Armenian cuisine is one of the world's oldest and most nuanced culinary traditions — and thanks to the vibrant diaspora community in Los Angeles, you don't have to travel to Yerevan to experience it authentically.
Here are eight dishes to seek out, and the Armenian-owned spots where you can find them:
1. Manti (baked lamb dumplings)
These tiny boat-shaped dumplings filled with spiced ground lamb, baked until crispy and served with garlic yogurt and paprika butter, are pure Armenian soul food. Look for them at caterers and family restaurants in the Glendale area.
2. Khorovats (Armenian BBQ)
The Armenian answer to any backyard gathering — marinated pork, lamb, or vegetables cooked over charcoal. Several Armenian catering companies in SupportArmenian's directory specialize in khorovats for events of any size.
3. Dolma (stuffed grape leaves)
Tender grape leaves filled with herb-seasoned rice and meat, simmered until perfectly soft. Every Armenian family has their own recipe — and so does every Armenian caterer.
4. Gata (sweet bread)
A flaky, sweet pastry filled with a crumbly mixture of butter, sugar, and flour. Perfect with coffee. Find it at Armenian bakeries listed in the directory.
5. Lahmajoun (Armenian flatbread pizza)
Thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat, fresh tomatoes, and parsley. Often rolled up with lemon juice squeezed over it. A staple at Armenian delis and cafes.
6. Harissa (wheat and chicken porridge)
One of Armenia's most ancient dishes — slow-cooked cracked wheat and chicken stirred until it reaches a smooth, porridge-like consistency. Comfort food at its finest.
7. Borek (phyllo pastry)
Layers of flaky phyllo filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. Armenian bakeries often sell them fresh-baked in the morning.
8. Armenian coffee
Thick, unfiltered, sipped slowly from a small cup. Non-negotiable. Available at any Armenian cafe worth its salt.
Browse the Restaurants & Cafes and Catering categories in the SupportArmenian directory to find your next meal.