From vegan German classics in Highland Park to a surprising strip-mall ramen in Koreatown, there are a lot of new restaurants to check out this month. Here are our picks for March’s buzziest new restaurants.
Hinterhof
The notion of a plant-based German restaurant might prompt a few eye rolls, but the crisp seitan schnitzel at this beer hall on York would be tasty enough to headline any Oktoberfest. Pass up the stodgy plant-based bratwurst in favor of bratlinge, plump fritters made from quinoa and leeks. Finish with apple strudel and coconut milk ice cream. A stein of Hofbräu? That’s vegan, too. 4939 York Blvd., Highland Park.
Iki Ramen
Backed by n/naka general manager Jeffrey Undiarto, Iki Ramen runs with a refinement you wouldn’t expect from a strip-mall noodle shop. Shio (salt-based) ramen is buoyed with a pop of yuzu zest; rich tonkotsu broth comes perfumed with truffle butter. Small plates like salmon sashimi with burrata add value, as does a sake list that’s compelling and well priced. 740 S. Western Ave., Ste. 116, Koreatown.
Margot
Perched on the rooftop of the Platform complex, Margot delivers skyline views and Spanish-Italian plates from Norah chef Mike Williams. House focaccia is spread with spicy ’nduja sausage and whipped ricotta, while a bouncy skein of spaghetti is tossed with tuna conserva. Dave Kupchinsky’s low-proof cocktails are beauties: Sip a vermouth and tonic as Metro trains rattle past on the nearby elevated tracks. Platform, 8820 Washington Blvd., Ste. 301, Culver City.
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The post 3 New Restaurants You Have to Try This March appeared first on Los Angeles Magazine.