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Why the New York Times’ Best Restaurants List Is Better Than Michelin. Plus, Influencer “Licenses,” the Unreasonable Unreasonable Hospitality Backlash & Crumbl Under Fire.

The LA Food Podcast··25 September 2026·1h 2m

About this episode

The New York Times named its 50 favorite restaurants in America, and somehow Komal is the first LA Mexican restaurant to make the list in six years. Luca and Sal break down LA selections Komal, Jacaranda and Yerord Mas Bakery & Deli, debate whether the list actually represents how America eats, and name the two Los Angeles restaurants they would have chosen instead. Plus: shrinking portions at Dune, Pawn Shop and Daisy Margarita Bar, the backlash against food influencers, “unreasonable hospitality,” and whether Crumbl even qualifies as a cookie. Sign up for Pizza Run Club!