The story
Liu’s Cafe describes itself as a modern nod to the classic diners and night markets of Taipei and Hong Kong. The menu focuses on timeless comfort food, with dishes like homemade Hong Kong-style milk tea and savory pork belly over rice crafted to capture the essence of those culinary traditions. The restaurant’s owners, Long Hospitality (also behind Danbi in Koreatown), draw on experiences eating at Chinese mom-and-pop restaurants, street stalls, and crowded night markets across Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Shanghai.
The dining room blends vintage mid-century American roadside diner charm with traditional Chinese décor and modern minimalism, creating a nostalgic yet familiar atmosphere. The restaurant has two Los Angeles locations: a Westwood outpost (soft open hours Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm) and a Koreatown location (Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm). Takeout is available, and weekend lines can be long.
Liu's Cafe earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2026, a recognition given for good quality, good value cooking. It’s a welcome addition to LA’s vibrant Chinese and Taiwanese food scene, offering approachable, carefully made dishes that honor their roots while adding a personal touch.
Recognition
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