There’s something special about how a great meal connects us—whether it’s a quick restaurant recommendation to a neighbor over the fence or swapping recipe tips at the Westchester Farmers’ Market. Food brings people together, and this column is my way of pulling up a chair with you. I want to share the local bites that make me smile, encourage you to finally step into that spot you walk past every morning, and, most importantly, hear what’s on your plate.
Here are three local favorites that represent the amazing flavors of our neighborhood:
1. 14th Street Breakfast Sandwich at Truxton’s
Right in the heart of Westchester, Truxton’s American Bistro has become our go-to neighborhood table, offering a menu that feels as familiar and comforting as our own living room. It’s the kind of place where the staff starts to feel like family, whether you’re there for a celebratory “cheers” or a relaxing Sunday brunch. They are known for their gourmet twist on American and international comfort foods, as well as exceptional craft cocktails.
For brunch, my go-to order is the 14th Street Breakfast Sandwich, a local legend for a reason. Imagine two perfectly fried eggs with golden, runny yolks, creamy brie melting into toasted sourdough, and the crunch of applewood-smoked bacon. A handful of peppery, fresh arugula and a swipe of garlic mayo tie it all together. I always order the crispy tater tots as a side; each bite is salty, heavenly perfection.
• What makes it special: That brie. Swapping out the usual breakfast cheese for brie elevates this sandwich from good to addictive without being over-the-top. Every bite is perfectly balanced.
• Pro Tip: My daughter swears by their mocha—a rich blend of chocolate and coffee that’s perfect when you need a little jolt to get through the day. It has become her Truxton’s ritual, and now I can’t go without grabbing one, too.
2. Pad Woon Sen at Ayara
Ayara has been nourishing our neighborhood with chef-driven, award-winning Thai food for two decades, and their outdoor patio, nestled on 87th Street, is one of the best spots in town to unwind. It’s a place where a hectic Wednesday suddenly feels like a mini-vacation.
I’m a creature of habit here—I always go for the Pad Woon Sen, with chicken or tofu depending on my mood. Those glossy glass noodles come loaded with fluffy scrambled eggs, sweet tomatoes, crisp carrots, mushrooms, onions, and napa cabbage. It’s light–but filling–comforting with just the right amount of spice, and every forkful offers a great mix of spongy noodle and crisp veggie textures.
• What Makes It Special: It’s Thai comfort food that feels “home-cooked.” You can tell the Asapahu family puts real heart into every recipe and dish, making it a true staple of our local food scene. Ayara is also one of only two Westchester restaurants that are included in the Michelin Guide!
• Pro Tip: If you want to bring a taste of Ayara into your own kitchen, they offer a selection of their beloved sauces as well as noodle and curry meal kits to enjoy at home. It’s a wonderful way to support a local favorite while sharing those flavors with family and friends. These products are also available online and can be shipped.
3. Homemade Chicken Soup at Benny’s
Benny’s has been a 90045 fixture for years, known primarily for their amazing tacos and burritos. You’ll always find a lively mix of LMU students and neighbors here, especially on the covered patio. It’s a great, casual spot to meet a friend and share a meal. Their homemade tostada bowls are a popular lunch choice but for me, their “secret weapon” is the Homemade Chicken Soup; it’s pure comfort in a bowl.
When the marine layer rolls in or you’re feeling a little under the weather, this dish is like a warm hug. It features a rich, golden broth packed with tender, all-natural rotisserie chicken and hand-cut vegetables. It comes with rice and warm tortillas, allowing you to build your own perfect bite.
• What Makes it Special: It’s honest, simple food that reminds you that someone in the kitchen is looking out for you. That’s the Benny’s way.
• Pro Tip: I like to tear the warm tortillas for dipping first, then stir in the rice to soak up every last drop of that broth.
Join the Conversation
These dishes represent what I love most about our neighborhood: quality you can taste and the feeling that we’re all part of the same story. Whether you’re celebrating at Truxton’s, catching up on Ayara’s patio, or finding comfort at Benny’s, you’re supporting the people who make our community unique.
Next Month: I’m exploring a new restaurant, Shokudo, which popped up in the spot formerly occupied by Cafe Solar. It opened just last week, and the buzz is that their house-made udon noodles and katsu dishes are delicious.
I want to hear from you! What is your go-to local dish—the one you’d tell a new neighbor they have to try? Drop a comment, send me a message, or say hi if you see me at the market. Let’s keep swapping favorites! Email me at birkettcory@gmail.com.
Cory Birkett is a foodie, and admin for the “Quarantine Cooking-Westchester & Silicon Beach” Facebook Group. When she’s not trying new recipes or checking out local restaurants, she spends her days as a real estate agent and long-time community volunteer, which includes serving on committees for the
Westchester/Playa Neighborhood Council.
By Cory Birkett. Truxton Sandwich photo courtesy of @foodieoc.