Westwood’s Culinary History: From Classic Diners to Modern Hotspots

Nestled between Hollywood and UCLA, Westwood is home to an interesting mix of the rich and famous, college students and faculty, and local Angelenos. This vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood is rated as one of the favorites to live in. And yes – there are plenty of cafes and eateries populating the area. No need to go far for a good meal – Westwood is a very walkable neighborhood, which is one of the characteristics that makes it so appealing.

Over the past decade (the neighborhood began to be developed in 1919), its culinary landscape has transformed from classic diners and mom-and-pop establishments to trendy cafes, sleek eateries, and fast-casual eateries catering to college students. But don’t worry – if you’re craving nostalgia, some of the old hangout spots still exist amongst the new and flashy.

Historic Restaurants That Define Westwood’s Food Scene

Westwood is a neighborhood that has traditionally been associated with affluence and highly educated individuals, in the past and present day. Although the average price of a home here now costs $1.58 million, the dining scene of the past and now has not necessarily reflected this. High-end establishments exist in the neighborhood, they do not make up the majority of Westwood restaurants.

It’s not common knowledge what stands today in Westwood as the oldest dining establishment, but there are few historically notable restaurant businesses still standing. First starting as a soda counter in the 1950s, Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe transformed into a full service family restaurant over the years. Lucky for you, the spot is still in business; it’s a comfy and cozy place to eat big portions of diner classics and enjoy the retro design of wood-paneled walls and circular booths.

Every neighborhood needs an iconic pizza joint; Westwood has Lamonica’s NY Pizza. Starting on the East Coast in New York City, it graced the West Coast with its presence in 1980.

You’d be losing out by stopping in Westwood without trying some Persian cuisine. At the corner of the neighborhood sits what is known as an Iranian restaurant row. It’s hard to choose one, but you could start at the very first one established in the neighborhood: Shaherzad Restaurant. Opened in 1982, the restaurant’s tanour oven pumps out made to order flatbread.

Westwood and University of Los Angeles (UCLA) grew up together – with Westwood’s development beginning in 1919, and the college 10 years later in 1929. It’s no surprise that one of the oldest and most historic establishments was Sepi's. Sadly, after serving up beer and snacks since 1969, the bar that welcomed Bruins fans closed in 2019.

Now, for the sweets. One of the best known establishments in Westwood for grabbing warm, fresh donuts with unique fillings was Stan’s Donuts. The cherished bakery that operated for over 55 years sadly closed in 2020 during the pandemic.  And in some ways, history lives on in the present – Primo’s Donuts now operates out of the old Stan’s Donut location in Westwood Village.

Loved by college students, Diddy Riese Cookies is a late night staple for a sweet fourth meal. Opened in 1983, today you’ll still find freshly baked cookies, brownies, ice cream, and ice cream sandwiches for whenever the craving strikes.

Westwood’s Food Evolution: What’s Changed and What’s Timeless

While Westwood still cherishes its historical food culture, modern eateries now make up a majority of the dining scene. The health food scene originated in Los Angeles, and the demand for healthy eateries hasn’t ceased. As you’ll see throughout the city, Westwood is home to chains like Le Pain Quotidien, CAVA, and Sweetgreens – all convenient, affordable, and health-focused fast casual chains for students and young professionals.

As a neighborhood hosting a university and plenty of young adults, the love for classic burgers will forever live on through favorite chains like In-N-Out Burger and Smashburger. For stuffed sandwiches you won’t find elsewhere, salads, burgers, and loaded fries – we have to say it – a visit to Fat Sal’s is a must.

Westwood restaurants and the culinary landscape also represent international flavors, with authentic Persian, Mediterranean, Italian, and Asian restaurants maintaining a strong presence. Institutions like Sunnin Lebanese Café and Pomodoro Trattoria serve as reminders that while trends shift, the demand for comforting, well-executed cuisine never fades.

For something classy, somewhere to take a date or for students to take their parents, STK LA fits the bills. FYI, This sleek steak house has had its fair share of celebrity sightings. Wolfsglen is a more low key spot – it's polished and pleasant, serving up elevated comfort food.

Westwood: A Culinary Balance of Nostalgia and Innovation

As new restaurants continue to emerge in Westwood, the neighborhood balances innovation with tradition. While many historic diners and old-school eateries have given way to sleek, modern spots, a few still stand, a tasty reminder of simpler times. Westwood offers a dynamic dining scene with something for everyone – whether it be a college student, celebrity, or born-and-raised Angeleno.