Top Restaurants Near Expo Park/USC Station

This unassuming mini-mart serves up surprisingly delicious, well-seasoned dishes, from fire asada fries to top-notch salmon and grilled veggies. The friendly staff and clean environment make it a solid local spot for a quick, satisfying meal.

This Oaxacan counter-service spot inside Mercado La Paloma focuses on masa and corn, crafting tortillas from scratch daily. It's a vibrant addition to the bustling food hall, offering a taste of authentic Mexico City street food.

A Michelin-starred seafood counter inside Mercado La Paloma serving ceviches, tostadas, aguachiles, and tacos built on aggressively fresh fish - sea urchin cracked open to order, scallops still briny, octopus stewed until tender. Weekend lines regularly hit 45-60 minutes and sometimes stretch into the parking lot, but once you reach the counter, plates land fast. Two people can eat well for $45-50 each, making this one of the most affordable Michelin-starred meals in the country. The blue corn tortillas are hand-pressed and thick enough to hold up to every bite.

Mercado La Paloma is a vibrant food hall that feels like a bustling Mexican market, offering a diverse range of authentic regional cuisines. It's a community hub where you can find everything from Oaxacan tamales to vegan Ethiopian dishes, all within a lively, art-filled space. The variety ensures there's something for every palate, making it a great spot for groups with different tastes.

This USC-area taqueria serves up authentic, old-school Mexican cooking, with a particular nod to the real vertical-spit al pastor. Portions are generous, often leaving enough for a second meal.

This taqueria inside a market serves up some of the best vegetarian wet burritos and al pastor tacos in Los Angeles, featuring handmade tortillas that are thick, soft, and fragrant. It's a casual spot where the food's authentic flavor and generous portions make it a go-to for a delicious and affordable meal.

This casual Thai spot inside Mercado La Paloma is a go-to for flavorful curries and generous portions. It's a lively, family-friendly destination offering a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

This sushi spot operates as a takeout and delivery-only establishment, focusing on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. It's a convenient option for late-night cravings, offering a casual vibe that appeals to solo diners and families alike.

This USC-adjacent pizzeria offers a relaxed, casual atmosphere perfect for groups and families. Early signs suggest a friendly owner and staff are ready to accommodate, making it a convenient stop on campus.

This USC campus Korean grill offers approachable, "Korean New" platters with a focus on slow-cooked meats and unique sides. It's a convenient spot for a flavorful, quick meal, especially for those new to Korean cuisine.

This Hollywood spot is a lively entertainment hub, perfect for groups and families looking for a casual night out with arcade games and a full bar. It's a go-to for catching live sports on big screens.

This USC-adjacent pizzeria serves up massive, flavorful pizza slices at a fantastic price, making it a go-to for game days. While the pizza itself is a solid choice, the wings have been noted as a weak point.

This spot is all about the micheladas, served in a lively, warehouse-style space that buzzes during sporting events. Expect creative, over-the-top drinks and a casual atmosphere perfect for groups or catching a game.

This Chick-fil-A location offers the familiar crispy chicken sandwiches and waffle fries that fans expect. While the chain is known for its consistent service, this particular spot has seen some recent issues with order accuracy and staff attitude.

This casual taco spot near USC offers a creative menu with dedicated vegetarian and vegan options. It's a family-friendly destination with a full bar, making it a convenient choice for a quick bite or a casual outing.