Westwood is one of LA’s prettiest neighborhoods. It’s home to the famous UCLA, and it hosts a number of trendy shops and great restaurants on its walkable streets (a rarity in Los Angeles!). Here are five of its top dining experiences:
Diddy Riese
This modest cookie shop has been a Westwood institution since 1983. Lines snake across its location on Broxton Avenue throughout the day. Although they serve shaved ice, hot dogs and brownies, Diddy Riese is most famous for its $1.50 ice cream cookie sandwiches. You choose the cookie (chocolate chip, M&M, cinnamon, etc) and any of their Dreyer’s ice cream flavors. Everything in the shop is delicious and reasonably priced.
Stan’s Doughnuts
Another Westwood favorite, Stan’s Doughnuts has been in business since 1965. The store is TINY, located on the corner of Weyburn Avenue. Given the limited seating, most of the orders are to go. This is for a good reason: the pastries are huge! Try the peanut butter and jelly doughnut or a maple bar. These will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Farmer’s Market
On Wednesdays from 5-8pm, local farmers, bakers and craftsmen sell their products on Weyburn and Broxton Street. It’s not a large farmer’s market, but it’s quaint and provides a nice browsing experience before heading to dinner or out on the town. Try to come around closing time to get good deals, such as 3 packs of strawberries for $5.
Native Foods
This acclaimed vegan restaurant on Gayley Avenue offers hearty foods loaded with veggies, cassava based cheese and grains. Have a “chicken” ranch run burger, chili cheese fries and some nachos without feeling deprived or guilty.
Soleil
This charming French Canadian restaurant stands out from the crowd on Westwood Boulevard with cheery yellow walls, fairy lights, and a sun-shielded al fresco dining area. Try the Canadian classic poutine (French fries with gravy and cheese curd), beef bourguignon, or a lovely feuillete de fraise (puff pastry with cream and strawberries).
Photo of an interior detail of Native Foods Eatery, Los Angeles, CA, by ballookey.
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