The Best Dishes Eater Editors Ate This Year in Los Angeles, 2025 | Eater LA

"During a rough cold bout I needed a change of scenery from my own kitchen and couch, so I loaded up on medicine, wrapped myself in layers, and navigated my weary body to Sapp Coffee Shop in Los Angeles’s Thai Town. I started with beef-only boat noodles, the beloved dish historically served in boats along Thailand’s Chao Phraya River. Sapp’s version, with its deeply rich and darkened broth, is one I’ve come to know very well. I ordered jade noodles to accompany it: Spinach-flavored green egg noodles come topped with roast duck, barbecue pork, crushed peanuts, crab, and cilantro without a drop of broth. It’s one of the house specialties that has to make its way to my table, no matter how many times I’ve had it. For me, the biggest challenge here has always been to branch out and try something new. So bring a seasoned group of diners and order away. — Mona Holmes, editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest" - Matthew Kang