The Best Restaurants In Downtown Los Angeles

Fuel your LA adventures and get under the city’s skin with a feast in its gritty, grand heartland.

1.

Cafe, Restaurant, American

The Pantry Cafe in Downtown at the corner of 9th and Figueroa.

The Original Pantry Cafe is an iconic L.A. institution that has only closed once since their doors first opened in 1924; on the day John F. Kennedy was assassinated. It is an old-fashioned diner on the corner of 9th Street and Figueroa, serving American cuisine. The portions are huge, so those who decide to dine here should come with an equally huge appetite.

2.

Sandwich Shop, American, French

Philippe the Original is a must when in DTLA. This place has one of the best French dipped sandwiches in town – indeed this very location is where the sandwich originated way back in 1918. Their prices won’t put a hole in your wallet either. If a French dipped sandwich isn’t what you’re looking for, they have plenty of other delicious options.

3.

Pizzeria, American

Pizzanista!’s commitment to quality is obvious. They use an expansive variety of fresh vegetables you won’t find at most pizza places. Although LA has a fantastic vegan pizza scene, there’s not a lot of places where you can also bring along your Meat Jesus-lovin’ friends for $2 slices. And, if you order take-out, you’ll receive one of their custom-designed delivery boxes, featuring The Clash puns and original Mike Gonzales designs.

4.

Restaurant, Vegan

A vegetarian/vegan-friendly huge, diverse menu featuring fresh, organic ingredients and culinary twists like coconut bacon and blackened jerk tempeh make Café Gratitude the quintessential California foodie destination. With a Detox Market and a healthy happy hour, this cafe lives up to their mission of making eating clean easy. Don’t miss the fresh-pressed juices, California wines or the Kombucha Arnold Palmer Spritzer.

5.

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Food Court, Restaurant, Pub Grub

This is a place that actually does pop-up locations around downtown. If patrons can find it, Ktchn DTLA offers unique twists on classic brunch items. Try the Tex-Mex brunch plates like the breakfast tostada or chilaquiles.

6.

Food Stand, Restaurant, American

This little restaurant with the questionable name is located in the Grand Central market along with many other small food stands. However, it blew up because of its food-porn breakfast sandwiches served atop a fluffy brioche bun and dripping with cheese and bacon. Well worth the wait.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.