Lido Pizza
15232 Victory Blvd.
Van Nuys, CA 91411
tel. 818-781-2551

Sam Woo Bar B Que Restaurant.
6450 Sepulveda Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91411
tel.(818) 988-6813

Pho 999
6411 Sepulveda Blvd Ste 1K1L
Van Nuys, CA 91411
Tel.(818) 782-1999

Fat-burger
6162 1/8 Sepulveda Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91411
Tel.818 989-2695

Pho So 1
6450 Sepulveda Blvd
Van Nuys, CA 91411-1300
(818) 989-6377

The vibrant Vicveda district of Old Van Nuys is generally agreed to be centered around Sepulveda and Victory. While many Angelenos speed by on their way to and from the 405, locals know that this area has a concentration of some truly fine dining.

Lido Pizza has been around since at least the time Carol met Mike Brady. The interior is heavy on the color red, cast iron golden glass lanterns, and dark paneling. But their pizzas and pastas are delicious and affordable. They even send out a calendar every year with 12 three-dollar, large pizza coupons.

Sam Woo has an “A” from the health department, and despite the presence of dead ducks hanging from steel pins, is quite cozy inside. I always order their barbequed pork and chicken and also their salted pork and tofu hot pot. They have one rule however: they cannot bring a cold glass of water to your table unless you ask them at least three times.

Pho 999 is on the west side of Sepulveda and is the older, uglier but better tasting Vietnamese restaurant. Large dish clearing carts are often left in plain view, with dirty plates and glasses. But they have a tremendous selection of soups, meat dishes and drinks—mostly for under $8. The waitstaff works hard watching reality TV programs and can occasionally be called upon to bring food and the check to your table.

Fatburger is sandwiched between a restaurant supply store and a marble outlet. I love the Turkey burger with cheese and the fat fries. They have a jukebox and a clientele who may often be carrying concealed weapons. The milk shakes are made with real ice cream, and the cooks are nice and friendly.

Pho So-1 is the cleaner, nicer Vietnamese restaurant on the east side of Sepulveda next to 99 Ranch. They have excellent soups and you will emerge from it smelling less than you would from its smokier sister across the street. I often order the red bean drink and beef ball soup and the fresh shrimp and vegetable egg rolls.