Situated just south of downtown Los Angeles, Compton is known as Hub City for its central location and history as one of the oldest cities in California.
With proximity to many nearby attractions in the Los Angeles and Anaheim area, Compton is a convenient option for escaping the hustle and bustle of more touristy cities.
Whether you are passing through or making a point to see all that Compton has to offer, we have your food destinations covered! Check out the options below to see where and what we love to eat in Compton.
Hawkins House of Burgers makes one of the best burgers in LA. With their fresh, never-frozen high quality Angus beef burgers, Jennie O turkey, and Foster Farms Chicken, they execute on fresh and delicious food. With classic burgers and onion rings or chili fries, you can count on Hawkins for exceptional American food. Happiness starts with a big burger in your hands, and Hawkins delivers on that. Look no further for your next juicy burger.
When you stop by, be sure to try the Whipper Burger (Double Burger with Pastrami and Hotlink) and a side of your choosing.
11603 Slater St., Los Angeles, CA 90059 | 323-563-1129
2. The Pan Restaurant
Looking for more variety? The Pan Restaurant is known as one of the most popular breakfast options in Compton.
Their menu is loaded with plenty of delicious options including breakfast and omelets with all the fixings.
Their all-day breakfast is a crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves fresh guava pancakes, or a heaping loaded hashbrown scrambler.
Beware that there may be a line to get in, as The Pan Restaurant pulls in a lot of hungry people, but the generous portions and satisfying entrees are certainly worth the wait!
They also offer a Chicago-style deep dish pizza that will be the talk of every guest. Its rich, cheesy topping and thick crust will keep you coming back for more.
It will be tough to narrow down, but an ideal savory option is their classic breakfast burrito. If you’re feeling sweet, the Chole’s blueberry pancakes are an excellent choice.
16601 S. Western Ave, Gardena, California, 90247 | 310-329-7266
3. The Green Olive
Mix things up a bit with fresh Mediterranean from The Green Olive. Their fresh and healthy entrees are excellent for anyone wanting a lighter dining experience.
Each plate, wrap, and salad is made with care and fresh ingredients, sure to satisfy your hankering for high quality Mediterranean food.
Their combos are seemingly endless, offering a little something for everyone! Hummus, Kabobs, Gyros, Falafel, you name it! The Green Olive has a broad menu that is sure to impress.
The Chicken Kabob is the star of the show! For vegetarians, the Falafel wrap is a must.
855 W. Victoria St., Compton, CA 90220 | 310-603-2203
4. Phat Noodles
Considered the hidden gem of Compton, Phat Noodles is your new source for flavorful pho, delectable spring rolls, and many other incredible Vietnamese options.
Bursting with sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy, their dishes are like an explosion of flavor in your mouth.
Visitors commonly go for their noodle soups, but with options like shrimp wontons, there are plenty of other fantastic options to choose from. Next time you want a new take on comfort food, consider Phat Noodles!
The Chicken Pho is like a cozy bowl of heaven.
104 E. Compton Boulevard, Compton, CA | 424-338-6844
If you’re in the mood for comfort food, or what they call “an emotional souvenir”, Smoke & Fire Social Eatery is the place to be.
Served on a silver tray, these spreads are as eye-catching as they are filling. Feast your eyes and your stomach on Smoke & Fire’s flavorsome entrees.
They aspire not to feed just the body, but also the soul. Meaty quesadillas popping with flavor, “deconstructed” smash burgers, and Nashville-style hot chicken are one of many favorites of diners.
Be sure not to miss the brisket quesadilla!
8009 Alondra Boulevard, Paramount, CA 90723 | 562-363-3109
6. Louis Burgers
Louis Burgers is a popular Compton option for entrees like Chili Cheese Fries, club sandwiches, and other American food.
The landmark is well-known for its burgers and American cuisine, and for good reason. Most Louis-goers advise forgetting your ‘diet’ at home and enjoying the greasiness of the chili cheeseburgers and fries, and we couldn’t agree more!
Many visitors have been visiting for decades. You may find yourself doing the same after you have one of their enticing options.
Their classic chili cheese fries are a must try. People come from all around to get their hands (and tastebuds) on them!
1501 E Rosecrans Avenue, Compton, CA, 90221 | 310-603-9547
7. Billionaire Burger Boyz Compton
Prepare to get messy. Billionaire Burger Boyz does not play around when it comes to their larger-than-life burgers.
With all natural ingredients, their food is freshly made and tastes fantastic to match. Their handcrafted, fresh-never-frozen Angus is stacked atop a fresh griddled bun and topped with a variety of delectable toppings.
They also offer vegetarian burgers for plant-based eaters, and their Jambalaya fries are a twist on the more typical Compton chili fries.
No matter what you are up for, Billionaire Burger Boyz will also have you feeling rich with its many decadent entrees to pick from.
One of the most sought-after items on their menu is the Cajun Honey Butter Wings.
811 S. Long Beach Boulevard, Compton, CA 90221 | 310 -554-4116
8. Pop’s Chicken
Pop’s Chicken is an essential neighborhood spot for chicken-lovers. With courteous and welcoming staff and great chicken to boot, Pop’s is a frequent stop for anyone wanting a home-cooked feel with the convenience of ordering out.
Their juicy, tender meats, paired with beans and rice, makes for an unforgettable combination. With generous parking and portions, Pop’s Chicken offers great accommodations and atmosphere that provide a memorable experience.
For some of the best pollo asado you’ve ever had, Pop’s Chicken is the place to be.
117 E Rosecrans Avenue, Compton, CA 90222 | 310-537-7535
9. Jay Bee’s Bar-B-Q
It’s in the name. Jay Bee’s Bar-B-Q does barbecue, and they do it right. Their Memphis-style meats are a favorite of locals and tourists alike.
Slathered with a generous amount of tangy barbecue sauce, Jay Bee’s will have your mouth watering in anticipation!
Pair with tasty sides like homestyle mac n cheese and the coleslaw, and it’s full a meal! Whether you’re a regular or just passing through, Jay Bee’s is worth the stop every time.
Pork ribs, pork tips, or the pulled pork sandwich? No matter how you order the pork BBQ, you will be licking your fingers!
15911 S. Avalon Boulevard, Gardena, CA 90247 | 310-532-1064
10. Tams
Burger afficionados should also make a point to visit Tam’s. Their homestyle cooking is a great option for anyone looking for a quick bite in Compton.
Their menu boasts a variety of options, including breakfast burritos, pancakes, burgers, chili fries, and much more.
The service is fast and friendly, offering flavor and convenience along with their extensive menu. Across the board, you can’t go wrong with any one of their solid selections.
A Tam’s favorite is the pancake platter! If you are looking for lunch, the chili fries are also a hit.
1201 W Rosecrans Avenue, Compton, CA 90221 | 310-537-8478
Mariska is a recovering attorney who gave up her professional job to discover new perspectives of life while traveling in a 2009 Ford Transit.
She has been living the van life for 3 years and has not looked back since.
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