simple, with a full range of Mexican dishes featuring the freshest ingredients and spices.
Nearby Attractions: Grammy Museum,
Japanese American National Museum, L.A. Arts District
Pazzo Gelato
For a treat the whole family will love in a casual neighborhood atmosphere, stop by this dessert joint. Kids will love the huge assortment of colors and flavors of gelato and sorbet, and you'll love the fresh seasonal ingredients. These frozen desserts can even be served sundae-style to create a special delight for kids. If the very lengthy flavor list (from Banana Fudge to Eggnog) doesn't thrill you, there's even the option to create your own custom flavor!
Nearby Attractions: Silver Lake Resevoir, Griffith Park,
L.A. Zoo Izzy’s Deli
This Santa Monica landmark is a local favorite. Open 24 hours a day and serving delicious sandwiches, soups, salads, and much much more, Izzy’s is the tastiest family destination in the area. Try one of their famous “Overstuffed Sandwiches” and their delectable desserts. They also serve beer and wine, so it’s a great late-night location, too!
Nearby Attractions: Santa Monica State Beach,
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium,
Celebrity Homes Tours Cheap Eats in L.A. Mexicali Taco
A delicious local taco joint that brings its ingredients straight from the Baja region of Mexico, Mexicali Taco is the perfect place to go for mouth-watering, inexpensive Mexican. Offering a variety of menu items from tacos and quesadillas to nachos and tostadas, you can find authentic versions of all your favorites. Its convenient location also makes it a great place to stop before a Dodger’s game.
Nearby Attractions: Dodger’s Stadium, Chinatown, Downtown L.A.
Nickel (5¢) Diner
Another great diner option for those of you looking for cheap but delicious food. The menu at Nickel Diner features a variety of traditional fare prepared in untraditional ways, like French Toast made with house-made brioche or pan-roasted salmon served with buttermilk mashed potatoes. Kids will love the wide selection of burgers, sandwiches, and salads, and you’ll love the prices!
Nearby Attractions: Los Angeles River, Fashion District,
Grammy Museum Vegetarian & Foodie Options Native Foods Café (multiple locations)
This local chain features some of the best veggie-friendly fare in the city. Their most iconic menu items are “bowls” piled high with vegetables, rice, and proteins, like the “Soul Bowl,” which includes Southern fried “chicken” with beans, rice, veggies, and cornbread. Or, you can opt for a meal from their wide variety of sandwiches, pizzas, and soups. Don’t forget to try their delicious peanut butter parfait!
Nearby Attractions: Santa Monica Bike Rentals, Venice Beach,
Sony Pictures Studio (in Culver City).
Sage Vegan Bistro (multiple locations)
With its expansive menu and fresh, farm-to-table offerings, Sage Vegan Bistro is often a go-to destination for local vegetarians. Serving brunch, lunch, dinner, and even a delicious selection of vegan pizzas, you can satisfy your cravings for natural healthy food any time of day. Some of our favorite menu items include their delicious desserts – like waffles, pudding, and banana splits (all vegan, of course) – and their Mexican-inspired fare.
Nearby Attractions: Echo Park, Chavez Ravine Arboretum, East Hollywood
Papilles
Located conveniently in the Hollywood neighborhood, this tasty French bistro is a nice change from all the Mexican food you’re probably eating. They serve a small but delicious variety of Parisian fare in a multi-course menu – perfect for a date night away from the kids! The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the prices are truly quite reasonable. Nearby Attractions: TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s),
Madame Tussaud’s Hollywood, Dolby Theatre Whatever type of cuisine and budget you have in mind, the L.A. dining scene has something for you. While we’ve put together these suggestions based on popularity (and some personal preference), there are plenty of places for you to wander around and explore on your own. If you’re looking to discover that perfect restaurant, why not cruise through areas like West Hollywood, Long Beach, Pasadena, and the Beach Cities? They all have unique offerings and plenty for you to enjoy.