21 Best Restaurants in Torrance, CA

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Nestled in the South Bay of Los Angeles, Torrance is a hidden gem for its diverse and delectable dining options. From cozy family-owned eateries serving up authentic international flavors to upscale dining establishments with contemporary cuisine, this city has something to offer every food lover. I grew up in the charming city of Torrance and have spent quite a few years exploring the best restaurants and eateries around. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor seeking to savor the city’s finest, these best restaurants in Torrance are sure to delight and surprise you.

Best All-Around Restaurants in Torrance

1. Local Kitchen Tavern $$

Address: 1321 Sartori Ave, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (424) 337-1321

Enjoy a dining experience that combines warmth, innovation, and high-quality ingredients at The Local Kitchen in Torrance. This culinary haven prides itself on offering a menu that celebrates the flavors of Southern California, artfully prepared in a scratch kitchen by talented chefs.

Located in Old Torrance, this local favorite spot is known for its delicious menu that features a little bit of everything from salads and pasta dishes to burgers and seafood. It has a welcoming, sports-bar-type feeling to it and a daily happy hour from 3-6pm in the bar.

2. The San Franciscan $$

Address: 2520 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (310) 325-5231

If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable dining experience in Torrance, look no further than The San Franciscan – a culinary gem that has been delighting guests since 1963. With an impressive 11-year streak as the reigning champion of “best steak” in the South Bay, this restaurant promises to leave your taste buds utterly satisfied.

Step into the timeless ambiance of The San Franciscan and be transported to a bygone era where exceptional food and entertainment meet. Not only does this Torrance classic offer perfectly cooked steaks, but it also boasts a diverse menu that includes excellent pasta, shrimp, and chicken dishes. Enjoy lively entertainment on certain nights, with karaoke and live bands setting the stage for an unforgettable night out.

3. Gaetano’s Restaurant $$

Address: 2731 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (310) 326-3354

Indulging in a meal at Gaetano’s is like savoring a taste of Italy right in the heart of Southern California. This family-owned business has been serving the community with love and passion for generations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

Gaetano’s is renowned for its mouthwatering pizza and pasta, crafted with a perfect blend of traditional Italian recipes and innovative twists. Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita pizza or a rich and hearty Bolognese pasta, Gaetano’s menu offers a delightful range of options to please every palate.

From the moment you step through the door, the friendly staff and charming ambiance make you feel like part of the family, making Gaetano’s a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Italian dining experience in Torrance.

4. Red Car Brewery & Restaurant $$

Address: 1266 Sartori Ave, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 782-0222

Red Car is much more than just an excellent brewery, the warm and inviting ambiance perfectly complements the flavorful menu. The food at this classic Torrance restaurant is a celebration of American comfort food with a twist.

From mouthwatering burgers and hearty sandwiches to flavorful salads and artisanal pizzas, Red Car Brewery offers many options that meet every craving. And let’s not forget about their signature beers, brewed on-site, that elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.

5. North Italia Del Amo Mall $$

Address: 21532 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503
Phone Number: (310) 214-0235

This restaurant captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its commitment to crafting every dish from scratch. North Italia takes pride in sourcing the finest and freshest ingredients, resulting in a menu that boasts a delectable array of Italian classics and modern interpretations.

From handcrafted pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts to sumptuous pasta dishes that transport your taste buds to the streets of Florence, each bite is a celebration of flavor and authenticity. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their assortment of wines, beer, or house-made cocktails.

6. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – Del Amo Mall $$

Address: 3525 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90503
Phone Number: (310) 921-6080

Lazy Dog offers a diverse range of dishes inspired by American and international flavors. From hearty burgers and sandwiches to innovative salads and decadent desserts, this restaurant has a bit of something for everyone. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail (such as the Passion Fruit Mango Martini) and don’t skip out on their delicious appetizers!

My favorite part of the restaurant is the creative use of dog-themed decorations scattered throughout. Whether you’re dining indoors or enjoying the outdoor patio, it’s a place where families, friends, and dog enthusiasts can come together to enjoy delicious food, good company, and the playful spirit that defines Lazy Dog Restaurant.

7. Depot Restaurant $$$

Address: 1250 Cabrillo Ave, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 787-7501

Eating at Depot Restaurant in Torrance is an experience that elevates dining to an art form. The restaurant boasts a chef who has been nominated “Chef of the Year” three times by the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association. This accolade is a testament to the exceptional skill and creativity that infuse every dish on the menu.

The restaurant’s ambiance is a perfect balance of elegance and comfort, setting the stage for a memorable dining occasion. The menu, meticulously curated by the celebrated chef, showcases an array of culinary wonders that seamlessly blend seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques. Each dish is a harmonious composition of flavors, textures, and presentation, a true reflection of the chef’s mastery.

Best Mexican Restaurants in Torrance

8. Madre! Oaxacan Restaurant and Mezcaleria $$

Address: 1261 Cabrillo Ave STE 100, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 974-8005

Madre is our favorite go-to date night spot in Torrance! The restaurant offers a distinctive take on traditional Mexican fare, influenced by a unique Oaxacan flavor that distinguishes it from more traditional Mexican restaurants. The menu has many choices, spanning from timeless tacos to the more exotic huitlacoche quesadillas or exceptional mole dishes.

Additionally, Madre presents an impressive selection of mezcal cocktails that impeccably complement their food. In fact, the restaurant proudly holds the distinction of showcasing the United States’ most extensive compilation of artisanal mezcals.

9. La Capilla Family Mexican Restaurant $$

Address: 1332 Sartori Ave, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 533-1048

La Capilla is my family’s favorite Mexican restaurant in Torrance. We’ve been going here since I was a kid and always love the welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent margaritas! La Capilla’s charm lies in its commitment to authenticity, evident in every dish on its menu. From sizzling fajitas to mouthwatering enchiladas, each plate is a testament to the vibrant flavors and traditional techniques that define Mexican cuisine.

10. Rosa’s La Cabana $

Address: 24403 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (310) 378-3667

If you’re looking for a more laid-back, casual-style Mexican restaurant you will not be disappointed with Rosa’s. The simple decor features a beautiful mural and creates a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy some of their standout dishes such as the chilaquiles verdes and tamales with salsa that is fresh and made in-house. You can feel the passion for her food from the owner of this quaint establishment as you indulge in dishes that tantalize your tastebuds.

Best Asian Restaurants in Torrance

11. Din Tai Fung – Del Amo Mall $$

Address: 21540 Hawthorne Blvd #519, Torrance, CA 90503
Phone Number: (310) 214-1175

With a global reputation for its exceptional Taiwanese cuisine, this restaurant has earned a loyal following for its dedication to culinary perfection. The inviting ambiance welcomes guests to indulge in a menu filled with delectable offerings, with the signature xiao long bao (soup dumplings) stealing the show. Each delicate dumpling is a burst of flavor with every bite.

Beyond the dumplings, Din Tai Fung’s menu boasts a spectrum of dishes that capture the essence of Taiwanese cuisine, from savory noodles to flavorful rice dishes. The attentive service and attention to detail create a delightful experience and leave a lasting impression.

12. Red Rock – Torrance $$

Address: 2141 W 182nd St, Torrance, CA 90504
Phone Number: (424) 329-3363

As a flagship restaurant for the renowned ‘American sliced beef Don™️ (American Cut Steak Don™️),’ a dish originating in Japan, Red Rock seamlessly combines Japanese innovation with a Spanish-style bar atmosphere. Established in 1989 in Japan, Red Rock has cultivated a reputation for exceptional meat dishes.

Beyond their flagship dish, the menu boasts a diverse array of offerings, from the fiery spicy ramen noodles to the comforting katsu curry and rice. Red Rock’s extensive menu features options like katsu-don, Hamburg steak, and garlic shrimp. This is certainly one of the best restaurants in Torrance for innovative Japanese cuisine.

13. Ko Ryo Jung Korean BBQ $$

Address: 1585 Sepulveda Blvd N, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 530-0025

This is my absolute favorite KBBQ place around. It’s a bit of a hole-in-the-wall joint but has quality meat at an affordable price for all-you-can-eat. Plus, I love their sides that are served buffet-style while you wait for the meat to cook. The restaurant boasts an array of marinated and unmarinated cuts of meat, featuring Kobe, prime, and Black Angus beef.

14. Blufish Sushi & Grill $$

Address: 22804 S Western Ave, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (424) 263-4751

Our go-to sushi restaurant in Torrance, Blufish has a very casual ambiance but a delightful menu. The menu features their basic roles at a very affordable price, but their specialty and baked roles are where they truly shine. Blufish’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish, with its sushi rolls beautifully presented and bursting with vibrant flavors.

15. Angara Indian Restaurant $

Address: 2170 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 320-9090

My family absolutely loves this little restaurant for take-out Indian food. The restaurant itself has a casual, family-friendly ambiance but the food is like no other. The menu is bursting with tantalizing options, but two stars stand out: the butter chicken and tikka masala. These iconic Indian dishes, meticulously prepared with a blend of spices and aromatic ingredients, simply melt in your mouth. The menu offers a diverse selection of appetizers, curries, and biryanis.

Best Breakfast and Brunch Restaurants in Torrance

16. The Pan $$

Address: 3160 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (424) 285-0385

One of the best restaurants in Torrance to get a hearty breakfast or brunch, The Pan serves everything from fluffy pancakes topped with fresh fruits to savory egg dishes cooked to perfection. This is truly a hidden gem of the South Bay! Bottomless mimosas are in the $20 range and their food is DELICIOUS.

One of our favorites from the Pan is the loaded hashbrowns, but all of their sweet dishes are to die for as well. The only real downside of this restaurant is that the service can be exceptionally slow. Be prepared to wait (or just order for pick-up) if you’re going for brunch on the weekend – but the food IS worth it!

17. King’s Hawaiian Bakery & Restaurant $$

Address: 2808 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (310) 530-0050

Known for its Hawaiian and American fare, this establishment holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors alike. The menu showcases the best of both worlds, from mouthwatering Hawaiian specialties to beloved American classics. While the breakfast menu is fairly concise, the french toast on the original King’s Hawaiian sweet bread alone is worth the visit.

Beyond the savory offerings, this best restaurant in Torrance has famed baked goods that are a true blend of sweetness and tradition. The inviting ambiance and attentive service make King’s Hawaiian a cherished gathering spot for creating fond memories over delicious meals.

Best Quick Bites in Torrance

18. Beach Bowls Acai Cafe $

Address: 2370 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 328-8515

Satisfy your craving for a sweet frozen treat at this cafe that combines health-conscious choices with a laid-back vibe. The menu showcases a delightful variety of acai bowl combinations, each with toppings that range from a colorful array of fruits to crunchy granola. Whether you’re seeking a quick and nourishing breakfast or a refreshing afternoon snack, Beach Bowls Acai Cafe offers a healthy option for a quick bite in Torrance.

19. CoCo Ichibanya Curry Restaurant Torrance $$

Address: Palm Plaza, 2455 Sepulveda Blvd C, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone Number: (310) 294-5315

This restaurant’s distinctive feature lies in its customizable approach, allowing you to tailor your curry experience to your preferences, from choosing spice levels to creating your ideal ingredient combinations. The menu has a diverse selection of Japanese curry variations, each boasting a unique blend of flavors that ranges from mild to fiery. The casual ambiance complements the dining experience, making it a go-to spot for those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

20. Pinwheel French Cafe & Bakery $$

Address: 2553 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (310) 325-5055

Pinwheel Cafe is an ideal spot for a quick bite in Torrance, offering a delightful fusion of convenience and excellence. Whether you’re searching for a flavorful breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a sweet treat to brighten your day, this café’s menu has you covered. With a diverse selection of freshly baked goods, sandwiches, and beverages, Pinwheel Cafe ensures that you can enjoy a delicious and nourishing meal without compromising on quality.

21. Good Vibes Pizza $

Address: 22825 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone Number: (310) 375-2580

No list of best places to eat is complete without a solid pizza joint! This family-owned pizza store has excellent pies at a great price. The menu features a couple of interesting specialty pizzas to try such as the “corn cheese” pizza. While the inside is fairly small, it has a fun retro feel and makes for a great takeout spot (tip – take your pizza to eat at the beach).

What Food Is Torrance Known For?

Torrance is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a tantalizing array of foods that cater to various tastes. One standout cuisine that the city is celebrated for is its authentic Japanese fare. With a significant Japanese population and a rich cultural heritage, Torrance boasts an impressive selection of sushi bars, ramen shops, and BBQ joints that serve up delectable dishes with an unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.

Additionally, Torrance is renowned for its mouthwatering Korean cuisine, showcasing an abundance of KBBQ restaurants. Alongside these Asian delights, Torrance’s coastal location ensures a bounty of fresh seafood options, as well as plenty of excellent American, Italian, and Mexican cuisine restaurants. Torrance is a food lover’s paradise that promises to satisfy every craving!

Is Torrance, CA a Good Area?

Torrance is a lovely area to visit or stay in either while exploring the South Bay or greater LA. The city boasts well-maintained neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and a wide range of recreational opportunities, making it an attractive choice for families and individuals alike.

Additionally, Torrance’s proximity to beaches, cultural attractions, and major freeways adds to its appeal. While every area has its unique characteristics and considerations, overall, Torrance is regarded as a safe and welcoming place with a high quality of life.

For more information and things to do, check out my guide below.

CONCLUSION: Best Restaurants in Torrance

From family-owned eateries to upscale dining establishments, Torrance offers plenty of incredible restaurants that reflect its multicultural influences. Whether you’re craving authentic Japanese sushi, indulging in mouthwatering Korean barbecue, or savoring the nuanced spices of Indian cuisine, Torrance has something to please all tastebuds.

With a history that spans decades and a commitment to culinary excellence, restaurants like La Capilla, The San Franciscan, and King’s Hawaiian have become beloved fixtures within the community. Meanwhile, newcomers like Red Rock and The Pan add fresh and innovative perspectives to the city’s dining scene. Whichever of the best restaurants in Torrance you choose to taste you are sure to be left full and satisfied!

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