One of Los Angeles’ most beloved restaurants this week received a Classic American Restaurant designation from the James Beard Foundation. The 65-year-old Casa Vega received the honor, which recognizes long-standing independent or family restaurants, alongside five other restaurants across the country.

Based in Sherman Oaks, Casa Vega was founded by patriarch Rafael “Ray” Vega, who died in 2021. It is now operated by Christy Vega, the restaurant’s second-generation owner. Casa Vega received a lot of attention in Quentin Tarantino’s film Once upon a time in Hollywood, and remains a popular staple for Los Angeles residents and visitors. Some Casa Vega employees have worked there for over 40 years or more. Take a look at Eater LA’s 2018 story about the historic restaurant.

Casa Vega, along with the other five winners, will receive the award June 13 at the James Beard Foundation Awards Ceremony in Chicago.

A boost for Tam’s Burgers

Thanks to Dr. Dre’s Super Bowl halftime performance, Tam’s Burgers No. 21 in Compton now has a longer than usual line, with out-of-town visitors visiting the childhood home of Dre and Kendrick Lamar. Discover the story in the Los Angeles Times.

Expansion of modern Chinese Dan

What Now Los Angeles reports that Dan Modern Chinese will open two additional locations in Canoga Park and Long Beach. Dan Modern opened its fifth restaurant in Manhattan Beach last fall.

John O’Groats turns 40 in West LA

To celebrate 40 years in business, John O’Groats of West LA will be giving the first 40 customers a $40 gift certificate on Saturday, February 26, writes the Santa Monica Mirror.

Lost Cove Tiki pop-up window

Remember the Lost Cove pop-up? The one that debuted in September 2020 with tiki cocktails and Hawaiian barbecue? It’s back Friday at 10:30 p.m. at Bludso’s Bar & Que until it’s sold out.