Dining in Los Angeles in 2025–2026 offers a wide range of restaurant options, from affordable eateries to fine dining experiences. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $25–$40 per person, while a three-course dinner for two at a higher-end venue can reach $100–$150. Budget dining, such as fast food or food trucks, averages $10–$15 per meal. Prices vary depending on the neighborhood, with Beverly Hills and Downtown LA being the most expensive. Tipping standards remain at 15–20%, and most restaurants accept digital payments, cards, and mobile wallets.
Average restaurant meal costs in Los Angeles range from $10–$40 per person in 2025–2026. Explore fine dining, fast food, borough-wise prices, and budget tips across LA neighborhoods.
How Much Does It Cost to Eat Out in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Eating out in Los Angeles depends on the type of restaurant, cuisine, and location. From casual cafes to Michelin-starred venues, prices range widely, reflecting LA’s diverse culinary culture. Whether you’re enjoying Korean BBQ in Koreatown or sushi in Santa Monica, each meal type has its own average cost range.
• Casual dining: Expect to spend $15–$25 per person at small cafes, diners, and chain restaurants serving burgers, salads, or pasta.
• Mid-range restaurants: Meals cost between $25–$40 per person, often including an entrée and beverage.
• Fine dining: Upscale restaurants in Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, and Malibu charge $80–$150 per person for multi-course meals.
• Fast food and food trucks: Prices range from $8–$15 for tacos, burgers, or sandwiches.
• Breakfast or brunch spots: Average $12–$20, with higher prices in trendy areas like Silver Lake and West Hollywood.
Average Restaurant Meal Prices by Type [2025–2026]
Los Angeles offers every cuisine imaginable, with costs varying by meal type. The city’s mix of Mexican, Japanese, Korean, and vegan options makes eating out both exciting and flexible for different budgets.
• Breakfast: $10–$18 per person, popular dishes include avocado toast, pancakes, and coffee at local cafes.
• Lunch: $15–$25 per person, often including sandwiches, bowls, or salads.
• Dinner: $25–$40 per person at mid-range restaurants; fine dining meals range $80–$150.
• Drinks: Soft drinks cost $3–$5, while a glass of wine or craft beer costs $8–$15.
• Dessert cafes: Average $8–$12 for specialty pastries or gelato in Downtown LA and Santa Monica.
Restaurant Prices by Neighborhood [2025–2026]
Restaurant prices vary greatly across Los Angeles. Central and coastal neighborhoods tend to be pricier due to higher rents and tourist demand, while East and South LA offer affordable local dining experiences.
• Beverly Hills: Fine dining dominates, with average dinner costs of $100–$150 for two. Upscale steakhouses and Michelin-rated restaurants lead the area.
• Downtown LA: Expect $30–$50 per person at trendy bistros, rooftop venues, and Asian fusion spots.
• Hollywood / West Hollywood: Average meals cost $25–$40 per person; brunch cafes and celebrity-frequented eateries are popular.
• Santa Monica / Venice: Coastal dining costs $35–$60 per person, especially at oceanfront restaurants.
• Koreatown: BBQ and noodle houses average $20–$30 per meal, offering some of LA’s best value dining.
• Silver Lake / Echo Park: Trendy spots with vegan and fusion menus charge $25–$35 per person.
• South LA: Family-owned restaurants and taquerias average $10–$20 per person, ideal for budget eaters.
• San Fernando Valley: Costs $20–$35 per meal, with family-friendly American and Mexican cuisine dominating.
Cost of Drinks and Alcohol in Los Angeles Restaurants [2025–2026]
Drink costs can quickly add up in Los Angeles restaurants. From handcrafted cocktails to local wines, beverage prices vary by venue type and location.
• Cocktails: $12–$18 in mid-range bars, $20+ in high-end restaurants.
• Beer: Domestic beers start at $6, while craft or imported ones range from $8–$14.
• Wine: A glass costs $10–$15; bottles at restaurants range from $40–$120.
• Non-alcoholic drinks: Specialty coffees or smoothies cost $6–$10, especially at boutique cafes.
• Tipping on drinks: Bartenders expect a 15–20% tip, or $1–$2 per drink.
Tipping and Additional Dining Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Beyond menu prices, diners should factor in tips, taxes, and service charges, especially in fine dining venues or group settings.
• Tipping: Standard tip is 18–20% for good service; 10–15% for casual dining.
• Sales tax: Los Angeles restaurant sales tax is 9.5% as of 2025–2026.
• Service charge: Some upscale venues add a 3–5% service fee automatically.
• Delivery fees: Apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash charge $3–$6 per order, excluding tips.
• Parking fees: Valet or garage parking near restaurants may cost $10–$25 per visit.
Tips to Save Money Eating Out in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Eating out in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be expensive if you plan smartly. Many locals use weekday deals, happy hours, and food trucks to enjoy the city’s dining culture on a budget.
• Dine during happy hour (3–6 PM) for 20–30% discounts on drinks and appetizers.
• Use restaurant week promotions in January and July for special prix-fixe menus.
• Follow local food trucks in areas like Arts District or Venice for $10 meals.
• Try ethnic neighborhoods (Koreatown, Little Tokyo, Thai Town) for affordable authentic meals.
• Use apps like Too Good To Go or Yelp Deals to find discounted leftovers or promotions.
Summary of Restaurant Costs in Los Angeles (2025–2026)
| Neighborhood / Area | Average Meal Cost | Fine Dining for Two | Popular Cuisine | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beverly Hills | $50–$75 per person | $100–$150 | Steakhouses, luxury dining | Most expensive area |
| Downtown LA | $30–$50 | $80–$120 | Asian fusion, rooftop dining | Trendy and modern |
| Hollywood / West Hollywood | $25–$40 | $70–$100 | Brunch, Californian | Popular with tourists |
| Santa Monica / Venice | $35–$60 | $90–$130 | Seafood, coastal cuisine | Ocean views |
| Koreatown | $20–$30 | $50–$70 | BBQ, noodles | Great value dining |
| Silver Lake / Echo Park | $25–$35 | $60–$80 | Vegan, fusion | Trendy local scene |
| South LA | $10–$20 | $40–$60 | Mexican, soul food | Affordable, local favorites |
| San Fernando Valley | $20–$35 | $60–$90 | American, Mexican | Family-friendly dining |
FAQ: Restaurant Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. How much does an average meal cost in Los Angeles?
A mid-range restaurant meal costs about $25–$40 per person, while fine dining averages $80–$150 per meal.
Q2. What is the cheapest way to eat out in Los Angeles?
Food trucks and small local eateries in South LA or Koreatown offer meals from $8–$15.
Q3. How much should I tip at LA restaurants?
Tipping between 15–20% is standard. Some upscale restaurants automatically add a service fee.
Q4. Are drinks expensive in Los Angeles?
Yes. Expect $8–$15 for wine, $6–$14 for beer, and $12–$20 for cocktails, depending on location.
Q5. Which neighborhood is most expensive for dining?
Beverly Hills and Santa Monica have the highest restaurant costs, with dinner for two reaching $150.
Q6. Are there discounts for students or locals?
Many cafes and chains offer student discounts or weekday lunch specials between 10–15% off.
Q7. Can I find affordable fine dining options in LA?
Yes, Downtown LA and Koreatown feature mid-tier fine dining options with prix-fixe menus for $50–$70 per person.