LA eats, really well.

I'm a Californian at heart.  I love so much of what this beautiful state offers.  And, I love it's two major cities equally, Los Angeles and San Francisco.  I adore them for very different reasons.  Both have so much variety and depth, each in their own way. 

There are some days, however, where I really--and I mean really--miss LA.  It's cheerfulness, warmth, beaches, gorgeous hikes and canyons...it's teeming with creativity and ideas.  The people are generally friendly, the vibe casual and relaxed. 

Today, I'm missing the food.  A lot of people would suggest hitting up San Francisco if you want a culinary epicenter, and they'd be correct.  But don't over look LA to satisfy the urge for truly delicious food!  LA has some of the most amazing food you will ever have.  I'll say this, LA knows burgers, sushi and delis to start. 

There are several volumes worth of posts on LA food alone, but here's what I missing this weekend:

1. My Father's Office

Because heaven is called dry-aged beef on a soft french roll, caramelized onions, bacon compote, a divine melting mixture of Gruyere and Maytag blue cheese, and fresh arugula. (There might be crack in this burger, I don't know, word is still out.) I dream about it. Regularly. And, a "rotating selection of 36 craft beers on tap." And, sweet potato fries, with a heavenly garlic and blue cheese aioli.

2.  The Apple Pan

Because sometimes a good ol' fashion burger, diner counter style, is just what the short order cook is grillin'.  The hickory burger is the best.  Between the perfectly charbroiled beef, the special Apple Pan sauce and classic Tillamook cheddar cheese...mmmm...a smoky comfort burger at its finest.  I hear the pie is amazing, too. 

3. Katsu-ya

Because it's melt-in-your-mouth, unbelievably fresh and inventive sushi.  There's no fancy scene here.  Well, they recently expanded and opened up new locations, which are on the trendier side.  I prefer the original location in Studio City, just a hop over Laurel Canyon from West Hollywood.  Go.  Go now.  Do not be fooled by the lack luster strip mall in which it resides.  Only order off the special menu, and also get some sashimi.  Try the crispy tuna, warm spinach salad with sesame-crusted ahi tuna, baked crab hand roll, the tuna salsa thing (they'll know)...just a few to get you started. 

You'd think SF would have wonderful sushi but nothing up here is even a respectable runner up.  I miss you, Katsu-ya. 

4. Canter's Deli

Because a proper Jewish deli is a necessity.  It just is.  Where else are you going to get mazto ball soup 24 hours a day?  Plus, you can always rely on Canter's for the 2 am post bar feasts.  I used to live just blocks away in the Fairfax district, near Melrose.  Best reubens outside of Manhattan.  The attached Kibitz room is a kitschy bar that hosts some great local musicians.

5. Bay Cities Deli

Because for every Jewish deli, you simply must have its Italian counterpart.  Not only does this place craft some mad subs, but it's also an impressive Italian and Greek store.  They've got it all - olive oil, salts, spices, fresh pasta, coffee, strange things in jars that make Italian and Greek food so yummy.  They bake their own fresh loaves of bread daily--partly what makes their sandwiches so incredible--and they have a stand-up cheese selection.  I like the turkey and cheese, their special sauce makes it so juicy and mouthwatering (also possibly laced with crack, who knows).  Bay Cities is the perfect place to grab some sandwiches before a hike or day at the beach.  Take a number, be ready to order when your number's up, and stroll around the store while the deli guys work their magic.  Oh, and pick up some cannoli on the way out.