Los Angeles, California, is a city that was made famous by celebrities, sports teams, and the entertainment industry. However, behind all the glitz and glam is a foodie’s dream waiting to be explored.
LA is home to several must-visit Black-owned restaurants from beautiful cafés to vegan delights and traditional Southern cooking. Here’s a list of restaurants from different neighborhoods in the City of Angels that you should try during your next visit.
Inglewood
Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen
Co-founders Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan started this neighborhood coffee shop in 2018. In 2019, Issa Rae, star and creator behind the hit HBO series, Insecure, partnered with them to open a second location in Inglewood. Since then the trio has opened two additional locations in Eagle Rock and Downtown LA.
Sip and Sonder
This woman-owned coffee shop was founded in 2017 by two lawyers, Amanda-Jane Thomas and Shanita Nicholas, who had a vision to create a space where people would feel inspired to create and unwind. This coffeehouse offers specialty lattes: Rose, Hony, or Lavender. They also offer the option to purchase coffee beans to enjoy at home.
The Serving Spoon
This local staple that was started by a former firefighter, Harold E. Sparks, has been serving up comfort soul food since 1983. Stop in at breakfast time for an omelet, french toast, or a loaded burrito. Then later, be sure to stop in for their daily specials such as oxtails, shrimp and grits, and turkey wings.
Southern Girl Desserts
Winners of the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, Catarah Coleman and Shoneji Robison are the co-owners of Southern Girl Desserts. Customers can choose from many kinds of treats from their sweet potato cupcakes to a slice of classic cheesecake. This place has also been known to sell out. So plan to get there early!

Downtown LA
Fixins Soul Kitchen
Owned by former NBA player Kevin Johnson, and his wife, Michelle, winner of the OpenTable Diners’ Choice 2023 award, Fixins Soul Kitchen is located in the heart of Downtown LA. With Southern staples such as fried green tomatoes and smothered chicken, there is something for everyone. The restaurant also boasts an extensive brunch menu.
Poppy & Rose
Boasting LA vibes mixed with Southern comfort, this local favorite is a perfect place to go for breakfast. Order items like a waffle chicken sandwich or the lox bagel sandwich.
West Hollywood
Hart House
This 100% plant-based fast food chain was founded and is owned by comedian Kevin Hart. Try items like the Double Burg’r made with two plant-based patties or the Delux Hot N Crispy Chick’N dipped in hot sauce.
Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles
Roscoe’s is a nationally known black-owned restaurant founded in 1975 by Harlem native Herb Hudson. Since then, they have been serving up chicken and waffles to celebrities like Snoop Dog and even President Obama.
Baldwin Hills
Earle’s on Crenshaw
What started as a hot dog cart in the 1980’s has transformed into one of the most popular restaurants in LA. They are famous for their hot dogs with choice toppings, as well as their burgers and sandwiches. Their menu also includes vegan options for the non-meat eaters.
Post and Beam
Looking for an all-day brunch on Sundays? Head over to Post and Beam for bottomless mimosas, buttermilk pancakes, specialty French toast, and more. Post and Beam also offers plant-based options.
Regardless of your culinary or dietary preferences, Los Angeles has something to whet your appetite. Find deals on flights to LA and try out some or all of our recommendations.
Stephanie, aka Sunny Days and Palm Trees, is a Wellness Travel Blogger based in San Diego, California. A foodie at heart and a hiking enthusiast, she finds joy in exploring new places and sharing her adventures. Join her on Instagram and check out her travel guides.