Alta Adams

Stepping into Alta Adams feels like being welcomed into someone’s home where the kitchen always smells incredible and the hospitality runs deep. Tucked away in the West Adams neighborhood of Los Angeles, this Southern restaurant delivers all the warmth and charm you’d expect from a classic down-home dining experience, without requiring a cross-country flight. The beautifully lit patio creates an inviting atmosphere that makes lingering over a meal feel natural and encouraged.

The menu showcases Southern comfort food elevated with thoughtful technique and quality ingredients. You’d be remiss to skip the black eyed pea fritters to start—they’re absolutely essential for setting the right mood. The fried chicken arrives with an impeccably crispy exterior that gives way to juicy, flavorful meat, accompanied by a housemade hot sauce that adds the perfect kick. But the real showstopper might be the oxtails served over brown rice, swimming in a rich, savory gravy that makes it nearly impossible not to clean your plate. The shrimp and grits and seasonal fish preparations are equally impressive, while vegetarian diners will appreciate options like the smoked tofu gumbo and BBQ cauliflower.

This is the kind of place that works equally well for a relaxed lunch, a casual dinner with friends, or a special date night. The cocktail menu deserves attention—drinks here strike that ideal balance of sweet, refreshing, and plenty strong. For wine enthusiasts, there’s a shareable wine flight worth exploring, and the adjacent Adams Wine Shop (run by the same team) spotlights women and BIPOC winemakers for those wanting to continue the culinary journey. The staff radiates genuine friendliness, making every visit feel personal and cared for.

Alta Adams succeeds by honoring Southern traditions while carving out its own identity in the LA dining scene. Whether you’re craving some of the best fried chicken on the west side or those unforgettable oxtails, this West Adams gem delivers comfort food that nourishes both body and soul. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that quickly becomes a regular haunt.