His favorite bites range from an acclaimed taco truck to a Downtown high-rise hotel restaurant<\/p>\n
With the 2016 debut of Kali<\/a>, Kevin Meehan proved his adoration for California gastronomy. The Melrose Avenue restaurant was like a love letter to the Golden State, earning (and maintaining) a Michelin star for refined local cuisine. Over the summer, Meehan and team entered Kali\u2019s next chapter by transforming the restaurant into a classic Hollywood steakhouse. Instead of a tasting menu experience, diners relish ice-cold martinis and expertly sourced steaks; it\u2019s a new approach, but one with Kali\u2019s same quality standards. Here, Meehan recalls his top plates in Los Angeles \u2014 ones from eateries that all offer good food, community and joy.<\/p>\n Grilled Octopus<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n 71Above<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n The gnocchi and octopus dishes are consistently exceptional. The combination of refined technique, bold flavors and the unparalleled setting makes this a dining experience that feels quintessentially Los Angeles. Prices vary, 633 W 5th St., Downtown, 71above.com\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Bossam<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n Kobawoo House<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n Korean cuisine holds a special place in my heart, and Kobawoo House delivers it in its most soulful and communal form. Its bossam pork is the dish I return to time and again \u2014 tender, juicy, and perfectly fatty slices of pork wrapped in lightly fermented cabbage leaves, layered with an array of toppings that bring brightness and depth. Prices vary, 698 S Vermont Ave., Koreatown, #109, kobawoola.com\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Tacos de Camaron<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n Mariscos Jalisco<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n