7 Unique Culinary Experiences in Downtown LA
Downtown Los Angeles boasts plenty of dining options, but these memorable spots are one-of-a-kind DTLA affairs.
Wander through Downtown Los Angeles, and you’ll discover a neighborhood full of vitality. It’s a part of town that has grown substantially in the past couple of decades, having welcomed new housing, hotels, museums – and, yes, plenty of new restaurants. The area has a hot dining scene offering virtually every cuisine, and it’s just as easy to find a mouthwatering meal from a celebrity chef as it is life-changing food truck fare. Here are seven unique culinary experiences to seek out when exploring DTLA.
1. Get lost in Grand Central Market
Market, American, Dim Sum, Seafood, Street Food, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free
2. Channel France at Garçons de Café
Bistro, Wine Bar, French
Walk into Garçons de Café – an eatery and wine bar found in a covered walkway in the heart of Downtown – and you’ll get transported to France. After happy hour, make a beeline for the light, flavorful toasts, the delectable breads and the outstanding cheeses. It’s impossible to pick a bad glass (or bottle) of wine here. Dim lighting and intimate bistro tables add to the whole experience.
3. Try a little of everything at Smorgasburg LA
Market, Sandwich Shop, Food Court, Street Food
4. Brunch it up at Bottega Louie
Restaurant, Italian
5. Feel fresh at the Restaurant at The NoMad Hotel
Hotel Restaurant, American
This new hotel transformed the old headquarters of the Bank of Italy so that the gold-and-blue Italianate lobby ceiling blends artfully with velvet chairs and benches in vibrant hues. Chef Daniel Humm uses fresh ingredients – like burrata, black truffles and caramelized cauliflowers – to create some of the restaurant’s specialties. Dishes “inspired by the vibrant culture and traditions of Los Angeles” make the NoMad restaurant a one-of-a-kind LA dining experience.
6. Try modern Indian cuisine at BADMAASH Downtown LA
Gastropub, Restaurant, Indian
7. Get some Latin flavor at DAMA Fashion District
Restaurant, South American, Central American
For those who are craving Latin cuisine, this DTLA newcomer hits the mark. Located in Southern California’s former banana distribution hub, the space has a laid-back atmosphere and channels a relaxed Caribbean vibe with its patios, lounge area and wicker chairs. The menu is from executive chef Antonia Lofaso, and the tropical drinks blended to order by Pablo Moix and Steve Livigni complete any dish. The corn with queso fresco, cilantro aioli and chili lime salt is a signature appetizer choice. Make sure you leave room for some churros.
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