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The Michelin Guide Just Recommended 5 New Places To Dine In LA And OC
The Brussels Sprout Tinga Taco from Lola Gaspar in Santa Ana.
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Jefferson Van Billiard
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Courtesy of Lola Gaspar
)
The world's most prestigious name in food and dining — the Michelin Guide — just recommended five new places to dine in California. (So get in your reservations now before the rest of L.A. finds out.)
This new crop of restaurants tantalizingly covers the diverse SoCal region. They include an authentic Italian restaurant located in a humble strip mall in Newbury Park, a trendy cocktail bar known for its innovative small plates in Santa Ana, and the flavors of Northern Indian cuisine in La Puente.
Why now
The Tuesday announcement marks the second round of Michelin recommended mentions to be included in the new California dining guide unveiled later this year. Nine spots were honored in March.
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The five newcomers represent a continuing shift for the Michelin Guide, which used to be known for showcasing fine dining establishments in certain geographic locations (think Los Angeles, San Francisco, Napa.) But, as Tuesday's list shows, the organization now goes well beyond traditional dining destinations.
Why it matters
The "recommended" title will change the future of many of these restaurants — not only because it's a boon to business. The Michelin nods make these eateries eligible to win coveted Bib Gourmand or Star awards when Michelin's California dining guide is unveiled in its entirety later this summer.
Here is a closer look at the new entries:
Cedro Italian Restaurant in Newbury Park
The Tagliatelle al Ragú at Cedro Italian Restaurant in Newbury Park
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Matteo Di Nicola
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Courtesy of Cedro Italian Restaurant
)
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Location: 2385 Michael Dr., Newbury Park
Guide description: $$ · Italian
CedroRestaurant.com
Elf Cafe in Echo Park
Spanish bocquerones served on a baguette at Elf Cafe in Echo Park,
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Courtesy of Elf Cafe
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Location: 2135 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles
Guide description: $$ · Mediterranean Cuisine
ElfCafe.com
Lola Gaspar in Santa Ana
The magical interior at Lola Gaspar in Santa Ana.
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Courtesy of Lola Gaspar
)
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Location: 211 W. 2nd St., Santa Ana
Guide description: $$ · Mexican
LolaGaspar.com
Lustig in Culver City
The Kaese Spaetzle at Lustig in Culver City
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Wonho Frank Lee
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Courtesy of Lustig
)
Location: 3273 Helms Ave., Culver City
Guide description: $$$ · Austrian, European Contemporary
Lustig-LA.com
Manohar’s Delhi Palace in La Puente
Some menu highlights at Manohar’s Delhi Palace in La Puente.
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Courtesy of Manohar’s Delhi Palace
)
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Location: 581 Azusa Way, La Puente
Guide description: $$ · Indian
MDelhiPalace.com
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