Best Hidden Gems Restaurants in Palms Cheviot Hills (90034)
4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Essential Picks
#1
n/naka
9.3
Chef Niki Nakayama’s modern kaiseki is the defining special-occasion meal on the Westside, balancing deep Japanese technique with California seasonality. Courses move from feather-light dashi and pristine sashimi to warm, comforting clay-pot and grill moments, all paced with quiet precision. Reservations are tough, but the experience feels intimate and personal from first bite to final dessert.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal kaiseki tasting menu, Abalone spaghetti with mentaiko and black truffle, Miyazaki wagyu course when offered
What makes it special: A Michelin-starred, contemporary kaiseki tasting led by Chef Niki Nakayama.
Notable Picks
#2
Simpang Asia
8.6
A compact, always-busy Indonesian spot that hits hard with smoky wok char, deep spice layers, and comforting street-food staples. Locals come for the nasi bungkus and satays, but the real hook is how consistently bold everything tastes, even on a quick takeout run.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nasi Bungkus, Beef Rendang, Nasi Goreng
What makes it special: Indonesian comfort food with big, verified cross-platform fanbase and steady execution.
8.3
A warm, softly lit Himalayan/Nepalese favorite where fragrant curries and dumplings do the talking. The kitchen leans into slow-cooked depth—thukpa, momo, and goat curries are the moves—while keeping prices gentle for the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Thukpa (Sherpa’s Stew), Chicken Momos, Butter Chicken
What makes it special: Himalayan comfort dishes paired with solid Indian classics.
8.0
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Trendy Table Hotspots
A Palms hangout mixing rustic, California-leaning Italian with a strong craft beer list and a lively patio. The wood-fired pizzas and house pastas are the main draw, with seasonal toppings and a slightly elevated bar-restaurant feel. Great for groups who want pizza night with better drinks and a bit more polish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Bear Pizza, Pappardelle Bolognese, Burrata with Grilled Bread
What makes it special: Seasonal wood-fired pizza paired with one of Palms’ best tap lists.