Discovering Culinary Delights: Your Ultimate Guide to Smorgasburg LA’s Best Eats

Smorgasburg isn’t just a food market; it’s a vibrant weekly pilgrimage for food enthusiasts, a dynamic showcase of culinary innovation, and a photographer’s paradise. Born in Brooklyn, New York, this sprawling open-air market has brought its unique flavor to Los Angeles, transforming a downtown industrial space into a bustling hub of gastronomic exploration. Every Sunday, an array of vendors converges, offering everything from savory global street food to avant-garde desserts, each dish crafted with passion and designed to captivate both the palate and the camera lens.

More than just a place to eat, Smorgasburg LA is an experience. It’s a sensory feast where the aroma of diverse cuisines fills the air, the sounds of laughter and lively conversation blend with eclectic music, and the sight of beautifully plated dishes sparks immediate curiosity. As a regular attendee and ardent admirer of this culinary spectacle, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling countless creations. This guide aims to share some of my absolute favorite, most unforgettable dishes, ensuring your visit to Smorgasburg LA is as delicious and Instagram-worthy as possible.

POPDUP+ Soda: A Refreshing Artistic Sip

Amidst the rich aromas of hot food, sometimes you crave something light, sparkling, and utterly refreshing. Enter POPDUP+, a local premium syrup and beverage company that masterfully crafts artisan sodas and teas. Their creations are not just drinks; they’re liquid works of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.

One of their standout offerings, often featured and pictured here, is the Lychee Butterfly Pea Soda. This beverage is a spectacle of natural colors, with vibrant purples and blues swirling through the glass, hinting at the exotic flavors within. The delicate sweetness of lychee perfectly complements the subtle, earthy notes of butterfly pea, creating a harmonious and invigorating taste experience. Each sip is a testament to the quality of ingredients and the artistry involved, making it a truly premium soda that’s worth every penny. It’s the perfect companion to cleanse your palate between savory bites or simply to enjoy as a sophisticated refreshment on a warm Los Angeles day.

Yellow Business: Crafting Irresistible Bubble Waffle Desserts

If you haven’t yet experienced the delightful texture and versatility of a bubble waffle, consider this your urgent invitation to add it to your culinary bucket list. These unique, spherical-pouched egg waffles are a beloved street food staple in Hong Kong, typically enjoyed plain or with simple accompaniments. However, Yellow Business at Smorgasburg elevates the humble bubble waffle into an extravagant dessert masterpiece.

Yellow Business transforms these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside waffles into elaborate sundaes and decadent treats. My personal favorites showcase their creative flair. The S’mores Bubble Waffle, prominently featured above, is a delightful fusion of classic campfire flavors with an Asian twist. Imagine warm, gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate drizzled over a freshly made bubble waffle, offering a perfect balance of textures and sweetness. Another unmissable creation is their Green Tea Ice Cream Sundae (pictured below). This inventive dessert combines the earthy bitterness of matcha green tea ice cream with the light sweetness of the waffle, often adorned with toppings like red bean paste or mochi, creating a truly memorable East-meets-West dessert experience. Each bite from Yellow Business is a playful adventure, proving that bubble waffles are much more than just a snack.

Bukchae: The Revolutionary Korean Fried Turkey Leg

Turkey legs have long held a special place in the hearts of festival-goers and theme park enthusiasts, a classic indulgence that evokes a sense of hearty, old-world feasting. While I’ve always cherished the simple pleasure of a smoked turkey leg from places like Disney or Renaissance Faires, I never imagined that this beloved staple could be so dramatically improved—until I encountered Bukchae.

Bukchae has taken the concept of the turkey leg and catapulted it into a new realm of flavor with their Korean Fried Turkey Leg. This isn’t just any fried turkey leg; it’s prepared “dakgangjeong style,” mirroring the preparation of popular Korean fried chicken wings. The result is pure culinary genius: a colossal, succulent turkey leg, deep-fried to achieve a perfectly crispy skin, then coated in a vibrant, savory-sweet, and slightly spicy Korean glaze. Each bite delivers an explosion of umami, with the tender, flavorful meat contrasting beautifully with the sticky, seasoned exterior. It’s a bold, innovative dish that redefines what a turkey leg can be, offering a uniquely satisfying experience that’s both familiar and exhilaratingly new. Bukchae proves that sometimes, the most unexpected cultural fusions yield the most delicious results.

Shrimp Daddy: The Iconic Hawaiian Shrimp Pineapple Boat

The anticipation was palpable when Los Angeles’s beloved Instagram personality, Stir and Style, announced the opening of her booth, Shrimp Daddy, at Smorgasburg. While high expectations can sometimes lead to disappointment, Shrimp Daddy not only met them but far exceeded them, delivering an unforgettable Hawaiian culinary journey. Their signature Hawaiian Shrimp Pineapple Boat is a dish that embodies both exquisite flavor and undeniable visual appeal.

Each pineapple boat is generously filled with plump, perfectly cooked shrimp that are bursting with a rich, buttery garlic flavor. The seasoning is impeccable, reminiscent of the best shrimp trucks found on Oahu’s North Shore, perhaps even surpassing some of them in sheer deliciousness. What makes this dish truly special is its presentation: served in a hollowed-out fresh pineapple, it’s a vibrant, aromatic feast for the senses. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory garlic shrimp, creating a harmonious tropical symphony. If awards were given for the “Most Instagrammable Dish” at Smorgasburg, the Shrimp Pineapple Boat would undoubtedly take home the prize. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of the islands and a visually stunning meal.

The Ramen Burger: A Cult Classic Arrives

For years, the legend of the Ramen Burger has circulated through the culinary world, a unique fusion creation that garnered a cult following. Despite hearing about its innovative concept for so long, I had never encountered one in person until its special appearance at Smorgasburg LA. Originating from Smorgasburg NYC, the Ramen Burger made a special journey to Los Angeles for National Burger Day, bringing its unique charm to the West Coast.

This inventive burger features a juicy beef patty, often seasoned with a secret sauce, nestled between two crispy ramen noodle buns. The burger itself boasts a delightful flavor profile, rich and savory, which was thoroughly enjoyed by my companions and myself. The ramen “buns” are pan-fried to achieve a golden-brown crispness on the outside while retaining a soft, chewy texture within, offering an intriguing contrast to a traditional bread bun. While the texture might be a novel experience for some, adding an unexpected chewiness, it’s an undeniable conversation starter and a testament to culinary creativity. The Ramen Burger is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that challenges expectations and offers a playful twist on a classic, making it a memorable stop on any Smorgasburg adventure.

Donut Friend: Reigning Supreme in the LA Donut Scene

Los Angeles is a city renowned for its diverse and abundant donut shops, each vying for the title of “best.” With such fierce competition, choosing a favorite might seem like an impossible task. However, for many, the choice is unequivocally clear: Donut Friend stands alone, reigning supreme in the realm of imaginative and delectable donuts.

Donut Friend isn’t just a donut shop; it’s a paradise for custom-built, gourmet donuts, offering an impressive array of unique flavor combinations and fillings. I almost always make a point to grab a donut from their booth on my way out of Smorgasburg, providing a perfect sweet conclusion to my culinary journey. Among their vast and rotating selection, two particular creations have captured my heart. The Polar Berry Club, pictured above, is a delightful explosion of fruity and creamy flavors, often featuring fresh berries and a luscious glaze. Equally irresistible is the Speculoos, a donut generously stuffed with rich, spiced cookie butter (pictured below). Each Donut Friend creation is a testament to their innovative spirit, combining high-quality ingredients with creative flair to produce treats that are consistently fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable. It’s a sweet indulgence that truly sets them apart.

The Chichidango: A Refreshing Hawaiian Shaved Ice Experience

Following the immense success of Shrimp Daddy, Stir and Style graced Smorgasburg with another incredible venture: The Chichidango. And what a delightful addition it is, perfectly timed for the sunny Los Angeles climate! The Chichidango specializes in elevating the beloved Hawaiian shaved ice into a gourmet dessert experience.

Their offerings go far beyond simple syrup and ice. Each Chichidango creation begins with finely shaved ice, imbued with a velvety texture, and is generously filled with organic ice cream. The magic truly happens with the toppings: handmade Japanese mochi adds a delightful chewy contrast, while vibrant fruit boba pearls burst with flavor. These are all elegantly crowned with fresh fruit purees, ensuring every spoonful is an explosion of natural sweetness and varied textures. Imagine tropical fruits like mango, strawberry, or lychee blending with the creamy ice cream and soft mochi. The Chichidango’s shaved ice is not just a dessert; it’s a refreshing oasis, an absolute necessity for combating those famously hot LA summer days. It’s a vibrant, cooling treat that captures the essence of a Hawaiian getaway.

Amazebowls: The Art of the Acai Bowl

For those seeking a healthier, yet equally stunning, start to their Smorgasburg adventure, Amazebowls is an essential stop. They are widely recognized for crafting some of the most aesthetically pleasing and delicious acai bowls in all of Los Angeles. Each bowl is a vibrant tapestry of colors and textures, meticulously arranged to be a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

What truly sets Amazebowls apart, beyond their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, is their iconic presentation. Opting for your acai bowl served in a fresh coconut shell is not just a culinary choice; it’s a strategic move for your social media presence. These coconut-encased creations are undeniably Instagram gold, practically guaranteeing a blessing of likes from the digital gods. As an early bird at Smorgasburg, I often begin my day with one of these invigorating bowls. The cool, refreshing acai base, topped with an assortment of fresh fruits, granola, and superfoods, provides a perfect balance of energy and flavor. It’s a consistently heavenly experience, a healthful and beautiful breakfast that primes you for a day of delicious exploration.

AsiaDog: The Unforgettable Katsu Dog

It had been an embarrassingly long time since I last indulged in a classic corn dog, a nostalgic fairground treat. However, the allure of AsiaDog’s Katsu Dog was simply too powerful to resist. This innovative creation redefines the traditional corn dog, infusing it with exciting Japanese flavors and textures that make it an absolute must-try at Smorgasburg.

The process begins with your choice of a high-quality sausage—whether beef, chicken, or a satisfying veggie dog (my personal preference, of course, is the beef). Once selected, the dog is meticulously rolled in crispy panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an extra layer of crunch, before being plunged into the deep fryer until golden perfection. But the journey of flavor doesn’t stop there. What truly elevates the Katsu Dog is the generous serving of a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet Katsu dipping sauce. This sauce, typically paired with Japanese fried cutlets, brings a depth of umami and a vibrant zing that perfectly complements the savory, crunchy hot dog. It’s a masterful fusion of East and West, transforming a simple snack into a gourmet experience. Each bite of the Katsu Dog is an explosion of texture and flavor, a delicious testament to AsiaDog’s culinary ingenuity.

The Nomad Truck: Gourmet Chicken Burgers from a NYC Icon

As a huge admirer of New York City’s culinary scene, The Nomad has always held a special place as one of my absolute favorite restaurants. My excitement was boundless upon hearing that their renowned chicken burgers were making their way to Los Angeles via The Nomad Truck at Smorgasburg. This mobile outpost brings the sophisticated flavors of their acclaimed eatery to the casual, vibrant atmosphere of the market.

The Nomad Truck is famous for its exceptional chicken burgers, particularly their signature creation featuring succulent chicken paired with exquisite truffle mayo. However, they also delight regulars with monthly collaborations, partnering with local chefs to create unique, limited-edition chicken burger masterpieces. The burger pictured here is a testament to this collaborative spirit, a brilliant creation by Night+Market Chef Kris Yenbamroong. This particular iteration boasted a symphony of flavors and textures: crispy fried chicken, rich pork toro, a fiery Isaan chili mayo, aromatic Thai basil, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato. It’s a complex and deeply satisfying burger that transcends the ordinary, offering a truly gourmet experience in a handheld format. The depth of flavor, the interplay of spices, and the perfect execution make these chicken burgers an unmissable highlight at Smorgasburg. If only Postmates could deliver one to me right now, that order button would be pressed instantaneously!

Stand Coffee: The Essential Brew at Smorgasburg

The name “Stand Coffee” might just be a clever hint, as you should indeed be prepared to stand in line for their exceptional brews at Smorgasburg. As typically the sole dedicated coffee vendor, their popularity is undeniable, drawing a consistent crowd seeking their morning jolt or an afternoon pick-me-up. The good news, however, is that the wait is always worth it.

Stand Coffee doesn’t just serve standard coffee; they craft unique and seasonally inspired beverages that are both innovative and delicious. Each month, they feature a special seasonal latte, showcasing creative flavor combinations. The Evergreen Latte, captured above, was a festive delight during the holiday season. It perfectly blended the aromatic freshness of pine syrup from PopdUp+ (another excellent Smorgasburg vendor), the delicate sweetness of wildflower honey, rich espresso, and velvety steamed milk. This harmonious blend evoked the spirit of the holidays in every sip. Another truly wonderful drink they offer is “Stormy Weather,” a comforting concoction of coffee infused with cardamom, molasses, and grass-fed butter. It’s a robust and warming beverage, offering a unique complexity that makes for an absolutely superb way to kickstart a Sunday morning at the bustling market. Stand Coffee ensures you’re properly fueled for all your culinary explorations.

Raindrop Cake: An Edible Illusion

The Raindrop Cake emerged a few years ago, capturing the internet’s imagination with its ethereal appearance and unique concept. It was, in fact, the very first dish I ever tried at Smorgasburg, an experience that left a lasting impression, primarily due to its sheer novelty. This dish is undeniably fascinating, presenting itself as a large, perfectly clear, gelatinous sphere, resembling a giant dewdrop.

What makes the Raindrop Cake so intriguing is its primary appeal: visual aesthetics. It is, without a doubt, far more pleasing to the eye than to the taste buds. The “blob” itself is inherently flavorless, comprised simply of mineral water and vegan gelatin. Therefore, all the flavor comes from its accompaniments, typically a sprinkle of roasted soybean flour (kinako) and a drizzle of sweet brown sugar syrup (kuromitsu), often with a side of matcha. While the combination of these toppings provides a subtle, pleasant taste, the cake itself offers no intrinsic flavor. It’s a textural experience, a cool and delicate jelly that melts in your mouth, but it won’t ignite an explosion of taste. For those looking for an avant-garde dessert that makes for an amazing Instagram photo, the Raindrop Cake certainly delivers. However, if you’re seeking a profoundly flavorful culinary journey, you might find it to be a beautiful, albeit understated, experience.

Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken: A Taiwanese Street Food Sensation

The concept of “large fried chicken” immediately piques curiosity, a notion that simultaneously intrigues and, perhaps, slightly overwhelms. But when a dish is rumored to command hours-long queues in bustling Hong Kong, it becomes an absolute imperative to investigate. Such was the case with Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken, a Taiwanese street food phenomenon that has made its way to Smorgasburg LA, and I can unequivocally confirm: the hype is absolutely real.

From the very first bite, it becomes abundantly clear why people are more than willing to patiently wait for this extraordinary fried chicken. It is, in a word, astounding. Hot-Star specializes in enormous, thin, and impossibly juicy chicken cutlets, pounded flat to ensure even cooking and maximum crispness. Each piece is expertly fried to a golden perfection, creating an incredibly satisfying crunch with every bite. However, the true magic lies in the proprietary blend of spices. This unique seasoning powder, generously dusted over the hot chicken, delivers an explosion of savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic flavors that are unlike anything I’ve tasted before. It’s a perfectly balanced symphony of spices that elevates the simple act of eating fried chicken into a memorable culinary event. Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken is a resounding 10/10, a dish I would eagerly devour again and again, cementing its status as a top contender for the best fried chicken at Smorgasburg.

The Jolly Oyster: Freshness from the Coast

For connoisseurs of fresh seafood, The Jolly Oyster is a beacon of briny delight at Smorgasburg. Renowned for sourcing some of the finest oysters available, their presence at the market is a true blessing, eliminating the need for a scenic but lengthy drive up to Ventura to enjoy their exquisite offerings. This convenience means exceptional, sustainably harvested oysters are now readily accessible in the heart of Los Angeles.

The Jolly Oyster prides itself on serving oysters that are incredibly fresh, plump, and full of natural flavor, tasting as if they’ve just been plucked from the ocean. What truly sets them apart, however, are their thoughtful and creative accouterments, which are almost as impressive as the oysters themselves. The photo above showcases a beautifully presented oyster, enhanced with a few drops of savory hoisin sauce and a delicate, aromatic caviar lime. The hoisin adds a touch of sweet and umami complexity, while the caviar lime provides tiny, bursting pearls of bright, citrusy acidity, cutting through the richness and elevating the oyster’s inherent brininess. It’s a sophisticated pairing that highlights the natural qualities of the oyster while introducing intriguing new dimensions of flavor. Each oyster from The Jolly Oyster is a miniature culinary adventure, a testament to quality and innovative pairing, making it an essential stop for any seafood lover.

Tips for Visiting Smorgasburg LA: Maximize Your Culinary Adventure

Smorgasburg is a treasure trove of culinary wonders, with an overwhelming array of delicious options that make it nearly impossible to sample everything in one visit. With new vendors rotating in and out, there are always fantastic-looking dishes I haven’t had the chance to try yet. Rest assured, I continually update this article with new discoveries as I experience them.

To make the most of your Smorgasburg experience, here are a few essential tips:

• Vendor Variability: Be aware that not every vendor is present every week, and some may only be at Smorgasburg for a limited engagement. While this means your favorite might not always be there, it also ensures a constantly evolving and exciting selection. No matter who is there, you’re guaranteed an abundance of delicious choices.
• Beat the Crowds: Smorgasburg can get incredibly busy, especially by midday. Lines for popular vendors can become quite long, and some vendors may even run out of popular items towards the end of the day. To avoid disappointment and maximize your eating time, I highly recommend arriving early, ideally right when the market opens.
• Parking & Transport: Parking can be a challenge. Consider ride-sharing services, public transportation, or arriving early to secure a spot in one of the nearby paid lots.
• Cash & Cards: Most vendors accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or if a vendor’s card reader is down.
• Come Hungry, Share Generously: With so many incredible dishes to try, the best strategy is to come with an empty stomach and bring friends! Sharing dishes allows you to sample a wider variety of flavors without getting too full too quickly.
• Hydration is Key: Especially on warm days, remember to stay hydrated. Many vendors offer unique beverages, or you can bring your own water bottle.

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Smorgasburg LA? What were your favorite dishes, or what culinary gems did you discover? Share your recommendations in the comments below – I’m always eager to try new things on my next visit!