Whereas in case of most restaurants the old adage “you get what you pay for” holds true, the humble Al Wazir Chicken is a lucky exception, able to pleasantly surprise its patrons. The joint is a classic hole-in-the-wall with a couple of canteen tables – not the kind of spot one comes to for the ambiance. But the tasty dishes and low prices have drawn many returning customers here for years. The fare is traditional Middle-eastern/Lebanese, replete with supple and flavorful chicken dishes and zesty sides and sauces. Falafels are likewise excellent, and the salads are crisp and fresh. For those reluctant to take their meal in the plain environment, takeout and delivery are easy and convenient options. Al Wazir is open late and is known for speedy deliveries.

When you turn the corner from Melrose Avenue at LaBrea, you cannot miss the line that has been extending from Pink's since it opened in 1939. Chili dogs, chili fries, chili burgers, turkey dogs, and burrito dogs; you name it and they've got it. Almost every imaginable and sometimes unimaginable permutation of the wiener can be found here. No matter the time of day or night, you will find yourself standing in line amongst a mix of a dozen tourists, corporate climbers, and sometimes celebrities.

Famous for its pastrami, this fast food joint is a Los Angeles favorite with nine other locations. The Hat is a charming 1950's diner featuring kitschy decor and a simple, straight forward menu. Pastrami dip sandwiches, are of course, the highlight of the menu and served on a French roll with mustards and pickles. Burgers, cold sandwiches, hot dogs and sides like fries, onion rings, and potato salad round out the offerings. Call ahead to order and bypass the usual lines found here!

Desde 1975, Carney's satisface los antojos de papas fritas picantes y hamburguesas de los ciudadanos de Los Ángeles, y ofrece una experiencia simplemente perfecta con su vagón de tren Amtrak amarillo vintage de la década de 1920 que por dentro es un diner clásico. ¡Y eso no es todo! El menú propone una gran variedad de perros calientes y salchichas polacas, que muchos describen como las mejores de la ciudad, y todo a los precios más bajos que se puedan imaginar, especialmente considerando que el establecimiento se encuentra en el muelle cerca del extremo este de Sunset Strip. El estacionamiento privado ubicado detrás del vagón hace que estacionar no sea un inconveniente, y el servicio agradable y atento indica que han llegado al sitio correcto. Si les parece que los precios son bajos y la calidad muy buena, diviértanse con el happy hour.

In-N-Out Burger es una cadena de comidas rápidas legendaria y muy querida que nació en el sur de California. La sucursal de West Los Ángeles ofrece la misma frescura y calidad que hicieron famosa a la cadena. Este establecimiento relajado sirve patatas fritas, batidos y sodas, además de una variedad de hamburguesas clásicas. El menú es limitado pero sabroso, y es posible agrandar el pedido si conocen sus secretos. Un ambiente limpio y un buen servicio completan la experiencia y hacen que su comida sea todo un éxito.

Zankou Chicken provides cheap delicious food fast. This is the perfect restaurant for a drop-by meal, an outing with a few friends on a bar-hopping night, or a convenient takeout option. The portions are more than generous – ranging all the way to the epic whole chickens, robust and flavorful – accompanied by all the traditional Middle-eastern sides, including falafel, pickled radishes, hummus, and tahini. The place is very affordable, which is a trait locals enjoy and exploit. "Speed, quality and value" has always been Zankou’s motto.

Established in 1959 and boasting long lines of locals, this legendary LA taco stand calls out to customers seeking fresh shredded beef and creamy cheddar concoctions of deliciousness at all hours of the day. But don't be intimidated, as waiting in line is part of the experience at Tito's Tacos. While tacos are the star, other traditional dishes such as veggie tamales with pinto beans, chicken tamales in Meat Sauce, or the vegetarian tostada with refried beans are also excellent. The blended salsa has a refreshing kick, and chips and guacamole go perfectly with your main dish.

Tucked away in an industrial area where Sherman Oaks meets Van Nuys, Bill's Burgers is a fantastic long-established gem of the valley. For over 50 years former WWII veteran, Bill Elwell has been flipping burgers in his 10 foot by 20-foot greasy burger joint and cooking on the same cast-iron grill originating from the 1920s. No fancy frills here, burgers are offered along with sandwiches, chili dogs, and sides. Cash only, everything on the menu is under USD5, partially because Elwell's old school cash register can't compute anything over USD5.99! Try the Double Cheese Burger with Bacon and a packet of chips and you won't be disappointed.

Essentially a fast food restaurant, The Standing Room serves some amazing sandwiches, burgers and meat dishes. Located in the charming city of Redondo Beach, this little restaurant is perfect for a hearty lunch, after a dip in the sea. Bull burger, Fu-Fu Sammie, Portobello Mushroom Sammie and Fried Chicken are some of the most loved dishes on their menu. They also have a children’s menu where some delicious treats are curated in special portions for the kids. This laid-back restaurant is great for enjoying a scrumptious meal with your loved ones without burning a hole in your pocket.