Los Angeles

The Best Places to Eat at Every LAX Terminal

Fuel up before you take off.

LAX Shop & Dine
LAX Shop & Dine
LAX Shop & Dine

Whether you haven’t left LA since Q1 2020 or maybe you’ve been slowly but steadily getting that travel bug back, this summer is ready to fulfill your wanderlust dreams. And getting where you want to go might very well involve something called an airplane. You know, one of those metal tubes with wings that was a distant memory for a while there. Warning: Air travel is looking less glamorous than ever these days, with seriously limited food and beverage service. (So if you thought it was bad before, look out.) And while you could eat at home, pack a lunch, or stop at a bar on the way to down a reasonably priced beer, it’s probably just easiest to eat at the airport-not to mention could be your last chance to try some only-in-LA eateries. While some still remain temporarily or permanently closed, many others are re-opening along with the rest of LA. (Keep in mind LAX has implemented a mobile ordering system so that you can order food ahead at most terminals and pick it up or even have it delivered to your gate.) Below, you’ll find the best of what’s available, according to terminal. So bon appetit and bon voyage.

TERMINAL 1

California Pizza Kitchen
California Pizza Kitchen
California Pizza Kitchen

CPK  

Closest gate: 13
If you’re looking for something familiar, are craving BBQ chicken pizza, want a throwback to a high school date spot, or all of the above, CPK has got your pre-flight name on it. Choose from five different types of pies (including a margherita and that fabled chix version), but be warned that other than chips and drinks, there aren’t many options beyond pizza. 

Reilly’s Irish Pub 

Closest gate: 15
This offshoot of the WeHo Irish pub-cum-sports bar is a solid sandwich spot with options including its signature short rib sliders, turkey wrap, chicken sliders, and breakfast sando on brioche. There’s also a proper bar with plenty of beer on top and an extensive whiskey selection.

TERMINAL 2

Breeze

Closest gate: 24A
The pilot program that landed at LAX last year is likely the wave of the future when it comes to fresh alternatives to awful (and now super sparse) airplane food. Travelers order off a menu of legit-sounding good-for-you fare from an app or online and then pick up their meals-packed up and ready for flight-at a kiosk within the Terminal 2 Dining Terrace. Options range from overnight steel-cut oats to a mezze bowl to fresh guac and chips to avocado toast. You can also add snackable stuff like bagged cauliflower pretzels and dark chocolate bars to bust out when you’re inevitably hungry again 45 minutes into your flight.

SeaLegs Wine Bar
SeaLegs Wine Bar
SeaLegs Wine Bar

SeaLegs Wine Bar

Closest gate: 28
When you’ve got some time and are in search of an actual restaurant with stylish decor, an extensive food menu, and a curated wine list that isn’t going to leave you mad at the world that you somehow just spent $18 on a glass of Yellow Tail Chardonnay, this is your spot. You won’t find a ton of items reflecting the “sea” part of the name (which stems from the original Huntington Beach location) but you will find a fig-and-bacon flatbread, Wagyu burger, leche de tigre ceviche, and hanger steak. The wine list is almost exclusively California and if you want to celebrate your first post-COVID work trip by charging a $100 Cab to your expense account, go to town.

Built Custom Burgers

Closest gate: 24A
This one’s a customizable counter-service eatery that was once unique, but alas, you’ve seen a gazillion times by now. Still, it’s a good option for when you’re on-the-go (which is always at the airport). Choose bun or bowl, a beef, turkey, chicken, or vegan patty, and your cheese and then go to town on (free and unlimited!) toppings with the usual suspects along with coleslaw, tortilla strips and cranberries if you want to get crazy. If you’re too busy to figure it all out and just need to get to a phone charging station stat, you can select one their already-decided-for-you versions like the chili cheeseburger or chicken club.

LAX Shop & Dine
LAX Shop & Dine
LAX Shop & Dine

Slapfish

Closest gate: 23A
If you can’t stomach one more $13 bacon-egg-and-cheese breakfast sandwich served at every single outlet in the airport, you can mix up your morning meal with options like shrimp and grits, lobster-egg-and-avocado tacos and a smoked salmon-veggie-and-herb-topped bagel. Later in the day try the lobster roll or New England clam chowder — unless you’re flying to New England. In that case, just wait until you get there.

Terminal 3 is currently closed while under construction.

TERMINAL 4

Cole's, Originators of the French Dip
Cole’s, Originators of the French Dip
Cole’s, Originators of the French Dip

Cole’s

Closest gate: 44
If you’re interested in experiencing one of the city’s most classic French Dip sandwiches, head to the historic Downtown LA location that dates back to 1908. But if you need a French dip right now and happen to be at the airport, then yeah, this is your spot. There are also lots of good sides, including spicy garlic fries and bacon potato salad, and a variety of cocktails (like the signature Old Fashioned complete with proper garnishes), all in the spirit of the original venue’s Red Car Bar. The airport location has even recreated the iconic wood bar and its maroon stools.

Campanile 

Closest gate: 42B
The late, great chef and restaurateur Mark Peel changed the LA dining scene forever with Campanile, which he opened with then-spouse Nancy Silverton in the late 1980s. Though it shuttered nearly a decade ago, the name lives on at this LAX outpost where travelers can grab a protein wrap layered with pulled chicken, quinoa, farro, and arugula; a turkey cobb topped with candied pecans; or order breakfast dishes like a veggie frittata, chicken and waffles plate, and granola bowl, all complemented with an extensive spirits list. Hey, you’re on vacation. 

Homeboy Bakery

Closest gate:  41
You probably already know about this bakery that does society good. It’s part of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program that helps former gang members and formerly incarcerated people receive training and job skills. At the LAX location, you can get a sampling of its breads and baked goods via its menu of egg-and-cheese  sandwiches on bagels and croissants, chicken wraps, paninis, and deli sandwiches on six-grain bread. 

TERMINAL 5

Ford's Filling Station
Ford’s Filling Station
Ford’s Filling Station

Ford’s Filling Station 

Closest gate: 55A
Ford’s Filling Station holds a special place in the hearts of those of us who were catting around Culver City way back before it was cool. Ben Ford’s big-deal gastropub truly did help catapult the area onto LA’s culinary radar a dozen or so years ago, and while that location (along with a short-lived DTLA one that came after it) is long gone, you can get a taste of Ford’s original menu at the airport outpost with signature stuff like the pub burger, crispy chicken sandwich on brioche, smoked pork taquitos, deviled eggs, bread pudding, and fresh-baked cookies to indulge in after you reach cruising altitude. 

Donburi Bistro

Closest gate: 56A
For Asian-fusion on the go, hit up this quick-service counter for hearty teriyaki and noodle bowls centered around roasted pork, chicken, or beef along with plates of crispy chicken katsu, a spicy edamame-laced chicken Caesar and a crispy pork sandwich smeared with dynamite sauce. There’s also a small offering of sake by the bottle in addition to beer, cocktails, and wine.  

TERMINAL 6

Earthbar
Earthbar
Earthbar

Earthbar

Closest gate: 64A
You can skip the greasy breakfast in favor of a good-for-you smoothie at this national health-food store chain that’s been around since the ’70s. Order up a smoothie based on what you need (there’s a Muscle Up and a Slim Down so take your pick). Acai bowls are also an option here, and it’s a great spot to pick up grab-and-go stuff like wellness shots, vitamins, protein bars, and something called Libido Lift … just in case it’s going to be that kind of trip.

Point the Way Café 

Closest gate: 65B
This gastropub partnered with local craft brewery Golden Road Brewing to bring you both beer and bar food before sending you on your merry way. Look for good stuff like a massive stacked burger with fries, fish tacos, a grilled salmon and veggie plate, and pesto grilled shrimp. If beer isn’t your thing, cocktails and wine freely flow here, too.

TERMINAL 7

B Grill by BOA Steakhouse 

Closest gate: 73
This more relaxed version of the swanky BOA Steakhouse is the place to hit when you want more elevated airport fare (especially if you have an expense account at your disposal). Think NY strip, petit filet with red wine butter, and the same signature stacked Chop Chop salad that’s served at the Santa Monica and West Hollywood restaurants. You can also expect gussied-up gourmet burgers (including a Beyond Meat vegan version) wraps, and sandwiches, as well as a thoroughly respectable wine list.

TERMINAL 8

Engine Co. No. 28
Engine Co. No. 28
Engine Co. No. 28

Engine Co. No. 28

Closest gate: 83
The good news is you’re just a terminal away from the pinnacle of LAX dining at Tom Bradley International terminal. The bad news is you’re in Terminal 8, and your options are lame and limited to mainly fast food like Carl’s Jr. and Panda Express. If you want a proper drink, you can get it here in addition to a range of food items like corn chowder, an ahi tuna salad, and veggie chili.

LAX Shop & Dine
LAX Shop & Dine
LAX Shop & Dine

Ashland Hill

Closet gate: 38
While you can’t get the Santa Monica-based gastropub’s full menu at its LAX satellite location, you can get many of its healthier options including a superfood salad, a hummus and veggies combo, and a fruit cup along with lots of sandwich offerings. The space is notably stylish and in case there was any doubt the hanging-plant trend hasn’t reached all corners of the LA restaurant world, it’s even here at the airport.

TOM BRADLEY INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL

The Great Hall

Closest gate: 148
This 15,000-square-foot dining and retail behemoth is one of the best things to come out of the billion-dollar-plus renovation that turned this terminal into one that actually looks like it belongs in an airport servicing the country’s second biggest city. Here you’ll find a lot of fast-casual versions of LA restaurants you know and love (or in some cases loved). Many, including brick-oven pizza go-to 800 Degrees and Chaya Sushi, are still temporarily shuttered but may very well return by the time you make your trip. In the meantime, you can grab tacos, tamales, and tortilla soup at the city’s last standing Border Grill; above-average sandwiches at Michael Voltaggio’s ink.sack, and a glass of wine and pizzetta at the sleek Vino Volo. And don’t forget to pick up a little something from Gucci or Hermes afterwards. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on InstagramTwitterPinterestYouTubeTikTok, and Snapchat.

Lizbeth Scordo is a food and lifestyle writer and yes, she will take the 9-ounce pour for three dollars more. Thanks for asking. Follow her on Instagram @modlizbeth and Twitter @lalizbeth.

Los Angeles

How to Spend a Weekend in Topanga Canyon

Nature and the arts collide in this beloved canyon community.

Hanan Isachar/Corbis Documentary/Getty Images
Hanan Isachar/Corbis Documentary/Getty Images
Hanan Isachar/Corbis Documentary/Getty Images

Situated in the Santa Monica Mountains and known for its vibrant creative community, Topanga is one of Los Angeles’s most prized destinations for art and outdoor enthusiasts alike. And while LA boasts its own sprawling landscape of fun to tap into, you’d be remiss to miss a chance to explore this tucked-away collection of state parks, and cafes, and restaurants-especially when it all rests just 20 minutes away from the city. From a quaint café with dazzling canyon views to a world-renowned, open-air theatre, here are the best ways to pass some time in Topanga now.

Photo courtesy of Inn of the Seventh Ray
Photo courtesy of Inn of the Seventh Ray
Photo courtesy of Inn of the Seventh Ray

Friday

Book dinner at Inn of the Seventh Ray
Owner Lucille Yaney opened this iconic restaurant in 1975 after spotting the property on a drive through the canyon with her late husband Ralph, and it’s safe to say she had a good eye. The land perfectly fits into Yaney’s vision of a romantic, alfresco dining space with tables tucked into cozy nooks and gazebos, all beneath canapes and fairy lights. Today, Yaney co-owns the venue with executive chef consultant Brad Miller. Together, they continue to fulfil the restaurant’s original mission to serve pure, natural foods reflective of the season’s best. That approach appears in dishes like 8-Hour Black Vinegar Braised Short Rib with creamy rosemary polenta, duck bacon Brussels sprouts, and caramelized onion and fig jam; Roasted Mushroom Toast with oyster mushrooms and sherry tarragon cream; and Beets & Whipped Black Pepper Creme Fraiche. Consider the carbs here. Pastas and sauces are made in-house and from scratch, as is the bread (available regular or gluten-free), an order of which you won’t want to miss. Check out the wine list, too, which offers a robust organic and biodynamic selection that has helped the restaurant garner some impressive accolades in recent years.

Check into Topanga Canyon Inn
In addition to plenty of excellent Airbnbs available to rent in the Canyon, there’s Topanga Canyon Inn, a charming bed and breakfast comprised of two Mediterranean-style buildings-Casa Blanca and Casa Rosa-both built by the owners. Guests can enjoy bespoke design details in each room, along with gorgeous mountain views from their own private balcony. Come morning, join other travellers for breakfast, served daily at Casa Rosa.

Saturday

Get coffee at Café on 27
Ready your camera for a coffee date at this AM eatery and café, where ample (and busy) outdoor seating offers some of the Canyon’s best views. A full breakfast and lunch menu is available (complete with hearty orders like eggs Benedicts, soups, and club sandwiches), but for lighter morning fare, spring for a pastry and any of their specialty drinks, such as the turmeric latte or Moroccan mocha.

Bradley Allen Murrell/Shutterstock
Bradley Allen Murrell/Shutterstock
Bradley Allen Murrell/Shutterstock

Hike Topanga State Park
Spanning 11,000 acres and 36 miles of trails, Topanga State Park is the largest state park within the Santa Monica Mountains and one of the world’s largest parks within city limits. Visitors can access the grounds via more than 60 entrances. Once on the trails, enjoy sweeping vistas while exploring the region’s range of plants, habitats, and wildlife, including several resident bird species.

Grab lunch at Topanga Living Café
Guided by their Topanga upbringing and need for a community gathering spot with great eats, sibling team Agustina Ferguson and Bayu Suryawan opened this daytime eatery in 2016. Ever since, locals and visitors have found refuge in the café’s warm, airy space and nourishing, hyper-fresh fare-all California-inspired with global influences. Check it out in plates like the Island Style, a breakfast salad with Balinese corn fritters, a poached egg, and house-made chilli jam, or the tacos (Baja Fish or Baja Shrimp, Carne Asada, or Kabocha Squash), made-to-order and served on handmade tortillas. If you’re seeking something shareable, try the Farmers Market Crudite, a seemingly humble order whose bright beet hummus reminds us that eating your vegetables is, indeed, very cool. And take a drink to-go. The team here takes great pride in their coffee (organic espresso, courtesy of their iconic pink La Marzocco machine) and a lineup of made-to-order smoothies, juices, and teas. Shop your way through town
Visitors can stroll through the town centre’s most popular shops for various fun finds, including Moona Star, Pebbles, and Topanga Homegrown. Be sure to stock up on specialty, local snacks at Canyon Gourmet and satiate your sweet tooth while you’re at it. The organic soft-serve there is a must. Pro tip: Top it with any of their artisanal syrups for a winning combo, namely, the vanilla with cardamom.

Photo courtesy of Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
Photo courtesy of Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
Photo courtesy of Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum

Catch a show at The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
This beloved open-air theatre has hosted productions for decades and is recognized worldwide for its Shakespeare interpretations. In addition to its annual summer season, which includes works like Macbeth and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the venue hosts concerts, rehearsals, and classes throughout the year for budding actors and playwrights of all ages.

Snag a slice at Endless Colour
This family-run pizza joint specializes in from-scratch pies with clever topping combinations (think purple potatoes, fontina, and truffle oil in the Purple Molly Potato or spinach, leeks, and goat cheese in the Super Greens). Bring some friends, order a pie or two, and check out the drinks list, which includes offbeat options like orange wines and hard kombucha.

Photo courtesy of The Canyon Bakery
Photo courtesy of The Canyon Bakery
Photo courtesy of The Canyon Bakery

Sunday

Check out The Canyon Bakery’s “Sunday Funday”
Situated on the grounds of the aforementioned Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, this bakery specializes in naturally leavened breads, pastries, cakes, and cookies using locally sourced, whole grain flours. There’s a takeout window on Sundays, from 9:30 am until the bakery sells out. A strong following lines up for favourites, such as whole grain croissants and gluten-free pizza, so be sure to arrive early to get your fill.

Try tacos to-go at La Chingona
On your way out of town, grab some tacos at La Chingona, where a team puts forth fresh, organic, gluten- and dairy-free tacos. Orders range to include options like grass-fed beef (carne asada), shrimp (wild-caught), and soy chorizo and can be fashioned into plates beyond tacos, too (think tostadas, salads, and bowls). Open only on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays; this taco stand sees good demand. Plan accordingly, pending your travels, especially to savour an order or two of the churros.

Get the latest from Thrillist Australia delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe here.

Nicole Schnitzler is a contributor for Thrillist.

Related

Our Best Stories, Delivered Daily
The best decision you'll make all day.