Los Angeles, the city of sunshine, celebrities, and…cravings. Let’s be honest, we all have those moments when a perfectly curated salad just won’t cut it. The craving for something truly indulgent, something that hits all the pleasure centers, something… *junk*. But what exactly is “junk food”? For the purpose of this exploration, we’re talking about the incredibly delicious, often calorically-dense, and undeniably satisfying treats that deviate from the path of health-conscious eating. We’re talking about the things that make your taste buds sing and your stomach smile (maybe not the next day, but definitely in the moment).
Los Angeles, a melting pot of cultures and culinary innovation, boasts a junk food scene as diverse and exciting as the city itself. From classic comfort foods elevated to gourmet status to outlandish creations that push the boundaries of deliciousness, there’s something for every craving imaginable. Forget the restrictive diets and guilt-ridden resolutions. This guide is dedicated to celebrating the pure, unadulterated joy of the best *junk food Los Angeles* has to offer, neatly categorized to satisfy any and all cravings. Get ready to ditch the kale and embrace the delicious chaos.
Sweet Cravings: Indulge Your Inner Child
Let’s face it, sugar is a universal language of happiness. When that sweet tooth strikes, nothing else will do. Los Angeles understands this intimately, offering a dizzying array of sugary delights.
Doughnut Dreams
Forget the bland, mass-produced pastries of your nightmares. Los Angeles elevates the humble doughnut to an art form. One prime example is Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee. Their daily-made doughnuts use high-quality ingredients, resulting in incredibly fresh and flavorful bites. The Huckleberry doughnut, with its tangy glaze and delicate crumb, is a perennial favorite, while the Maple Bacon doughnut provides the perfect salty-sweet balance. They are well known for using seasonal ingredients and for a variety of creative toppings that will make your mouth water.
Then there’s Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts. Yes, *that* Trejo. Danny Trejo’s doughnut shop is as iconic as the man himself, serving up a mix of classic flavors and creative collaborations. What makes them unique is their ability to capture that LA style and flavor, adding their special spin on a fan favorite. Keep an eye out for their vegan options, proving that plant-based doughnuts can be just as decadent.
Ice Cream/Frozen Treat Extravaganza
Los Angeles weather practically demands ice cream year-round. Luckily, the city is overflowing with artisanal ice cream shops pushing the boundaries of flavor and texture. McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams is a perfect example of this. Known for using locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to old-fashioned ice cream making techniques, McConnell’s delivers a supremely creamy and flavorful experience. The Turkish Coffee and Salted Caramel Chip are must-try flavors, exemplifying their dedication to quality. McConnell’s believes in sustainability and environmental responsibility, a great bonus to the delicious ice cream.
For a more adventurous palate, Wanderlust Creamery is the place to go. Their globally inspired flavors transport you to far-flung destinations with every spoonful. Try the Ube Malted Crunch for a Filipino-inspired delight or the Sticky Rice Mango for a taste of Thailand. Wanderlust takes pride in their experimental approach and is able to give customers delicious, unique flavors, a great addition to the *best junk food Los Angeles* has to offer.
Pastries and Dessert Decadence
Sometimes, you need something a little more sophisticated than a doughnut or a scoop of ice cream. For those occasions, Los Angeles offers a plethora of world-class pastry shops. Republique, a stunning restaurant and bakery in La Brea, is a must-visit for any serious pastry lover. Their French-inspired pastries are made with impeccable technique and the finest ingredients. The Madeleines, delicate and buttery, are perfect with a cup of coffee, while the Kouign Amann, with its layers of caramelized sugar and flaky dough, is pure indulgence. Everything is made in-house with great attention to detail.
On the other side of the spectrum, but equally delightful, is Milk Bar, known for its nostalgic flavors and playful creations. Their Cereal Milk™ Soft Serve is a revelation, capturing the taste of the milk left at the bottom of a bowl of cereal. And the Compost Cookie®, packed with pretzels, potato chips, coffee grounds, and butterscotch, is a surprisingly addictive mix of sweet and salty. If you like to experiment with flavors, Milk Bar is a great choice for the *best junk food Los Angeles*.
Savory Cravings: Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat – and Deliciousness
When the craving for something savory hits, only the perfect combination of salt, fat, acid, and heat will satisfy. Los Angeles delivers on all fronts, offering a diverse range of savory junk food options.
Burger Bliss
No junk food guide would be complete without mentioning burgers. Los Angeles is a burger mecca, with options ranging from classic fast-food staples to gourmet creations. In-N-Out Burger, a California institution, is a must-try for any visitor (or local, for that matter). Their simple menu, fresh ingredients, and “secret menu” options have earned them a loyal following. Ordering a Double-Double Animal Style is practically a rite of passage. The fresh ingredients and the simple menu make this *junk food Los Angeles* favorite a classic for a reason.
For a more upscale burger experience, head to Father’s Office. Their Office Burger, topped with caramelized onions, Gruyère, Maytag Blue, and bacon compote, is a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Note: No substitutions allowed! This burger is meticulously crafted and designed to be enjoyed as-is. Their location and atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy one of the *best junk food Los Angeles*.
Pizza Perfection
Whether you prefer a classic New York slice or a wood-fired Neapolitan pie, Los Angeles has a pizza for every palate. Pizzeria Mozza, Nancy Silverton’s acclaimed pizzeria, is a destination for pizza lovers. Their pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and flavorful toppings. The Squash Blossom Pizza is a seasonal favorite, showcasing the best of California produce.
If you are in the mood for that New York style, look no further than Cosa Buona. A restaurant located in Echo Park, their pizza is as authentic as it gets. The pizza with vodka sauce is a must-try, it encapsulates the flavors of a perfect New York slice.
French Fry Fantasies
French fries are the ultimate comfort food. Crispy, salty, and endlessly versatile, they’re the perfect accompaniment to a burger, a sandwich, or just about anything. Plan Check Kitchen + Bar offers a wide variety of french fry options with unique toppings and flavor combinations. Try the Sweet Potato Fries for a sweeter option with a kick of spice.
For a more classic experience, head to Carney’s, a Los Angeles institution housed in a vintage train car. Their chili cheese fries are legendary, a messy and delicious combination of crispy fries, hearty chili, and melted cheese. Simple yet effective, these chili cheese fries are the epitome of *junk food Los Angeles*.
Spicy Cravings: Fire Up Your Taste Buds
For those who crave a little heat, Los Angeles offers a plethora of spicy options that will set your taste buds ablaze.
Taco Temptation
Tacos are a staple of Los Angeles cuisine, and there’s no shortage of options for those who like it hot. Guerrilla Tacos, a former food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant, is known for their creative and flavorful tacos. The Sweet Potato Taco, with its smoky chipotle sauce, is a vegetarian delight, while the Shrimp Taco packs a serious punch of spice. The fresh ingredients and unique combinations are what sets Guerrilla Tacos apart from the rest.
For a more traditional taco experience, head to Leo’s Tacos Truck. Their al pastor tacos, marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and shaved onto warm tortillas, are legendary. Be sure to add a dollop of their spicy salsa verde for an extra kick. The Al pastor is a must have when thinking about *best junk food Los Angeles* and you can find Leo’s Tacos Truck operating at various spots throughout the city late at night.
Hot Chicken Inferno
Nashville-style hot chicken has taken Los Angeles by storm, and Howlin’ Ray’s is leading the charge. Their fried chicken sandwiches are coated in a fiery spice blend and served with pickles and slaw. Choose your spice level carefully, as even the mildest option packs a serious punch. The wait can be long, but the fiery deliciousness is well worth it.
Noodle Nirvana
When a spicy craving hits, nothing satisfies like a bowl of flavorful noodles. Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle is known for their rich and flavorful broth, customizable spice levels, and perfectly cooked noodles. They specialize in the Tsukemen ramen style, the noodles are served separately from the broth, which allows you to customize how rich and flavorful the dish will be.
Honorable Mentions
- Dodger Stadium’s Dodger Dog: No trip to Los Angeles is complete without trying this iconic hot dog.
- Pink’s Hot Dogs: Another Los Angeles hot dog institution with a huge variety of toppings.
- Porto’s Bakery & Cafe’s Potato Balls: A Cuban pastry filled with mashed potatoes and seasoned ground beef.
- Kettle Corn from a Street Vendor: A sweet and salty snack perfect for a sunny day.
Conclusion: Embrace the Indulgence
Los Angeles is a city of endless culinary possibilities, and its junk food scene is no exception. From decadent doughnuts to fiery hot chicken, there’s something to satisfy every craving imaginable. So, the next time you’re feeling a little rebellious (or just plain hungry), ditch the diet and embrace the indulgence. Explore the establishments listed in this guide, discover your own favorites, and remember that sometimes, the best things in life are a little bit junky. Don’t be afraid to try something new and allow yourself the pleasure of tasting what *junk food Los Angeles* has to offer.
What are your favorite *junk food Los Angeles* spots? Share them in the comments below!
