Bon Appétit has released its latest list of the 19 best new restaurants in the U.S., and two notable spots from Southern California are included.
One of them is Broken Spanish Comedor in Los Angeles, which opened its doors in October 2025. This restaurant is led by the well-known chef-owner Ray Garcia, who previously ran the original Broken Spanish from 2015 until its closure in 2020.
The menu here offers a unique take on Mexican flavors, featuring dishes like refried lentils, ceviche, chicharron, and handmade tortillas.
Garcia aims for the Culver City location to be a friendly gathering place where guests can enjoy a meal with loved ones. He mentioned in an October interview that if diners have just a short window to eat, they can still leave satisfied and come back for a more leisurely experience later.
Bon Appétit praised Broken Spanish Comedor, noting that Garcia’s dishes are vibrant and notably spicy.
The other restaurant making the list is Little Mountain in Montecito, which Bon Appétit describes as resembling a “land of milk and honey.” Opened in late 2025, it emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes like king salmon with pistachio and embered greens, bone-in pork chop with coal-roasted apple, and wood fire-roasted chicken with yuzu and smoked chile.
Executive Chef Diego Moya shared his thoughts about relocating to California, highlighting the state’s abundance of fresh ingredients and the magical feeling the environment brings to someone who values vibrant flavors.
Little Mountain features a spacious dining area, complete with a 14-seat private room that boasts a striking fireplace. Bon Appétit remarked that the restaurant beautifully balances California’s casual vibe with refined touches, making it an unforgettable experience for diners.
The publication also acknowledged San Francisco’s pizzeria, Jules, crediting it as another noteworthy new establishment.
