El Pollo Loco is definitely a hidden gem. I miss it greatly — there is no equivalent here in Portland unfortunately. I’m also partial to Yoshinoya Beef Bowl, though the quality is all over the place with them.

Can’t believe you don’t like In-N-Out. It’s waaaaay fresher than any large chain burger place. I mean, they actually slice the onions, tomatoes, etc while you’re waiting. Ask for an animal style burger next time — grilled onions melted into the cheese — and their milkshakes are pretty tasty too. To each their own.

If you want decent cheap eats, I’m afraid you’ll probably have to head into LA proper. Next time you’re near Culver City (my hometown), hit up Johnny’s Pastrami, Versailles, Fatburger, or India Sweets and Spices. For upscale, try La Serenata de Garibaldi, or probably my favorite LA restaurant: Warszawa in Santa Monica.

Happy eating.

“Waiter, you see this steak?”
“Yes, sir?”
“Well, I want you to take this steak back to the kitchen, give my compliments to the chef, and tell him to shove it up his ass.”
“Very good, sir.”
[Waiter removes steak; long delay.]
“I’m very sorry, sir; there are two other steaks and a roast duck ahead of you.”