Los Angeles is renowned for a few things food-wise; amazing taco trucks, the best food fusion in the world, and an obsession with healthy food at all costs. Although Colorado leads the pack for the least obese states in the US, California isn’t too far behind at No. 5 and that has a lot to do with the California diet and the meal options. But where to find the healthiest food in Los Angeles is a secret that few know, and you are about to find out!
Where can I find healthy food in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, you can find healthy food at farmers' markets, which offer fresh, locally grown produce and organic products daily. There are also specialty food stores that provide unique, high-quality ingredients, often from diverse cuisines like Asian or Middle Eastern. Plus, there are a bunch of healthy fast food and food delivery services and restaurants catering to specific dietary needs, such as vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb, with customizable meal options.
Los Angeles farmers' markets
Farmers' markets are a great place to find fresh, locally sourced, and organic produce. In LA, you'll find a farmers' market almost every day of the week, each offering a unique selection of fruits, vegetables, artisanal products, and sometimes even seafood and meats. These markets are not only a great place to buy healthy food but also an excellent opportunity to support local farmers and sustainable agriculture practices so you can tell your friends about our sustainable food efforts.
Top farmer's markets for healthy food in Los Angeles
For organic produce, my local farmer’s market offers variety and freshness superior to regular stores. I helped a farm client gain 50% more Community and Sustainability (CSA) subscribers by emphasizing the benefits of community support and education about sustainable, organic farming. Chefs are using trendy “superfoods” like turmeric and moringa in popular items. By emphasizing the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric in social media for a restaurant client, turmeric cocktails and beetroot dishes have become top sellers. Greg Barber, Ecofriendlyprinter
Farmers' market tips
Arrive early for the best selection
Arriving early at the farmers' market allows you to have the best selection of fresh produce and other goods. Early shoppers have access to the freshest, most vibrant fruits and vegetables before they are picked and vendors are often more willing to have a chat and share tips about their products when it's less crowded.
Bring your own reusable bags and containers
To make your shopping more sustainable and convenient, bring your own reusable bags and containers. Farmers' markets often have loose produce and other bulk items, and having your own bags and containers can help reduce waste and keep your produce fresh and organized. Bringing smaller containers or jars can also be useful for purchasing nuts, seeds, or other small items that might not be pre-packaged:
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Specialty food stores and markets
Los Angeles also has several specialty food stores and markets that focus on specific types of healthy foods many times in combination with ethnic cuisines, such as Asian or Middle Eastern. It's important to point out that not all cultures consider healthy food to be the same, a Chinese rice porridge (zhou), might be considered a super healthy breakfast for some in Asia, but in other places, it's just bland wet rice. These stores often provide unique ingredients that are not readily available in traditional grocery stores, making them an awesome find for those looking to diversify their diet with high-quality, specialized products.
Top specialty health food stores in Los Angeles
Tips for shopping for healthy food at specialty and health food stores
Shop the perimeter
The perimeter or outer walls of the store are typically where fresh produce, dairy, and meats are found, whereas processed foods are found in the center. In stores that feature ethnic cuisines, such as Thai or Mexican, make sure you ask around as these stores can be laid out differently.
Check for certifications
Look for labels like "USDA Organic," "Non-GMO Project Verified," and "Fair Trade Certified" to ensure you are choosing high-quality, ethically sourced products. It's important to note here that sometimes labelings can be misleading so make sure you double-check the product and even ask for assistance.
Healthy products to watch out for in LA stores
Truly Essential
This is a favorite of ours because working long hours in the food industry deserves a proper amount of hydration. Rather than the overly flavored Gatorade, this drink tastes on point and has a bunch of different unique minerals that provide intracellular hydration. It's becoming a staple for those working in LA while losing water.
Focus
Focus is one of our favorite supplement drinks of all and it comes in a shot form, so you don't have to down a whole bottle. It blends Trilogine with a mix of other vitamins and minerals and gives us more energy than a Red Bull.
Healthy food as a choice in the grocery aisle isn't just limited to Los Angeles, it's important in all parts of the world, including Bali, according to Chef Nic Vanderbeeken, the executive chef at Aperitif." I’ve seen the demand for plant-based and vegan options profoundly influence the restaurant scene. More than ever, chefs are exploring the vast potential of vegetables, grains, and legumes, making them the stars of the menu rather than side dishes. I recommend farmers' markets as some of the best places to find fresh, organic produce. These markets often feature produce that is picked at peak ripeness, which I find superior in flavor and nutrition compared to what you might find in regular grocery stores. Many local farms also offer Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, where you can get a box of fresh produce delivered weekly, often at a better value than grocery stores."
Healthy food delivery services in Los Angeles
Obviously, in this post-Covid day and age, almost everything is deliverable with the touch of an app, including healthy food. Several new services as well as LA mainstays cater to clientele who are very specific with their tastes; such as those who are so vegan they don't eat anything that casts a shadow. If your diet is particularly stringent, then you might want to consider ordering delivery from some of the selections below.
Top healthy food delivery services in Los Angeles
Tips for food delivery
Inquire about cooking methods
Healthy cooking methods such as grilling, steaming, roasting, or poaching preserve the nutritional content of food better than frying or sautéing in excessive oil. Make sure the delivery service provides meals prepared using healthier cooking techniques, going light on the use of unhealthy fats or oils.
Look for customization options
Choose a delivery service that allows you to customize your meals according to your dietary preferences or restrictions. It's very LA, but many services offer customization options for low-carb, gluten-free, vegan, paleo, or keto diets.
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Restaurants
Many reading this might be interested in what Los Angeles has to offer when it comes to healthy food in a restaurant setting. This can be of the utmost importance if you are organizing a business dinner with various omnivores, pescatarians, and various other diet restrictions.
In Los Angeles, healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Here are some of the top healthy restaurants in the city, categorized by their unique offerings:
Vegan and vegetarian options
For those who prefer a plant-based diet, Los Angeles offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences:
We spoke to Nichols Aboolian who runs the Hollywood Hills Recovery Center about what his favorite spots in LA are for healthy food.
"Although there are a ton in LA, my favorite spot in California is the Chez Panisse in Berkeley. This restaurant is one of the oldest of the farm-to-table movement and was started by Alice Waters. Chez Panisse has always strived to use organic ingredients and to buy them directly from local producers. The menu is daily and it is based on the freshest produce and meats which are available on the market, so every dish is created to show the best of the season. It has become a reference point for farm-to-table dining throughout the country due to the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and quality."
Healthy Asian and Mexican food
Tips for restaurants serving healthy food
Research the menu before you go
Before dining out, check the restaurant’s menu online to identify healthy options. Look for dishes that are grilled, steamed, roasted, or baked rather than fried. Focus on meals that include a good balance of lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables.
Ask for modifications
Don’t hesitate to ask for modifications to make your meal healthier. Many restaurants are willing to accommodate requests like dressing on the side, substituting a side salad for fries, or grilling instead of frying. You can also ask for steamed vegetables instead of rice or request whole-grain bread or pasta.
Healthy fast food
Let's be honest; Los Angeles might be located in Southern California, but California itself is located in the United States, and if there is anything Americans love and cherish it's fast food. That being said, it doesn't need to be McDonalds or Burger King all the time, LA has a mix of fast food restaurants that are both convenient AND healthy.
Opt for grilled or baked options
When choosing fast food, look for items that are grilled or baked rather than fried. Grilled chicken sandwiches, baked fish, or veggie wraps are typically lower in unhealthy fats and calories compared to fried options.
Load up on vegetables and skip the sides
Many healthy fast food places offer the option to add extra vegetables to your meal. Choose salads, and veggie-packed bowls, or add extra veggies to sandwiches to increase fiber and nutrients. Avoid high-calorie sides like fries or onion rings, and opt for a side salad, fresh fruit, or a small portion of whole grains instead.
FAQ
Are there healthy meal prep services in LA?
Yes, of course, there are, with the best option being to order meal prep from Gourmaze. Not only do we guarantee the healthy aspect, but we also source our ingredients from the same places that Michelin chefs source them from. Several other services offer healthy, ready-to-eat meals tailored to diets like vegan, keto, or gluten-free, delivered to your door, but it's not as good.
How can I find affordable healthy food in LA?
Visit farmers' markets late for discounts and shop at budget-friendly stores like Trader Joe's and Sprouts for affordable organic options.
Where can I find restaurants for my dietary restrictions in LA?
Use apps like Yelp or HappyCow to filter restaurants by dietary needs, or check menus online for specific options.
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