If you find yourself planted at the intersection of Spring and 8th in Los Angeles, you might be tempted to think that the only options for a meal are a hotdog cart and a taco truck. But fear not, my hungry friends, for within a quarter-mile radius of this urban residential intersection lies a veritable smorgasbord of culinary delights.
Woodspoon: Stylish but simple Brazilian spot known for yuca fries, chicken pot pies and its famous red (and white) sangria. Focused on the multicultural influences of Brazil’s Minas Gerais region, Woodspoon’s Natalia Pereira, mixes up a melting pot of African, European, and Amazonian influences. Start your dinner with an assortment of Brazilain street foods like potato croquettes, coconut dumplings and grilled prawns with lime and salt.
LALA’s Downtown: This restaurant is a carnivore’s dream – the Argentinain kind. LALA’s serves up giant portions of meat that will have you feeling like a prehistoric beast. Sorry vegans, even the veggies are stewed in chicken-stock. Just be prepared to unbutton your pants before digging in.
Wild Living Foods: This spot is the perfect place for all of your plant-based needs and much of the menu is raw. The food is delicious and healthy, but just be warned that you may leave feeling a little too virtuous. And here’s the zinger – you won’t have to go far for a star-sighting here. The establishment is owned and operated by Project Runway and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Santino Rice
Sugarfish Sushi: This staple Los Angeles sushi spot is always packed and for good reason. The fish is fresh and the rolls are perfectly curated Nozawa style. Just be prepared to race your fellow diners for the last piece of tuna, and they don’t take reserations.
Joes Pizza: Another staple in Los Angeles, Joe’s pizza joint is perfect for a quick bite on the go. The slices are large and the toppings are piled high. Just be prepared to burn your mouth, as the cheese is always piping hot. Friday and Saturday night’s the place is jammed, so be prepared to wait up to an hour for your made-to-order pie. The club goers on Spring Street keep this place hopping until the bars close
Tocaya Modern Mexican: This growing Los Angeles chain serves up some of the best tacos in the area and they have vegan options for everything on the menu. The flavors are bold and the portions are generous. Just be prepared to get your hands dirty on Taco Tuesday. Those tacos are stuffed to the gills and at $2, you will be too.
Silverlake Ramen: This cozy spot serves up some of the best Asian-inspired dishes around. The noodles are perfectly cooked and the broth is out of this world. Just be prepared to slurp loudly and they have an excellent vegan ramen to round out the meal for everyone.
Il Café Broaday: This quaint little spot serves up some of the most delicious coffee on the block. The baristas are friendly and the atmosphere is cozy. Il Café has one of the most amazing avocado toast offerings in Los Angeles – and that’s saying a lot for the discerning SoCal appetite for our famous fatty green fruit.
Beelman’s Pub: Located just north on Spring Street in the heart of the historic core, Beelman’s boasts one of the largest patios in DTLA, full bar and kitchen, big screen TVs, Happy Hour and a filipino-inspired all vegan bar-food menu.
Kreation Juicery and Avoholic Bar: This spot serves up some of the most refreshing and healthy drinks around. The smoothies are packed with fruits and veggies and are sure to give you a boost. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege.
In conclusion, Spring and 8th street may not seem like a culinary paradise at first glance, but fear not, foodies! This area has a variety of restaurants that will satisfy any craving, whether it’s modern Mexican, cheesy pizza, Brazilian, SoCal cafe, Filipino-inspired bar food, smooties and açai bowls or just a steamy bowl of ramen. So, don’t let the hotdog carts fool you, dig in and enjoy!
