Introduction
Tired of the same old dining hall routine? Craving something beyond the familiar cafeteria offerings? If you’re a student, faculty member, or visitor searching for truly good food near UCLA, you’re in luck. Situated in the vibrant Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, the University of California, Los Angeles, finds itself surrounded by a diverse and delicious culinary landscape. From quick and affordable bites to upscale dining experiences, the options are seemingly endless. Navigating this vast array of choices can be overwhelming, but fear not! This guide is your passport to discovering the best culinary experiences near UCLA, catering to various tastes, budgets, and occasions. We’ll help you uncover hidden gems, revisit classic staples, and find the perfect meal, whether you’re looking for a late-night study snack or a celebratory dinner.
Westwood Village Dining: The Heart of UCLA’s Food Scene
Let’s begin our culinary journey in Westwood Village, the immediate area that surrounds UCLA. This bustling hub is packed with restaurants, cafes, and eateries, providing convenient options for students and faculty on the go. Westwood Village is a prime location if you’re looking for good food near UCLA without venturing too far.
Casual Dining
No exploration of Westwood Village is complete without a visit to Fat Sal’s Deli. A UCLA institution, Fat Sal’s is renowned for its over-the-top sandwiches and hearty portions. Its menu is a testament to excess, featuring creations piled high with fries, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, and all sorts of delectable, indulgent ingredients. It’s a perfect spot for a post-exam feast or a late-night craving. Then, there is the must-visit In-N-Out Burger. This California classic is an experience in itself. Known for its simple menu, fresh ingredients, and secret menu options, In-N-Out offers a quintessential California burger experience that won’t break the bank. For those seeking a healthier option, Tender Greens is the way to go. This chain offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, and plates featuring locally sourced ingredients. It’s a quick, delicious, and nutritious choice for a lunch or dinner. Finally, Noodle World Junior, known for its affordable and flavorful noodle dishes, is a favorite among students on a tight budget. With a wide variety of Asian-inspired noodle soups and stir-fries, it’s a comforting and satisfying option.
Sit-Down Restaurants
For those wanting a sit-down experience, start with Diddy Riese. This legendary bakery is famed for its ridiculously cheap and incredibly delicious ice cream sandwiches. The lines can be long, but the affordable price and the satisfying treat make it worthwhile. The Boiling Crab is another classic spot if you like getting a little messy. Get ready to don a bib and dig into a flavorful seafood boil, complete with your choice of sauces and spice levels. It’s a fun and communal dining experience perfect for sharing with friends. Finally, there is Palomino, an upscale American restaurant. It offers a more refined dining experience, with a menu featuring classic American dishes prepared with a modern twist. It’s a great option for a special occasion or a business lunch.
Coffee & Cafes
Regarding coffee and cafes, you have plenty of options here too. Starbucks, for its convenience and familiarity, needs no introduction. A reliable option for a caffeine fix and a quick snack. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, a competitor to Starbucks, is also a popular chain, offering a similar range of coffee, tea, and pastries. If you are looking for something a little more boutique, then Alfred Coffee has to be your choice. Known for its artisanal coffee and stylish atmosphere, Alfred Coffee is a popular spot for students and locals alike.
Venturing Beyond the Village: Exploring Westwood’s Wider Culinary Scene
While Westwood Village offers plenty of options, expanding your search a bit further unlocks even more culinary treasures. A little exploration reveals even more good food near UCLA than you imagined. Let’s broaden our scope and explore restaurants within a one- to two-mile radius of campus.
International Cuisine
If you have a yearning for Persian food, then look no further than Attari Sandwich Shop. This unassuming deli serves up delicious Persian sandwiches and soups. It’s a great spot for a quick and flavorful lunch. For a wider variety of Japanese food, venture to Sawtelle Japantown. A short drive or bus ride from UCLA, Sawtelle Japantown is home to a plethora of ramen shops, sushi restaurants, and other Japanese eateries. This vibrant neighborhood offers a diverse range of Japanese culinary delights. Shamshiry serves up authentic Persian cuisine. This restaurant offers a more formal dining experience, with a menu featuring classic Persian dishes like kebabs, stews, and rice plates.
Hidden Gems
If you want some of the hidden gems around town, start by doing a bit of digging! Local blogs and review sites often highlight smaller, locally-owned restaurants with unique offerings. These hidden gems provide a more authentic and less touristy dining experience. The restaurant scene is constantly changing, so explore and discover your own favorites.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Bru’s Wiffle offers creative waffle creations and breakfast specialties. It’s a popular spot for a weekend brunch. John O’ Groats is a cozy restaurant serving hearty breakfast and lunch dishes. It’s a great option for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Dining on a Dime: Budget-Friendly Options Near UCLA
Let’s face it: being a student often means being on a tight budget. Fortunately, finding good food near UCLA doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of restaurants and food trucks offering great value for money.
Keep an eye out for food trucks. Food trucks frequently park near UCLA, offering a variety of affordable and delicious options. From tacos and burgers to Korean BBQ and ice cream, food trucks provide a convenient and budget-friendly way to grab a quick bite. Look up specific trucks on social media to see their schedule. Many local restaurants offer happy hour deals, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers. This is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal at a fraction of the cost. Also, many of the restaurants mentioned earlier in Westwood Village, like Noodle World Junior and Diddy Riese, offer affordable eats that won’t drain your wallet.
Special Occasions: Elevating Your Dining Experience
When you’re celebrating a special occasion, going on a date, or simply want to impress visitors, you need a restaurant that elevates the dining experience.
If you’re willing to splurge and travel outside of Westwood, Spago Beverly Hills, Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant, is a legendary dining destination. Offering exceptional food and impeccable service, it’s a truly memorable experience. Closer to home, The Royce Wood-Fired Kitchen at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, is another luxurious option. While it requires a drive, The Royce offers a refined dining experience in a beautiful setting. To find accessible options with a nice ambiance, search online reviews and look for restaurants that offer a combination of good food, elegant decor, and attentive service.
Plant-Based Paradise: Vegetarian and Vegan Options
For those following vegetarian or vegan diets, finding suitable options is crucial. Luckily, there are excellent choices for good food near UCLA that are plant-based.
Start with Native Foods, a chain restaurant specializing in vegan comfort food. From burgers and sandwiches to salads and bowls, Native Foods offers a variety of delicious and satisfying vegan options. Veggie Grill is another popular chain that caters to vegetarians and vegans. With a menu featuring plant-based burgers, salads, and bowls, Veggie Grill is a great option for a quick and healthy meal. Even restaurants that don’t specialize in vegetarian or vegan cuisine often offer plant-based options. For example, Tender Greens allows you to customize salads and plates with plant-based proteins and toppings.
Tips for Finding Your Own Culinary Gems
With so many options available, finding the perfect restaurant can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you discover your own culinary gems near UCLA:
Utilize online reviews. Yelp, Google Maps, and other review sites provide valuable insights into local restaurants. Pay attention to ratings, reviews, and photos to get a sense of the food, ambiance, and service. Ask for recommendations from locals. Students, faculty, and staff are excellent sources of information about the best restaurants near UCLA. Don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations. Embrace the opportunity to explore different neighborhoods. Venturing beyond Westwood Village can lead to the discovery of hidden culinary treasures. Don’t be afraid to explore different neighborhoods and cuisines. Always keep an eye on UCLA-related forums or social media groups for food recommendations. Students often share their favorite restaurants and hidden gems in these online communities.
Conclusion
The culinary scene near UCLA is as diverse and dynamic as the student body and the surrounding city. From the familiar comfort of Westwood Village to the hidden gems scattered throughout the surrounding neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. Remember, finding good food near UCLA is an adventure. Explore, experiment, and discover your own favorite spots. Happy eating! Explore the culinary scene near UCLA today! Your taste buds will thank you.
