Best Trendy Restaurants in Sherman Oaks
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Anajak Thai
LA Times Restaurant of the Year with James Beard recognition and Michelin Bib Gourmand
Essential Picks
#1
Anajak Thai
9.3
James Beard Award-winning Chef Justin Pichetrungsi transformed his family's 44-year-old neighborhood bistro into LA's most acclaimed Thai restaurant. Southern Thai fried chicken with exceptional crunch anchors a menu that pairs bold Bangkok flavors with an award-winning natural wine program featuring rare vintages from the Mosel, Burgundy, and Champagne.
Must-Try Dishes:
Southern Thai Fried Chicken, Dry-Aged Whole Fish with Nam Jim, BBQ Pork Collar with Coriander-Soy Molasses
What Makes it Special: LA Times Restaurant of the Year with James Beard recognition and Michelin Bib Gourmand
Notable Picks
8.6
Premium wagyu smash burgers served from an evening pop-up on Van Nuys Boulevard draw locals seeking indulgent late-night bites. The truffle parmesan fries and housemade Bougie Sauce deliver rich, craveable flavors that justify the slightly elevated price point for street food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu Smash Burger, Truffle Parm Fries, Queen B Burger
What Makes it Special: Premium wagyu beef smashed crispy with signature sauce combinations
#3
Tipsy Cow
8.3
Vibes:
Pet Friendly Paradise
Happy Hour Hotspots
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Trendy Table Hotspots
An eclectic urban eating house built around grass-fed beef from Sacramento foothills, featuring 32 rotating craft beer taps and inventive alcoholic milkshakes. The dog-friendly outdoor patio accommodates pet owners while serving gourmet burgers, short-rib poutine, and creative takes on American comfort food with notably fresh ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mac Daddy Burger, Short Rib Poutine, Blue Crab Dip
What Makes it Special: Grass-fed burgers with 32 craft taps and boozy milkshakes in bustling patio setting
Worthy Picks
7.9
Chef-driven burger and sandwich spot inside Sherman Oaks Galleria offers creative flavor combinations like black truffle burgers and gochujang mac and cheese sides. The fast-casual format delivers elevated ingredients and bold sauces that set it apart from typical food court options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Black Truffle Burger, AF Burger, Chicken Sandwich
What Makes it Special: Chef Alen's creative flavor profiles and premium ingredient sourcing
7.8
A cocktail-forward cantina where the margarita program—featuring centrifuge techniques, house-infused spirits, and unexpected ingredients like mango boba and guacamole slushies—outshines the food menu. The small plates (queso fundido, tostadas, tacos) deliver better than the entrees, making this a spot for drinking with snacks rather than a full dinner. Expect a lively, loud atmosphere and no happy hour pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margarita, Queso Fundido, Octopus Taco
What Makes it Special: Tequila and mezcal-focused cocktail bar with an extensive agave spirits program in Sherman Oaks