From Uzbek gems to Korean-Italian fusion: LA’s new Michelin list selections are here.
Michelin Guide inspectors have unveiled five new additions to their California selection, offering a preview of the city’s evolving culinary landscape ahead of the guide’s annual honors.
While prestigious Stars and Bib Gourmand awards are reserved for an official yearly ceremony, the organization now updates its digital listings twice a year to highlight immediate discoveries. These newest entries, spanning from Melrose Hill to Koreatown, are now live on the Michelin website and mobile app, marked with a “New” symbol.
The latest Los Angeles additions include:
Corridor 109
Located behind its sister concept, Bar 109, at 641 North Western Ave., Ste. A, Los Angeles, CA, 90005, this intimate 11-seat counter in Melrose Hill focuses on high-end seafood. Chef-owner Brian Baik, a New York veteran, crafts a restrained tasting menu largely sourced from Japan.
- Highlight: Santa Barbara spiny lobster tartare served in a kombu tartlet.
- Note: Reservations are essential for this seafood-centric experience.
Lapaba
Husband-and-wife duo McKenna Lelah and Matthew Kim blend Italian classics with Korean flavors in this romantically lit Koreatown spot located at 558 S. Western Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90020. The menu favors a “mash-up” approach intended for group sharing.
- Highlight: Bulgogi meatballs in truffle tomato sauce served with milk bread, and a tiramisu featuring misugaru and makgeolli.
- Vibe: Sophisticated bar seating with an emphasis on contemporary fusion.
Little Fish Melrose Hill
What began in Echo Park has transitioned into a polished sit-down destination located at 5035 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90038. The kitchen maintains a strict focus on sustainable seafood and seasonal California produce, balancing casual formats with technical precision.
- Highlight: A “best-in-class” fried fish sandwich for lunch and seared pork with shellfish sausage for dinner.
- Vibe: A bright, welcoming dining room paired with a natural wine list.
Lugya’h
Chef Alfonso Martinez brings the heat of Oaxacan street food to Maydan Market, located at 4301 W. Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90016. This counter-service operation centers on tlayudas—large, hand-pressed tortillas cooked over an open flame.
- Highlight: Hearty tlayudas filled with beans, cheese, and cabbage, particularly when topped with house-made moronga (blood sausage).
- Vibe: Casual, high-energy market dining.
Zira Uzbek Kitchen
Owner Azim Rahmatov introduces the Fairfax District to the spice-laden flavors of Uzbekistan at 7422 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90046. The restaurant’s name refers to cumin, a nod to the region’s history on the Silk Road.
- Highlight: Traditional lagman (hand-pulled noodles) and manti dumplings.
- Vibe: An atmospheric space decorated with ikat fabrics and pale stucco, reflecting Central Asian heritage.
All five establishments manage their own reservations. Patrons are encouraged to contact the restaurants directly to secure a table.
