20 Best Restaurants in Hawthorne, CA
Here are some of the best restaurants in Hawthorne, California, that you simply must try when you're in the area.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Hawthorne that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Los Angeles Ale Works
I recently decided to spend an evening at Los Angeles Ale Works, a local brewery and tasting room in my neighborhood.
I went with a few friends, and we arrived just in time to try out a flight of IPAs.
All of them were quite delicious, and I ultimately settled on the Shoulder Pads and Red IPA as my favorites.
The atmosphere at the brewery was lively, with plenty of cool signs and lighting to create a fun environment.
One major bonus for me was that they were open until 11 pm, which is later than most other breweries in the area on a typical weekday night.
It was a great spot to hang out and enjoy the company of friends over some amazing beer, and I can't wait to go back!
Zacatecas Restaurant
When I'm in the mood for some Mexican food in my neighborhood, I often find myself stopping by Zacatecas Restaurant.
They're very attentive and sweet, making you feel comfortable during your meal.
Their menu offers elevated takes on Mexican favorites, and I've found that the serving sizes are quite generous for the price you pay.
The food is tasty and authentic, and I always walk out feeling satisfied.
Order times are usually pretty fast, which is a plus when I need a good meal in a hurry.
Mariscos Guillen
Whenever I have to pick up friends from LAX or take a flight, I always make it a point to visit Mariscos Guillen in Hawthorne.
It's a hidden gem of a Mexican seafood spot that never disappoints.
They offer a variety of dishes, including chicken, pork, and beef, but their specialty lies in mariscos, or seafood.
I'm a huge fan of their fried or grilled fish and shrimp tacos, which are incredibly huge and always fresh.
I've tried their ceviche as well, and it never fails to amaze me with its freshness and flavor.
For those who prefer vegetarian options, they offer veggie tacos and burritos, with green peas being a delightful addition to their veggie taco.
The tacos are usually served with a bunch of freshly chopped onions, tomatoes, and lettuce, accompanied by delicious salsas and chunky guacamole.
One thing to note is that Mariscos Guillen is a cash-only place, so make sure you have some bills handy when you visit.
They also serve Mexican beers and sodas, perfect for pairing with their flavorful dishes like the aguachiles.
Plus, there's free parking behind the building, which is always a bonus.
Pick Your Plate
I recently discovered the hidden gem that is Pick Your Plate.
Let me tell you, if you have a hankering for authentic Filipino food, this is the place to go!
At first glance, you might not be too impressed by the small location and aesthetics of the place.
But trust me, the quality of the food, the generous portions, and the competitive pricing more than make up for it.
I remember my first time walking in there, and I decided to go for a two-item combo.
To my surprise, it was enough to feed two people or even three if you have smaller appetites.
The food was bursting with flavors, and it gave me a new taste that I had never experienced before.
Lindo Acapulco
As a long-time resident of the area, I've always been on the lookout for the best Mexican food in town, and I must say that I found it at Lindo Acapulco.
This hidden gem serves the most authentic and flavorful Mexican dishes I've ever tasted.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
What sets Lindo Acapulco apart from other Mexican restaurants in the area is their attention to detail when it comes to their meals.
Their handmade tortillas are a game-changer, adding an extra touch of authenticity to their already delicious dishes.
I also appreciate that they have a diverse menu, and are even willing to accommodate special requests if a dish isn't on the menu.
As someone who enjoys exploring different flavors and textures, this flexibility is a huge plus.
I can't speak highly enough about the service at this restaurant.
I've even heard from visitors who were blown away by their experience at Lindo Acapulco, which can be found on their website.
In addition to their top-notch service, the prices here are quite reasonable, making it a no-brainer when choosing where to dine with family and friends.
Raul's Casa Sombrero Mexican
I've been a regular at Raul's Casa Sombrero Mexican for years and I can confidently say it's one of the best Mexican restaurants in town.
It has that comforting, hole-in-the-wall charm, where only us locals seem to know about it.
The restaurant is always clean, and it even has space for large parties, making it perfect for birthday celebrations and other gatherings.
When it comes to food, Raul's never disappoints.
The portions are quite generous – so much so that I often find myself taking half of it home for another meal.
The dishes are always incredibly hot, fresh, and delicious.
The salsa, in particular, is noteworthy for being authentically spicy!
And let's not forget about the amazing cheesecake they serve, which is the perfect way to top off a delicious meal.
Cougars Burgers
I've been to Cougars Burgers in Hawthorne a few times.
Whenever I'm in the mood for a tasty burger, I head to their online menu and place an order.
One of my favorites is their Bacon Cheese Burger, but I've also tried their Chili Cheese Burger.
I appreciate that they add a lot of salad to their burgers, although sometimes the bacon could be cooked better.
The customer service at Cougars Burgers is always nice and fast.
I've also tried their breakfast items - the bacon and egg sandwich is superb.
It's a nice little spot to grab a bite before heading to work.
Mandy's Family Restaurant
Mandy's Family Restaurant has always been one of my go-to spots for a scrumptious and hearty meal.
Located here, this gem of a diner has an old school charm to it, with the atmosphere being warm and inviting, like stepping into a familiar and cozy home.
My favorite dish is the Florentine skillet, which never fails to satisfy my taste buds.
My partner, on the other hand, absolutely loves their omelet that has everything in it.
And as a coffee lover, I must say that their coffee is on point.
It might not be the strongest, but it surely hits the spot.
Mandy's Family Restaurant is a perfect place to escape from the typical chain restaurants and experience some good old-fashioned, authentic food.
It's a great feeling to be able to support a local, family-owned diner while enjoying a mouth-watering meal!
Eureka!
Just last week, I decided to try out Eureka! near the Hawthorne Airport for a casual dinner with friends.
The moment we entered, the industrial-chic ambiance won us over.
We loved the warm furniture and decent seating arrangements, both inside and on the outdoor patio.
One thing that stood out to us was the excellent selection of craft beers and whiskey.
I personally enjoyed the Los Angeles Aleworks, and my friends raved about the Hangar 24 wheat beer.
The cocktails were also delightful - my favorite being the Wild One, infused with aloe.
When it came to the food, we were not disappointed.
The spinach and artichoke dip was creamy and delicious, served with fresh chips.
The star of the night, though, was the Fresno fig burger, loaded with flavor from the fig and goat cheese combination.
Our entire group agreed that this was a meal to remember.
Chips Restaurant
I never miss an opportunity to dine at Chips Restaurant, especially when I'm craving that nostalgic coffee shop vibe.
This lovely diner at the corner not only offers traditional fare, but also beer and wine.
The old school seats and decor make the place even more charming.
During one of my visits, I ordered the Tuna Melt sandwich with half fries half onion rings, accompanied by a refreshing Sprite.
The sandwich was tasty and filling.
What I appreciate most about this place is the friendly service.
I went with my son and other kids, and they enjoyed their pancakes, fries, and chicken strips so much that they finished everything on their plates.
We then decided to share a delicious banana split, which made for the perfect ending to our meal.
Chips Restaurant offers fair prices and has a small parking lot in the back, making it convenient for families and friends.
Hummus House
The other day I was in search of some delicious Mediterranean food in town when I stumbled upon this Halal eatery, Hummus House.
Despite being situated in a rather quiet area, the food they served was absolutely amazing.
I decided to try their hummus sampler which came with nine different flavors of hummus, and let me tell you, each one of them was delightful.
The roasted chicken meal I had was quite tasty as well.
When I first entered the restaurant, I noticed that the atmosphere seemed a bit dingy, but the great service more than made up for it.
As I ordered my food, I found out that they had some items unavailable, but that didn't stop me from thoroughly enjoying what I had chosen.
My friends and I shared the original, sundried tomato, and artichoke pesto hummus, and the artichoke one was undoubtedly the best.
Bangkok Grill
I can't help but recommend Bangkok Grill for a casual Thai dining experience in our city.
I've been there multiple times, and it never disappoints.
What I love the most about their menu is that anything can be substituted for tofu!
Last time, I ordered pad ke mow with tofu, and it was absolutely delicious.
The distinct smoky flavor of the dish left me wanting more.
Their Thai tea also deserves a special mention – it's not too sweet, just the way I like it.
Whether dining in or taking out, their food and service won't let you down.
Thai Lai Restaurant
I'm always on the hunt for authentic, flavorful food in my neighborhood, and Thai Lai Restaurant has become one of my go-to spots for Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.
The first time I went there, I was blown away by the combination fried rice and their wontons.
I could tell the dishes were different from the Americanized Thai food I had tried before, and I couldn't help but fall in love with the amazing flavors.
The menu is quite extensive, and I've had the chance to try their vermicelli bowl with chicken, egg roll, shrimp, and shrimp paste, which quickly became one of my favorites.
I've also enjoyed their banh mi, banh khot, bun Bo hue, and of course, their delightful Vietnamese coffee.
The service at Thai Lai Restaurant is always friendly and efficient, making the overall experience even better.
Plus, they offer parking, which is a major plus in our busy city.
Vegan Nova
One of my favorite spots to grab vegan Chinese food in town is Vegan Nova.
I always go for their chow mein, orange chicken, and that delectable deep-fried banana dessert.
Trust me, even my picky eater friends and non-vegan buddies can't resist the deliciousness of their dishes.
Although the restaurant is quite small with only a few tables, I've never had any trouble getting a seat when dining in.
The ambiance is more of a hole-in-the-wall vibe rather than a fancy, upscale setting.
But honestly, the exquisite taste of their food makes up for any lack of décor.
Other Restaurants Nearby
OrVeganic
I recently stumbled upon a hidden gem in our neighborhood called OrVeganic.
It's a warm, comfy kitchen that dishes up organic vegan fare, including cereals and pasta dishes.
I wasn't sure what to expect from an all-vegan restaurant, but I was honestly amazed by the delicious and healthy food they serve.
When I first walked in, I immediately fell in love with the peaceful interior decoration.
The atmosphere was very relaxed, cute, and quiet, which made it a perfect spot to catch up with friends over a meal.
The service was excellent and friendly, making me feel right at home.
During my visit, I tried the Forbidden Hamburgursa, raw cornucopia salad topped with yogurt and vinaigrette dressing, and the Alfredo pasta.
Every dish was incredibly tasty and satisfying.
They even brought out samples of their vegan almond milk, which was surprisingly good!
Hương Vị Restaurant
Just the other night, I decided to visit Hương Vị Restaurant since they had new owners and a new name, "Oh My Pho."
I was excited to see the fresh, new atmosphere, and I was not disappointed.
As soon as I walked in, I noticed the big screen TVs and a stage for karaoke – it was a Friday night, and the place was buzzing with good vibes.
I decided to order the "hủ tiếu nam vang," which turned out to be one of the best dishes I've tried in the South Bay.
The meat was fresh, and the bowl of soup on the side was delicious.
I also had a chance to taste their grilled pork rolls, which were really good, and I couldn't pass up the chance to try their "tép mỡ" – it's probably the best one I've ever had.
To top it all off, they were offering a free dessert of "chè thái" for their grand opening.
The customer service was fantastic, and I can't wait to come back for another fun night of delicious food and karaoke at Hương Vị Restaurant.
Crepe Heaven Café
One of my favorite spots to visit after a long day of work or school has to be Crepe Heaven Café.
My daughter and I can't resist their scrumptious crepes, especially the ones filled with Nutella, strawberry, and banana.
Every bite is a delightful treat, and it's made even better by the warm and friendly atmosphere.
Aside from their heavenly crepes, they also offer other treats and eats, making it a perfect place to visit even if crepes aren't your thing.
The café is located inside a plaza, but I never have trouble finding parking.
With plenty of seating and a tiny little snack/merchandise store, it's always a great experience visiting Crepe Heaven Café.
During a recent gathering with friends, we ordered a mix of sweet and savory crepes, and everyone was impressed by the quality and taste of the food, as well as the speedy service.
Corner Burger
One of my go-to spots in the area is definitely Corner Burger.
This low-key, quick-serve operation has a wide variety of mouth-watering burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
What got me hooked on this place is their unique and diverse menu - they have everything from classic burgers to crepes, and even some amazing cafecitos!
Here's the location on Google Maps for anyone interested.
My personal favorite is their classic burger with cheese cooked medium.
The burger is savory and delicious, but the real star of the show is their sweet potato fries.
They season them with brown sugar, and I must say, they are the best sweet potato fries I've ever had.
Saigon Dish Vietnamese Restaurant
One of my absolute favorite go-to places for a delicious meal is Saigon Dish Vietnamese Restaurant.
This casual strip-mall hideaway never fails to impress me with their variety of regional Vietnamese noodle and rice dishes.
My friends and I often go there after work, and we always find ourselves delighted by the quality of food and the reasonable prices.
One time, I got a mouthwatering bahn mi for just $6 and a bowl of pho with brisket for $10.
It's pretty rare to find such flavorful dishes at these prices!
What truly sets Saigon Dish apart, though, is the amazing taste of their dishes.
I've tried a lot of pho at various places, but the flavor of their pho broth is hands down one of the best.
Additionally, the sauces they have on the table really enhance the overall dining experience.
Aside from the food, I appreciate the quick service and the fact that our orders come out fast even when we're with a large group.
The outdoor seating area is also a nice touch, perfect for enjoying the beautiful Southern California weather.
Pacific Rim
The other day, I decided to give Pacific Rim a try, and I must say that the experience was nothing short of fantastic.
Being a local resident, I've always been on the lookout for great, authentic Thai food in the area.
Pacific Rim did not disappoint.
Their genuine smiles and attentiveness made me feel right at home.
After going through their menu, which offered a variety of mouthwatering dishes, I decided to order the pad thai, yellow curry chicken, and some spring rolls.
My food arrived quickly, and I could tell it was freshly prepared.
The pad thai was bursting with flavor, and the curry had the perfect amount of spice.
The spring rolls were crispy and delicious.
I also appreciated that they offered a range of spice levels and options, so I could customize my meal to my liking.
Pacific Rim may look like a small, unassuming restaurant from the outside, but don't be fooled by its humble exterior.
Final Thoughts
Having lived in Hawthorne for quite some time now, I can confidently say that the city's food scene is diverse and delightful.
From vegan options at OrVeganic and Vegan Nova to the authentic Mexican flavors at Zacatecas Restaurant and Lindo Acapulco, there is something for everyone.
No matter your taste or mood, Hawthorne's culinary gems are sure to satisfy your cravings and make every dining experience a memorable one.
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