Food & Dining Guide for LA 2028
Los Angeles is one of the world's great food cities. From venue concessions to Michelin-starred restaurants, food trucks to ethnic neighborhoods, this guide covers everything you need to know about eating well during the 2028 Olympics.
Food at Olympic Venues
What to Expect at Venues
Concessions, pricing, and bringing your own food
Olympic venues will offer a variety of food and beverage options, though expect higher-than-normal prices and lines during peak times. LA 2028 has committed to showcasing local food culture at venues while also providing familiar concession staples.
Typical Venue Food Options:
- Classic stadium fare: hot dogs, nachos, pretzels
- LA-inspired items: tacos, burgers, California rolls
- International foods representing Olympic nations
- Vegetarian and vegan options at all venues
- Grab-and-go items for quick service
- Premium dining in hospitality areas (VIP tickets)
Estimated Venue Pricing:
- Water bottle: $5-7
- Soda/beer: $10-15
- Hot dog/pretzel: $8-12
- Sandwich/burger: $15-20
- Tacos (2-3): $12-16
- Full meal combo: $25-35
Can You Bring Your Own Food?
Policies on outside food and beverages
Security and venue policies will be announced closer to the Games, but based on previous Olympics and LA venue standards:
Likely Allowed:
- One factory-sealed water bottle (plastic, 20oz or less)
- Small snacks in clear plastic bags (granola bars, fruit, crackers)
- Baby food and formula for infants
- Medical nutrition items (with documentation)
- Empty refillable water bottles (fill at water fountains inside)
Likely Prohibited:
- Outside alcohol (strictly forbidden)
- Glass bottles or containers
- Large coolers or insulated bags
- Full meals or restaurant takeout
- Cans (beverages must be in plastic bottles)
Pro tip: Eat a substantial meal before heading to the venue and bring allowed snacks. This saves money and avoids long concession lines.
Beat the Lines: Food Strategy
- Eat before you arrive: Have a real meal 1-2 hours before your session starts
- Buy during competition: Everyone rushes concessions during breaks—buy during action when lines are shorter
- Use mobile ordering: If available, order via app and skip pickup lines
- Explore all concourse levels: Upper levels often have shorter lines for same items
- Bring refillable bottle: Water fountains inside—no need to buy $6 water repeatedly
- Split up: If in a group, have one person shop while others hold seats
Hydration in July-August LA Heat
LA summer temperatures range from 75-95°F (24-35°C), often hotter at outdoor venues. Staying hydrated is critical:
- Water fountains: Available at all venues, bring refillable bottle
- Drink before you're thirsty: By the time you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated
- Outdoor venues: Long Beach, Rose Bowl, Santa Monica—extra water needed
- Avoid excessive alcohol: Beer in the sun dehydrates you faster
- Morning sessions: Still hot—don't underestimate 10am heat
- Signs of heat exhaustion: Dizziness, nausea, headache—seek medical tent immediately
Dietary Accommodations
Special Dietary Needs
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher, and allergen-friendly options
LA 2028 is committed to ensuring all spectators can find suitable food options regardless of dietary restrictions or religious requirements. LA's diverse food scene makes this easier than in most cities.
Vegetarian & Vegan
At Venues:
Every venue will have vegetarian options (veggie burgers, salads, pizza). Most major venues will also offer clearly marked vegan items.
Around LA:
LA has one of the best vegan scenes in America. Apps like HappyCow will guide you to hundreds of plant-based restaurants near every venue zone.
Recommended Areas:
- Silver Lake, Echo Park: Heavy vegan restaurant concentration
- Venice/Santa Monica: Beach-area plant-based cafes
- DTLA: Several all-vegan options in Arts District
Halal & Kosher
At Venues:
Select venues (especially larger ones like SoFi, Coliseum) will offer halal and kosher-certified options. Look for certification signage at concession stands.
Halal Options:
- Many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants
- The Halal Guys and similar chains throughout LA
- Pakistani, Indian, Turkish neighborhoods with certified options
Kosher Options:
- Pico-Robertson neighborhood: LA's kosher hub
- Multiple kosher restaurants, delis, markets
- Some hotels offer kosher meal packages (book in advance)
Gluten-Free
At Venues:
Gluten-free items will be available (GF buns for burgers, salads, fruit). Ask concession staff for allergen information sheets.
Around LA:
LA restaurants widely accommodate gluten-free requests. Most menus clearly mark GF items or offer substitutions. Dedicated GF bakeries throughout the city.
Food Allergies
At Venues:
Allergen information sheets available at concession stands. Top 8 allergens clearly labeled. Staff trained on cross-contamination protocols.
Severe Allergies:
- Bring your own safe snacks to venues
- Medical exceptions allow outside food with documentation
- Notify venue medical staff of severe allergies upon entry
- Carry EpiPen and ensure companions know how to use it
Best Restaurants Near Major Venue Zones
Pre-event dining recommendations within walking distance or short Metro ride from Olympic venues. Make reservations well in advance for popular spots during the Games.
Downtown LA & Coliseum Zone
Athletics, soccer, and downtown venues
Pre-Event Dining (Near Coliseum/USC):
- The Coop: Casual American, 5-min walk to Coliseum. Wings, burgers, craft beer. $15-25.
- Chichen Itza: Yucatan Mexican, USC area. Amazing cochinita pibil. $12-20.
- Pasta Sisters: Fresh pasta, Echo Park (10 min drive). Order ahead for quick pickup. $15-25.
- Grand Central Market: Food hall, DTLA. 30+ vendors, every cuisine. Metro to venue. $10-20.
Upscale Post-Event (Downtown LA):
- Bestia: Italian, Arts District. Reservations essential. $40-70.
- Otium: Contemporary American, by The Broad museum. $35-60.
- Redbird: Modern American, beautiful space. $35-60.
- Perch: French, rooftop views of DTLA. $30-55.
Quick & Budget:
- Philippe's: French dip sandwiches since 1908. DTLA institution. $10-15.
- Guisados: Tacos, multiple DTLA locations. $3-4 per taco.
- Howlin' Ray's: Nashville hot chicken (expect lines). $12-18.
Inglewood / SoFi Stadium Zone
Opening/Closing Ceremonies, swimming, basketball
Near SoFi/Intuit (Inglewood):
- Dulan's Soul Food: Iconic Inglewood spot. Fried chicken, catfish, mac & cheese. $15-25.
- Earle's on Crenshaw: Hot chicken, soul food. Local favorite. $12-20.
- The Serving Spoon: Southern comfort food. Generous portions. $15-22.
- Randy's Donuts: LA landmark (giant donut building). Quick breakfast before morning sessions. $5-10.
Nearby Areas (10-15 min drive):
- El Segundo: Breweries and casual dining near LAX
- Manhattan Beach: Upscale beach dining, seafood (Fishing with Dynamite, MB Post)
- Culver City: Trendy food scene (Roberta's, Margot, Culver Hotel)
Strategy for Big Events:
Opening/Closing Ceremonies draw 70,000+ people. Restaurants near SoFi will be slammed. Better to eat in Manhattan Beach, Culver City, or DTLA and Metro to venue.
Long Beach Zone
Water sports, beach volleyball, marathon
Downtown Long Beach Waterfront:
- The Attic: Upscale comfort food. Mac & cheese bar. $15-28.
- Parker's Lighthouse: Seafood, waterfront views. $25-45.
- Pier 76 Fish Grill: Fresh fish, harborside. $18-35.
- George's Greek Cafe: Casual Greek, great value. $12-20.
- Berlin Bistro: German food and beer garden. $15-25.
Quick Bites Near Venues:
- Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles: LA institution. $15-22.
- Nick's on 2nd: Breakfast and lunch, local favorite. $10-18.
- Phnom Penh Noodle Shack: Cambodian street food. $10-15.
Post-Event Celebration:
- 555 East: Steakhouse, upscale. $40-80.
- L'Opera: Italian fine dining. $35-65.
- Ballast Point: Brewery, harbor views, casual. $12-22.
Santa Monica / Venice / Westside
Beach volleyball, surfing, potentially other beach events
Santa Monica (Pre-Beach Events):
- Bay Cities Deli: Iconic Italian deli. Godmother sandwich. Lines long—order ahead. $12-18.
- The Lobster: Seafood, pier views. $30-55.
- Tar & Roses: American small plates, trendy. $25-45.
- Santa Monica Seafood: Market and cafe, super fresh. $15-30.
Venice Boardwalk Area:
- Gjelina: California cuisine, always packed. Reservations essential. $25-45.
- Felix Trattoria: Fresh pasta, Venice Beach. $20-40.
- The Butcher's Daughter: Vegan cafe, Instagram-worthy. $15-25.
- Blue Star Donuts: Gourmet donuts, quick breakfast. $4-6 each.
Beach Casual:
- Dozens of beachfront cafes and bars along Ocean Ave and the Boardwalk
- Most offer outdoor seating, tacos, burgers, seafood, salads
- Expect $15-25 per person, perfect for post-beach volleyball
Pasadena / Rose Bowl Zone
Soccer matches
Old Town Pasadena (15-min walk from Rose Bowl):
- The Raymond 1886: Historic craftsman house, upscale American. $30-55.
- Pie 'n Burger: Old-school diner, cash only. Burgers and pies. $10-15.
- Union: Italian, trendy spot. $20-40.
- Smitty's Grill: Comfort food, casual. $12-20.
- Urth Caffé: Coffee and light meals, outdoor seating. $10-18.
San Gabriel Valley (Near Pasadena):
- 626 Night Market: If coincides with Olympics, massive Asian food festival
- Alhambra/Monterey Park: Best Chinese food in America, 10 min from Rose Bowl
- Din Tai Fung (Arcadia): World-famous soup dumplings. $15-25.
Exploring LA's Diverse Food Scene
Los Angeles: A Global Culinary Capital
Don't leave without trying these LA specialties
LA's greatest food strength is its incredible diversity. More than any Olympic host, Los Angeles offers authentic cuisines from around the world, often in neighborhood enclaves where you'll hear native languages and experience genuine cultural dining.
Mexican & Taco Culture
LA has the best Mexican food outside of Mexico. From street tacos to upscale mole, it's everywhere and it's incredible.
Street Tacos:
- Leo's Tacos (truck), Mariscos Jalisco (shrimp tacos), Tacos 1986
- $2-4 per taco, some of the best food you'll eat
Restaurants:
- Guelaguetza (Oaxacan mole), Mexicali Taco & Co., Broken Spanish
Regional Specialties:
- Birria (Tijuana-style), Al pastor, Carne asada, Carnitas
Korean BBQ & Koreatown
LA's Koreatown is the center of Korean culture in America. Korean BBQ is a social, interactive dining experience perfect for groups.
Top KBBQ Spots:
- Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong, Park's BBQ, Quarters Korean BBQ
- All-you-can-eat: $30-45. Premium: $50-80
Other Korean Food:
- Soon Tofu (soft tofu stew), Korean fried chicken, Bibimbap
- Open late—perfect post-evening event dining
Japanese Ramen & Sushi
From budget ramen to $300 omakase, LA's Japanese food scene rivals Tokyo.
Ramen (Budget-Friendly):
- Tsujita, Daikokuya, Silverlake Ramen
- $12-18, filling and delicious
Sushi:
- Budget: Sugarfish ($25-40), KazuNori (hand rolls)
- Splurge: Sushi Gen, Kiriko, Morihiro (omakase $100-250)
Thai Town
LA's Thai Town (East Hollywood) offers authentic regional Thai cuisine.
Must-Try Spots:
- Jitlada (Southern Thai, spicy), Night + Market (hip, flavorful)
- Ruen Pair (boat noodles), Pa Ord (Northern Thai)
- $12-25 per person, exceptional value
Chinese Regional Cuisines
San Gabriel Valley has the best Chinese food in America—every regional cuisine represented.
By Region:
- Sichuan: Chengdu Taste, Szechuan Impression (spicy)
- Shanghai: Din Tai Fung (soup dumplings), Shanghai No. 1
- Cantonese: Sea Harbour (dim sum), Elite Restaurant
- $15-30 per person, often share-style
Middle Eastern
LA has significant Persian, Lebanese, and Israeli communities with incredible restaurants.
Westwood (Persian):
- Shamshiri Grill, Attari Sandwich Shop
- Kebabs, rice, stews. $15-30
All Over:
- Bavel (modern Middle Eastern, DTLA), Kismet (Mediterranean)
Ethiopian
LA's Little Ethiopia (Fairfax District) offers communal Ethiopian dining experiences.
Try:
- Meals served on injera (spongy flatbread), eat with hands
- Rahel (vegan Ethiopian), Meals by Genet, Rosalind's
- $12-20, great for sharing
Armenian & Mediterranean
Glendale has the largest Armenian community outside Armenia.
Try:
- Carousel, Raffi's Place, Mini Kabob
- Kebabs, lavash, hummus, baklava
- $15-28 per person
Budget Eating Tips
How to Eat Well Without Breaking the Bank
LA food can be expensive—here's how to save
Avoid Tourist Traps:
- Skip Hollywood Blvd restaurants (overpriced, mediocre)
- Santa Monica Pier restaurants are tourist-priced—walk 2 blocks inland
- Airport area dining is expensive—eat before/after LAX
Best Budget Options:
- Food trucks: $8-15 per meal, often excellent. Find via apps like Roaming Hunger
- Ethnic neighborhoods: Authentic food is cheaper in Koreatown, Thai Town, SGV than touristy areas
- Tacos & burritos: Quality street tacos are $2-4 each, 3-4 make a meal
- Grand Central Market: Food hall with affordable options, downtown
- Chinatown/Little Tokyo: Budget-friendly Asian food
- Happy hours: Many restaurants offer 3-6pm discounted appetizers and drinks
Grocery Store Meals:
- Trader Joe's: Prepared foods, salads, sandwiches. $6-12
- Whole Foods: Hot bar, salad bar. Pay by weight. $8-15
- Ralph's/Vons: Deli sandwiches, grab-and-go. $6-10
- Perfect for quick hotel meals or picnics before events
Meal Timing Strategy:
- Big breakfast: Many hotels include breakfast—load up
- Late lunch (2-4pm): Skip lunch crowds, some happy hour pricing starts
- Early dinner (5-6pm): Beat dinner rush, enjoy early bird specials
- Late snack instead of dinner: If evening event has concessions, eat after
Sample Budget Meal Plan
How to eat for $30-40/day in LA
- Breakfast: Hotel included or coffee shop ($8-12)
- Lunch: Food truck tacos or ethnic restaurant ($10-15)
- Snacks: Bring to venue, buy from grocery ($5-8)
- Dinner: Ethnic neighborhood restaurant or food hall ($12-18)
- Total: $35-53/day with some splurge room
Compare to venue meals (easily $30-40 for lunch alone) and you'll save hundreds over a week.
Food Delivery to Hotels
Delivery Apps & Services
When you don't want to leave your hotel
All major food delivery apps operate in LA. Perfect for late arrivals, recovery days, or post-event exhaustion.
Main Apps:
- Uber Eats: Widest selection, fast delivery
- DoorDash: Great coverage, frequent promos
- Postmates: More than food (groceries, alcohol)
- Grubhub: Good for chain restaurants
Cost Expectations:
- Delivery fee: $2-8 depending on distance
- Service fee: 10-15% of order
- Tip: 15-20% recommended
- Total markup: 25-40% over restaurant prices
Tip: Many apps offer subscription services (DashPass, Uber One) that waive delivery fees. Can pay for itself in 2-3 orders.
Staying Hydrated & Safe
Important Health Reminders
Summer Heat Hydration:
- Drink 8-12 glasses of water daily in July-August LA heat
- Carry refillable water bottle everywhere
- Coconut water, sports drinks help replenish electrolytes
- Avoid excessive alcohol in direct sun—dehydrates quickly
- Signs of dehydration: headache, dizziness, dark urine
Food Safety:
- LA tap water is safe to drink everywhere
- Food trucks must be health-inspected—generally safe
- Avoid street vendors without permits or health ratings
- Wash hands or use sanitizer before eating
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours (1 hour in heat)
Restaurant Note: LA restaurants are extremely busy during normal times. During the Olympics, reservations are essential for popular spots. Book dinner reservations 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for Friday-Sunday. Use OpenTable, Resy, or call directly.