In LA, a good rule of thumb is that if a restaurant has been in existence for over a decade, you can be fairly sure that it’s good. That’s because in a trendsetting metropolis where fashions and tastes can change in the blink of an eye, ordinary will simply not cut it for customers on the lookout for the next new hotspot. And for discerning customers, average will not suffice. Even really good restaurants will fold if patrons find something that outperforms the competition.
If a restaurant has been around even longer than a decade, you know it’s not just good but that it’s a must-visit.
Xian Restaurant, located in the heart of the Golden Triangle of Beverly Hills, is one of those restaurants. Xian has been serving classic Chinese food since 1996. It’s one of those places that is perfect for enjoying a family dinner, grabbing take-out on those nights when you’re too tired to cook but too tired to go out to eat, or getting food for a working dinner.
Admittedly, there isn’t anything groundbreaking or particularly unique on the menu at Xian. But what keeps me and so many others coming back is that you can get all the classic Chinese food dishes, all made with high quality ingredients and all done incredibly well.
For those who enjoy Chinese, I recommend a visit to Xian.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Los Angeles guide.
There's the famous hidden Swing in Elysian Park in Los Angeles. It's great for the view. Follow my instructions and you'll find it. Go in the morning...
By
Last time I visited I bought a book for my son titled “You Are Loved” by a local LA author, and Ouiji board earrings for a friend’s birthday...
By
Everything you need to buy or make any floral arrangement for any occasion! My whole balcony is decorated with plants from the LA Flower District.
By
My favorite bowl is the “Ritual of Champions”. It has acai, hemp seeds, strawberries, bananas, cacao, and peanut butter drizzled on top.
By
If you ask some bartenders around the block in LA where they go on their days off or when they get off work, "Elbow Room" is the place...
By
"Figaro Bistrot" Los Angeles: the quintessential cafe and a magical spot that will allow you for a quick trip to Paris! I go for their Omelette for brunch.
By
"The Cat and Fiddle" in Los Angeles is a British bar with great Monday pie and pint. I love the happy hour, and I love the atmosphere to read here!
By
"Scum and Villainy Cantina" in Hollywood, Los Angeles has its own Star Wars and other sci-fi themed bar. You can even dress up here, I'm usually a Pilot...
By
"New Beverly Cinema" Los Angeles is a 35mm only theatre. Q. Tarantino is head programmer and it only plays double features, the true way to enjoy films!
By
"Tao Comedy Club" in Los Angeles is a hidden gem of a comedy club. It's also a school of comedy, where you can follow Bobbi Oliver's different approach...
By
Home to a vibrant mix of mom-and-pop restaurants, shops, and one-of-a-kind LA gems, Atwater is the neighbourhood that makes you feel like a local Angelino.
By