Gondola's Pizza
Talk about a la mirada staple. gondola's is synonymous with pizza in la mirada. this is another family business, but it's not always the fam that's serving you. it's often some teenage girl, so take the sass with a grain of salt. they serve pizza, pastas, lasagna, salads, garlic bread, etc. for dine-in or take-out. it's all good. the spaghetti sauce is a little on the sweet side, so you've been warned that it's not regular-old-marinara, but they do have other sauces. the pizza pie is amore, and that's all you need to know. the crust is crispy on the outside but smothered in cheese and sauce and more cheese. they serve the large bottles of moretti, the italian beer, which is hard to find in restaurants, so take advantage.
Tam's Burgers
Another lm hangout. it's way less classy or kitschy than the max on saved by the bell, but hey this is real life, remember? tam's is a real life high school hang-out. it's a burger joint, like bob's big boy, they serve breakfast and mexican food too. you have to try the fries and don't be afraid to ask for extra seasoning salt. they recently changed the fries and so they aren't as good as maybe a year ago, but the seasoning is what makes 'em. almost everything is good, but steer clear of the pork chops.
Mr. Z's
Excellent service. they are very busy because they're new. it's fine-dining and we're talking caviar and dom p, so bring a thick wallet. classy and romantic, a great date spot.
Millie's
This is a part of a chain, but it's the closest thing lm has to a diner. still, millie's is no consolation prize; it's grand. they make homemade cinnamon rolls and in the summer, strawberry cheese rolls. their chicken tortilla soup is the best anywhere. then their biscuits and gravy are killer.
Panera
Another chain, but an honorable mention because their bakery is probably the best in lm. the fresh breads are the best. the dutch apple bagel is to die for. they have free refills on coffee. if you don't plan on taking advantage of either the fresh baked goods or the endless coffee supply, then head over to java co. they're independent and need your business more, plus they pull a better espresso shot.
Big Straw Cafe
The cutest little family owns this place. they offer discounts to biola students. their veggie sandwich is scrumptious. they have a classic sandwich selection and on request they use that extra-thick squaw bread that melts in your mouth. plus, you can get fresh fruit and vegetable juices there too. they also have smoothies and boba, if you're into that sort of thing.
Cabo Grill
Mexican food right outside the movie theater. it's good stuff! they have nachos that are piled so high with toppings you're afraid to pull a piece because the whole things gonna topple. the fish tacos are delicious as well. the best part is they have amazing lunch specials, so you can afford to try something different every time.
Pisces Sushi
This is the best sushi in lm. there are only a couple other places but the sushi chefs and the wait staff are the most friendly here. still, the rolls here are so creative and the sashimi is always very fresh. plus it's a decent venue, right in the heart of lm, where you can relax and have a kirin ichiban.