The Best Foods Near UCLA

We at Tripalink are dedicated to providing you with the best information on the top foods near UCLA that you must try. Whether you are a student at UCLA or a local resident, these food joints are sure to satisfy your taste buds. 

If you’re looking for excitement and variety in your dining options, fast but fresh foods, exotic desserts, or in search of a more upscale but modern feel, consider this list below. Check out these top-rated and best foods near UCLA in Los Angeles even the UCLA grad students will love these options.

Delicious Food Options Near UCLA

Fat Sal’s Deli

Located just a few blocks away from the UCLA campus, Fat Sal’s Deli is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a hearty meal. They offer a wide range of sandwiches, salads, and fries. 

However, their most famous dish is the Fat Texas BBQ sandwich, which is loaded with barbecue brisket, onion rings, and melted cheddar cheese. The sandwich is so big that it’s sure to leave you feeling full for hours!

Diddy Riese Cookies

Diddy Riese Cookies is a legendary spot in Westwood, known for its delicious homemade cookies and ice cream sandwiches. They offer a wide range of flavors, including chocolate chip, sugar, oatmeal raisin, and peanut butter. The best part? 

The cookies are made fresh daily, ensuring that they are always soft and chewy. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, this is the place to be.

Barney’s Gourmet Hamburgers

Barney’s Gourmet Hamburgers is a classic American joint located in Westwood. They offer a wide range of burgers, including the Classic Cheeseburger, the Western Burger, and the Veggie Burger. 

However, their most famous dish is the Sweet Potato Fries, which are crispy and delicious. If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, Barney’s is the place to be.

Ramen Yamadaya

If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, Ramen Yamadaya is the place to be. They offer a wide range of ramen options, including the Tonkotsu Ramen, the Spicy Ramen, and the Vegetarian Ramen. 

The broth is rich and flavorful, and the noodles are cooked to perfection. If you’re a ramen lover, this spot is a must-visit.

Tacos Tu Madre

Tacos Tu Madre is a trendy Mexican joint located in Westwood. They offer a wide range of tacos, including the Pork Belly Taco, the Carne Asada Taco, and the Vegan Taco. 

The tacos are loaded with flavor and come with a variety of toppings. However, the standout dish is the Churro Ice Cream Sandwich, which is a warm churro filled with ice cream. It’s the perfect dessert to end your meal.

In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger is a fast-food chain that has become an iconic staple of the West Coast. The menu is simple, offering burgers, fries, and shakes, but everything is made fresh and to order. 

The burgers are juicy and flavorful, and the fries are crispy and golden. Plus, the secret menu offers a variety of fun options to mix and match.

The Boiling Crab

The Boiling Crab is a Cajun-style seafood restaurant that is known for its messy, hands-on dining experience. The menu offers a variety of seafood options, including shrimp, crab, and crawfish, all cooked in a spicy sauce of your choosing. 

The best way to enjoy the food is by putting on a bib, rolling up your sleeves, and diving in.

La Monarca Bakery

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head to La Monarca Bakery in Santa Monica. This Mexican bakery offers a variety of pastries, including conchas, churros, and tres leches cake. 

The coffee is also delicious and pairs perfectly with the sweet treats. Plus, the colorful and vibrant atmosphere makes for a great Instagram photo.

800 Degrees Pizza

800 Degrees Pizza is a build-your-own pizza joint that offers fast and affordable options. You can choose from a variety of toppings, sauces, and cheeses to create your perfect pizza. 

The thin crust is crispy and flavorful, and the ingredients are always fresh. Plus, the restaurant has a sleek and modern design that makes for a great dining experience.

Noodle World

Noodle World is a popular Asian noodle spot located in Westwood. The menu offers a variety of noodle dishes, including pad thai, pho, and udon. 

The portions are large, and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a quick and filling meal. Plus, the restaurant has a casual and comfortable atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends.

The Palace

If you're in the mood for Chinese food, The Palace is a great option. This restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including dim sum, seafood, and traditional Chinese barbecue. 

The flavors are authentic and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for sharing with friends.

Bella Pita

For a quick and tasty Mediterranean meal, head to Bella Pita. This restaurant offers fresh and flavorful wraps, salads, and platters. The falafel is a must-try and the portions are large enough to satisfy any appetite. 

Plus, the prices are affordable, making it a great option for a quick and healthy lunch.

Diddy Riese

For a sweet treat, head to Diddy Riese. This iconic UCLA spot offers freshly baked cookies and ice cream sandwiches. 

The flavors are classic, but the combinations are endless, allowing you to create your perfect dessert. Plus, the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a late-night snack.

Fat Sal's

If you're in the mood for a hearty sandwich, Fat Sal's is the place to go. This restaurant offers over-the-top sandwiches and burgers, loaded with toppings and sauces. 

The portions are large enough to share and the flavors are bold and delicious. Plus, the atmosphere is fun and lively, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends.

TLT Food

TLT Food is a casual and trendy eatery that offers a fusion of Mexican and Asian flavors. Their signature dish is the "Sliders", which are mini tacos filled with different proteins such as pork belly, fried chicken, or grilled fish, topped with pickled onions and spicy aioli. 

They also offer bowls, salads, and sides like street corn and crispy brussels sprouts. The atmosphere is lively and modern, and they have a bar with a selection of beers, cocktails, and wines.

Ike's Love and Sandwiches

Ike's Love and Sandwiches is a sandwich chain that originated in San Francisco, but has now expanded to different locations in California, including Westwood. They are known for their creative and indulgent sandwich combinations, such as "Menage a Trois", which includes chicken, ham, and bacon, or "Spiffy Tiffy", which has vegan meatballs and marinara sauce. 

They also have gluten-free and vegan options, and a wide variety of sauces and spreads. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, with colorful murals on the walls.

Tocaya Organica

Tocaya Organica is a fast-casual restaurant that serves Mexican-inspired dishes with a healthy twist. They use organic and locally-sourced ingredients, and offer many vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly options.

Some of their popular dishes include the "Burrata Bowl", which has quinoa, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze, and the "Fajita Del Rey" with grilled steak, peppers, and onions. They also have a bar with margaritas, beer, and kombucha.

Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers

Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers is a classic American burger joint that has been around since 1978. They offer a wide selection of burgers, including beef, turkey, chicken, and veggie patties, and you can customize them with different toppings and sauces. 

They also have salads, sandwiches, and sides like onion rings and sweet potato fries. The atmosphere is cozy and retro, with red leather booths and vintage posters.

Cafe 1919

Cafe 1919 is a cozy cafe that serves breakfast and lunch dishes, as well as coffee and pastries. They have a variety of omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, and salads, made with fresh and organic ingredients. 

They also have vegan and gluten-free options, and a selection of teas and juices. The atmosphere is homey and relaxed, with wooden tables and a sunny patio.

Kazu Sushi

Kazu Sushi is a traditional Japanese sushi restaurant that offers fresh and high-quality fish. They have a variety of nigiri, sashimi, and rolls, as well as hot dishes like tempura and udon. 

They also have a sushi bar where you can watch the chefs prepare your food. The atmosphere is elegant and quiet, with wooden decor and soft lighting.

Plan Check Kitchen + Bar

Plan Check Kitchen + Bar is a gastropub that offers creative and upscale comfort food. They have a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and fried chicken, as well as dishes like Korean BBQ ribs and grilled salmon. 

They also have a selection of craft beer, cocktails, and wine. The atmosphere is hip and modern, with graffiti murals and an open kitchen.

Noodle World

Noodle World is a casual Asian restaurant that specializes in noodles and soups. They have a variety of dishes from different cuisines, such as Thai pad thai, Vietnamese pho, and Japanese udon. 

They also have vegetarian and vegan options, and a selection

UCLA Culinary Journey 

In conclusion, if you're a UCLA student or just happen to be in the Westwood area, you're in luck when it comes to dining options. From classic American fare to international cuisine, there's something for everyone. Whether you're on a budget or looking to splurge, these restaurants offer delicious food and a great atmosphere.

To make the most out of your culinary journey, be sure to try out the top picks mentioned in this article. Don't be afraid to explore the surrounding area and discover new restaurants as well. And remember, when it comes to dining out, Yelp and Google Reviews can be your best friend in finding the perfect spot.

Overall, the food scene near UCLA is vibrant and diverse, and you're sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. Happy eating!