Bumping thread, but if any people are looking to get a "sample" of what Los Angeles has to offer in terms of food and culture, a great place to stop at is the Grand Central Market in Downtown LA. Similar to Granville island, but excellent food options. You can try a bit of everything from Mexican, a Jewish deli, California meats/delis, an oyster bar, West Coast LA inspired cuisine and a hipster coffee bar and much more.
If you do hit this place up, try to avoid it during weekends - it gets crazy and out of control. During the weekday, avoid the lunch rush. It gets hectic as well, but nowhere near as bad as the weekend.
Pro-tip - Do not park in the parking lot at the market. It gets VERY expensive. Try parking a block or two away at the off-site parking lots where it costs $5 or so for a flat-rate.
Edit: I'll be back in LA during Chinese New Year 2015 if anybody plans on coming down. I'll be a the Walt Disney Concert Hall in DTLA on the 20th. Would be cool to grab a drink nearby with some RS'ers!