In our Dining Reports, we share a firsthand perspective of a recent restaurant visit, covering everything from the vibe to must-get dishes. See more in the Eater app.
There’s only a brief window of time that you can visit Dai Ho — between the hours of 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. every day except Mondays — but the effort is worth it for this no-nonsense noodle joint’s impeccable beef noodle soup, balanced dan dan mien loaded with sesame sauce, and a deli fridge full of Taiwanese side dishes like pickled mustard greens and black-hued soy sauce eggs. The food comes fast and lingering is strongly discouraged (there’s a “no reading books and newspaper sign” that serves as a reminder); order, eat, and pay with cash and you will be in and out in 20 minutes.
- The beef noodle soup is arguably the best in Los Angeles, with tender cubes of beef, chewy noodles; fistfuls of spinach and shaved green onions; and a deep, soul-soothing broth.
- For a soupless option, try the sesame noodles. Each bouncy strand of noodles comes completely coated in a glossy sesame sauce that balances nuttiness and sweetness with the allium bite of green onions.
- Get a side of soy sauce eggs from the deli fridge, also served with green onions. The ample saltiness of the boiled eggs is a welcome addition to noodle spreads.
- To cut through any richness, order spicy cucumbers, which aren’t too chile forward but still give an electric vinegary flavor.
Due to limited hours, Dai Ho fills up fast and stays full. You may have to share a table with other guests, but you’ll be so focused on the food that the awkward proximity fades quickly…