India boasts of a glittering past, diverse cultures, a whole host of languages, and friendly people. However, India is also known for its food. Apart from the numerous main course dishes from various parts of the country, India’s traditional sweets and snacks too, are well-known.

This is evident from the skyrocketing sales of these sweets and snacks in Los Angeles during occasions like Diwali, which is celebrated by Indian Hindu communities living in the city. Thanks to the increasing demand for these items, a number of sweet shops are thriving. Let’s take a look at some of the top shops.

K.C. Spices & Paan

‘Paan’ is offered to everyone in Indian households as a post-dinner digestive aid. K.C. Spices & Paan, situated on Pioneer Boulevard, specializes in ‘Paan’. In case you don’t know what ‘Paan’ is and how it is served, read on.

A single ‘Paan’ features the use of a betel leaf, which serves as a wrapper in which numerous filling ingredients such as candied cumin seeds and fresh and sweetened rose petals are held. The leaves and offered here are somewhat different to those served in India as most of these items in LA are imported from Hawaii. K.C. Spices &Paan is a hub for ‘Paan’ enthusiasts and you can even request for your favorite regional variation of this famous Indian preparation.

Radhe Sweets & Catering

Located at W Lincoln Avenue, Radhe Sweets & Catering is a huge hit within the Gujarati community living in LA. No matter which time of the year you visit the shop, its shelves are always full of traditional Indian ‘mithai’ and delicious snacks. Two of the most popular items at Radhe Sweets & Catering are the ‘kajuamir’ roll and ‘methi laddoo’. The ‘laddoo’ particularly, is a traditional favorite and features cardamom and fenugreek perfumed balls. If you are looking for a quick bite, it is recommended to try out the Bombay-style vegetarian sandwich.

Sukhadia’s Mithai & Restaurant

The story of Sukhadia’s restaurant can be traced back to the late 1800s, when current owner Uday Shahs’s great grandfather established the first ever Sukhadia’s in Gujarat. This restaurant on Pioneer Boulevard is a must visit for people who have the misconception that Indian sweets are nothing but a lot of sugar. ‘Anjeer Halva’ is a must try because of its natural sweetness. Other popular sweets on sale here are ‘penda’ and ‘moti choor laddoo’. In terms of snacks, remember to try out the ‘masala bundi’.

SuratiFarsan Mart

Recent renovations have seen this E. 186^th St. establishment become bigger than ever. ‘Kaju pista’ rolls, ‘anjir’ patties and ‘talpapri’ are the most popular sweet items on sale here. If you are looking for something spicy, try out the ‘lilo chevdo’, a preparation that features cashews, garbanzos, potatoes and raisins.

The aforementioned shops make for the prime destinations for Indians living in Los Angeles, especially during festivals.