Los Angeles is a sprawling playground of flavors, where global cuisines collide with laid-back California cool. Anthony Bourdain, the late culinary legend and storyteller, had a deep appreciation for the city’s vibrant food scene. To him, Los Angeles wasn’t about fine dining or chasing trends — it was about finding soul in the most unexpected places. From iconic institutions to hole-in-the-wall treasures, Bourdain’s favorite spots reflect his ethos of eating without pretension.  

Spending a day eating like Anthony Bourdain in Los Angeles means one thing — unbridled indulgence. These spots offer a snapshot of city’s diverse culinary landscape, from street food to cult-favorite classics, where every bite tells a story. Whether it’s the smoky spices of Oaxacan mole, a perfectly grilled Korean short rib, or a late-night burger run, these stops will take you on a flavorful journey through Bourdain’s L.A. 

NIGHT + MARKET SAHM (VENICE)

Night + Market encapsulates L.A.’s love for bold, unapologetic flavors, and it’s easy to see why Bourdain was drawn to this Thai street food haven. Located in the heart of Venice, the restaurant offers a menu that’s equal parts playful and fiery. Standout dishes include the crispy rice salad, packed with tangy lime and fresh herbs, and the fried chicken sandwich with nam prik aioli that’s a masterclass in spice and crunch. The casual, neon-lit atmosphere feels more like a bustling Bangkok bar than a Westside eatery, making it the perfect setting for adventurous dining. Pair your meal with one of their natural wines or an ice-cold beer for the full experience. Night + Market isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a celebration of the vibrant, street-smart energy that defines Thai cuisine.

PHILIPPE THE ORIGINAL (DTLA)

Awarded as one of America’s Classics by the James Beard Foundation, few places capture L.A.’s culinary history like Philippe the Original, the birthplace of the French Dip sandwich. Bourdain hailed this unassuming downtown institution for its no-frills approach to timeless flavors. Since 1908, the star of the show has been the double-dipped roast beef sandwich, served on a crusty roll soaked in savory au jus. Pair it with their sinus-clearing hot mustard and a side of tangy coleslaw, and you’ve got a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. The communal tables and sawdust-covered floors add to the charm, making it feel like a time capsule of early 20th-century Los Angeles. Philippe’s is proof that sometimes the best meals are the ones that stay true to their roots. 

IN-N-OUT

No list of Anthony Bourdain’s favorites would be complete without a nod to In-N-Out, the West Coast’s beloved burger chain. Known for its cult-like following and secret menu, this is fast food done right. Bourdain famously referred to In-N-Out as his “favorite restaurant in Los Angeles,” praising the purity of their cheeseburger, animal-style fries, and milkshakes. The simplicity of their menu is a testament to quality – fresh, never frozen beef patties, hand-cut fries, and buns toasted to perfection. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at the drive-thru or dining under the iconic yellow arrow, In-N-Out captures the laid-back, indulgent spirit of Southern California. 

CIELITO LINDO (DTLA)

Located on the bustling Olvera Street, Cielito Lindo has been serving its famous taquitos since 1934. Bourdain loved the simplicity of this L.A. institution, where the star is the perfectly crisp taquito smothered in avocado sauce. The sauce, tangy and creamy with just the right kick, is what sets this place apart. Pair your taquitos with a refreshing horchata for the ultimate street food experience. The open-air setting and historic location make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the roots of L.A.’s culinary scene.

RANDY’S DONUTS (INGLEWOOD)

No trip to L.A. is complete without a visit to Randy’s Donuts, the iconic shop with the giant donut sign towering over the 405. Bourdain had a soft spot for its classic, no-fuss offerings like the glazed donut — light, airy, and just sweet enough. Open 24/7, Randy’s is a go-to for late-night cravings or a morning pick-me-up with a cup of coffee. The retro vibe and quick service make it a quintessential part of the L.A. experience. Whether you’re a donut purist or feeling adventurous with flavors like maple bacon or jelly-filled, Randy’s has something for everyone.  

CHI SPACCA (WEST HOLLYWOOD)

Bourdain’s love of meat is on full display at Chi Spacca, a carnivore’s paradise helmed by chef Nancy Silverton. This upscale Italian steakhouse is all about bold, smoky flavors and expert technique. The menu features showstoppers like the bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive dry-aged porterhouse grilled to perfection, and the fennel pollen-rubbed porchetta. Even the sides, like roasted bone marrow and charred broccolini, are crafted with precision and care. The intimate dining room, with its open kitchen and warm lighting, creates a sense of theater that elevates the meal. Chi Spacca is a splurge-worthy destination for anyone who appreciates the art of meat. 

TAIL O’ THE PUP (SANTA MONICA)

Bourdain had a deep appreciation for roadside Americana, and Tail O’ the Pup is a prime example. This quirky hot dog stand, shaped like a giant hot dog, is a slice of pure Los Angeles nostalgia. Originally opened in 1946, it recently reopened after a loving restoration, bringing back its signature charm. The menu sticks to the classics: juicy hot dogs, chili cheese fries, and thick milkshakes. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the history in every bite, a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. For Bourdain, Tail O’ the Pup embodied the simple joys of roadside dining.

PINK’S (WEST HOLLYWOOD)

Are we really surprised that there are two hot dog joints on Bourdain’s favorites list? A quintessential Los Angeles landmark, Pink’s Hot Dogs is where old Hollywood glamour meets comfort food simplicity. For over 80 years, this family-run stand has been serving up hot dogs loaded with chili, cheese, and an endless variety of toppings. Bourdain loved its unpretentious charm, standing in line alongside tourists and locals alike for a bite of nostalgia. The “Martha Stewart Dog,” topped with relish, onions, bacon, and sour cream, is a playful nod to the stand’s celebrity clientele. With its retro vibe and walls covered in autographed photos, Pink’s feels like stepping into L.A.’s golden age. It’s not just a meal — it’s a rite of passage for anyone looking to experience the city’s enduring love affair with comfort food. 

CHILI JOHN’S (BURBANK)

Chili John’s is a slice of Americana that feels frozen in time, and Bourdain couldn’t resist its retro charm. The signature dish here is the chili, served over spaghetti or beans and topped with cheese and onions. It’s hearty, comforting, and unapologetically old-school, served in a diner-style setting that hasn’t changed much since the 1940s. The staff treat you like family, adding to the warmth and nostalgia of the experience. For Bourdain, Chili John’s was a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the enduring appeal of a well-made bowl of chili. 

PARKS BBQ (KOREATOWN)

Bourdain’s love for Korean food brought him to Parks BBQ, a Koreatown institution renowned for its premium meats and impeccable service. The kalbi (short ribs) are the star, grilled tableside and bursting with smoky, savory flavor. Banchan (side dishes) like kimchi, pickled radish, and soybean sprouts round out the feast, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The upscale yet unpretentious vibe makes it a standout in a neighborhood full of stellar barbecue spots. Parks BBQ is more than a meal — it’s an experience that captures the communal joy of Korean dining. 

Anthony Bourdain’s Los Angeles wasn’t about glitz or glamour — it was about uncovering the soul of the city through its food. From the fiery flavors of Night + Market to the nostalgic charm of Chili John’s, these spots offer a glimpse into the city he loved. Each location is a testament to the city’s diversity, where culinary traditions from around the world coexist and thrive.  To eat like Bourdain is to embrace the beauty of imperfection, the joy of discovery, and the stories behind every dish. These spots aren’t just places to eat — they’re windows into the culture and community that make Los Angeles so special. So grab a fork, follow Bourdain’s trail, and savor the city one bite at a time.