DineGuides

Hidden Gems in Pico-Robertson

26 restaurants in Pico-Robertson. Part of our Los Angeles Hidden Gems guide.

Taqui Taqui
#1Hidden Gems
5 photos

Taqui Taqui

Mexican·$$

Taqui redefines casual Mexican with bold flavors and generous portions, served by owners who treat every guest like family. This spot is a testament to authentic taste and excellent hospitality, making it worth trying for anyone seeking a truly satisfying meal.

🍽️98Food
85Vibe
💰92Value
📍80Location
💬

Fantastic service! Our server was super kind and helpful, explaining the menu and giving great suggestions.

💬

Not only is all the food consistently amazing, the crew that runs this place are some of the kindest people you’ll meet.

💬

Vegetarian Burrito - 10/10, The rice, beans, seasonings, guac, fantastic.

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningSolo dining
Tacos y Birria La Unica
#2Hidden Gems
4 photos

Tacos y Birria La Unica

Mexican·$$

This food truck serves some of the most highly-celebrated birria tacos in Los Angeles, with many calling it the best they've ever had. The rich, flavorful goat and beef birria, especially in quesataco form, is a consistent hit, often paired with their addictive consommé.

🍽️98Food
💰90Value
📍75Location
💬

This. Is. The. Best. Birria. I’ve. Ever. Had. And I’ve had A LOT of birria in this town.

💬

3 orders ahead of us. Ordered the birria quesatacos. Very delicious, the tortilla had a nice flake and crisp to it; probably why it takes a very long time.

💬

The steak Quesataco was probably the best, but goat was also very strong.

Ideal for
Families with kidsSolo diningImpressing out-of-town guests
El Chato Taco Truck
#3Hidden Gems

El Chato Taco Truck

Mexican·$$

This iconic taco truck serves up some of LA's most flavorful street tacos, with a focus on authentic al pastor and juicy meats. It's a no-frills, cash-only operation that thrives on late-night crowds and a casual, family-run atmosphere.

🍽️95Food
💰90Value
🛡️70Safety
💬

My favorite taco truck! I've been coming here for years and the food is so consistent with their drinks and $1 tacos deliciousness.

💬

Best tacos on the planet. 5 chorizo tacos with everything for here will change your life and you'll never look back.

💬

Ample parking space, friendly & efficient service, and incredibly delicious food!

Ideal for
Late-night eatsFamiliesSolo dining
Rjm Corner Eatery
#4Hidden Gems
6 photos

Rjm Corner Eatery

Mexican·$$

This unassuming corner spot feels like a neighborhood secret, serving up fresh, flavorful Mexican dishes with a healthy spin. It's a family-operated, casual eatery where the passion for quality ingredients and warm hospitality shines through.

🍽️92Food
70Vibe
💰90Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

Best fajitas around hands down. Carne asada tacos are great and so overfilled, we can make additional tacos.

💬

The delicious and huge seared tuna salad, which includes avocado and mango, is $11. The full-sized carne asada tacos are packed with meat and $3.50.

💬

Honestly Rosie was amazing, she really felt like the backbone of the restaurant. Her energy, positivity, and joyful demeanor made the food taste so much better.

Ideal for
Families with kidsCasual lunchHealthy options
South Philly Experience
#5Hidden Gems
6 photos

South Philly Experience

American·$$

This spot brings authentic East Coast cheesesteaks to Los Angeles, complete with friendly, family-run hospitality. It's a no-frills counter-service operation focused on delivering a genuine taste of South Philly.

🍽️95Food
75Vibe
💰90Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Best Cheesesteak I've had outside of Philly

💬

The food is ALWAYS fresh and delicious

💬

Explicit music playing could not bring my kids

Ideal for
East Coast transplants craving authentic PhillyQuick lunch/pickup without seating needsCheesesteak purists and Italian sandwich fans
Sweet and Spizy
#6Hidden Gems
6 photos

Sweet and Spizy

Mexican·$$

This kosher Mexican spot serves up generous portions of authentic, flavorful dishes, making it a standout option for those seeking quality and taste. It's a no-frills, casual eatery that prioritizes delicious, home-style cooking.

🍽️95Food
75Vibe
💰90Value
💬

10/10 most authentic Mexican food I've had in Pico Robertson

💬

You get amazing service too

💬

A bit hard to find, on the second floor of a strip mall

Ideal for
Kosher diners seeking authentic Mexican flavorsCatering for gatherings and corporate eventsBurrito and taco enthusiasts
Food Truck Sabores la
#7Hidden Gems
6 photos

Food Truck Sabores la

Mexican·$$

This no-nonsense food truck serves up incredibly flavorful Mexican staples, with generous portions that offer serious bang for your buck. The chicken milanesa and carnitas tacos are particularly celebrated, making it a go-to spot for consistently delicious and satisfying meals.

🍽️95Food
💰90Value
70Wait
💬

The chicken milanesa was perfect! Just the right amount of breading and so flavorful, one of the best milanesas I’ve had.

💬

But this one is excellent. The food is fresh, everything tastes great, the service is fast, outstanding place, nothing more to add

💬

This is my first time buying from this truck, and I've been waiting 30 minutes just for two chicken cemitas.

Ideal for
Quick lunchCasual bite
Falafel Queen
#8Hidden Gems

Falafel Queen

Mediterranean·$

Falafel Queen is a no-frills spot that transports you back to the renowned Falafel King of Westwood. The falafel itself is well-regarded for being perfectly seasoned, moist, and fresh, often made right in front of you. It's a place where the owner's personal touch makes you feel like family, offering generous portions at budget-friendly prices.

🍽️92Food
65Vibe
💰88Value
🛡️70Safety
💬

The customer service was outstanding - the person behind the counter was genuinely nice, patient, and made sure our order was perfect.

💬

The best part was the service. A very capable, speedy, and polite man served from behind the counter.

💬

The falafel was so juicy. One of the best falafels in LA. The salads are delicious.

Ideal for
Solo diningGroup diningFamilies with kids
Taco Bar
#9Hidden Gems
4 photos

Taco Bar

Mexican·$$

This neighborhood spot serves up some of the most flavorful tacos and seasoned fries in Los Angeles. The friendly staff treats everyone like family, creating a welcoming atmosphere that draws people in.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰88Value
📍75Location
💬

Never a bad taco. I stop by a couple times a week.

💬

Food place was clean. Clean table and chairs.

💬

Not a lot of seating. Outdoor eatery.

Ideal for
Taco enthusiasts seeking LA's bestNeighborhood regulars and repeat dinersBudget-conscious diners wanting quality
Esco's New York Style Pizza
#10Hidden Gems
6 photos

Esco's New York Style Pizza

Pizza·$$

This no-fuss pizza joint brings authentic New York slices to Los Angeles, complete with a subway car-themed back room. It's a casual spot perfect for families and solo diners alike, serving up hearty vegetarian and vegan options alongside classic pies.

🍽️95Food
90Vibe
💰85Value
📍75Location
💬

My favorite is the buffalo chicken pizza, but everything I've had so far has been absolutely amazing.

💬

This is the best vegan slice of pizza you’re gonna get in Los Angeles

💬

This place did not disappoint easily some of the best pizza we’ve ever had!

Ideal for
Families with kidsSolo diningAuthentic New York pizza cravings
Penguin Fish & Chips
#11Hidden Gems

Penguin Fish & Chips

Seafood·$$

This no-frills spot serves up classic American-style fish and chips, a local favorite for decades. Portions are generous, with many finding one order enough for two, and the fish is well-regarded for its freshness and perfect frying.

🍽️90Food
70Vibe
💰75Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

This is the best fish in town. And the men who work here are so nice. And the place is very clean.

💬

This place is amazing the food is great the staff are friendly and patient and the prices are reasonable.

💬

They have the best fried fish in Los Angeles hands down.

Ideal for
Families with kidsSolo diningCasual takeout
Ricos Tacos Naomi
#12Hidden Gems
6 photos

Ricos Tacos Naomi

Mexican·$

This taco stand crafts its tortillas fresh on the spot, a detail that sets it apart. It's a casual, no-frills neighborhood spot perfect for a quick bite or a family outing.

🍽️92Food
70Vibe
💰90Value
🧹65Hygiene
💬

One of my favorite taco places. I got the Al Pastor and Carnitas. Everything is home-made and fresh, even the tortillas and sauces.

💬

This place is incredible. The best burrito I have ever had. I also went to Mariscos Jalisco across the street and thought this was way better.

💬

Street tacos, delicious and affordable. I always get the burrito, and it hits the spot.

Ideal for
Families with kidsSolo diningCasual weeknight dinner
Versailles Cuban Food
#13Hidden Gems
6 photos

Versailles Cuban Food

Cuban·$$

This La Cienega institution serves up generous portions of classic Cuban comfort food, with the signature garlic chicken being a consistent crowd-pleaser. It's a casual spot perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal, complete with a full bar for those looking to enjoy a drink.

🍽️92Food
75Vibe
💰85Value
📍65Location
💬

Been there 3 times and I'll continue to come back

💬

Staff very friendly and helpful

Ideal for
Cuban food enthusiasts and regularsQuick, generous meals to-goCatering and family dinners
Lalibela
#14Hidden Gems

Lalibela

Ethiopian·$$

Lalibela offers a deeply satisfying taste of Ethiopia, with a particular strength in its abundant vegetarian and vegan dishes. The injera is a fluffy, tangy delight, serving as the perfect base for a variety of flavorful stews and grilled meats. It's a welcoming spot for groups and dates, offering a casual yet intimate atmosphere.

🍽️92Food
85Vibe
💰85Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

The place was nice and clean and service was wonderful with an attentive lady who came to explain the selections to us.

💬

I've been here several times and the quality of the food and service has always been INCREDIBLE.

💬

Our server was extremely helpful in making sure we ordered a fine meal, avoiding duplicates as our party navigated the menu.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningVegetarian/Vegan meals
Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market
#15Hidden Gems
4 photos

Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market

Ethiopian·$$

This family-run spot in Little Ethiopia offers a warm, intimate atmosphere that feels like dining in a home kitchen. It's a place where the owners greet you like family and the authentic flavors of Ethiopia shine, especially in their diverse vegetarian and vegan offerings.

🍽️92Food
88Vibe
💰78Value
💬

I’ve been eating at these wonderful restaurants on Fairfax for decades; we chose this for lunch, and had a delicious meal!

💬

I am vegan and always order the yellow split pea dish, it is genuinely one of the best foods i’ve ever had.

💬

Have been several times when visiting LA and always loved the experience, the food and the vibes.

Ideal for
Group diningFamilies with kidsCasual weeknight dinner
Spicy Sugar Thai Mid-City
#16Hidden Gems
6 photos

Spicy Sugar Thai Mid-City

Thai·$

This unassuming Mid-City spot serves authentic Thai street food, a welcome alternative to trekking to Thai Town. The kitchen offers both familiar favorites and more adventurous traditional dishes, prepared with care and packed with flavor.

🍽️94Food
88Vibe
💰82Value
50Wait
💬

As of writing this, the prices are amazing, the food was fresh and yummy, and very cute location (parking a little weird)

💬

The server was SO nice and SO friendly and very helpful amazing.

💬

Proper family vibe! Highly recommend and will be going back again!

Ideal for
Families with kidsSolo diningAuthentic Thai street food
Awash
#17Hidden Gems
4 photos

Awash

Ethiopian·$$

Awash serves up authentic Ethiopian cuisine with generous portions, reminiscent of a family kitchen. It's a casual, welcoming spot perfect for introducing newcomers to the flavors of Ethiopia.

🍽️90Food
78Vibe
💰88Value
65Wait
💬

The interior appears recently renovated, it was clean and modern. The bathroom sink was great! Good water pressure, hot water, and beautiful bowl sink.

💬

The service was excellent and our server, Shewit, was extremely pleasant and helpful. I can’t wait to go back to this restaurant again.

💬

We were blown away by the vegan combo. The Awaze chicken was amazing!

Ideal for
Families with kidsCasual weeknight dinnerIntroducing Ethiopian cuisine
India Sweets & Curry House
#18Hidden Gems
6 photos

India Sweets & Curry House

Indian·$$

This is a no-nonsense Indian grocery and cafeteria-style eatery where the focus is squarely on authentic, home-style cooking. Expect incredibly affordable meals and a vast selection of spices, making it a go-to for budget-conscious students and home cooks alike.

🍽️80Food
60Vibe
💰95Value
💬

The decor is sparse, and the value is in your face, wonderful.

💬

Parking lot on one side and market on the other with the restaurant in the middle.

💬

The owner is very helpful and knows every single item he has in the store.

Ideal for
Budget-friendly mealsStudentsHome cooks
Blosom Japanese Restaurant (on la Cienega)
#19Hidden Gems
6 photos

Blosom Japanese Restaurant (on la Cienega)

Japanese·$$

This Japanese spot offers fresh, healthy options with a casual, modern vibe, making it a welcome alternative in its mall setting. It's a convenient neighborhood stop for a quick, affordable meal, whether dining solo or with family.

🍽️88Food
85Vibe
💰88Value
65Wait
💬

The food was fantastic! The portions are perfect for the price!

💬

The other food options in this mall are fast food oriented, but Blosom is a very welcome alternative.

💬

I've been to their fist location in LA. It tastes as good as there. Great quality control.

Ideal for
Solo diningFamilies with kidsQuick weeknight meals
Pizza Mark Kosher
#20Hidden Gems

Pizza Mark Kosher

Pizza·$$

This kosher pizzeria offers a wide variety of pizzas, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, at budget-friendly prices. It's a family-friendly spot where the owner is often present, though interactions can be inconsistent.

🍽️85Food
85Vibe
💰90Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

I was crying from a Netflix showed I was watching in the car while I was waiting for my pizza slices.

💬

Pizza Mark is the lowest-priced kosher pizza place in LA. The pizza is generally good, but on multiple occasions the food we ordered from here was spoiled and not edible.

💬

I like the vegetarian Pizza they had, plus I added Pinapples and Spinach.

Ideal for
Families with kidsKosher diningBudget-friendly meals
Hasiba Restaurant
#21Hidden Gems

Hasiba Restaurant

Mediterranean·$$$

This Hollywood spot pulses with energy, offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for celebrations or solo nights out. With a full bar and attentive service, it's designed for a lively evening.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰75Value
💬

Impeccable service, delicious and authentic food and the decor is stunning, you feel like you’re stepping in 1001 nights dream.

💬

It was the first time here and from start to finish the service was incredible considering it was a busy night.

💬

I ended up in hollywood to visit family after driving 12 hours down the I5 to deliver a puppy from Oregon.

Ideal for
Group celebrationsDate nightSolo dining
Fat Tomato Pizza La Cienega
#22Hidden Gems

Fat Tomato Pizza La Cienega

Pizza·$

Fat Tomato Pizza serves up classic pies with a focus on fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. This neighborhood spot is particularly well-suited for families and group gatherings, offering a casual vibe with comfortable booths.

🍽️88Food
80Vibe
💰80Value
💬

This place was just what was needed, 9 adults and 12 kids, Small Pizza party, was just amazing

💬

The pizza here is superb here! The best pizza in the neighborhood!

💬

The service was amazing, especially considering it was just one employee running the place - friendly, welcoming, and really on top of it.

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningCasual weeknight dinner
Meals By Genet
#23Hidden Gems

Meals By Genet

Ethiopian·$$

Meals by Genet offers a deeply personal take on Ethiopian cuisine, with Chef Genet herself often present in the kitchen. The intimate, minimalist space is perfect for dates, yet welcoming enough for families and solo diners.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰70Value
🔊65Noise
💬

The doro wot is a revelation of spice. Unlike the other restaurants on the row, she makes her own injera bread - a remarkable feat.

💬

This place is in little Ethiopia and there is no dedicated parking or valet so look for a street parking spot.

💬

There are usually plenty. Feed the meter with an hour and a half though because the food takes a while.

Ideal for
Date nightFamilies with kidsSolo dining
Wi Jammin Caribbean Cafe
#24Hidden Gems

Wi Jammin Caribbean Cafe

Caribbean·$$

This casual Caribbean cafe focuses on authentic Jamaican flavors, with oxtail being a consistent star. Portions are generous, making it a satisfying stop for a hearty meal.

🍽️92Food
70Vibe
💰75Value
60Wait
💬

I drive all the way from Long Beach to buy this delicious dish.

💬

The goat is my favorite the oxtails is to die for the portions is worth the price you won't be disappointed

💬

This place is no frills, relaxed, and focused on the food - which is delicious.

Ideal for
Solo diningCasual meals
Doña Félix Restaurant
#25Hidden Gems
6 photos

Doña Félix Restaurant

Mexican·$$

This family-owned spot serves up authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions, making it a go-to for locals. The owner is known for accommodating special requests, like cooking meals with no salt.

🍽️85Food
75Vibe
💰75Value
💬

I like it, basic place tucked away in the corner, breakfast eggs, nicely seasoned, excellent coffee, outstanding homemade hot sauce, I like it

💬

Breakfast eggs, nicely seasoned, first-rate coffee, top-notch homemade hot sauce, I like it

💬

Any time you hungry, just stop to doña Felix place,very friendly stuff ,specially WILLY,always ready to share a nice smile.

Ideal for
Families with kidsCasual weeknight dinner
New York's Chopped Cheese (Mid-City)
#26Hidden Gems

New York's Chopped Cheese (Mid-City)

American·$$

This spot brings a taste of New York's iconic chopped cheese to Los Angeles, serving up a familiar bodega-style sandwich with a lively atmosphere. It's a casual, family-friendly counter-service joint that aims to replicate the authentic street food feel.

🍽️80Food
80Vibe
💰60Value
🛡️60Safety
💬

The Banger is exactly that and these tater tots are fantastic.

💬

Dude at the register was super nice despite being the only one working and getting a rush of orders, friendly and patient with my annoying with/without ketchup questions.

💬

The restaurant itself is immaculately clean (even by new restaurant standards).

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerFamilies with kidsLate-night cravings
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