News Summary

Los Angeles is witnessing a vibrant shift in its culinary landscape, with the opening of new restaurants like Santa Canela and Inaba, alongside the heartbreaking closures of beloved spots such as the Original Pantry Cafe. The city’s dining scene continues to evolve, offering new flavors while bidding farewell to traditional favorites. Explore the latest updates in LA’s food scene, from innovative pastries to comforting soba noodles and classic sandwiches.

New Culinary Hotspots and Notable Restaurant Closures in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is buzzing with exciting new dining spots and, unfortunately, some beloved establishments are closing their doors. Let’s dive into the latest in the culinary scene, where flavors and stories intertwine!

Sweet Spots: Santa Canela and Its Tempting Treats

Just this March, a delightful new pastry haven called Santa Canela opened its doors in the heart of Highland Park. The talented pastry chef Ellen Ramos, once a star at 71 Above and Redbird, is now sharing her creative genius here. The space is beautifully designed, thanks to architect Lena Kohl, and draws inspiration from the vibrant streets of Mexico City.

One of the signature offerings is the stunning LA-shaped churro, a clever nod that combines local flair with timeless tradition. For those after something unique, the champurrado long Juan doughnut is a must-try. This dessert is inspired by the rich flavors of traditional Mexican hot chocolate and has caught the eye of food enthusiasts across the city. If you’re thinking of a shorter wait for sweet treats, just around the corner, Delicias bakery is a solid alternative.

Soba Sensations at Inaba

Next up on our culinary journey is Inaba, a casual Japanese eatery that’s making waves in Downtown Torrance. A sister restaurant to the popular Ichimiann, Inaba serves up comforting bowls of soba noodles that are a delight to the senses. One standout dish to consider is the mentai tororo, which combines deliciously slimy grated mountain yam with firm buckwheat noodles, creating an explosion of umami flavor.

The ambiance is likened to a busy Japanese train station eatery, making it a favorite among locals. Editor Matthew Kang points out the creativity in the dishes, although he expresses a wish for larger portions. Regardless, it’s a fantastic choice for a quick, satisfying bite.

Classic Tastes: BLTs and More

Speaking of good eats, BLT sandwiches are making a grand entrance on menus as summer tomatoes begin to ripen. One favorite is from Barbara’s at the Brewery in Lincoln Heights, with their juicy tomatoes and crispy bacon creating a satisfying crunch. Rebecca Roland highlights their well-executed take that’s served with zesty za’atar tossed fries—it’s classic comfort food with a twist!

Transition at Chi Spacca

Meanwhile, Chi Spacca steakhouse is stepping into new territory under chef Armen Ayvazyan. The menu is evolving to feature more California-inspired dishes while still embracing its Italian roots. Kang notes the standout porcini-dusted short ribs, a dish that pays homage to Korean barbecue flavors, adding an exciting fusion twist.

Farewell to Favorites: Restaurant Closures

Original Pantry Cafe in downtown LA has closed after an impressive 101 years, leaving a gap in the hearts of many regulars. Similarly, The Den in West Hollywood has bid farewell after 16 wonderful years of service.

Over in Koreatown, Intercrew has transitioned from a restaurant to an event space as of March 29. Longtime favorites like La Grande Orange and Luggage Room in Pasadena also closed up shop on March 31. Closing out this wave of sad news is El Mar Azul, a beloved mariscos truck in Highland Park, which served the community for 41 years. Sadly, health issues and dwindling business took their toll.

Lastly, Ribtown BBQ trailer in South LA had to shut its doors due to the owner’s health struggles and operational challenges. Each of these spots leaves behind not just menus, but memories of meals shared and laughs enjoyed.

With fresh openings and closures marking the dining landscape, LA continues to be a city of culinary adventure. Whether you’re indulging in sweet pastries or heartwarming soba, there’s always something new to savor!

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New Culinary Hotspots and Restaurant Closures in Los Angeles