New restaurants pop up constantly in Agoura Hills—some farm-to-table bistro or fusion taco spot probably just debuted down the street from you. But there’s no better place to dine than a tried-and-true classic.
Maral Cuisine
$$ | (818) 889-9495 | WEBSITE
Charm is not something Maral Cuisine is short on. At its core, Maral Cuisine is a warm Persian restaurant and inviting hangout full of flavor and hospitality because of its outstanding food and service. The owner also treats it as his own elegant space, which includes big gold mirrors, sconces, and chandeliers on the walls. It’s the total opposite of everything else you’ll find in Agoura Hills, which makes Maral Cuisine the perfect escape for date nights or casual dining.
Cafe Bizou
$$ | (818) 991-9560 | WEBSITE
Cafe Bizou in Agoura Hills embodies everything that’s good about the term neighborhood bistro—it’s a restaurant with an inviting atmosphere and a menu that goes above and beyond typical comfort food. The scallop and shrimp with angel hair pasta and the lobster bisque rightfully get the most attention here, but the entire menu is worth your time.
Settle in at the bar to enjoy their cucumber gin martini with jalapeño, find a cozy table in the main dining area if you’re looking for a special occasion meal, or relax in the warm ambiance if you’re celebrating with family or friends.
Vincitore Italian Restaurant
$$ | (818) 706-2200 | WEBSITE
Vincitore is our favorite place to eat when we’re craving Italian. The elegant interior, the cozy atmosphere, the generous portions—everything combines to create the perfect setting for enjoying comforting dishes made with ingredients like fresh pasta, tender veal, and flavorful pesto. For dinner it’s even more romantic, with attentive service and a good selection of wines by the glass.
Plata Cocina Mexicana
$$ | (818) 735-9982 | WEBSITE
Sophia, Karla, and the rest of the staff are just a few of the names who have made this Mexican spot a repeat destination for many over the years. Translation—Plata Cocina Mexicana has served some incredible food, and it’s still one of the best places to get authentic Mexican cuisine any day of the week. Rumor has it there’s a lovely water fountain on the patio where your wildest dining dreams can take place, which is fun to enjoy even if the indoor area could use some attention.
Emil’s Bake House
$ | (818) 532-7663 | WEBSITE
Emil’s Bake House may not have always been formally called Emil’s Bake House, but everyone who frequents the Agoura Hills bakery knows that Emil has long been the driving force behind this gem. When his family took over in recent years, they gave the place a fresh coat of paint and made “Emil’s Bake House” the official name. But it’s still the same friendly neighborhood spot to post up for a quality selection of pastries and breads.
You can even get coffee now from the attached counter, which means there’s really no reason to ever leave.
Baskin-Robbins
$ | (818) 991-9106 | WEBSITE
One of the standouts in a neighborhood full of great ice cream shops, Baskin-Robbins is a treat all summer long with pistachio almond scoops, nutty coconut flavors, and five types of cones that change up the experience. It’s usually busy here, but even on its hottest days there’s no wait for a seat, which is a rare gift. If you’re not feeling the energy at the counter, take one of the deceptively delicious non-dairy flavors for a walk outside and a change of scenery.
Sunrose California Eatery
$$ | (818) 330-4224 | WEBSITE
Sunrose California Eatery is one of the best examples of a true California neighborhood eatery. The space itself, with its beautiful natural lighting and ample parking, is an integral part of the experience here. Once you’ve been here a few times, you become a familiar face and are then treated as such.
If you’re there for the new dinner service, the friendly staff will probably talk to you about the sesame chicken schnitzel or the ricotta gnocchi, and when you say the curry buttermilk fried chicken is your favorite dish they’ll mention how well it pairs with the tzatziki and cucumbers, and just like that, you’ve got a new appreciation for thoughtful, fresh meals—and an understanding of what makes this place special.
Cronies Sports Grill
$ | (818) 889-0889 | WEBSITE
Even though the buzz around Cronies Sports Grill (and the debate over whether it’s more about the food or the games) isn’t as intense as it once was, the burgers here are still really damn good. Good enough that you should still seek out the cozy spot with its friendly service and welcoming vibe for fur-babies.
From the way they serve you like you’re at a neighborhood hangout to the solid bar options—expect draft beer, High Noon, White Claw, wine, or hard alcohol—the experience here is all about comfort, and they’ve created the right setting to enjoy some of the best grilled food you’ve ever had. It’s not a fancy destination, but it’s a great spot for a relaxed meal or to catch a game.
Pizza Nosh
$ | (818) 991-3000 | WEBSITE
This longtime Agoura Hills pizza joint feels like it’s somehow simultaneously occupying the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s. You might forget it’s the 2020s at all in here—or you would, if not for the friendly family that runs the place. There’s sort of a homey theme at Pizza Nosh, in the same way a family dinner might celebrate “A Night With Great Food.” For the most part, it’s just a classic pizza shop with a welcoming atmosphere that’s filled with dedicated regulars of all ages.
Tavern 101 Grill & Tap House
$$ | (818) 991-7227 | WEBSITE
From the outside, the rustic wooden facade, simple hanging sign, and weathered saloon doors don’t exactly scream fine dining. And inside is just as straightforward as far as decor goes, mainly because it’s all about the cowboy tavern vibe. But that’s all part of the appeal at this barbecue haven, and the unpretentious atmosphere is what makes it so welcoming.
It’s always bustling, the portions are huge, and pub classics like the classic cheeseburger with garlic mashed potatoes and brisket sliders are consistently satisfying. Just make sure to come hungry because the generous servings are what everyone raves about.
Sushi & Wasabi
$$ | (818) 889-9334 | WEBSITE
The city of Agoura Hills has plenty of sushi spots that try too hard with fancy presentations and sky-high prices. And Sushi & Wasabi gives absolutely zero f*cks—you will taste like you discovered the secret to perfect sushi when you walk out of here.
Combine that with the cute decor inside, cozy atmosphere, fresh rolls like the 911 and dragon, and a menu filled with reasonably priced options including the fantastic chicken teriyaki, and you’ll immediately see why this is one of the great sushi joints in town.
Italia Deli & Bakery
$ | (818) 991-4838 | WEBSITE
Italia Deli & Bakery is special. Not only because it’s a family-owned local institution, but also because this deli (which offers everything from pasta to groceries) has fantastic Italian-inspired sandwiches and delicious homemade pasta. The bustling space is welcoming, with glass dessert containers that make it feel like you stepped into a traditional Italian kitchen.
Both the sandwich and pasta menus are varied but full of hits, with things like a pastrami sandwich on a soft roll and the hearty meat lasagna. This place is great on a busy weekday for grabbing a quick lunch at the counter, or relaxing at one of their simple tables. But if you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, swing by during one of the quieter afternoons when you can savor their excellent coffee and desserts.
The Yard Thai Cuisine
$$ | (818) 532-7272 | WEBSITE
The Yard Thai Cuisine is as much a neighborhood staple as it is a welcome alternative to some of the more touristy Thai spots in the city. This unassuming local gem is perfect for a casual meal with family or friends, but their rich and nuanced flavors also make it a great place for a special dining experience. Plus, the fact that it’s owned by genuinely thoughtful folks means the Thai food is much better than most of the other places serving you generic takeout in Styrofoam containers.
Jamba
$ | (818) 584-3344 | WEBSITE
Despite being a quick-service spot, Jamba feels like a neighborhood staple that’s been serving up smiles for years. Full of calming vibes and playing smooth tunes, it’s a welcoming, relaxed place to grab a great smoothie. You won’t find watery blends here, but their thick, amazing smoothies will make you wish every juice bar made them that way.
And if you want a more energetic environment, the super sweet and nice staff always keep things cheerful, even when the occasional overwhelmed manager shows the stress.
Agoura Deli & Mart
$$ | (818) 991-3947 | WEBSITE
Whether you’re just grabbing a quick lunch between errands or you’ve got a full day of hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains ahead, a stop in Agoura Hills will probably include a visit to Agoura Deli & Mart. It’s unpretentious and occasionally bustling, serves reasonably priced sandwiches, and attracts people from across the valley. There’s a steady stream of regulars who know the staff by name, and families often come through for satisfying meals.
If you’re looking to get a sandwich that will make you forget about chain delis for some unthinkable reason, there’s a good chance you can do it at Agoura Deli & Mart.
Blue Agave Tacos and Beer
$ | (818) 575-7038 | WEBSITE
Blue Agave Tacos and Beer is one of the more popular Mexican spots in town, and it shows in everything they do. Steak and chicken fajitas with large portions and excellent taste? Check. Carne Asada Tacos and Al Pastor Tacos considered the best in Agoura Hills? Yup. Does the restaurant offer a bountiful salsa bar? Of course. Does the whole place have a casual, family-friendly atmosphere?
Yes, but there’s also plenty of indoor seating and friendly service that gives the whole experience a welcoming feel. The whole dynamic gives Blue Agave Tacos and Beer a lot of character, which is especially meaningful for a restaurant in this part of California.
Green Onion Chinese Food
$ | (818) 707-6789 | WEBSITE
It’s hard to find a good Chinese takeout for $12 in Agoura Hills, but Green Onion Chinese Food has one. In fact, all of their popular dishes are strictly $12. The menu options include classic recipes like a savory, stir-fry-esque Shrimp with Veg and Broccoli, or a wonderfully, plainly crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp. This take-out-only restaurant with a quick counter service has a typical Agoura Hills vibe, and a food menu with consistently excellent, fast-prepared party trays and fried rice.
But the speed is the main reason to come here.
Blue Table
$ | (818) 597-2583 | WEBSITE
Though Blue Table technically isn’t hidden (it has a welcoming storefront near antique shops and a farmers market) it’s fun to treat this Agoura Hills spot like a charming discovery. Do this by walking through its inviting entrance, which is just past the quaint storefronts it’s nestled among. There’s a sense of warmth happening inside the cozy, inviting interior.
Friends are settled into comfortable seating, locals are grabbing spots at the wine and cheese bar, and there will probably be a relaxed group taking advantage of the lovely ambiance. They have a good wine selection as well as fantastic dishes, from classic favorites like the Caprese sandwich to specialties like Ellie’s special: a flavorful creation that regulars rave about. And their menu has great Italian-inspired dishes like the Shrimp Ajillo and fantastic MAC & cheese.
