Farm-to-table isn’t just a pretty trend. There are many benefits to eating local: you’re supporting the local economy, you’re reducing the carbon footprint of the food by not letting it travel 3000+ miles, and of course, you’re getting all the healthy perks of eating organic. Plus, everything is intensely fresh; the produce is harvested ripe and is much more nutrient dense. There are lots of local restaurants focusing on bringing you the freshest, most vibrant and delicious food that has been locally sourced. We scoured through Los Angeles and have compiled our favorite sustainable eateries.
Photo: Akasha
Akasha Restuarant, Bar and Bakery
From the food down to their uniforms, Akasha is dedicated to eco-friendly methods of production. Chef Akasha Richmond centers her menu based on what’s available at the farmers’ market and you can bet that all the ingredients are locally sourced and organic. Even the booze at Akasha is mindful; the bar serves organically produced spirits, beer, and wine. Don’t leave without trying their salty chocolate peanut bar. 9543 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
Photo: AOC
AOC
Suzanne Goin’s AOC is Beverly Hills’ farm-to-table sweetheart. The award-winning Goin has long been a champion for hyperlocal food sourcing. The wine bar has an eclectic selection of organic, biodynamic, and sustainable spirits. The restaurant focuses on small plates and family-style shared platters, so be sure to bring a couple of friends. We recommend the arroz negro, a rice dish with meaty squid and saffron aioli. It’s one of AOC’s signature dish and while it’s messy, we assure you the texture and flavor is well worth it. 8700 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Photo: Forage LA
Forage
The Forage family has a passion for living and eating well. The restaurant is family-owned and an idyllic lunch destination if you can snag a seat. The coolest part: they source from urban growers. The restaurant collaborates with home growers and guides them through the process of certification with county food regulators. Despite its popularity, Forage has a relatively modest operation. It’s cafeteria style and you order off their hot counter, which features a rotating selection of protein bowls, diverse sides, and elevated vegetables. Regulars love the pork belly sandwich, mac n cheese (this is an evening specialty), and the kale salad. 3823 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Photo: Girasol
Girasol
Chef CJ Jacobson of Top Chef takes local eating to whole other level. In addition to sourcing from regional farms, the restaurant actually forages from the Angeles National Forest. The tender octopus salad with fresh greens is a must. We’re also a huge fan of the beets and berries salad, sprinkled with a creamy and substantial goat cheese. 11334 Moorpark St, Los Angeles, CA 91604
Photo: Gjelina
Gjelina
One word: pizza. Gjelina makes simple everyday food with quality conscientiously sourced ingredients. About 90% of their produce comes from the farmers’ market, which is conveniently located right up the street. This place is perfect for brunch but their flavor packed freshly baked pizza is their main attraction. 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Photo: Clarissa Wei
Malibu Farm
Malibu Farm first began as a pop-up but the venture soon opened a brick and mortar after soaring in popularity. The owner, Helene Henderson, uses ingredients from three local farms including her own. Henderson doesn’t use excessive sauces to alter their flavor. Instead she prefers to showcase the true flavor of the produce. They have a great location on the pier and it’s perfect for brunch. The fried egg sandwich and grilled chocolate cake that’s not too sweet are more than enough reason to keep going back. 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Photo from Pedalers Fork
Pedalers Fork
Pedalers Fork is an adorable two-story Calabasas restaurant with vintage bikes lined up on the walls (some of them date from back in the 1800s). They source from more than a dozen producers and have crafted an extensive menu that covers both land and sea. We really dig the fava bean hummus with organic vegetables and warm pita bread. 23504 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302
Photo from Clarissa Wei
Sqirl
Jessica Koslow’s Sqirl has become an integral part of L.A.’s growing food culture. It started out as an artisan toast and jam café and has now become one of the hippest restaurants in Los Angeles. There can be quite a wait on weekend afternoons. The restaurant’s produce comes from local farmers within a 350 mile radius as well as from their own garden. Our favorites: a fluffy brioche toast topped with fresh ricotta. Oh, and of course, the jam. 720 N Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029
