Best Restaurants In Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles is packed with innovative, delicious dining experiences curated by some of the world's best chefs. Whether you're after the best pomme frites in town, or you're chasing down eclectic Pacific Rim cuisine, there's something for every appetite in the bustling downtown restaurant scene.

Faith & Flower
705 W. 9th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 239-0642
www.faithandflowerla.com

Set within a stunning space that James Bond himself would enjoy, Faith & Flower offers an eating destination that reflects a mix of modernity and antiquity. Located within the WaterMarke Tower in DTLA's South Park district, Faith & Flower pays homage to the two major renaissance periods - the 1920's and modern day - which fundamentally shaped Downtown LA as we know it today. The name is no coincidence either. "Flower" refers to the street on which the restaurant sits today, while "Faith" is the street's alleged name in the 20's. All history aside though, Executive Chef Michael Hung oversees the dishes coming out of the kitchen, which are inspired by a global influence of flavors. Redefining California rustic cuisine, expect to dine on burrata pizzas, a raw bar with oysters, and scallops, as well as rich pastas, seafood dishes and more. Make sure not to miss out on the cocktail program either, which celebrates the Gilded Age and Roaring Twenties in LA through ingredients and the names of the actual drinks.

Bottega Louie
700 S Grand Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90017
(213) 802-1470
www.bottegalouie.com

With it's white washed walls, high ceilings and minimalist decor, Bottega Louie has been serving up favorite Italian fare for several years to satisfied patrons. Walking in, you'll notice the macarons, but if you can help yourself by waiting till after dinner to indulge, you'll be better off for it. You'll want the room in your stomach for all the delicious food this eatery offers. Favorites here include pizzas, and pastas, as well as tasty entree's like their pork chop with pink lady apples, charred brussels sprouts, stone fruit mostarde and pomegranate glaze, as well as the hanger steak. The burrata pizza is a must as well. With burrata, Grana parmesan, prosciutto di Parma, rapini, garlic and extra virgin oil, it's pure heaven bite by bite. Make sure not to miss the weekend brunch as well. Favorites include their Italian scramble, a Belgian waffle, as well as French Toast and a lobster hash. Pizzas, sandwiches and salads are also available.

Baco Mercat
408 S. Main St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 687-8808
www.bacomercat.com

Inventive Spanish fusion cuisine is what you're likely to find at downtown eatery Baco Mercat. "Bäco," the signature flatbread sandwich developed by chef Josef Centeno, is the shining star at this small eatery with a huge following. The original bäco was comprised of a crispy pork belly and beef carnitas, but is now subject to all the same sort of seasonal modifications as the rest of the menu. Easily one of the most popular spots in LA, you can expect lines out the door for a chance to dine on at one of LA's hottest restaurants. So, reservations are a good bet. It'll be well worth it once you've made it in though. The restaurant also offers a family-style set menu Monday through Thursday evening to take advantage of.

Church & State
1850 Industrial St
Los Angeles, California
(213) 405-1434
www.churchandstatebistro.com

This warm Arts District dining spot has the vibe - and sidewalk tables - of an elegant French cafe. Dark wood interiors and a spacious patio strung with white lights makes Church & State a romantic spot to taste what are arguably the crispest and most delicious pomme frites in town. Want something more substantial? Try specials like the nuanced Daube de Boeuf Provençal with braised beef and organic vegetables. With favorites like duck breast terrine, salmon filet, and a rich seafood Bouillabaisse, there's something delightful for everyone on a menu that brings Paris to DTLA.

Bestia
2121 E 7th Pl
Los Angeles, CA 90021
(213) 514-5724
www.bestiala.com

One of the hottest reservations in downtown, Bestia is nestled in the Arts District near the edge of the Los Angeles River. Focusing on delicious house-made pastas, charcuterie, and wood-fired pizzas, this multi-regional Italian restaurant has beautifully plated seafood dishes that taste as good as they look, as well as exceptional organic produce, and succulent meats. Don't miss the grilled calamari crafted with mixed heirloom beans, orange zest, and avocado cream, and be sure to sip on a perfect Negroni, too.

Redbird
114 E 2nd St
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 788-1191
www.redbird.la

Located inside the former rectory of Vibiana Cathedral, Redbird serves California-inspired innovative fare in an elegant indoor/outdoor setting. Carnivores will delight over flavorful dishes like Sautéed Broken Arrow Ranch Venison with squash flan, lentils, and huckleberries, or try the vegetarian friendly Tagliatelle with foraged mushrooms. The Wyoming Golden Trout is another dish you won't want to miss out on from their expansive menu that also features delicious craft cocktails, too.

Bar Ama
118 W 4th St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 687-8002
www.bar-ama.com

Chef Josef Centeno has done it again at this Historic Core spot for Tex Mex food inspired by his favorite childhood dishes. Serving Mexican-inspired dishes, you'll want to make sure to try the crisp shrimp chalupas or fried squash blossoms. Vegetarian diners will enjoy a wide variety of seasonal vegetables, including the Vegetable Escabeche with carrots and onions. Of course, the nachos are not to be missed, and the guacamole is rated among the best in town.

ediBOL
300 S Santa Fe Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 292-6466
www.address.com

This modern, airy Arts District charmer which features both indoor and al fresco seating offers a bevy of delicious, fresh "bols," like the Honey Citrus with roasted cauliflower, quinoa and green lentil pilaf, fresh veggies, sweet spicy pecans and of course, a honey-maple citrus dressing. Diners can elect to add grilled shrimp or pork belly among other toppings. There's even a grilled-cheese pretzel roll Bol-wich. Don't miss the fresh juice mocktails or the craft cocktails, like the house-made Bloody Mary with shochu.

Broken Spanish
1050 S Flower St
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 749-1460
www.brokenspanish.com

Brought to us thanks to chef Ray Garcia (of B.S. Taqueria as well), Broken Spanish offers sophisticated Mexican dishes & cocktails offered in a sleek space with rustic details. At this Downtown eatery, Garcia pays homage to his Latin heritage with Mexican fare reminiscent of his time in some of LA's top kitchens. Delighting guests with unique Mexican cuisine, dishes to try include a great red snapper with leeks, green clamato, clams and avocado, as well as heirloom tortillas, any one of their tostadas and the quesadilla. Oh - the setting is pretty magnificent too.