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L.A. Taco Guides

Five L.A. Menus to Stretch Your Recession-Era Dollar

Recession menus are the new happy hours. Here's how restaurants in L.A. are coping with today's economy, from Long Beach to West Covina.

12:37 PM PDT on April 20, 2026

fries, burger, and diet coke can

The “Snackflation” meal from Amboy’s West Covina location. Photo by Julianne Le for L.A. TACO.

Threats of “recession” have been thrown around a lot throughout Donald Trump’s second term as president, with experts debating whether one is imminent and many Americans suffering from the outrageous costs of living.

As rent and gasoline prices inflate without a rise in wages, "recession menus" are slowly growing in popularity. Some restaurants are releasing their own spins, creating new dishes and deals in response to the crushing economy. 

Here are five L.A. restaurants willing to sacrifice profits to take a stand for working Angelenos, one meal at a time.