Every Friday our editors compile a trusty list of recommendations to answer the most pressing of questions: “Where should I eat?“ Here now are four places to check out this weekend in Los Angeles. And if you need some ideas on where to drink, here’s our list of the hottest places to get cocktails in town.

For expertly made tea in a beautiful storefront: Steep

Wonho Frank Lee

For fans of tea, or those looking to expand their tea knowledge, Chinatown’s Steep is an essential stop. Opened in 2019, the laidback modern teahouse serves a selection of teas sourced from China, hot and iced, plus small bites like chicken rice and egg tarts. Hot teas are brewed to order by the staff behind the counter, who can also recommend something new to try. The inside of the store also functions as a home goods shop, with teaware like ceramic cups and brewing kits available to purchase. For those looking for a more guided experience, Steep also offers a tea ceremony. On a nice day, the courtyard outside is the perfect spot to sip an iced tea and catch some rays. 970 N. Broadway #112, Los Angeles, CA 90012. — Rebecca Roland, associate editor

For the creamiest ice cream in a cozy corner of Northeast LA: Carmela Ice Cream

Cathy Chaplin

Ice cream season is upon us in Los Angeles, the period for hopping from one ice cream producer to another. It’s pretty much year-round, but 90-degree weather provides an excuse to sample delicious scoops of cold selections on a cone or cup — especially from a small batch maker who combines local ingredients with whole milk, heavy cream, egg yolks, and cane sugar. On the next hot day, head to Carmela Ice Cream which never uses additives like emulsifiers or stabilizers. Every seasonal flavor packs a rich and bold taste with classic brown sugar vanilla bean, rocky road, or espresso. Founder Jessica Mortarotti also creates unique blends with cucumber sorbet, Guinness, and a delightful lavender honey. But don’t stop at just scoops: visitors will be tempted by the ice cream sandwiches smashed between chocolate cookies. For years, Mortarotti has taught ice cream-making classes in the charming shop. Get there soon, as this fall will be the last time they’re offered, so be sure to sign up. 2495 E. Washington Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91104. — Mona Holmes, reporter

For superb vegetarian Vietnamese fare: Thien Tam Vegetarian Restaurant

Cathy Chaplin

While consuming a plant-based diet has grown increasingly popular in recent years with concerns about a warming planet, the tradition of meatless eating has always been an important part of Vietnamese cuisine, especially among Buddhists. To experience or revisit this satisfying and flavorful offshoot of Vietnamese food head to Thien Tam Vegetarian Restaurant in El Monte. Opened by Bonnie Quach in 2009, the restaurant prepares many of the cuisine’s greatest hits without any animal protein. The Hainan chicken is made with flavorful wheat gluten and accompanied by a sauce loaded with fresh ginger. Also popular is the bun rieu, a bright noodle soup with rice noodles, juicy tomatoes, and herbs for garnishing. 10345 Garvey Avenue, El Monte, CA 91733. — Cathy Chaplin, senior editor

For a taco lunch with big picnic energy: Bee Taqueria

Nicole Adlman

Bee Taqueria is a visually lovely outdoor restaurant nestled in West Adams — punchy lion murals, string lights, and white picnic tables set the scene; chef Alex Carrasco’s exciting, ever-irreverent taco lineup completes the picture. Here, you can find tacos with chile morita-spiked beets treated like chicken tinga; asada tacos; cochinita pibil-style tacos; and the media luna, fried tacos packed with shrimp and scallops. Most days will have ceviches and tostadas available to order (although sometimes the shop sells out early on). For a while, Bee Taqueria’s claim to fame was its taco omakase, purported to be the first of its kind in Los Angeles. Those tastings are still available, but diners need to email the restaurant to secure a reservation. 5754 W. Adams Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90016. — Nicole Adlman, cities manager