Bold claim: this week’s most memorable bites prove that LA’s dining scene isn’t just alive—it’s thriving with texture, technique, and a touch of daring. But here’s where it gets controversial: you may not have tried some of these yet, and you’re missing out on a few surprises that defy expectations. Below is a fresh, expanded take on the best dishes Eater LA editors ate this week, keeping the essence and details intact while offering clearer explanations and new context for beginners.
Sweet and sour pork baby back ribs at Din Tai Fung, Arcadia
I grew up in Arcadia, where the first U.S. Din Tai Fung opened in 2000. Despite that local pedigree, I used to be skeptical of the global chain’s appeal, especially since the San Gabriel Valley is packed with standout Chinese places—many mom-and-pop spots in the SGV rival or surpass any chain in the country. Yet Din Tai Fung has grown into something compelling. The newer spaces feel grand and polished, and their dumplings are crafted with skins that yield to hot broth and delicate folds. The Shanghai-style pork ribs are among the best I’ve tasted: the meat is tender, the sauce strikes a masterful balance between sweet and tangy, and the bones are satisfying to chew cleanly before moving on to the next bite. I often reserve a bit of the rib sauce to pour over garlic green beans on the side. If you’re chasing the famous xiao long bao, you’ll likely be drawn in by those—then you’ll stay for the ribs. Location: 400 S. Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA 91007. — Kat Thompson, audience editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest
Jambalaya pasta at Heights Deli & Bottle Shop, Glassell Park
What began as a Lincoln Heights favorite has evolved into a beloved LA staple, with fans drawn not only by chicken Parmesan sandwiches and a broad take-home wine and beer list but also by standout pastas that work well for either lunch or dinner. When Heights opened a second location in Glassell Park in 2021, I became a regular, often ordering the chicken pesto pasta. More recently, a new star joined the lineup: penne jambalaya. The team keeps a brisk pace behind the scenes—chopping, marinating, and sautéing for takeout and for guests seated on the patio or inside. They plate perfectly cooked penne with Italian sausage, grilled chicken, slices of portobello, and marinated shrimp in a chile-spiked, incredibly creamy Bolognese sauce. It’s a dish that invites you to lean in, eat with focus, and let the sauce’s gradual warmth reveal itself. A smart move is to pair it with a well-chosen wine or bottle to elevate the whole experience. Location: 2135 N. San Fernando Road, Glassell Park, CA 90065. — Mona Holmes, editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest
Orange chicken wings at The Benjamin, Fairfax
I’ve been eager to try The Benjamin, LA’s sleek Melrose spot opened in 2024 by the team behind The Hundreds. A weekend visit to the bar for a martini and a few bites led me upstairs to Bar Benjamin, and the menu didn’t disappoint. Among a lineup of intriguing starters, the orange chicken wings stand out for diverging from the typical Panda Express-style dish. They showcase generous chicken drumsticks and wings, coated in a glossy orange-infused sweet-and-sour glaze and finished with sesame seeds. The result is sticky, indulgent, and perfectly suited as an upscale prelude to cocktails. I’d pair them with fries and house-pickled cauliflower for a complete bar-side triumph. Location: 7174 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046. — Nicole Fellah, Eater editorial manager
Rib-eye steak at Dunsmoor, Glassell Park
Los Angeles can’t seem to get enough of Dunsmoor, the wood-fired restaurant in Glassell Park led by chef Brian Dunsmoor, which weaves threads of food history into each plate. The dining room is often lively in the evening, with candlelight and long communal tables or intimate two-tops that encourage conversation over a good drink. My latest visit centered on the restaurant’s massive rib-eye, served medium-rare with a side of marrow for richness. This 32-ounce cut showcases a deep crust and exceptionally tender meat that nearly melts away with the first cut. While the rib-eye is the centerpiece, don’t miss the Carolina gold rice risotto and the pork and green chile stew with blistered flour tortillas on the side. If you can’t snag a seat in the main dining room, the walk-in wine bar nearby offers a condensed version of the menu that’s just as satisfying. Location: 3501 Eagle Rock Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90065. — Rebecca Roland, deputy editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest
