Restaurants

Halal restaurants in Los Angeles to break fast during Ramadan

Ramadan is in full swing in Los Angeles, where a community of hundreds of thousands of Muslims is observing a month dedicated to fasting, prayer, reflection and service. With the unfolding war in the Middle East, the holiday holds even more significance for locals with ties to the region.

The Islamic holiday began Feb. 17 and ends March 19, during which observers fast from dawn to sunset to foster discipline, self-control and gratitude. Observers break their daily fast with an iftar, a festive meal shared with loved ones after sunset. Many also rise before dawn for a suhoor meal.

Halal, which translates to “permissible” in Arabic, pertains to the type of meat and the way it’s prepared. Pork and its byproducts are not allowed, and a Muslim must slaughter the animal while invoking the name of Allah. The animal must also be healthy and blood should be completely drained after slaughter.

This Ramadan season, several L.A. restaurants are offering late-night hours, special iftar menus and discounts for the holiday.

“The demand for iftar and halal food is skyrocketing,” said Assad Shalhoub, a member of MENA Creator Club, a community group for Middle Eastern and North African content creators that organized an iftar gathering at West Adams’ Maydan Market. “I think a lot of people are becoming more proud of their culture and their heritage, and with that comes a lot of people seeking things like this.”

Here are eight halal restaurants to break fast and share a meal with loved ones during Ramadan.

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Restaurants to support as Altadena rebuilds after the Eaton fire

The torta Chingona at Tacos Don Pillo is a beast of a sandwich, a tower of asada steak, jamon asado, tomato, onion, jalapeno, avocado and big slabs of salty, squeaky queso fresco. It’s enough to share, or satiate in a way that requires a nap shortly after. It is the star of the Tacos Don Pillo menu, an expansive list of tacos, quesadillas, burritos, salads, nachos and mulitas. Some days require the heft of the torta Chingona, others lean toward the tacos camarones. The trio of corn tortillas barely contain the plump, grilled shrimp, sweet and smoky grilled onions and slivers of avocado. Expect a perpetual line anywhere near an established meal time, but things move quickly.

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It’s official – one county does better fish and chips than anywhere else in the UK

The National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 has crowned the best fish and chip restaurants and takeaways in the UK, with a pair based in the same area taking top honours

What’s been described as the ‘Oscars’ of the seafood sector has now unveiled precisely where Brits should be purchasing their fish and chips, and the answer lies in Yorkshire.

The National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 spotlighted the finest establishments within the fish and chip trade, crowning champions in both the Restaurant and Takeaway of the Year categories.

Claiming victory in both sections were two Yorkshire-based venues, alongside their runners-up, cementing the county’s reputation as the authentic birthplace of fish and chips.

For those fortunate enough to sample a chippy meal from Yorkshire, it comes as little shock that the region boasts the nation’s finest offerings.

With coastal destinations such as Scarborough and Whitby leading the sector, serving thousands of portions each day, some of the finest establishments are surprisingly those tucked away inland, where travellers stop off along their journey through the county.

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The Scrap Box, York

Among these hidden gems is The Scrap Box in York, crowned 2026 Takeaway of the Year. The venture was established by two local brothers with ambitions of creating a chippy catering to all the villages scattered between York and Pocklington, whilst serving those travelling towards the coast.

Situated at Trunk Road Services on Hull Road in Dunnington, the takeaway does precisely that. The two siblings running the establishment, Aman and Gavin Dhesi, discovered the site, which was formerly a considerably less appealing toilet block next to a layby, and imagined something remarkable for their business venture.

The roadside takeaway has accumulated an outstanding 200+ ‘excellent’ TripAdvisor reviews, with countless patrons raving about their experience.

One reviewer said: “I’m always wary of places that say ‘award-winning’ and never say what award they won!” However at this venue, the honours are clearly showcased for everyone to view.

Following their Takeaway of the Year triumph, Gavin said: “There are so many outstanding fish and chip shops across the UK and countless awards, but this is the one every chippy dreams of, the ‘Oscars’ of our industry!”.

“With the most rigorous judging and the highest calibre of past winners, it’s a true honour to be recognised at this level. To represent the very best of fish and chips for the year ahead is both humbling and hugely meaningful to our team and a testament to the craft, care, and consistency we put into every portion of fish and chips.”

The Trenchers of Whitby, Whitby

The Restaurant of the Year champion at the 2026 National Fish and Chip Awards was a local Whitby restaurant, known as the Trenchers of Whitby.

Just a short stroll from the tourist hotspot of Whitby Beach, the eatery has firmly positioned itself at the centre of the coastal town, naturally attracting visitors throughout the year.

Whilst the enviable location certainly plays its part, they secured first place thanks to their self-described “traditional method of beef dripping”, enabling them to deliver the “best possible product”.

It’s these deliberate approaches to preparing their mouth-watering dishes that have allowed the establishment to distinguish itself from rivals. Popular choices on their menu feature seafood salads, crab, lobster, fresh fish alongside homemade pies and lasagnes, Whitby scampi, and numerous vegetarian alternatives.

One delighted diner praised the “gravy is out of this world”. They shared: “We travelled to Whitby for a weekend away. We popped into Trenchers Friday night, we were seated in a booth, and the drinks arrived promptly once ordered… The butcher’s gravy was absolutely delicious, and we would return just for the gravy.”

Runners Up

The Yorkshire chip shops aren’t the only ones celebrating success, outperforming other venues across their respective regions. Shaw’s Fish and Chips of Dodworth, located in Barnsley, Yorkshire, secured second place in the Takeaways category, making it the nation’s second-best fish and chip takeaway.

Additionally, the National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 named Whitby’s Restaurant and Take Away in Rotherham, Yorkshire, as the third-best restaurant of the year.

The Fry Awards

Further cementing Yorkshire’s reputation as the go-to destination for fish and chips, the esteemed Fry Awards unveiled their definitive list of the UK’s best chippies in January this year. A staggering number of establishments from the top 50 hailed from the county, with Trenchers of Whitby earning another commendable nod in their top 10 restaurants list.

Here are all the Yorkshire fish and chip shops that made it to the Fry Awards:.

  • Auckley Friery, Auckley, Doncaster
  • Hird’s Family Fisheries, Halifax, West Yorkshire
  • Kirbys of Horsforth, Horsforth, Leeds
  • Kirbys of Meanwood, Meanwood, Leeds
  • Lighthouse Fisheries of Flamborough, Flamborough, East Yorkshire
  • Portside Fish & Chips, Starbeck, North Yorkshire
  • Portside Fish & Chips, Kirkstall Road, Leeds
  • The Codfather, Wakefield, West Yorkshire
  • The Fish Bank, Sherburn in Elemet, North Yorkshire
  • Your Plaice or Mine Mobile Van, Thorne, South Yorkshire

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Best fish and chips restaurant in UK crowned and is in must-visit seaside town

This seaside spot has been crowned the best fish and chip restaurant in the UK at the 2026 National Fish and Chip Awards, beating over 10,500 chippy operators nationwide

Fish and chips remain a beloved staple in British homes as the ultimate dining-out indulgence, and Yorkshire has now been confirmed as home to the finest establishment serving this classic dish across the entire nation.

This highly-rated Whitby restaurant has just been crowned the best fish and chip restaurant in the UK at the 2026 National Fish and Chip Awards, and based on customer feedback, the accolade is thoroughly deserved.

Competing against more than 10,500 chippy operators eligible for the competition, Trenchers of Whitby’s triumph in the ‘restaurant of the year’ category represents a remarkable accomplishment.

Shortlisted establishments must demonstrate ‘extensive product knowledge, sustainable business practices, employer integrity, first-rate customer service’ alongside exceptional skill in preparing the most delicious fish and chips.

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Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.

The Trenchers on New Quay Road uses the “traditional method of beef dripping” for frying to guarantee they’re delivering the “best possible product”, according to its website.

These deliberate cooking techniques have propelled the establishment above its fierce rivals. Yet the offerings for genuine food enthusiasts extend far beyond your standard fish and chips, though that naturally remains the restaurant’s cornerstone.

Menu choices feature seafood salads, crab, lobster, fresh fish alongside homemade pies and lasagnes, Whitby scampi, plus numerous vegetarian alternatives.

A recent guest shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, stating: “Friendly service, nice atmosphere, incredible food and prices. Eaten here many times over the past few visits to Whitby and have never been disappointed. Absolutely recommend.”

Another diner described the “gravy is out of this world”. They added: “We travelled to Whitby for a weekend away. We popped into Trenchers Friday night, we were seated in a booth, and the drinks arrived promptly once ordered… The butcher’s gravy was absolutely delicious, and we would return just for the gravy.”

Located within walking distance of Whitby Beach, merely a 12-minute walk away, the eatery is positioned in the town centre, attracting visitors throughout the year. However, this doesn’t diminish their dedication to the art of preparing fish, as they continue to expand their modest empire.

Trenchers has established a sister venue, Tide by Trenchers, on Bridge Street in Whitby, which is scheduled to reopen in March 2026. It promises to “bring over four decades of award-winning tradition to Bridge Street”, offering seafood and additional meat options.

A somewhat newer and more upmarket alternative to the traditional fish and chip shop, one patron described Tide’s cuisine as “heaven on a plate”.

They added: “Wonderful. We had the special lobster dinner last Thursday of the month – would highly recommend, absolutely lush! Great wine selection, loved the Sauvignon Blanc.”

Claiming the top spot at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 was The Scrap Box in York, which scooped the coveted first place prize.

The shop’s two co-owners and brothers, Aman and Gavin Dhesi, are absolutely thrilled with their remarkable achievement. Following their victory, Gavin said: “There are so many outstanding fish and chip shops across the UK and countless awards, but this is the one every chippy dreams of, the ‘Oscars’ of our industry!”.

“With the most rigorous judging and the highest calibre of past winners, it’s a true honour to be recognised at this level. To represent the very best of fish and chips for the year ahead is both humbling and hugely meaningful to our team and a testament to the craft, care, and consistency we put into every portion of fish and chips.”

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New restaurants and pop-ups to try in Los Angeles in March 2026

February was a short but busy month, with holidays Lunar New Year, Mardi Gras, Iftar and Lent all overlapping this year.

It also marked Black History Month, offering an opportunity to celebrate the culinary contributions of Black communities near and far, including resilient restaurants in Pasadena and Altadena, a 250-acre ranch in Acton that represents the largest Black-owned farm in L.A. County, and the legacy of the ‘Dean of Southern cuisine’ chef Joe Randall, who died at 79 after spending a half-century of amplifying African American culinary traditions. In Inglewood, Serving Spoon won the America’s Classic in California award from the James Beard Foundation, and will receive a medal at the ceremony this June.

With summer temperatures and clear skies this weekend, it’s hard to believe that just weeks ago, the city was hit with a week of heavy rainstorms. Several restaurants across the region were forced to temporarily close due to flooding, resulting in revenue loss and expensive repairs.

March brings the start of spring, which means we’re already seeing seasonal produce such as asparagus, peas and apricots appear on our favorite menus. Keep reading for more dining ideas this month, including the return of a globe-trotting cafe, a community-minded food hub in South L.A. and an Argentinian bistro with a connection to Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance.

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Fish and chip shop with a difference crowned UK’s best takeaway

Brothers Aman and Gavin Dhesi’s fish and chip shop has been crowned the UK’s best takeaway at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2026, beating hundreds of chippies across the country

When the two brothers first opened their fish and chip shop, their ambition was to become ‘everyone’s local’ — and now they’re celebrated not just in their hometown, but across the entire country as the very best.

In what the industry hails as the ‘Oscars’ of the seafood world, this modest chip shop in York claimed top honours at The National Fish & Chip Awards 2026. The Scrap Box was crowned the best fish and chip takeaway in the UK — a title the owners are taking in their stride.

To even be considered for the prestigious awards, those shortlisted must demonstrate ‘extensive product knowledge, sustainable business practices, employer integrity, first-rate customer service’ and, naturally, an exceptional talent for cooking mouth-watering fish and chips.

What’s impossible to overlook is that both winners, including The Scrap Box, along with four out of six commended establishments, are all rooted in Yorkshire — cementing the county’s status as the undisputed home of the great British chippy.

The takeaway’s owners, brothers Aman and Gavin Dhesi, stumbled upon the site — formerly a toilet block beside a layby — and immediately saw its potential.

Their vision was to create a chippy that would serve the villages surrounding York and Pocklington, as well as hungry travellers passing through on their way to the seaside.

The two co-owners of the establishment, who are also siblings, are absolutely thrilled with their accomplishment. Gavin said: “There are so many outstanding fish and chip shops across the UK and countless awards, but this is the one every chippy dreams of, the ‘Oscars’ of our industry!”.

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“With the most rigorous judging and the highest calibre of past winners, it’s a true honour to be recognised at this level. To represent the very best of fish and chips for the year ahead is both humbling and hugely meaningful to our team and a testament to the craft, care, and consistency we put into every portion of fish and chips.”

The chippy, located at Trunk Road Services on Hull Road in Dunnington, maintains a strong commitment to sustainability regarding the fish they serve.

Their website reveals the brothers made the business Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified back in 2024, enabling them to trace every piece of cod and haddock they serve right back to where it came from.

The roadside eatery has accumulated more than 200 glowing TripAdvisor reviews, with numerous satisfied customers sharing their experiences.

One recent visitor said: “I’m always wary of places that say ‘award-winning’ and never say what award they won!” However, here the accolades are prominently showcased for everyone to see.

“Attracted by the great exterior mural as we passed by, we promised ourselves to come back later. A lovely, fresh-looking interior, clean. The young chap who served us was extremely pleasant. Top-notch haddock and chips – freshly cooked and not greasy at all. We eat loads of fish and chips and could tell these were excellent.”

Their eye-catching mural is impossible to miss for people driving past, featuring a striking image of a fish gliding through water, set against the city’s distinctive skyline. While it certainly entices people through the door, it’s the delicious food that ensures customers return again and again.

Other contenders in the category included The Fish Works in Largs, Scotland, which secured second spot. Rounding out the top three was another Yorkshire chippy, Shaw’s Fish & Chips of Dodworth, situated in Barnsley.

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Best fish and chip restaurants and takeaways in UK named – and four are in the same area

The National Fish & Chip Awards 2026 has announced the best places to buy fish and chips in the UK – and four out of the six commended are based in the same region

The ‘Oscars’ of the seafood industry have arrived, revealing precisely where Brits should be heading for their fish and chips.

The National Fish & Chip Awards 2026 celebrated the leading names within the food sector, crowning the champions for both Restaurant and Takeaway of the Year.

The ceremony also recognised the runners-up, exceptional establishments in their own right, having battled against the 10,500+ chippy operators eligible to enter the competition.

Shortlisted candidates, to be considered credible contenders, must demonstrate ‘extensive product knowledge, sustainable business practices, employer integrity, first-rate customer service’ and, naturally, mastery in preparing mouth-watering fish and chips.

What’s particularly striking is that both winners, plus four of the six total commended establishments, are all in Yorkshire – arguably cementing its status as the true home of the British chippy.

Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year

Claiming the top spot for the nation’s finest takeaway for traditional fish and chips was The Scrap Box in York.

The business was established with ambitions to serve all the villages scattered between York and Pocklington, whilst also catering to visitors heading towards the campsites and coastal areas along the route.

The two co-owners of the establishment, brothers Aman and Gavin Dhesi, are delighted with their accomplishment.

Gavin said: “There are so many outstanding fish and chip shops across the UK and countless awards, but this is the one every chippy dreams of, the ‘Oscars’ of our industry!”.

“With the most rigorous judging and the highest calibre of past winners, it’s a true honour to be recognised at this level.

“To represent the very best of fish and chips for the year ahead is both humbling and hugely meaningful to our team and a testament to the craft, care, and consistency we put into every portion of fish and chips.”

Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year

Taking the top spot for 2026 as the nation’s finest fish and chip restaurant was Trenchers of Whitby in Whitby, Yorkshire.

Originally opened in 1980, this eatery is far from being a newcomer and has firmly established itself within the industry over the years, perfecting the art of delicious seafood.

Their website explains: “At Trenchers New Quay Road, we fry using the traditional method of beef dripping to ensure the best possible product for our customers.

“With options including seafood salads, crab, lobster, fresh fish, homemade pies and lasagnes, Whitby scampi, vegetarian options and a dedicated children’s menu, there truly is something for everyone.”

Among the runners-up are several exceptional chippies and eateries also carving out reputations within the sector, and remarkably, many of the winners hail from Yorkshire.

Taking second spot for the finest fish and chip takeaway was The Fish Works, located in Largs, Scotland, with Shaws Fish & Chips of Dodworth in Barnsley, Yorkshire, claiming third position.

Meanwhile, in the battle for restaurant of the year honours, second place went to the highly-regarded Noah’s in Bristol. Third place was secured by Whitby’s Restaurant & Take Away in – you’ve guessed it – Yorkshire, more precisely in Rotherham.

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, who sat on this year’s judging panel, said: “It’s been clear from the start that those competing came with serious agendas to elevate industry best practice like never before, and we are so proud to say these are the winners!”.

He added: “Fish and chip businesses are the backbone of the takeaway space; the heritage is like no other, and our winners represent tradition and the future to the highest degree.”

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UK village with Michelin-starred dining and famous sticky toffee pudding

It’s a foodie hotspot in Cumbria, with Michelin-starred restaurants boasting a ‘farm to table’ philosophy and famous sticky toffee pudding, ideal for a UK holiday

Despite its modest size, this Cumbrian gem wields considerable sway over travellers heading to the Lake District in need of excellent food and somewhere to lay their heads.

Cartmel has earned quite a name for itself amongst walkers, cyclists and visitors to the region as a culinary hotspot. Whilst the village boasts a rich heritage centred around Cartmel Priory and its agricultural roots, it has since carved out an entirely fresh identity.

Situated less than 20 minutes’ drive from the Lake District National Park, there’s no shortage of attractions on the village’s doorstep.

With Greendale National Forest nearby and the River Eea within easy reach, it’s an idyllic spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a base from which to venture forth.

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Michelin Restaurants

For those demanding nothing less than exceptional cuisine following a day’s rambling or sightseeing, the village boasts a prestigious Michelin-starred establishment, L’Enclume.

Led by chef Simon Rogan, the restaurant features a constantly evolving menu that shifts with the seasons – embodying the chef’s ‘farm to table’ ethos.

Also holding Michelin star status is Rogan and Co, a neighbourhood eatery situated in the village centre, likewise operated by the celebrated chef.

They provide a set lunch menu priced at £49 for three courses, offered Wednesday through Saturday, alongside evening dining options.

After dining at L’Enclume, which specialises in French and European fare, one visitor hailed it as the “best dining experience ever” in a TripAdvisor review.

They said: “We went for our wedding anniversary for a special experience. It delivered. Every one of the many dishes was made with the best quality ingredients and put together with great imagination and cooked perfectly.”

Similarly, diners are unanimous in their praise for the food and service at its sister establishment, Rogan and Co. One review states: “Rogan and Co gives you a more traditional à la carte (choose your meal) three-course deal.

“But that isn’t to say this is basic dining. You are still getting snacks, interludes, great drink pairings and, much like L’Enclume, absolutely top-drawer service.”

Pubs

Beyond the Michelin-starred offerings, the culinary delights continue. True to form for a quintessentially English village, Cartmel boasts several traditional, welcoming pubs.

Indeed, several feature amongst the village’s TripAdvisor top 10 dining destinations – quite an achievement given the stiff competition. All within easy walking distance, visitors can devise their own pub crawl following a day of exploration, or simply settle into one favourite spot.

The Pig and Whistle proves particularly appealing during summer months, thanks to its expansive beer garden offering picturesque vistas across the village and the surrounding Cumbrian fells.

Inside, the establishment has been given something of a revamp, including its menu which offers pub classics with a distinctive ‘twist’.

Numerous patrons sing the praises of their Sunday roast, with some describing it as “divine” and others deeming it “excellent”.

Alongside it are The Royal Oak, The Kings Arms and the Cavendish Arms, which prides itself on making considerable efforts to source exclusively from local producers and suppliers. This commitment shines through in its glowing reviews, with one declaring: “This place is truly on top of its game.

“Amazing varied exquisite food from all over the word but definitely with a French twist. Lovely cosy setting with candles on each table and quality wines. Could not ask for more.”

Shops

The village boasts numerous shops selling local produce, with the Cartmel Village Shop standing out as one of the most notable – renowned for its sticky toffee pudding. The family-run shop sells homemade toffee and the beloved Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding.

Cartmel’s “superb little shop” draws food fans from far and wide, all seeking a treat to satisfy their sweet cravings. One satisfied customer said: “Famous as the home of sticky toffee pudding, this delightful little shop is in the centre of this lovely village.

“As well as foodstuffs, they stock a good selection of deli produce and gifts. They also prepare a good selection of hot and cold sandwiches to take away, and we enjoyed some excellent, generously filled baps. The prices were most reasonable, and the service was charming.”

Another local gem is the Cartmel Food Shed, offering a delightful array of homemade soups, sandwiches, sausage rolls and sweet treats for takeaway or to enjoy in their welcoming dining space. Like many establishments dotted around the village, it’s very much a family-run operation with homemade produce at its core.

One thrilled customer raved in a review: “Delicious sandwiches, delicious cakes, scotch eggs. Possibly the best steak and ale pie I’ve ever had.”

They added: “Sandwiches are packed to the brim with quality produce. Everything is made with care and love. You can tell the owner takes pride in everything she makes.”

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10 Black-owned restaurants to support in Pasadena and Altadena

I’ve never lived in Pasadena, but the city that sits below the San Gabriel Mountains in northeast L.A. has always felt like home. As a kid, I’d run into my aunt’s neighbors and coworkers while shopping with my mom on Lake Avenue. I knew to expect a wait at now-closed Roscoe’s Chicken n Waffles after my cousin’s Sunday dance recitals. Years later, when I worked at an office off Fair Oaks Avenue, I’d pass my lunch breaks by walking around the neighborhood and admiring the Craftsman homes.

It turns out, many Black Southern Californians have a similar relationship to Pasadena and Altadena, its neighboring hillside community that suffered tremendous losses in the Eaton fire. After the fire, restaurateur Greg Dulan of Dulan’s on Crenshaw spent months offering free meals to residents in collaboration with World Central Kitchen. Like me, he had fond childhood memories of traveling there from his South L.A. neighborhood to visit relatives.

A year later, the Pasadena-Altadena area is still recovering, with grassroots efforts led by longtime locals and business owners, including restaurateurs and chefs who opened their dining rooms to provide a safe space for community members to gather and grieve, organized donation drives and provided free meals and resources to those in need.

At Deluxe 1717 on the border of Pasadena and Altadena, chef-owner Onil Chibas extended the bistro’s hours to remain open continuously from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“That way, if it’s four o’clock and you’ve just finished with your contractor and you’re hungry or you want a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, we’re open,” he said.

The Eaton fire destroyed long-standing Black-owned restaurants in Altadena, including Little Red Hen Coffee Shop which first opened in 1972 and was once frequented by comedian Richard Pryor, and Pizza of Venice, a popular pizzeria on Fair Oaks Avenue.

That makes it all the more important to support the Black-owned restaurants in the area that are still standing, with several located just blocks from the burn sites. Almost all are now concentrated in Pasadena, a reminder of how deeply affected Altadena itself remains a year after the blaze. From two new bakeries to a sandwich shop and a fish market that doubles as a Jamaican restaurant, here are 10 Black-owned spots to put on your radar.

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I live near Tom Kerridge and Heston Blumenthal’s restaurants -locals like me can’t afford them

I’ve never dined at local celebrity chef restaurants on my doorstep, including The Fat Duck and The Hand and Flowers, due to the expensive menu prices.

I live mere minutes away from some of the finest eateries in the region, arguably amongst Britain’s best. This encompasses Tom Kerridge’s The Hand and Flowers and Heston Blumenthal’s establishments, yet I’ve remarkably never visited any of them.

Whilst it’s enticing to have such celebrated venues practically on my doorstep, they’re renowned for being rather expensive and upmarket.

Countless diners will journey considerable distances to reach these establishments and boozers, whilst locals such as myself have never crossed their thresholds. The Fat Duck, situated in Bray, Berkshire, is a haute cuisine restaurant owned by Heston Blumenthal.

It boasts three Michelin stars, having maintained them for a 21st successive year as of February 2025, and remains acknowledged as a premier gastronomic destination under the chef.

Marking its 30th anniversary, The Journey menu provides the most comprehensive voyage into “Hestonland and the gastronomic delights that await”. It showcases creations including Bacon & Egg Cereal, Hot & Iced Tea, Beef Royal, Tonic of Botanics and Cheese & Grapes amongst others, reports the Express.

Diners can experience this menu for an eye-watering £350.

Despite residing in and around Bray throughout my existence, there aren’t numerous locals who could manage to eat at The Fat Duck.

The village also houses The Hinds Head, which possesses a Michelin star and belongs to Heston Blumenthal. It’s more reasonably priced, naturally, than The Fat Duck, though still approximately £30 for fish and chips.

A portion of chips alone costs £9, whilst some bay buttered carrots as an accompaniment runs to £7. Nevertheless, it boasts glowing testimonials on TripAdvisor, with one diner visiting earlier this month claiming the dish and chips “didn’t disappoint”.

Another said: “The whole experience was flawless, we have never eaten better food, they listened and remembered my wife’s birthday. If you go, make sure you order the bread and butter with beef dripping sauce. This was outstanding.”

Tom Kerridge also runs a fine dining establishment, a brief journey from Heston’s, The Hand and Flowers, situated in Marlow. It became the first boozer in Britain to receive two Michelin stars.

The chef additionally operates The Coach Marlow, which presents beautifully elevated British gastropub favourites.

The Hand and Flowers maintains two Michelin stars and the establishment sources the finest available produce from independent butchers, fishmongers and greengrocers.

Whilst it comes at a premium, the venue currently offers a midweek lunch promotion where diners can enjoy £25 for two courses, or £32.50 for three from a fixed lunch selection.

Its signature menu is priced at £85 for three courses, Monday to Friday exclusively, or its tasting menu costs a substantial £195 per head. Dishes on the tasting menu feature Cornish halibut, a 30-day-aged beef fillet, and a vanilla crème brûlée for afters.

The menu selections sound mouthwatering, but they come with a hefty price tag.

On Sundays, patrons can also experience the venue’s Sunday lunch offering for £195 per person. The establishment boasts excellent feedback, though one reviewer suggests it ought to be impressive given what it costs.

Another patron praised: “Great night, staff and service, warm atmosphere, the food was out of this world.”

A third customer noted: “It has a fine choice of drinks from well-presented cocktails, beer and fine wines.”

So, whilst all three upmarket venues enjoy glowing testimonials, there’s considerable availability, which might be attributed to the price point.

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