"You had the best first date of your life last night, and this morning you get a text saying they had a great time, too…and that they’re moving to Portugal next month. Grab the friend who’s seen you cry the most times, and head to Boyle Heights for some bean and cheese burritos. Open since 1966, Al & Bea’s is a family-owned East LA institution that serves the best version in town. Each one is made with a stretchy flour tortilla filled with refried pintos that are gloriously flavored with lard and a handful of shredded yellow cheese that liquefies against the molten hot beans. The cute, shaded front patio is the perfect place to sit and scheme a besties trip to Portugal. " - brant cox