At a Glance
- Dine LA Restaurant Week kicks off on Jan. 23 and runs through Feb. 6.
- Prices start at $15 for lunch and climb for multi-course dinners.
- Events span the city: from the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Festival of Human Abilities to Disney’s Lunar New Year celebrations and Pasadena’s Cheeseburger Week.
The Southern California dining calendar is heating up. Over the next month, chefs, performers, and communities unite to celebrate food, culture, and creativity. From a city-wide lunch spread to a themed parade at Disney, there’s a flavor for every palate.
Dine LA Restaurant Week
The highlight of the month, Dine LA Restaurant Week, invites diners to explore a range of cuisines across dozens of neighborhoods. Prices start at $15 for lunch at select spots, while other restaurants offer multi-course experiences that vary in cost.
- Lunch deals: $15-$25
- Dinner specials: $30-$60
- Specialty menus: $70-$120
The program showcases local chefs and emerging food trends, encouraging residents to try new flavors without breaking the bank. Restaurants across Los Angeles, from downtown to the beach, participate, offering both familiar favorites and daring new dishes.
Key Highlights
- Variety of cuisines: Italian, Mexican, Asian, Mediterranean, and more.
- Neighborhood focus: Each area highlights its unique culinary scene.
- Price points: From budget lunches to upscale dinners.
The event encourages community engagement and supports local businesses, especially in a post-pandemic economy where dining establishments are rebuilding.
Festival of Human Abilities
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach hosts its annual Festival of Human Abilities on Jan. 24 and Jan. 25. The celebration showcases dance, singing, and art performed by people with disabilities.
- Admission: Included with festival entry.
- Workshops: Multiple sessions throughout the day.
- Spotlight: Creative talents and abilities.
The festival’s mission is to honor and empower individuals with disabilities, providing a platform for artistic expression and community connection.
Long Beach Black Restaurant Week
Long Beach Black Restaurant Week marks its fourth year, running from Jan. 23 to Jan. 31. Over a dozen venues-restaurants, food trucks, and caterers-participate, celebrating the city’s diverse Black food scene.
- Featured spots: Georgia’s, The Cultured Soul, and other local gems.
- Dish details: Available on the event website.
- Cultural emphasis: Showcasing heritage and culinary innovation.
The week invites diners to experience flavors that reflect the community’s rich history and contemporary culinary artistry.
Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure Park opens a 31-day Lunar New Year celebration in Anaheim. The event honors traditions from Vietnam, China, and Korea, offering themed entertainment and treats.
- Highlights: Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration, and World of Color Happiness! presented by Pandora Jewelry.
- Cultural performances: Dance, music, and storytelling.
- Food offerings: Traditional dishes and seasonal snacks.
Guests can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, enjoying both familiar and novel experiences that celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Pasadena Cheeseburger Week
Pasadena’s Cheeseburger Week, a staple of the city’s culinary calendar, runs from Jan. 25 to Jan. 31 in 2026. The week celebrates the city’s iconic cheeseburger with special deals, standout burgers, and a Cheeseburger Challenge.
- Historical note: The cheeseburger began in Pasadena over a century ago.
- Specialties: Cheddar-cheese-filled burgers, bacon-topped variants, and inventive toppings.
- Challenge: Competitions among local restaurants.
The event draws both locals and visitors, reinforcing Pasadena’s reputation as a foodie destination.
Key Takeaways
- Southern California’s dining scene is active for the next 31 days, offering diverse flavors and cultural celebrations.
- From affordable lunch specials to immersive cultural festivals, there’s something for every budget and interest.
- Community engagement and support for local businesses are central themes across all events.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a good deal, the upcoming weeks promise a rich tapestry of experiences.
