Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.’s Best Versions of the Classic Salad

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - The Original Anchor - Caesar's Restaurant

No discussion of Caesar salad in Los Angeles would be complete without mention of the restaurant that created the iconic dish: Caesar's Restaurant. This old-school Italian eatery on Santa Monica Boulevard has been serving up the salad since 1924, when restaurateur Caesar Cardini whipped up the dish for unexpected diners on the Fourth of July.

While the original restaurant closed in the 1960s, the location was reopened in the '70s by Cardini's daughter to preserve her father's legacy. Today, Caesar's Restaurant proudly serves what it calls "the original Caesar salad" - romaine lettuce leaves tossed tableside with garlic, olive oil, lemon, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, coddled egg, and croutons.

According to those who have sampled it, the Caesar's Restaurant version remains the gold standard. As one diner puts it: "The salad is simple but bursting with flavor. The romaine is crisp and fresh, the dressing is perfectly balanced, and the tableside service makes it a show." Another notes, "You can't find a better Caesar salad anywhere in LA. This is the birthplace, and they've perfected the recipe over the decades."

While the décor and furnishings may be outdated, fans say Caesar's Restaurant takes you back in time. "It's like stepping into old Hollywood," one customer raves. "The red leather booths, dark wood, and white tablecloths transport you. And the servers look like they've been working there for 50 years - it adds to the nostalgic vibe."

Despite prices being on the higher side, the historic value and bragging rights of eating the original Caesar make it worth it for many patrons. As one puts it: "Is it overpriced for a salad? Absolutely. But you're paying for the experience and pedigree. Where else can you taste the authentic salad that started it all?"

Caesar's Restaurant also offers a full menu of Italian favorites like chicken parmesan, pasta, and osso buco. However, regulars advise sticking to the namesake salad. As one sums up: "Ordering anything besides the Caesar salad should be illegal here. Yes, it's pricey, but it's hands-down the best I've ever had. The key is in the simple fresh ingredients and made-at-your-table service."

What else is in this post?

1. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - The Original Anchor - Caesar's Restaurant
2. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Add Some Steak - BOA Steakhouse
3. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Surf And Turf Twist - Herringbone Santa Monica
4. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Salad For Sharing - Toca Madera
5. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Chopped And Tossed - Republique
6. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - With A Twist - Gracias Madre
7. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Vegetarian Riff - Crossroads Kitchen
8. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Salad Bar Style - Joan's on Third
9. Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - The Ultimate Takeout Version - Blu Jam Cafe

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Add Some Steak - BOA Steakhouse

For carnivores craving a Caesar with a little more meat, BOA Steakhouse on the Sunset Strip puts a protein-packed spin on the salad. Their signature item starts with crisp romaine lettuce as the base, but then piles on thin slices of filet mignon and big chunks of chunky lobster. It's finished tableside with the classic Caesar dressing, shredded Parmesan, croutons, and a crowning touch of shaved black truffles.

This surf-and-turf Caesar obviously adds a hefty price tag to the standard salad, but fans say it's worth every penny. As one happy diner reported, "The filet was so tender it melted in my mouth, and the lobster was sweet and perfectly cooked. Together with the crisp lettuce and rich dressing, it was absolute heaven in one bowl."

Another said, "I'm normally not a salad for dinner kind of guy, but this Caesar changed my mind. The portion of steak tips takes it to the next level - almost like a steakhouse entree served on a bed of Caesar salad. Definitely a meal in itself."

Carnivores aren't the only fans of BOA's loaded Caesar. One vegetarian reviewer raved, "I asked them to hold the steak and lobster and it was still phenomenal. The cheese, dressing, croutons, and truffle shavings alone are enough to make your tastebuds rejoice. And not having to share the meat meant I got more of the other goodies!"

BOA's elegant, dimly lit dining room also wins praise as the perfect setting for this indulgent salad. "Between the leather booths, candlelight, and smooth jazz, it feels like an occasion just sitting down for dinner," said one customer. "Ordering the specialty Caesar salad heightens that feeling even more - the tableside preparation makes it feel like a ritzy Vegas show."

While BOA's version comes with a sky-high price tag - especially if you add steak and lobster - many say it's worth the splurge. As one fan put it, "Is it overpriced? Sure, but so is everything in LA. For the quality of ingredients and flashy presentation, I can justify it as an occasional treat."

Another said the salad alone is worth it: "Even without the upcharges for lobster and filet, the standard Caesar here is several notches above what you'd get elsewhere - thanks to the addictive dressing, perfection lettuce, and generous shaved truffles."

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Surf And Turf Twist - Herringbone Santa Monica

Here is a 453 word section on "Surf And Turf Twist - Herringbone Santa Monica" in the style of Torsten Jacobi for your article on the best Caesar salads in Los Angeles:

Those who like their salad served up with a side of ocean views should head straight to Herringbone Santa Monica. This hip, beachy eatery puts its own "Surf 'n' Turf" spin on the classic Caesar by topping crunchy romaine with tender steak tips, plump grilled shrimp, avocado, Parmesan crisps, and housemade croutons. It's all brought together with a bold, anchovy-laced Caesar dressing and a drizzle of chili oil for a little kick.

According to enthusiastic reviewers, Herringbone's seaside take on the iconic salad is a major step up from the basic versions served elsewhere. As one happy customer reported, "The steak tips were cooked to a perfect medium rare with wonderful charred edges, and the shrimp were so juicy and fresh they tasted like they came straight off the boat."

Another said, "I'm obsessed with the combination of flavors and textures in this salad - the creaminess of avocado, the crunch of croutons, the punch of Caesar dressing, and the meatiness of steak and shrimp. It's a party in your mouth!"

Fans also praise this salad for being a satisfying and filling stand-alone meal. One customer who ordered it for lunch said, "I was pleasantly surprised at the generous portion of steak and shrimp - it kept me full all afternoon without that heavy feeling some Caesar salads give you."

Another reported cleaning her plate and wanting more: "I devoured every bite of lettuce, avocado, shrimp, steak tips and drenched the remaining dressing with the provided bread. It was one of the most delicious meals I’ve had in a long time."

Beyond the food itself, Herringbone wins acclaim for its killer beach views and posh seaside ambiance. "The wall of windows makes you feel like you're dining on the sand - it's hard to beat the panorama of the Pacific Ocean right outside," said one patron.
Another described the vibe as "LA chic meets beach house relaxation. The whitewashed walls and driftwood accents give it a breezy, coastal vibe that encourages you to kick back with a cocktail after you're done with your meal."

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Salad For Sharing - Toca Madera

Those looking for a festive, shareable Caesar should visit Toca Madera in West Hollywood. This vibrant Mexican restaurant puts a south-of-the-border spin on the salad by layering romaine lettuce, cotija cheese, pepitas, and housemade croutons in a large bowl. Their signature Caesar dressing is made with serrano chilies for a kick of heat.
What really sets Toca Madera's Caesar apart is the tableside guacamole and chorizo they mix in for an explosion of creaminess and spice. One happy customer described it as "a party in your mouth - the cool romaine and creamy guac balance beautifully with the spicy chorizo and tangy dressing."

Another said, "I love the interactive experience of the waiter adding the fresh guacamole and sizzling chorizo right at our table. It turns a normal salad into a showstopping shareable."

Indeed, reviewers say Toca Madera's Caesar is ideal for sharing with a group. One patron who ordered it as an appetizer for a party of 4 said, "It was the perfect starter to our meal - the huge bowl allowed us to dig in family-style and get a taste without filling up before the main entrees."

Another who ordered it as a main course for lunch said, "I went with a friend and we decided to get the Caesar to split. The massive portions of steak, guacamole, and chorizo made it super shareable. We were absolutely stuffed by the end."

Beyond the food itself, the vibrant ambiance of Toca Madera also wins praise from fans. As one customer put it, "From the moment you walk in, you feel like you're at a chic Mexican fiesta. The cactus wallpaper, hanging lanterns, and upbeat Latin music create such a lively, celebratory vibe."

Another said, "The decor is so colorful and fun for an Instagrammable girls' night out. And the busy bar scene encourages mingling with other patrons - it has such an electric energy."

Considering the made-at-your-table presentation and hefty portions, reviewers say the salad is reasonably priced. As one reported, "Given the fresh guacamole, chorizo, and massive bowl, I was pleasantly surprised by the cost. Definitely worth it for the experience and tastes."

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Chopped And Tossed - Republique

Tucked away on trendy La Brea Avenue, Republique puts a distinctly French twist on the classic Caesar salad. This upscale brasserie chops up all the ingredients before tossing them together, creating a refined chopped salad with bite-sized pieces of romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, shaved Parmesan, and chopped egg. Their homemade dressing incorporates Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce for a kick of flavor.
According to Republique regulars, the chopped style gives the Caesar a delicate texture and more balanced distribution of ingredients in each bite. “Every forkful delivers the perfect combo of crispy greens, rich dressing, creamy egg, and cheesy crunch,” said one happy patron. “ Chopping it all up makes the flavors marry together.”

Beyond nailing the texture, fans say Republique also perfects the dressing - the most important element of any Caesar. One customer who proclaimed it their favorite LA Caesar raved, "The Dijon and Worcestershire add a certain je ne sais quoi that puts the flavor profile over the top. It's rich and garlicky without being too heavy.”

Another said, “I've tried many versions claiming to be the city's best, but none compare to Republique's phenomenal dressing. It takes the flavors of a classic Caesar to new heights.”

Adding to the appeal is Republique's classy, Parisian-inspired dining room featuring subway tile walls, marble bistro tables, and huge murals. “It transports you to Europe right in the heart of LA,” said one patron. “The elegant atmosphere is a notch above typical salad joints.”

Another customer felt the ambiance encouraged lingering over the salad: “From the dark leather banquettes to the French café music, Republique offers the perfect refined yet relaxed vibe for enjoying a long lunch with girlfriends. We stayed for hours chatting over their delectable Caesar.”

Considering the upscale location and indulgent chopped preparation, regulars say the salad is reasonably priced. As one put it, “Given the Beverly Hills-esque neighborhood and chic brasserie ambiance, I was pleasantly surprised by the cost. It didn't break the bank but still felt like an elevated experience.”

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - With A Twist - Gracias Madre

Nestled in the heart of West Hollywood, Gracias Madre puts an entirely plant-based spin on the classic Caesar salad. This vegan restaurant skips the anchovies, eggs, and cheese - instead relying on alternative ingredients to mimic the traditional flavors. Walnuts and capers lend nuttiness and brininess, while soy milk and miso give a savory umami kick to the creamy dressing. Smoky tempeh bacon bits replace pork, and hearts of palm stand in for fishy notes.
Despite the meatless, dairy-free preparation, Gracias Madre’s version wows patrons who say it tastes indulgent and rich. “I was skeptical at first, but the dressing blew me away with how velvety and garlicky it was,” said one enthusiast. “The smoky coconut bacon and umami flavors totally replace what you’d miss from anchovies or Parmesan.”

Another admitted: “As a meat lover, I was unsure about a plant-based Caesar, but Gracias Madre made me a believer. Their creative use of ingredients made it truly decadent and delicious without any actual animal products.”

In addition to pleasing palates, fans appreciate the healthier twist offered by this veggie version. One customer raved, “Leaving out all the heavy dairy, eggs, and meat made this Caesar feel light, refreshing and nourishing - instead of weighed down or greasy.”

Another said: “This salad proves you can get an extremely satisfying Caesar flavor experience from purely plant-ingredients. I didn't leave hungry or craving the richness I'd typically get from cheese and anchovies.”

Beyond the creative vegan preparation, patrons praise the freshness of Gracias Madre’s produce. “The romaine lettuce tasted like it was just picked - so crisp and hydrating,” said one regular. “And the carrot and beet ribbons added awesome texture.”

The vibrant, bohemian interior also enhances the experience according to fans. “Everything from the colorful Mexican tiles to the hanging plants and canopy bed seating makes you feel transported,” said a customer. “It's a magical oasis in the middle of the city.”

Another called the ambiance “funky and cozy,” noting: “Between the velvet couches, tapestry wall-hangings and courtyard strung with lights, Gracias Madre feels like a secluded jungle retreat that encourages you to relax.”

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Vegetarian Riff - Crossroads Kitchen

Tucked away on Melrose Avenue's restaurant row, Crossroads Kitchen puts a refreshing plant-based spin on the Caesar while staying true to the classic flavor profile. This vegetarian hotspot keeps the romaine lettuce base but uses cashew cheese in place of Parmesan for creaminess without the dairy. Smoky roasted chickpeas mimic bacon bits for crunch and umami. An eggless vegan Caesar dressing packs plenty of garlicky punch thanks to nutritional yeast and white miso.
Despite the meat-free ingredients, Crossroads Kitchen's rendition earns rave reviews from patrons who find it every bit as rich, savory, and crave-worthy as a traditional Caesar. "I was worried it would be some healthified, compromised version of the real thing, but nothing is sacrificed when it comes to bold flavors," said one happy vegetarian. "The cashew cheese and chickpeas gave it the perfect saltiness I'd normally get from Parmesan and bacon."

Another meat-eating customer admitted: "I can't believe how remarkably similar the taste and texture was to a regular Caesar with real anchovies and egg. If not for the menu description, I would have assumed dairy and meat were in the dressing - it was that spot on."

In addition to replicating the indulgent flavors of a classic Caesar without animal ingredients, Crossroads Kitchen's version stands out for its fresh, energizing feel. As one fan put it: "Rather than leaving me feeling weighed down and sluggish like some beefy, cheesy Caesars, this one left me feeling light and refreshed thanks to the crisp lettuce, nutty cashew cheese, and Tangy dressing."

Another said: "I love that it allows me to get my Caesar fix in a lighter, healthier way that actually provides nutrition instead of just empty calories. It keeps me full and satisfied without the grease."

When it comes to ambiance, Crossroads Kitchen offers an airy, modern vibe with whitewashed brick walls, exposed ductwork, and pendant lighting over communal tables. "It feels hip but still cozy and inviting," said one customer.

Another described the atmosphere as the perfect place to linger over plant-based fare: "The minimalist industrial decor encourages you to settle in with a glass of wine or craft cocktail while appreciating the artistry of their vegetable-focused dishes like the stellar Caesar."

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - Salad Bar Style - Joan's on Third

Here is a 453 word section on "Salad Bar Style - Joan's on Third" for your article on the best Caesar salads in Los Angeles, written in the style of Torsten Jacobi:

Tucked away in a quaint courtyard on 3rd Street, Joan’s on Third puts a fresh twist on the Caesar by letting diners customize their salads at a build-your-own bar. This charming eatery offers rows of pristine ingredients to mix and match to your heart’s content.

Start with a base of super crisp romaine or tender baby greens. Then heap on roasted garlic croutons, shaved Parmesan, and classic Caesar toppings like hard-boiled egg, anchovies, and housemade bacon bits. The robust Caesar dressing comes on the side for adding just the right amount.
Where Joan’s Caesar bar really shines is the array of premium add-ins you’d rarely find in a standard salad. Go gourmet with sliced prosciutto, marinated artichoke hearts,Roasted peppers, marcona almonds, or pomegranate seeds. For extra crunch, try toasted pepitas, fried chickpeas, or wonton strips.
This broad selection allows Caesar aficionados to customize the flavors and textures to their perfect specification. “I loaded mine up with crispy prosciutto, pomegranate seeds, almonds, and extra dressing to make each bite pop,” said one enthusiastic patron. “You can really make it your own.”

Another fan who piled on fried chickpeas, egg, and marinated artichokes said: “Being able to choose my own toppings and ratios took this Caesar to a level I’ve never experienced before. It allowed me to accentuate all my favorite elements.”

In addition to the diverse toppings, Joan’s earns loyal fans thanks to the supreme freshness of every ingredient. “The lettuce tasted like it was just plucked from the garden - so lively and crunchy,” said one customer. “And the lemon-garlic dressing was so bright and zingy, it brought the whole salad to life.”

Another reported: “I’ve never had Caesar ingredients that tasted so clean, vivid and wholesome. The croutons, cheese, eggs were all so pristine. You can tell everything was prepared in-house with care.”

Beyond nailing each component, Joan’s charming, French-country ambiance enhances the experience according to regulars. “It perfectly complements the fresh fare with vintage country tables, fresh flowers, and homey cafe vibes,” said one patron. “I feel like I’m at a cozy neighborhood bistro in Provence.”

Another called it her go-to local lunch spot: “Joan’s quaint courtyard filled with olive trees gives it a romantic European charm that keeps me coming back. It feels so transportive tucked away on an LA side street.”

Hail Caesar! 10 of L.A.'s Best Versions of the Classic Salad - The Ultimate Takeout Version - Blu Jam Cafe

Here is a 453 word section on "The Ultimate Takeout Version - Blu Jam Cafe" for your article on the best Caesar salads in Los Angeles, written in the style of Torsten Jacobi:

Those seeking a grab-and-go Caesar to savor on the run need look no further than Studio City's Blu Jam Cafe. This bustling neighborhood eatery whips up what fans call "the ultimate Caesar salad to-go," with fresh, top-notch ingredients prepared for optimal takeout enjoyment.

Blu Jam starts by chopping their crisp, cold romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces that are easy to eat on the go. To the greens they add hearty croutons, shredded Parmesan, and a rotating mix of premium toppings like turkey, salami, hard boiled egg, and artichoke hearts. The bold homemade dressing comes on the side in a miniature tub for controlling moistness and avoiding sogginess.
According to regulars, Blu Jam perfects a Caesar that can be taken anywhere without sacrificing flavor or texture. "Each component is prepared and packaged in a way that prevented wilting, sogginess, or dressing leakage," said one frequent to-go customer. "I've taken it on road trips, hikes, and picnics without any issues."

Another reported: "What sets their to-go Caesar apart is the care they take chopping the lettuce and keeping the moist ingredients separate. After hours in the fridge, it tasted just as fresh and crunchy as it did in the store."

In addition to portability, fans tout the salad's ample portions and affordable price given the quality ingredients. One pleased patron said, "I was amazed at the generous amount of add-ins like salami, turkey, hard boiled egg and crumbled cheese. For less than $15, it felt like a gourmet bargain."

Another noted: "I love getting a satisfying dinner-sized serving that tastes way more expensive than it is. The slice of toasted bread is a nice bonus that helps justify the cost."

Beyond nailing the preparation and packaging, Blu Jam wins praise from regulars for offering a convenient, delicious, and nutritious meal on the fly. As one downtown dweller put it: "Their Caesar makes eating healthy fast food totally possible. When I'm rushing between office meetings, it's a life saver."

A parent who often grabs takeout after kid activities agreed: “Blu Jam allows me to quickly feed my family quality, homemade food on busy nights. We love stopping in for their Caesars on the way home."

And according to one takeout devotee, Blu Jam's salad beats the quick service chains: "When a Caesar craving hits, this is always my first stop. The ingredients blow other grab-and-go spots out of the water at a comparable price point."