Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Atwater Village | Upscale & High Protein

5 restaurants in Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Atwater Village | Upscale & High Protein

• All'Acqua — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood destination hums with a sophisticated energy, where the enticing aroma of wood-grilled octopus and fire-roasted peppers sets the stage for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic warmth and modern refinement, offering a parade of textures from crispy saffron arancini and golden fritto misto to delicate hamachi crudo. Shared plates of creamy burrata and salty prosciutto invite long, spirited conversations, making every meal feel like a celebratory escape to a sun-drenched coastal villa.
• Giamela's — Italian · rated 4/5: Giamela’s stands as a vibrant neighborhood staple where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling pepper steak and the comforting scent of freshly sliced deli meats. Guests find themselves immersed in a classic sandwich-making tradition, watching as towering subs like the signature Mrs. G’s—a bold fusion of pastrami and steak—are meticulously assembled alongside vibrant turkey creations drizzled in zesty pesto mayo. Each visit offers a hearty, soul-satisfying experience where generous portions and time-honored flavors are served with a welcoming, unpretentious charm.
• Home State — Mexican · rated 3/5: This vibrant homage to the Lone Star State captures the laid-back spirit of a Texas morning, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted flour tortillas and freshly brewed coffee. Guests gather in a sun-drenched, communal space to savor soulful tacos named after iconic rivers like the Guadalupe and Brazos, creating a nostalgic dining experience that celebrates the simple, hearty flavors of Austin-style comfort food.
• Black Elephant Coffee — American: Sunlight dances across minimalist surfaces in this urban sanctuary, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the deep, nutty aroma of small-batch roasts invite a moment of quiet contemplation. Skilled baristas treat coffee as an art form, meticulously pulling velvety double shots and crafting silken lattes that balance bold intensity with delicate sweetness. Whether lingering over a precise cortado or finding refreshment in a crisp iced Americano, guests discover a refined coffee culture that celebrates the soul of the bean in every cup.
• Morihiro — Japanese: Step into a serene sanctuary of Japanese craftsmanship where the air is scented with the earthy perfume of matsutake dobinmushi and the meticulous artistry of Chef Mori takes center stage. The experience unfolds through a sequence of seasonal treasures, from the ethereal silkiness of signature house-made tofu to the vibrant complexity of artfully plated hassun and jewel-like nigiri. Every detail, from the rich sweetness of seikokani to the delicate balance of fresh carpaccio, reflects a profound dedication to tradition and the quiet, refined beauty of the ingredients.