A culturally-rich neighborhood
While Los Angeles is widely recognized as one of the most diverse cities in the US, many immigrant communities here live in enclaves that are populated by people who come from a similar ethnic background. These neighborhoods are scattered throughout the sprawling LA metropolitan region. In the past, many inhabitants generally stay within their enclaves, where they could speak their native tongue. It makes it difficult for communication to happen across racial boundaries.
Koreatown street scene Olympic & Harvard, Los Angeles. Photo by DaveofCali, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Given this background, I was pleasantly surprised to find a lot of stores selling authentic food located within walking distance of my home. I feel that the existence of these restaurants mean the residents of this area come from various cultures, since the ethnic cuisines usually cater to people who immigrated from another country to the US. In addition to eateries, there are also religious institutions affiliated with a certain immigrant group. Let's take a look at a few of them below.
Lovely Spice Land is a family-run Halal market. Halal means any food that can be consumed by Muslims. 
St. Joseph Korean Catholic Center provides both Korean and English masses for its congregants.
Johnny Pacific is the go-to place if you are craving for empanadas, island skewers, chicken satay and other Caribbean dishes.
Kalesa Grill Catering brings the taste of homecooked Filipino meals to expats living abroad 
Hot Bolillo (French rolls), teleras (sandwich bread), quesadillas, and pastries fill the display at Rocio's Bakery.