Planning your Los Angeles trip is exciting. However, a big question often comes up: how much to save for food traveling in los angeles? The city’s food scene is vast and varied. Therefore, your daily spending can range dramatically. This guide will help you create a realistic food budget for 2025.
Average Daily Food Costs in LA: A Quick Overview
Los Angeles offers dining options for every price point. On average, you can expect your daily food costs to be between $60 and $250. This, of course, depends heavily on your choices.
Here is a general breakdown to give you a starting point:
- Breakfast: $10 – $20 for a coffee shop pastry and coffee or a diner meal.
- Lunch: $15 – $30 for a food truck meal, a fast-casual spot, or a simple cafe.
- Dinner: $30 – $70+ for a casual sit-down restaurant. Fine dining will cost significantly more.
- Snacks & Drinks: $10 – $20 for water, coffee, or a small snack.
These figures are just estimates. In reality, you can spend much less or much more depending on your preferences.
How Much to Save for Food Traveling in Los Angeles by Travel Style
Your travel style is the biggest factor in your food budget. Consequently, we have broken down the costs into three common tiers. This will give you a clearer picture of your potential spending.
The Budget Traveler: $50 – $80 Per Day
Eating on a budget in LA is entirely possible. In fact, some of the city’s best food is also the most affordable. You will focus on local gems and smart shopping.
For example, your budget-friendly day might include:
- Grabbing breakfast items from a grocery store like Trader Joe’s.
- Enjoying delicious and cheap tacos from a food truck for lunch.
- Exploring Koreatown or Thai Town for an authentic, affordable dinner.
- Refilling a water bottle to save on drinks.
The Mid-Range Traveler: $80 – $150 Per Day
With a mid-range budget, you can experience more of LA’s famous restaurant scene. This allows for a mix of casual spots and nicer sit-down meals. Furthermore, you have more flexibility.
A typical mid-range day could look like this:
- Starting your day at a trendy brunch spot.
- Having lunch at a popular cafe or gastropub.
- Enjoying dinner at a well-regarded restaurant in a neighborhood like Silver Lake or Venice.
- Perhaps grabbing a happy hour cocktail before dinner.
The Luxury Traveler: $150+ Per Day
Los Angeles is a playground for luxury dining. If budget is not a concern, you can indulge in world-class culinary experiences. This tier includes fine dining and celebrity chef restaurants.
An indulgent day might feature:
- An upscale brunch in Beverly Hills with mimosas.
- A multi-course lunch at a gourmet restaurant.
- Dinner at a Michelin-starred establishment.
- Ending the night with craft cocktails at a chic rooftop bar.
Top Tips for Saving Money on Food During Your LA Trip
No matter your budget, everyone likes to save some money. Luckily, there are many ways to eat well in LA without overspending. Therefore, follow these simple tips to make your food budget stretch further.
- Explore Food Trucks: They offer amazing, diverse, and affordable food.
- Utilize Happy Hours: Many restaurants and bars offer discounted drinks and appetizers, usually between 3 PM and 6 PM.
- Visit Farmers’ Markets: Find fresh, local produce and cheap eats. It’s also a great cultural experience.
- Shop at Grocery Stores: Buy snacks, drinks, and breakfast items at a supermarket to avoid expensive convenience store prices.
- Look for Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer their dinner items for a lower price during lunch.
- Share Portions: American portion sizes can be large. Consider sharing a main course and an appetizer.
In conclusion, budgeting for food in Los Angeles requires a little planning. By understanding the costs and using our tips, you can enjoy the incredible food scene without any financial stress. Have a delicious trip!