Must-Try Restaurants Near Santa Anita Park

Events / Travel
Din Tai Fung dumplings, a L.A. favorite. (Courtesy jslander/Wikimedia Commons)

If you’re heading to legendary Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, Calif. track this upcoming weekend for the San Felipe Stakes, then we have some restaurant recommendations you can’t miss. Whether you’re in the mood for delicious cheap eats or if you favor fine dining, below are some places you’ll want to check out while you’re in town.

WIN ($$$)

Courtesy The Derby

The Derby

Since 1922 The Derby has been a central part of Santa Anita culture: the restaurant was even founded by jockey George Woolf … and the Iceman’s ghost is rumored to walk the restaurant after hours. What’s definite, though, is that you’ll enjoy great steakhouse classics at The Derby while rubbing shoulders with Hall of Fame jockeys and trainers if you reserve a table for Super Saturday weekend.


Parkway Grill

If you’re looking for modern farm-to-table California cuisine, Parkway Grill is for you. Plus, the restaurant has its own organic garden and offers live music on select nights, so check out the schedule to plan accordingly.


PLACE ($$)

Union

For fresh pasta that’s been called the best in Los Angeles, head to Union in Pasadena. It’s a short ride from the track for fantastic food, and you’ll love the modern ambience of the 50-seat dining room.


Courtesy Racion

Ración

If you have a group of friends with you, check out Ración for tapas fare perfect for sharing. Food critics rave about the Basque dishes, so make a reservation if you plan to bring a group to try the Spanish delicacies.


SHOW ($)

Din Tai Fung

If you love soup dumplings, get ready for a religious experience at Din Tai Fung in Arcadia, CA. Its flagship outlet in Taipei is considered to be some of the best soup dumplings in the world; and while the Arcadia branch is low on glamour, it’s high on quality. Be warned, though: The restaurant’s surroundings are modest – it’s located in a strip mall – and no reservations are taken, so be prepared to wait in line for the chance to taste the amazing fare. 


Courtesy KDowell/Wikimedia Commons

In-N-Out Burger

Yes, it’s a chain; but if you’re visiting Santa Anita from the East Coast (or other sad places that don’t have access to In ‘N’ Out) then you need to try the iconic fast-food staple. Get the Double-Double animal style and live your best life.

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