Best Fast Food Restaurants in Los Angeles

Since 1975, Carney's has satisfied LA's chili fries and burger cravings, delivering a pitch-perfect experience in this genuine, vintage yellow Amtrak train car from the 1920s, done up as a classic diner on the inside. And that is not all! They have a worthy lineup of hot dogs and polish sausages, much touted as some of the best in town, all at the lowest imaginable prices, especially given the joint's docking grounds - the east tip of the Sunset Strip. A private lot behind the car takes away the headache of parking at the Strip while the amiable, smiley service assures you that you have come to the right place. And if you already think the place is cheap and swell, try it during happy hour!

Tucked away in an industrial area where Sherman Oaks meets Van Nuys, Bill's Burgers is a fantastic long-established gem of the valley. For over 50 years former WWII veteran, Bill Elwell has been flipping burgers in his 10 foot by 20-foot greasy burger joint and cooking on the same cast-iron grill originating from the 1920s. No fancy frills here, burgers are offered along with sandwiches, chili dogs, and sides. Cash only, everything on the menu is under USD5, partially because Elwell's old school cash register can't compute anything over USD5.99! Try the Double Cheese Burger with Bacon and a packet of chips and you won't be disappointed.

Popular LA food truck Kogi, has gained much famed since it rolled out its very first truck. There are five Kogi trucks that drive around the city of LA. This fusion food truck expertly blends Korean and Mexican flavors. Famous for their tacos and the popular kimchi quesadilla, the chefs keep serving delicious food that makes you want to come back. Co-owned by Mark Manguera and Caroline Shin, this food truck is one of LA's favorites.

Whereas in case of most restaurants the old adage “you get what you pay for” holds true, the humble Al Wazir Chicken is a lucky exception, able to pleasantly surprise its patrons. The joint is a classic hole-in-the-wall with a couple of canteen tables – not the kind of spot one comes to for the ambiance. But the tasty dishes and low prices have drawn many returning customers here for years. The fare is traditional Middle-eastern/Lebanese, replete with supple and flavorful chicken dishes and zesty sides and sauces. Falafels are likewise excellent, and the salads are crisp and fresh. For those reluctant to take their meal in the plain environment, takeout and delivery are easy and convenient options. Al Wazir is open late and is known for speedy deliveries.

In-N-Out Burger is a legendary and beloved fast food chain that started in Southern California. Their West Los Angeles location brings out the same freshness and quality for which this chain is so popular. This casual haunt serves French fries, shakes and soft drinks besides the regular varieties of burgers. They have a limited menu but all worth tasting, and it gets a little bit bigger if you know the secret menu items. Clean environment and friendly service completes the ambiance, all in all, making it a delightful experience.

Grown and expanded from her father's burger stand, Cynthia Hawkin's is known for having some of the best burgers in town. Simplistic yet utterly delicious, the American cuisine here is made with fresh ingredients, never frozen, and packed with flavor. From wholesome platters to specialty burgers, hot dogs, and a selection of delicious sides, Hawkins has a wonderfully appetizing menu to please just about anyone. They even offer breakfast from 8a with specials like pancakes, chicken and waffles, egg plates, burritos, and more. Filling, delicious, and easy on the wallet, Hawkins House of Burgers is a great choice.

Established in 1959 and boasting long lines of locals, this legendary LA taco stand calls out to customers seeking fresh shredded beef and creamy cheddar concoctions of deliciousness at all hours of the day. But don't be intimidated, as waiting in line is part of the experience at Tito's Tacos. While tacos are the star, other traditional dishes such as veggie tamales with pinto beans, chicken tamales in Meat Sauce, or the vegetarian tostada with refried beans are also excellent. The blended salsa has a refreshing kick, and chips and guacamole go perfectly with your main dish.

Zankou Chicken provides cheap delicious food fast. This is the perfect restaurant for a drop-by meal, an outing with a few friends on a bar-hopping night, or a convenient takeout option. The portions are more than generous – ranging all the way to the epic whole chickens, robust and flavorful – accompanied by all the traditional Middle-eastern sides, including falafel, pickled radishes, hummus, and tahini. The place is very affordable, which is a trait locals enjoy and exploit. "Speed, quality and value" has always been Zankou’s motto.

When you turn the corner from Melrose Avenue at LaBrea, you cannot miss the line that has been extending from Pink's since it opened in 1939. Chili dogs, chili fries, chili burgers, turkey dogs, and burrito dogs; you name it and they've got it. Almost every imaginable and sometimes unimaginable permutation of the wiener can be found here. No matter the time of day or night, you will find yourself standing in line amongst a mix of a dozen tourists, corporate climbers, and sometimes celebrities.