One City, 7 Continents: L.A.'s International Food Finds

1044 S Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019 (map)

Located in Little Ethiopia, this foodie favorite transported us to the African savannah with its huts and traditional woven tables. Hearty portions of meat or vegetables are served on spongy injera bread, which doubles as a utensil. Even better: The food is as family-friendly as it is wallet-friendly.

2116 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 (map)

We truly felt like Morroccan royalty at this family-run place where the echoes of French reassured us of its authenticity. The intricate decor and gracious service is only rivaled by the tasty dishes like Harira soup and beef tips spiced with cumin.

453 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (map)

We warmed up with a few shots when inside the Vodbox at Nic's, where the refrigeration reminded us of a true Arctic chill. That was soon forgotten when we remembered to put on the available faux fur jackets and let the heat from the vodka warm us up. A perfect option whether it's winter or summer.

648 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014 (map)

Since Antarctica's only inhabitants occupy research stations, the cuisine can be classified as "a la tray." Clifton's follows that same style, serving a selection of inexpensive, home-style favorites like split pea soup for under $2.

1408 E Valley Blvd, Alhambra, CA 91801 (map)

Again, don't let the exterior fool you: This hole-in-the wall is a find for great Chinese fare. Among other noodle dishes, there is signature beef rolls, a wrap stuffed with cilantro, hoisin sauce, and tender slices of meat.

2396 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039 (map)

Though certainly not grub-style Vietnamese food, the menu at this Silver Lake locale is packed with traditional dishes like shrimp summer rolls and wok-tossed chicken in tangy ginger sauce. The $8.95 lunch special makes for an even better experience, happy tastebuds and a happy wallet.

7300 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

Pulling up to a Hollywood mini-mall to get to this restaurant, we had our doubts. Two steps into the purple, fabric-draped main room and our senses were overwhelmed with the scent of curry--and some of the best chicken tikka masala we've ever had.

18661 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 (map)

Foster's Australian beer is a staple at this beachside joint, but the best part about the restaurant is the fresh fish. Choose a type and make sure it's prepared Cajun style. For an Aussie experience, we ordered the seabass, which was cooked to perfection.

46 Windward Ave, Venice, CA 90291 (map)

The only Australian BBQ in L.A. besides the Outback chain, we were most impressed with the sports bar feel of this laidback Venice staple. The lunch plates are mini samplers, where you can try up to three types of meat fresh off the barbie. Plus, since this casual spot is in plain view of the water, it's easy to pretend you're on an island, mate .

7383 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

Aussie transplants in L.A. talk about this pub's meat pies, a little reminder of the street food from Down Under. Even if you've never made it to Oz, you'll feel like a real meat pie pro ... right in the middle of Melrose.

1866 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 (map)

Instead of going to an expensive tapas bar, we prefer this Echo Park dive, where paella, potato tortillas and flan fill us up with simple Spanish flavors. The food can sometimes be slightly underseasoned, so don't be afraid to add a little salt and a glass of red wine or a Spanish soda to add a little sabor.

139 1/2 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004 (map)

C'est magnifique! Like a cafe in Provence, this Larchmont gem is a great spot to lag and soak up the atmosphere (read: the French guys running the place). One of the best things is breakfast (mmm ... French toast for $5.95), which is inexpensive and delicious.

2771 W. Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006 (map)

On any given night, Papa Cristo's is just like a real voyage to Greece. Sure, you might not be off the coast of some gorgeous Mediterranean island, but who cares when you've got an entertaining belly dancer and gyros stuffed full of tasty meat in front of you?

1415 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (map)

Some good ol' simple California cuisine was a relief after all the heavy food, proving that you don't have to fry something to make it taste good. This casual corner nook is a major breakfast hub on the weekends, but we just can't get enough of their famous spicy turkey chili ($5.95) and super-skinny yam fries (you can get a half or full order, but don't kid yourself--you'll want the full size). Most menu items are well under $20, so you can feast without stress.

419 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

NYC comes to life in L.A. with this quintessential Jewish deli. The sandwiches are piled high with thick slices of meat in between two slices of thin bread. As the food coma ensued, we realized why New Yorkers need cabs to get around the city.

1906 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90405 (map)

Santa Monica turned into a Carribbean isle once we stepped into this restaurant stand, where the awards on the walls pointed us to the jerk-chicken enchiladas. In combination with sweet plantains and an incredibly refreshing watermelon agua fresca (they make 'em fresh every day in various flavors), it was sheer paradise.