A Local's Top Takeout Spots in Southern California

In trying times like these, it can seem simpler to head to a larger, corporate business when buying things you want or need. But small, local businesses can take a big hit—and even close their doors permanently—as a result. So, if you’re able to safely maneuver around town and maintain social distancing, consider ordering food and drinks from your neighborhood restaurants and coffee shops.

Many locally owned SoCal businesses are still offering food for takeout and delivery, so show your support to help make sure they’re still around when the COVID-19 pandemic comes to an end.

L.A. Restaurants

Lemonade

Founded in L.A., this classic California restaurant offers fresh fare with bold flavors and local, nourishing ingredients. Lemonade is open for delivery and takeout, but make sure to check the eatery’s social media pages regularly for updated hours and great deals. You can place orders online or over the phone.

Melanie’s Bakeshop 

Owned by L.A. native Melanie Strasser-King, Melanie’s Bakeshop is an up-and-coming bakery that was recently featured on Ayesha Curry’s Ellentube series, Fempire. The lifelong baker is offering delivery in Los Angeles for as long as the city will allow, so treat yourself to some delectable cookies. (I mean, who doesn’t need a sweet treat while they’re stuck at home watching California-made movies and TV shows?) Place your orders via the website or Instagram.

Pedalers Fork

While this Calabasas staple is observing shorter hours, it is still open for takeout and delivery, featuring a new to-go menu with family-style meals and more. Pedalers Fork is also keeping its sister restaurant, 10 Speed Coffee, open. From fresh salads to family-sized orders of chicken wings, this café provides something for everyone to enjoy. Check for updated hours and order your meals online.

San Diego Restaurants

Cuppa Cuppa Coffee

For all your caffeine needs, hit up this coffee shop in the new craft coffee capital of San Diego. Both the drive-thru stand and brick-and-mortar café are open and ready for business, so get your Cuppa Cuppa Coffee fix with a cortado, iced drip coffee, or honey lavender latte.

Ly Heng

This mom-and-pop shop serves delicious Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Chinese food. (Think: bomb bánh mì, beef satay noodles, pho, and fried rice.) When you’re in need of comforting fare, Ly Heng can provide it without a problem, so call the restaurant at (619) 280-8688 to get your grub. Right now, the restaurant offers takeout only but is planning to set up delivery service.

Tribute Pizza

Pizza is the ultimate comfort food for many, and Tribute Pizza is offering curbside, touchless takeout and delivery to the surrounding area. Most of the regular menu items are still available (plus, discounted beer and wine, which can save you a trip to the grocery store). Check for updated hours and order your pie on the website. 

If you are reluctant to order takeout from these local spots, consider buying a gift card so you can help them stay afloat until they’re able to reopen for normal business. (This is also a great surprise for the future when you remember that you have a gift card.) Stay safe out there, and happy eating!