For many, the start of a new year calls for a list of resolutions. A new beginning and new inspiration for anything you would like to achieve. I know myself and my limitations. It takes more than my digital calendar flipping to January to motivate me to do anything with a resolution.
I prefer to make two types of wish lists. One is a collection of things, people, and trends I hope to see more of in the new year, and the second is dedicated to those I hope to leave behind.
Since yesterday’s post threw all my shade at the food trends of 2023, I’m back to balance that with a short list of things I’m looking forward to in food in 2024. Happy New Year!
More dumplings
Sheng jian bao from Kang Kang food court in Alhambra.
(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)
For too long, a single restaurant and its single variety of dumplings have dominated the general dumpling conversation. Xiao long bao, also known as soup dumplings, are wonderful. But there’s a whole world of dumplings to explore, many of them within reach here in Southern California. Paradise Dynasty, Kang Kang, Long Xing Ji, Hui Tou Xiang, Min Min Pie House (and many more) should be household names worthy of recognition for their countless styles and excellence. If you need some suggestions on where to start, we have an entire series dedicated to meatballs. You can catch up on all the episodes here.
More superettes
Embrace the superette. Above, DTLA Cheese in the center.
(Stephanie Breijo / Los Angeles Times)
I’ve written extensively about my love of superettes, small markets that sell produce, specialty foods, home goods, and gifts. Most are reflections of the owner’s unique tastes and style, like real-life Pinterest boards you can shop from. I like knowing that a singular person or small team curated the selection of canned fish, candles, hot sauce, wine and tea towels. Here’s a list of 12 superettes in the Los Angeles area.
More Alison Hammond
Alison Hammond attends the BAFTA Film Awards 2023 nominees party.
(Gareth Cattermole/BAFTA/Getty Images for BAFTA)
Despite one or two embarrassing moments along the way, the television series “The Great British Bake Off” brings me joy like nothing else. I find myself smiling as I watch bakers laugh at a last place finish in a technical challenge or as they continue with a spectacular show. I cry with joy when the winner is announced and continue to smile as footage of the bakers hanging out after the show plays during the credits.
This year’s newest addition, TV personality and actress Alison Hammond, replaced Matt Lucas as presenter alongside Noel Fielding. With his boisterous laugh, his quick wit, and his cheerful, playful nature, he gave the show an extra boost of joy. I hope it stays for many more seasons.
More products from good restaurants
I can’t get enough of seeing all the cozy and elegant products in the restaurant.
(Photographs by Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times, Christina House / Los Angeles Times, Rebecca Peloquin / For The Times, Mister Parmesan)
Half my wardrobe is restaurant merchandise. I live with my Jitlada t-shirt. My Yang’s Kitchen t-shirt may be the most comfortable one I own. I reach for my Langer’s Deli baseball cap whenever I don’t feel like doing my hair. I also have my eye on that new red and beige corduroy Mini Kabob hat.
More Los Angeles Restaurants in Las Vegas
The interior of the Mother Wolf restaurant at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
(Eric Wolfinger)
Earlier this year, a slew of Los Angeles chefs opened restaurants on and off the Las Vegas Strip. Evan Funke brought the location of his Hollywood restaurant Mother Wolf to the new Fontainebleau hotel. Ray Garcia revitalized BS Taqueria at the Sundry Food Hall in southwest Las Vegas. Also in the hall is Ria Dolly Barbosa’s Filipino restaurant Petite Peso. Roy Choi and Jon Favreau opened the Chef food truck at Park MGM with sandwiches inspired by their 2014 film “Chef” and their Netflix series “The Chef Show.” And Irv’s Burgers, Uncle Paulie’s Deli and Prince St. Pizza (the New York-based pizzeria with multiple locations in Los Angeles) are signature vendors at the Eat Your Heart Out food hall inside the new Durango resort and casino in southwest Las Vegas. .
These openings are an opportunity to reach a whole new audience, build global brand recognition, and hopefully leverage a casino’s considerable food and beverage budget. I compare him to the local quarterback who succeeds. We all support you!
