Welcome to Huntington Palisades: The Heart of Pacific Palisades Dining
If you ask locals where to find the best restaurants in Pacific Palisades, chances are you’ll get directions that lead straight to Huntington Palisades. Tucked between lush bluffs and palm-lined streets, this iconic neighborhood blends classic coastal charm with an elevated food scene that knows how to impress. Whether you’re a brunch devotee, a pastry lover, or just craving a memorable dinner, Huntington Palisades packs flavor on every corner.
Here’s my curated guide to the must-eat restaurants, charming cafés, mouthwatering bakeries, and even a few foodie secrets that locals whisper about at dinner parties.
Where Palisades Village Meets Culinary Excellence
Start your culinary journey at the stylish Palisades Village (Sunset Blvd & Swarthmore Ave), the heart of the area’s evolving food scene. Once a quiet neighborhood spot, it now buzzes with locals and a few celeb sightings, especially during weekend brunch or lazy lunches.
- Hank’s: Hank’s is the de facto “best burger” destination west of the 405. With its upscale-casual vibe and the legendary “Palisades Burger” ($17) topped with caramelized onions and secret sauce, it’s a neighborhood staple. Don’t miss their happy hour for crispy truffle fries and craft beers.
- Blue Ribbon Sushi: For fresh, melt-in-your-mouth nigiri or inventive rolls, Blue Ribbon Sushi delivers big-city quality in a chill Palisades setting. Sit at the bar, order the omakase (chef’s choice, varies around $45-60), and let the chefs wow you.
- Porta Via: A go-to spot for those who love California-Italian, Porta Via plate up perfect brunches—think ricotta pancakes and blueberry French toast—alongside power lunches with market-fresh salads and a knockout lemon chicken ($24).
Cozy Cafés and Coffeehouses: Your Morning Starts Here
Begin your day in Huntington Palisades the way the locals do: with a handcrafted latte and a big smile from the barista.
- The Draycott: Much more than your average café, The Draycott is an airy, British-inspired brasserie on Monument Street. Their all-day menu features everything from buttery croissants (creamy and local, $5) to grab-and-go salads and wood-fired flatbreads for a light lunch.
- Alfred Coffee: Alfred’s at Palisades Village is the see-and-be-seen coffee spot. Come for the iconic “But first, coffee” signs, stay for the rich cold brews and artisanal pastries like matcha croissants and almond bear claws.
Sweet Finds: Bakeries and Dessert Spots
No neighborhood guide is complete without a peek into its pastry cases.
- Sweet Laurel Bakery: For gluten-free, paleo, and vegan treats that don’t taste like compromise, Sweet Laurel is a revelation. Their chocolate caramel layer cake and lemon coconut bars are cult favorites (slices around $7)—and irresistibly pretty.
- Erewhon Market: While not a traditional bakery, Erewhon Sanctuary (Sunset Blvd & Monument St) is a temple to healthy indulgence. Pick up coconut yogurt parfaits, fresh-pressed juices, or Instagram-famous “Superfood Donuts” to fuel your morning surf or hike.
- SusieCakes: This retro-inspired bakery in the Palisades Village is beloved for its classic cupcakes, Southern layer cakes, and dreamy vanilla-blueberry cheesecakes.
Standout Dinner Destinations
Huntington Palisades transforms at dusk into a food lover’s paradise, perfect for elegant date nights or celebratory family dinners.
- Edo Little Bites: Tucked behind Swarthmore Ave, this Mediterranean boutique eatery channels Barcelona tapas bars. Order a spread of small plates—such as burrata with spiced apricot or grilled octopus—for a tour of bold, seasonal flavors (plates $10–$18).
- Tocco: Nestled on Monument Street, Tocco is a hidden gem serving up authentic Italian fare from chef Stefano Terzi. Pastas are handmade daily; don’t miss the black truffle tagliolini ($28) and the wood oven pizzas with San Marzano tomatoes.
- Kay n’ Dave’s: For those in the mood for casual, this neighborhood cantina brings serious flavor. From sizzling fajitas ($22) to fresh tableside guac and tangy house margaritas, Kay n’ Dave’s is always bustling.
Local Flavor: Food Trucks and Palisades Traditions
Huntington Palisades isn’t all white tablecloths—locals love their casual eats too.
- The Kogi BBQ Truck: On Friday nights, keep an eye on Swarthmore Ave for LA’s favorite taco truck. Chef Roy Choi’s legendary Korean-Mexican mash-ups—like spicy pork tacos ($3) and kimchi quesadillas—are worth braving the line.
- Palisades Farmers Market: Every Sunday morning at the corner of Swarthmore Ave and Sunset Blvd, you’ll find food trucks, small-batch bakers, and gourmet stands. Highlights include wood-fired pizzas, homemade tamales, and wildflower honey.
Hidden Gems and Insider Tips
The real magic of Huntington Palisades? The tucked-away spots only locals know.
- Vintage Grocers: This upscale market on Monument Street doubles as a deli, sandwich spot, and wine shop. Their freshly made sushi, roast chicken baguettes, and creative salads make it a perfect picnic grab 'n' go.
- Tallula’s: Just outside Huntington’s south edge on Entrada Drive, Tallula’s brings organic Baja-Californian tacos and mezcal cocktails inside a quirky, colorful space. Try the sweet potato flautas and the “OG'Rita” ($15).
- Bay Theatre Concessions: Movie night gets gourmet with truffle popcorn and local gelato from the newly revamped Bay Theatre. It’s a treat, whether or not you’re seeing a film.
Final Bites
Whether you’re a lifelong local, a visitor in search of quintessential California flavors, or a dedicated foodie on the hunt for your next obsession, Huntington Palisades serves up delight at every turn. From lazy Sunday brunches on Swarthmore to candle-lit dinners tucked away on Monument, this neighborhood is a dazzling showcase of the best Pacific Palisades has to offer.
So, take this guide, grab your appetite, and explore—every meal here is an invitation to savor something special.