Pann’s Restaurant

The massive, angled rock roof and the neon sign that punches right through it are the first things you’ll see at Pann’s. It’s a classic piece of Googie architecture from 1958, designed by the firm Armet & Davis to grab the attention of motorists on the busy stretch of La Tijera Boulevard near LAX. The building itself is the main event – a mix of exposed flagstone, rustic fieldstone, and huge floor-to-ceiling windows, all surrounded by tropical landscaping. Inside is a perfect time capsule of that era. The original 1950s decor is immaculately preserved, from the red leather booths and vintage lunch counter to the stone walls that carry through from the exterior. Large windows flood the space with natural light, and you can see the chefs working the grill in the exhibition kitchen. The Poulos family has run the place since it opened, and a full restoration in the 90s brought the building back to its original state, earning a preservation award from the Los Angeles Conservancy. The menu is pure American comfort food with a noticeable Southern influence, and breakfast is served all day. Fried chicken is what the kitchen is built around – you can get it with waffles, as part of a full plate, or alongside the house-made buttermilk biscuits. Other staples include country fried steak, salmon croquettes, grits, and pork chops. Its location near the airport makes it a dependable first or last stop for travelers, so the place is almost always busy. Expect a wait for an indoor table, though seating can be quicker at the counter. There are also dog-friendly tables outside. The kitchen serves until 3 p.m. daily, so this is strictly a breakfast and lunch operation.