Introducing The Angel

A newsletter that goes deep on the Los Angeles food scene.

Hi! Welcome to The Angel, a newsletter about the Los Angeles food scene.

I’m Emily Wilson, an L.A.-based food writer. I moved here several years ago from New York City, my hometown, for many of the same reasons that others make the pivot. Different vibe, slower pace. Excellent produce year-round. Fruit trees on every block. Very good weather. Nature! Also, because I’ve always loved it here.

Since I was a kid visiting family in Venice, and especially since I began writing about restaurants almost a decade ago, I’ve been drawn to L.A.’s inspiring farmers’ markets, imaginative bakers, top-notch Koreatown and Thai Town, devoted mom-and-pops, best-in-the-world health food… the list goes on.

There are endless stories to tell within this city’s dynamic food culture. About the delicious things made here, by who, and how. About the special places to dine, grocery shop, or have a few rounds. And about the chefs and farmers and fishermen and bussers and sommeliers that make eating and drinking in Los Angeles so good. This is where The Angel comes in.

But doesn’t L.A. already have food media?

Yes, and I contribute to most of those publications! But there aren’t enough. There is so much happening in the L.A. food world that people don’t know about, but should. The Angel will help change that.

What can I expect from The Angel?

We will profile fascinating people working in the culinary domain, report on big food stories, publish non-obvious guides, and supply recs (because that’s what everyone really wants, right?) from L.A.’s most in-the-know.

Can you tell us more about you?

Before going freelance, I worked at Resy during the early days of the reservation startup, where I helped establish and evolve the brand, including launching Resy.com as an editorial site. Now, I write for national and local outlets such as the Los Angeles Times, Bon Appétit, Eater, the San Francisco Chronicle, New York Magazine, TASTE, Vogue, and others. I’ve written about the multigenerational family restaurants that formed in the wake of the pandemic, how Courage Bagels changed the bagel game, why California chefs are seeking out steaks from old dairy cows, how vegan Caesars gave the classic salad a run for its money, and L.A.’s recent pizza renaissance. You can read more of my clips HERE.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about eating well and seeking out great restaurants. Friends (and friends of friends of friends) know that I keep a global map of vetted food and drink spots. You’re welcome.

Why should I pay for The Angel?

I want everyone to read about who is doing cool things in food and what makes the L.A. restaurant scene exceptional. So, a lot of The Angel will be free. Recs, however, are coveted intel. A subscription gets you access to every story published by The Angel, plus weekly food and drink picks from L.A.’s finest.

Who made the logo?

My friend Zoé Albert, a brilliant illustrator based in New York!

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