The 19 Best Diners in Los Angeles for 2024
The best diners in Los Angeles have crowd-pleasing options all day long, so deciding where to eat in this vast city doesn’t have to be tricky. Who could turn down a hearty two-egg breakfast, thick and juicy burger or creamy milkshake?
Celebrate life in the Golden State with some golden hash browns, sunny eggs or hot and juicy hamburger combo. Whether you’re looking for nostalgic brunch spots in Eagle Rock or homestyle restaurants in Pasadena, we’ve got you covered with the best diners in Los Angeles.
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Find the Best Diners in Los Angeles
Searching for the best diners in Los Angeles can feel like a gargantuan task, but you don't have to go it alone. Sign up for food tours in Los Angeles to discover all the culinary adventures that the City of Angels has to offer. On food tours, you'll have the unique opportunity to explore some of the city's most popular destinations, learn about its rich history and vibrant culture and taste delicious bites from some of the best diners in Los Angeles. They're an eye-opening experience for locals, but they're the perfect California gift for visitors, too.
The Best Diners in Los Angeles
1. Rae’s Restaurant
Located in Santa Monica, Rae’s Restaurant has impressed locals as one of the best diners in Los Angeles since it first opened in 1958. This iconic diner has played a role in filming "True Romance," "Bowfinger" and "Lords of Dogtown." Rae’s is a cash-only restaurant, so be sure to bring plenty of change!
The Vibe
If you’re looking for the best diners in Los Angeles with that true vintage charm, you need to visit Rae’s Restaurant. This old-school diner features a neon sign, teal walls, red vinyl booths and barstool seating where you can watch the cooks grill up fresh foods on the griddle.
What to Order
Rae’s Restaurant is the best diner in Los Angeles for classic diner favorites, from chicken fried steak to French toast and huevos rancheros. The French toast is a breakfast staple at Rae’s, served hot and extra fluffy with an optional side of eggs, ham, bacon or sausage. For lunch, try the ½ pound Rae’s burger or tuna melt on rye bread.
Rae’s Restaurant | 2901 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405 | $$
2. Millie’s Café
Millie’s Café is one of the older names in the LA diner game, but everyone still recognizes them as one of the best diners in Los Angeles for a good reason. While the restaurant itself dates back to 1926, their menu has stayed relevant with both classic diner options and modern bites.
The Vibe
Millie’s Café is a modestly sized restaurant with a classic and cozy feel. Inside, you’ll find exposed brick walls, vintage signs and woodwork, not to mention fun touches like an antique cash register. This is a great place to enjoy a casual brunch date or quick lunch with friends.
What to Order
Millie’s Café has a huge menu and serves breakfast all day, so you’re sure to find something appetizing for everyone. Millie’s Café is also one of the best diners in Los Angeles for vegans and vegetarians, with an ample vegan menu full of options like vegan huevos rancheros, breakfast burritos and vegan chicken and waffles.
Millie’s Café | 3524 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026 | $$
3. Nick’s Café
Nick’s Café has two locations, in Eagle Rock and in the heart of Downtown LA, but it also holds a place in the hearts of many locals. Nick’s Café may not be one of the most exciting rooftop restaurants in Los Angeles, but inside this humble storefront you’ll find a treasure trove of deliciousness.
The Vibe
Nick’s Café is your neighborhood mom and pop breakfast stop, recognizable by its happy pig mascot out by the front door. The inside of the café is clutter-cozy, with wood-paneled walls, vinyl barstools and fascinating vintage trinkets, fan art and memorabilia scattered throughout the store.
What to Order
Nick’s Café is one of the best diners in Los Angeles for “border-style” breakfast foods like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros, but they also have an assortment of American classics like omelettes, bagel sandwiches and steak and eggs. Nick’s Café is an egg-lover’s paradise!
Nick’s Café | Multiple Locations | $$
4. Clark Street Diner
One of the most famous diners in Los Angeles, Clark Street Diner has starred in multiple films and TV shows, including Gilmore Girls, Entourage and Swingers. The building was formerly known as 101 Coffee Shop, but the legendary LA diner had to shut its doors following the 2020 pandemic. But don’t be disheartened; Clark Street Diner still stands out as one of the best diners in Los Angeles!
The Vibe
Recognizing how special the 101 Coffee Shop was, the owners of Clark Street Diner elected to keep the space as original as possible after purchasing the location, ensuring it remained one of the best diners in Los Angeles. Inside, you’ll find a cozy ‘60s-style coffee-colored interior, with brown leather booths, fun tile and stone walls and vintage globe pendants.
What to Order
Clark Street Diner serves all-day breakfast, sandwiches, salads and more, but their classic diner breakfast is a good place to start. Served with two eggs, two slices of bacon, hash browns and two fluffy pancakes, this filling plate at the best diner in Los Angeles is sure to brighten your whole day.
Clark Street Diner | 6145 Franklin Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028 | $$
5. Original Pantry Café
Established in 1924, Original Pantry Café is well-known as one of the best diners in Los Angeles. Visitors love their generous portions, fair prices and sitting at the bar to watch the cooks work their magic on the griddle. Like many other traditional diners in LA, Original Pantry Café accepts cash only.
The Vibe
One of the best diners in LA for that traditional diner feel, Original Pantry Café has a spacious dining room with checkered tile floors, vintage pendant lamps and plenty of tables and chairs for feeding the whole family.
What to Order
Fans who claim that Original Pantry Café is the best diner in Los Angeles rave about their nostalgic atmosphere and friendly service, but it’s the food that really knocks it out of the park. For breakfast, try the ever-popular French toast with sausage and eggs your way. For lunch, grab the incredibly crispy country fried steak.
Original Pantry Café | 877 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90017 | $$
6. Nat’s Early Bite Coffee Shop
Open at 7:00 a.m. every day, Nat’s Early Bite Coffee Shop has been one of the best diners in Los Angeles for over 30 years. If you’re preparing for a busy day of things to do in Los Angeles, fuel up at Nat’s Early Bite.
The Vibe
Nat’s has a cozy and low-key dining area with white walls, fun teal trim and several tables and booths. Up front, you’ll also find a display case with to-go goodies and pastries. This is an excellent spot to grab a casual brunch with friends or fuel up before visiting tourist sites like Universal City.
What to Order
Don’t let the name mislead you. Nat’s Early Bite serves up delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner — and some dishes that work well for all three! Nat’s is one of the best diners in LA any time you’re craving a savory eggs Benedict served with hash browns, home fries, tater tots, grits or fresh fruit.
Nat’s Early Bite Coffee Shop | 14115 Burbank Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91401 | $$
7. The Serving Spoon
Established in 1983, The Serving Spoon is actually one of the younger classic diners on this list but still highly praised as one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles. The Serving Spoon specializes in Southern comfort foods like short ribs, fried catfish, grits and sausage — bites that are guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
The Vibe
The Serving Spoon has that classic small hometown diner feel, with brown beadboard walls, a long wooden bar counter with wooden chairs, old family photos and red leather booths. Unlike some of the other best diners in Los Angeles, The Serving Spoon even has a few large booths, perfect for dining with a group of friends or family.
What to Order
The Serving Spoon’s mission is to make you experience “love at first bite,” so you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu at this best diner in Los Angeles. One popular option is the salmon croquettes, served with cornbread and your choice of two sides like collard greens and candied yams.
The Serving Spoon | 1403 Centinela Ave., Inglewood, CA 90302 | $$
8. Cindy’s Restaurant
Cindy’s Restaurant is one of the most famous diners in Los Angeles for its location on Route 66. It's often considered one of the most fun restaurants in Los Angeles as well and has appeared in a few pop culture hits like Surviving Christmas, starring Ben Affleck, and Justin Timberlake’s music video for “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”
The Vibe
If you’re on the hunt for the best diner in Los Angeles vibes-wise, Cindy’s Restaurant is certainly a strong contender. The inside of Cindy’s feels like a portal to a more colorful, vibrant and exciting time, with funky orange booths, candy green walls and midcentury star wallpaper. This is a great place for a casual brunch date idea in Los Angeles.
What to Order
For an unforgettable breakfast at the best diner in Los Angeles, opt for Cindy’s fried egg sandwich, served with cheddar cheese, spicy mayo and grilled tomato on crispy toast. If you’re more in the mood for a healthy lunch, Cindy’s has you covered with veggie burgers, chicken gumbo and a wide range of salads.
Cindy’s Restaurant | 1500 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90041 | $$
9. Pat & Lorraine’s Coffee Shop
Known for their authentic hometown atmosphere, huge portions and delicious no-frills food, Pat & Lorraine’s Coffee Shop is a kitschy local diner located in Eagle Rock. One of the most famous diners in Los Angeles, the opening scene of Reservoir Dogs was filmed at Pat & Lorraine’s, so this iconic coffee shop is partially to thank for Tarantino’s directing debut.
The Vibe
Pat & Lorraine’s Coffee Shop is one of the best diners in LA to go to when you’re craving a hearty, filling meal in a low-key atmosphere. The dining room has red tile floors and red chairs surrounding a few standalone tables, and the walls are decorated with vintage artwork and photographs.
What to Order
Pat & Lorraine’s Coffee Shop is arguably the best diner in Los Angeles for a classic homestyle omelette. The chile verde omelette is one great option, smothered with plenty of verde sauce and topped with tender pork. Be sure to order a side of their amazingly fluffy biscuits to sop up every drop.
Pat & Lorraine’s Coffee Shop | 4720 Eagle Rock Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90041 | $$
10. The Coffee Company
Established in 1978, The Coffee Company is conveniently located near LAX airport, perfect for grabbing a bite before catching a flight or dropping off loved ones. In addition to some incredible coffee and tea, The Coffee Company is also one of the best diners in Los Angeles to enjoy classic diner food with some fun new twists.
The Vibe
The vibe at The Coffee Company is much more than just your standard greasy spoon. This classy best diner in Los Angeles has beautiful wooden booths, exposed brick walls, gorgeous scenic wallpaper and even a few understated chandeliers. If you’re looking for the best brunch in Los Angeles or the best diner in Los Angeles to impress your date, it’s here.
What to Order
The Coffee Company is the best diner in Los Angeles for all your favorite diner fare options, but we’d recommend trying something a little outside the box, like their snow crab omelette, ratatouille crêpes or avocado melt burger. Of course, you also have to treat yourself to an incredible coffee or indulge in a boozy brunch with their delightful selection of Champagne, mimosas, beer and wine.
The Coffee Company | 8751 La Tijera Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045 | $$
11. Russell’s
Located in Pasadena, Russell’s is one of the best diners near Los Angeles for a filling and decadent brunch, lunch or dinner. Russell’s serves a surprisingly wide variety of menu items, from bacon and eggs to croque monsieur, hot wings and pastas, as well as a good selection of cocktails.
The Vibe
Russell’s has a very classy, warm and charming atmosphere, featuring cozy red walls, wood floors, crown molding, eye-catching artwork and mini chandeliers hanging over every red booth. If you ask us, this is a perfect place to warm up on a cold winter day or start the morning off right with your sweetheart.
What to Order
Russell’s is probably the best diner in Los Angeles for friends or couples who can’t decide where to eat. One popular option on their incredibly diverse menu is the croque madame sandwich with ham, gouda and Mornay sauce topped with sourdough bread and an egg. Pair with a delicious brunch cocktail like the raspberry royale.
Russell’s | 30 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103 | $$
12. Langer’s Delicatessen
Located just west of Downtown LA, Langer’s Delicatessen has a long, rich history in Los Angeles, but the deli rose to fame in the late 1950s when its incredible rye bread took the city by storm. Langer’s Delicatessen is the best diner in Los Angeles when you’re craving deli classics like hot pastrami, corned beef or cold-cut sandwiches.
The Vibe
The spacious dining area at Langer’s Deli has a very clean and classic feel, with dark wood walls, brown leather booths and a massive deli counter where cooks prepare fresh sandwiches and more. As you might imagine, this popular restaurant can get busy during the day, but it’s a perfect place to stop for lunch near Downtown LA.
What to Order
Langer’s Deli has so many amazing options, but the pastrami sandwiches are what make them one of the best diners in Los Angeles. They have a few pastrami sandwich options, like pastrami with Swiss cheese, tomato or chopped liver, but any one of them is sure to blow your mind. Other specialties include their cheese blintzes, potato pancakes and matzo ball soup.
Langer’s Delicatessen | 704 S. Alvarado St., Los Angeles, CA 90057 | $$
13. Teddy’s Café
Teddy’s Café is run by the same owners as the famous Rae’s Restaurant, so you know they’re bound to earn a place on the list of best diners in Los Angeles! Teddy’s offers traditional American favorites like pancakes, pork chops, club sandwiches and fried fish.
The Vibe
It’s safe to say that Teddy’s Café has an eclectic dining room that feels a little like your grandpa’s quirky garage. Inside, you’ll find mismatched vintage tables and chairs, stained glass pendant lamps, old signage and fun collectible items like toy cars. The restaurant also has a covered patio area, great for enjoying a cool breeze and delicious food at one of the best diners in Los Angeles.
What to Order
Teddy’s Café serves some awesome breakfast and lunch options, but this is an excellent place to go all-out with a hearty dinner. Try the fried pork chops or prime rib dinner with mashed potatoes, savory gravy and steamed vegetables.
Teddy’s Café | 12043 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064 | $$
14. Ronnie’s Diner
One of the best diners in Los Angeles for health enthusiasts, Ronnie’s Diner focuses on serving delicious high-quality meals with fresh ingredients. But don’t let their health-conscious ideals lead you to believe that the food isn’t just as flavorful! Located on Culver Boulevard near Marina Del Rey, Ronnie’s Diner is the perfect place to stop for lunch before heading to the beach or the airport.
The Vibe
Ronnie’s Diner has a fresh, open atmosphere that feels a little brighter than your typical neighborhood greasy spoon. The inside of the space has a vaulted ceiling with bright white walls, simple gray and black booths and wooden tables. Ronnie’s is one of the best diners in Los Angeles to enjoy a quick and casual breakfast or lunch.
What to Order
In addition to their fresh take on decorating, Ronnie’s Diner is the best diner in Los Angeles for fresh takes on go-to classic best breakfast ideas. Try the chorizo bowl with fresh chorizo, fried egg, diced potatoes, corn tortillas, sour cream and avocado or the Florentine melt sandwich with chicken, spinach, mushroom and Swiss cheese.
Ronnie’s Diner | 12740 Culver Blvd., Suite J, Los Angeles, CA 90066 | $$
15. Pann’s Restaurant
Pann’s Restaurant is a family-owned diner that opened in 1958 and has since served as a cultural icon for the city of Los Angeles. Pann’s has been featured in a variety of movies and TV shows, including Bewitched, xXx, Matchstick Men and Next.
The Vibe
Some would say that Pann’s Restaurant is the best diner in Los Angeles for a nostalgic, retro feel and Googie architecture — and we’d have to agree. Inside, you’ll find plush red vinyl booths, a long bar with white vinyl chairs, vintage light fixtures and other quirky touches of times gone by.
What to Order
If you’re a fan of chicken and waffles, Pann’s Restaurant is definitely the best diner in Los Angeles for you. Pann’s Restaurant presents a world of flavor with their hotcake plates, including a waffle, French toast or pancakes and your choice of sides and proteins like fried chicken wings, chicken sausage and more.
Pann’s Restaurant | 6710 La Tijera Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045 | $$
16. The Kettle
Located just off of Manhattan Beach, The Kettle brings an element of sophistication to the table, making it one of the best diners in Los Angeles for impressing out-of-towners. On the menu, you’ll find a good variety of top-notch comfort foods and crowd-pleasing staples.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at The Kettle almost feels more like a New York jazz club or speakeasy than one of the best diners in Los Angeles. With its dim lighting, dark wood furnishings and beautiful red brick floors, this is the best diner in Los Angeles for a romantic date or intimate group dinner.
What to Order
Endlessly comforting and perfectly cheesy, the French onion soup is one of The Kettle’s most famous dishes, with many visitors claiming it’s the best soup they’ve ever tasted — probably why many say it's the best diner in Los Angeles. Other delightful options include the braised pot roast, glazed Atlantic salmon and an ample selection of wine.
The Kettle | 1138 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 | $$
17. Pacific Diner
As the name might imply, Pacific Diner is a cute and beachy diner located near the coast in San Pedro. Before a long day at the beach or on the water, Pacific Diner is the best diner in Los Angeles to relax and refuel with some Tex-Mex breakfast, classic sandwiches or a big bowl of chili.
The Vibe
Pacific Diner is one of the best diners in Los Angeles, but the storefront has a casual, local diner appeal with a modest dining room and beachy motifs. Inside, you’ll find multiple tables with blue stacking chairs, blue and white striped awnings and a lovely mural of the coastline.
What to Order
The John Wayne special is a go-to option here, with two eggs, four sausage links, potato, gooey cheese and Spanish sauce on a corn tortilla. For a meal that’ll cure any ocean chill, try a big bowl of clam chowder or chili with freshly chopped onions.
Pacific Diner | 3821 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731 | $$
18. The Griddle Café
The Griddle Café is located in West Hollywood, just off of Sunset Boulevard. This popular restaurant is well-known among locals as one of the best diners in Los Angeles for incredible pancakes, breakfast tacos and boozy brunch beverages.
The Vibe
Despite serving up some classic diner foods, The Griddle Café has a modern interior design that helps it stand out from the crowd. With exposed brick walls, charming booths and tables and a lively atmosphere, it’s one of the best diners in Los Angeles for a fun group meal with friends or a celebratory brunch.
What to Order
Pancake lovers rejoice; The Griddle is the best diner in Los Angeles for enormous pancake plates and fun flavor combinations. Take the “Black Magic” for example, an oversized pancake made with crushed Oreo cookies and topped with whipped cream and more Oreos. And let’s not forget about their bottomless mimosas!
The Griddle Café | 7916 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046 | $$
19. Horseless Carriage
Last but certainly not least on our list of the best diners in Los Angeles, Horseless Carriage is located in the North Hills neighborhood. This vintage-style diner is beloved for its charming retro interior, decadent menu options and friendly staff.
The Vibe
Inspired by its location as part of the Galpin Motors car dealership, Horseless Carriage has a clean and sleek interior design with some decidedly automotive-like touches. Inside, you’ll find pretty teal vinyl booths and bar chairs, vintage hanging lamps, terrazzo floors, art deco frosted glass and an outdoor seating area.
What to Order
For breakfast or brunch, try the lobster and eggs with peppers and onions, homestyle potatoes, cheese and sour cream. At lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with a BLT sandwich or juicy signature Horseless Carriage famous cheeseburger. Treat yourself to some apple pie à la mode for the ultimate all-American diner experience.
Horseless Carriage | 15505 Roscoe Blvd., North Hills, CA 91343 | $$
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When you’re on the hunt for the best diner in Los Angeles, this charming city has no shortage of wonderful options to choose from. Whether you’re craving a juicy cheeseburger, a classic egg omelette or a snazzy new brunch spot, you’re bound to find one of the best diners in Los Angeles right around the corner.
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