15 Best Restaurants in Lakewood, CA
Let me guide you through the gastronomic delights my hometown has to offer with this list of the best things to do in Lakewood, California.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Lakewood 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.
Avila's Pizza
For someone who has a deep fondness for pizza, Avila's Pizza has been a weekly staple of mine for quite some time.
Their menu, which can be found on their website, is chock-full of mouthwatering options that I've sampled over the months.
One night, a craving struck and I found myself ordering a large Special Pizza with jalapenos.
To my surprise, the pizza arrived surprisingly fast, considering the distance.
When I opened the box, the pizza looked enticing, and it was still piping hot.
Avila's Pizza truly knocked it out of the park taste-wise, and their Special Pizza was no exception.
The flavors were well-balanced, and it lacked the greasiness that is often found in pizzas from other shops nearby.
I was so impressed with the quick delivery and the quality of the pizza that I've earmarked their Pastrami Pizza for my next order.
During my occasional visits to the actual location, I must admit the interiors don’t have the typical pizzeria vibe.
But once the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafts over, it settles any lingering doubts.
Despite the interiors, the value you receive for the price is beyond compare.
The pizza and wings (a must-try!) are so delicious that it's hard to put it into words.
It's just something you have to experience yourself.
Adobo Taco Grill
Over the years, I've become quite the patron of Adobo Taco Grill.
This Mexican counter-serve is my go-to spot for tacos, enchiladas, and burritos - all of which come with their housemade tortillas.
One thing that impresses me every single time about Adobo Taco Grill is their customer service - it is efficient, reliable, and second to none.
And the food?
Absolutely delectable!
The quality of the ingredients really shines through in every dish.
I find myself recommending the flour tortillas quesadilla with shrimp to all my pescatarian friends, and they've loved it without exception.
But what's a trip to Adobo Taco Grill without having their tacos?
Freshly made and always mouthwatering, it's a treat I always look forward to.
The place is always squeaky clean, and they have this great salsa and condiment bar that comes with free Frijoles, which you can serve and prepare yourself.
It's a nice little touch that makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The last time I was there, I tried the all-meat burrito (no beans nor rice).
It was so delicious that I couldn't help but also try their cabeza and a chorizo taco.
The handmade tortillas just added another level of authenticity and flavor to their dishes.
I'm already looking forward to my next visit to try the quesadillas.
This makes me even more excited, knowing that the same level of quality, taste, and service awaits.
It's like having two favorite places in one - savory and sweet heaven, if you will.
Who can resist a leisurely latte with a mouthwatering sweet or a celebratory cake for a special event?
I know I can't.
I Luv Sushi
Living in Lakewood means having a plethora of dining options to choose from.
Among those, one stands out for me - I Luv Sushi.
It's a unique blend of Thai and Japanese flavors served in a modern and relaxed venue.
Their specialty?
Their sushi rolls.
The food there is always delicious, making it a constant lure for my palate.
Meeting up with friends at this spot is a common occurrence.
In fact, I remember the last time I went in for lunch, the service was friendly and warm.
The sushi rolls were as good as they've always been, ensuring that every bit was eaten up!
Now, let me be honest, it's quite popular, so a wait is to be expected.
But trust me, the wait is worth it when you taste their good quality fish served in generous portions.
The sushi rolls are consistently tasty and fulfilling, so I would advise sticking to them.
Tokyo Hibachi
I've been to Tokyo Hibachi more times than I can count.
It's a bit of a neighborhood gem, a go-to spot for those nights when you're craving some excellent sushi or teppanyaki.
The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with the faint clattering of cooking utensils echoing from the teppanyaki stations.
What I love about this place is that it never pretends to be anything it's not - just good old Japanese food paired with a selection of beer, wine, and sake.
They greet you the second you walk in and make sure everything is to your liking.
I've had a few mix-ups with my orders in the past, but they were always quick to correct them.
The food is where Tokyo Hibachi really shines.
I've tried a variety of their dishes, from the sushi rolls to the teppanyaki fare, and I've yet to be disappointed.
The flavors are consistently on point, with everything tasting fresh and well-prepared.
And even on busy nights, I've never had to wait too long for my meal.
Genkiyaki
One place that always seems to land on my frequent-visit list is a Japanese fusion paradise, Genkiyaki.
Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, it's nothing less than a hidden gem.
The fusion menu here is diverse and enticing, featuring everything from Japanese tacos to rice bowls and hot dogs.
The signature red bun chicken sandwich and loaded fries have become my personal favorites.
The food is always freshly cooked, and there's something so satisfying about punching in my order at the kiosk, sitting back, and taking in the lively atmosphere.
It's a bonus that they have arcade games to keep guests entertained while they wait.
They've managed to create a friendly and welcoming environment that just makes me want to keep coming back.
Mi Casa Restaurant
Every now and then, a restaurant comes along that truly stands out from the crowd.
For me, that's Mi Casa Restaurant.
Cousin Paul has been raving about this place for ages, insisting it's one of the best in Lakewood, and boy, was he right!
Stepping into the restaurant, I was immediately taken by the pleasantly warm atmosphere.
The service was prompt, friendly, and genuinely welcoming.
But the real star of the show?
The food.
Their menu is packed full of authentic Mexican dishes that make your taste buds sing.
Their salsa, unlike the typical blend of onions, cilantro, and tomatoes, was an explosion of spicy, flavorful chili served with perfectly salted thin chips.
I opted for the chili relleno – a pepper smothered in a generous blanket of cheese and a red sauce – and a taco, both served with the most delicious beans and rice.
Forget artificial, store-bought flavors.
This was the real deal.
One of the highlights of the visit was the excellent guacamole.
It's just one of those rare finds that makes you feel like you've discovered a hidden gem.
My sweet tooth wasn't left wanting either, thanks to a creamy dessert that left me longing for more.
Next time, I'm planning to visit for breakfast.
R Kitchen
Just last weekend, I had a craving for some good old home-cooked soul food.
Naturally, I headed to R Kitchen in Lakewood, California, a restaurant I'd heard a lot about.
I decided to order the fried Chicken Wings, Collard Greens, Mac and Cheese, and Black Eyed Peas.
I was taken aback by the portion sizes; they were generous, to say the least, serving me well for both lunch and dinner.
The food tasted fresh and homemade, exactly the soul food experience I was looking for.
I couldn't help but admire the desserts, they looked so fresh and mouth-watering, although I was unable to try them on this occasion.
Hanako Sushi And Thai Cuisine
Having lived in the Lakewood area for years, I've come to appreciate the hidden gems in our local strip malls.
One such place is Hanako Sushi And Thai Cuisine, which, I must admit, at first glance, didn't seem promising.
But once inside, I was pleasantly surprised by its neat interior and extensive menu of Thai, Chinese, and sushi delights.
I'm not exaggerating when I say that the fried wings here are some of the freshest I've had in a long time.
The other dishes were equally excellent, every bite was so good that it left me craving more.
And if you're into sushi, you're in for a treat.
The quality and freshness are consistently top-notch.
Just remember to call for a reservation if you plan to dine in, as it can get quite busy.
And let's not forget about their amazing happy hour specials, which run daily till 7 pm.
I was especially impressed with their Matcha Green Tea IPA beer, a unique and refreshing beverage that pairs wonderfully with their food.
Laventina's Pizza
Living in this neighborhood, I have had the chance to discover some local food gems, and Laventina's Pizza website stands out among them.
I remember the first time I visited this place, it was early last year, and I was simply blown away!
It's just a simple setup, but the pizzas they serve are anything but ordinary.
Thick crust, loaded with flavors, and they even offer this unique Asian-Indian "desi" style pizza which is a rarity anywhere else.
One of my personal favorites is their chicken tandoori pizza.
It might sound like a strange combination at first, but trust me, it's one of the best pizzas I've ever had.
They have taken an amazing Indian dish and transformed it into a masterpiece of pizza.
I must have had it over 10 times in the past year and a half, and it never disappoints.
Every time I bite into that pizza, it's like a burst of flavors that lingers on my tastebuds.
Of course, Laventina's Pizza is not just about the pizza.
Their subs and salads are worth trying too.
And what really impresses me is the consistency in their quality.
Over the past year and a half that I've been frequenting this place, they've never let me down.
California Sushi & Teriyaki #8-Lakewood
Whenever I'm in a rush and need a quick sushi fix, I head straight to California Sushi & Teriyaki #8 in Lakewood.
It's not exactly the place for top-tier sushi, but it does the job perfectly when you're craving something quick and easy.
The sushi here tends to remind me more of fast food than a traditional sushi dining experience, but the service is speedy and pretty efficient.
This spot is conveniently located near the Lakewood Mall, which my kids love to visit for its arcade.
We live in nearby Cerritos and are blessed with a plethora of great food options.
However, this place holds its own for a casual, no-frills meal.
The prices are reasonable, and the menu is solid.
It's nothing to rave over, but it's pretty okay.
My go-to order here usually involves chicken ramen, tempura veggies, and a rice bowl.
They're all very flavorful, and the portion sizes are just right.
I've been a regular customer for over two years now, and I've always enjoyed consistently good customer service and tasty food.
You can check out their menu and more on their website.
DonerG Turkish & Mediterranean Grill - Long Beach
One of my go-to spots for a quick, satisfying meal in Long Beach has always been DonerG Turkish & Mediterranean Grill.
The place might be small, but let me tell you, their flavors and service are anything but.
One day, I decided to go for their Instanbowl.
The girl working the counter was super friendly and even accommodated my request for a bread substitution.
And the portion size?
Definitely more than enough to satisfy my hunger.
On my next visit, I tried their FLADENBROT.
Oh, was it delicious!
I knew right then and there that I'd be ordering it again.
The best part?
The service was just as swift as the first time, making for a great dining experience.
Now, I'm someone who's pretty particular about my food, especially when it comes to Mediterranean cuisine.
But DonerG has never let me down.
I remember trying their Beef Rice Plate one day.
It's safe to say it was top-notch, just like the rest of their menu.
It's not just the food that makes DonerG stand out, though.
The service here is also exceptional.
Heritage Family Pantry
Every weekend, I make it a point to treat myself to a hearty breakfast at the Heritage Family Pantry.
It's not just the delicious food that keeps me coming back, but the warm and cozy atmosphere that feels like a true family gathering.
As soon as I walk in, I'm welcomed by the heartwarming aroma of coffee, a sign of a day that's about to get even better.
I usually go for my favorite, the 'LA Marathon' breakfast, which is a monster of a meal.
From French toast to pancakes, breakfast potatoes to a trio of ham, bacon, and sausage, topped off with perfectly cooked eggs, it's a feast that can easily feed two.
I've also tried other dishes like their grits and toast - oh, did I mention how good their toast is?
Thick, soft, and a perfect accompaniment to any dish.
On my lucky days, I even get to enjoy their turkey bacon and sausage.
Sunrise Café
My family and I are regulars at Sunrise Café in Lakewood.
This homestyle cooking focused diner has become a staple of our Saturday brunch routine.
I love its cozy and unpretentious atmosphere, and the food is always satisfying.
During peak hours, the line can stretch out the door.
But trust me, the wait is worth it.
And their menu is filled with breakfast and lunch delights that won't disappoint.
One of my favorites is their Eggs Benedict.
While the English muffin might sometimes be a bit over-toasted, the perfectly poached eggs and rich Hollandaise sauce compensate for it.
The side potatoes are the real showstopper.
They're soft and compacted together, with a crispy crust on the outside.
If you're into sweet breakfast treats, I recommend the Banana Pancakes.
Just add a side of peanut butter for an extra kick - it's a game-changer.
Or, you could opt for their Belgian waffle topped with fresh blueberries and whipped cream.
It's like a mini celebration on a plate.
But if you're craving something spicy, their Chilaquiles won't disappoint.
They are saucy, spicy, and perfectly crunchy, served with over medium eggs and a great pair of beans.
It's a dish that takes you straight to Mexico.
George's Greek Cafe
Whenever I want to experience a good, hearty meal with a distinctly Mediterranean flair, I head straight to George's Greek Cafe.
It's the perfect place for a laid-back celebration or just a casual dining experience.
The first thing that always strikes me when I walk in is the spaciousness - the large murals on the walls give a sense of being in Greece, making the dining experience more authentic.
There's also plenty of seating and a full-service bar, which makes it an excellent spot for meeting friends or family.
What I love about George's is their menu, which is straightforward and filled with Greek classics.
My personal favorite is the lamb chops.
They're cooked exactly to your preference and have this delightful sear that explodes with flavor in your mouth.
The prices are reasonable, too, especially considering the portion sizes.
Other Restaurant Nearby
Jay Bird's Long Beach (Long Beach)
I'm always on the hunt for a good chicken joint.
One afternoon, I found myself at the LBX Hangar food hall, and that's where I discovered Jay Bird's Chicken.
Their fiery fried chicken and waffles immediately caught my eye.
You can check them out on their website.
I decided to try their chicken sandwich & fries, the chop, and their blazing fries.
The chop is an interesting dish, with one chopped chicken tender mixed with coleslaw, pickles, comeback sauce, and Big Sexy sauce.
I got mine at a hot level, and although I felt the slaw overpowered the rest of the ingredients a bit, it was a good attempt at a unique dish.
The breading on the juicy chicken breast was perfect, and the slaw, comeback sauce, and brioche bun all complemented each other well.
It's definitely one of the better chicken sandwiches I've had in town, and would highly recommend it as a substantial meal.
Final Thoughts
I feel incredibly fortunate to have such an abundance of delectable dining options right here in Lakewood, California.
I can say with certainty that my weekends are never dull; there’s always a new dish to try or an old favorite to revisit.
Whether I'm indulging in the vibrant flavors of Adobo Taco Grill, savoring the diverse menu at Hanako Sushi And Thai Cuisine, or enjoying the homely comfort of Heritage Family Pantry, the culinary scene in Lakewood never disappoints.
Here's to another year of exciting culinary exploration in our lovely town!
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