Los Angeles Downtown Guide 2012

Restaurants Find the place that suits your taste.

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Downtown Nightlife

It’s a Date 2012 Seasonal Events Calendar.

Discover 16 Unique

THE MAP OF Downtown

Downtown Neighborhoods

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C O N T E N T S Welcome Arts District..................................................................5 Bunker Hill...................................................................5 Central City East...........................................................7 Chinatown...................................................................7 City West......................................................................7 Civic Center..................................................................8 El Pueblo/Union Station..............................................8 Fashion District............................................................8 Figueroa Corridor.........................................................8 Financial District..........................................................9 Furniture and Decorative Arts District.........................9 Historic Core.................................................................9 Jewelry District............................................................9 Little Tokyo................................................................10 Old Bank District........................................................10 South Park.................................................................10 architecture Historic Architecture and Sites..................................12 Modern Architecture.................................................18 DIVERSIONS seasonal events calendar.............................30 downtown nightlife guide............................24 map............................................................................46 PERFORMING ARTS Music Venues.............................................................21 Smaller Sound Stages...............................................22 Larger Theater Houses...............................................22 Intimate Theaters......................................................27 MUSEUMS For Art Lovers.............................................................28 Culture Vultures and History Buffs............................28 Special Interests........................................................34 Earthy Museums.......................................................34 GALLERIES Chinatown Galleries..................................................35 Gallery Row...............................................................35 Downtown Art Walk..................................................35 Tours.......................................................................36 speaker series...................................................39 parks and open space...............................40 sporting/convention venues...........42 movie theaters................................................44 kid-friendly downtown........................44 excursions.........................................................45 Mid-Wilshire..............................................................45 Echo Park/Angelino Heights......................................48 Hollywood.................................................................48 Griffith Park...............................................................48 South Bay..................................................................48 shopping Arts District................................................................49 Bunker Hill/Financial District.....................................49

Central City East.........................................................50 Chinatown.................................................................51 Civic Center................................................................52 El Pueblo/Union Station............................................52 Fashion District..........................................................53 Furniture and Decorative Arts District.......................54 Historic Core...............................................................54 Jewelry District..........................................................55 Little Tokyo................................................................56 Old Bank District........................................................57

restaurants Restaurants by cuisine....................................72 Arts District................................................................58 Bunker Hill.................................................................59 Central City East.........................................................59 Chinatown.................................................................59 City West....................................................................61 Civic Center................................................................61 Downtown Adjacent.................................................61 El Pueblo/Union Station............................................62 Fashion District..........................................................62 Figueroa Corridor.......................................................63 Financial District........................................................63 Historic Core...............................................................66 Jewelry District..........................................................68 Little Tokyo................................................................68 Old Bank District........................................................70 South Park.................................................................71 accommodations......................................75 hotel accommodations chart.......................80 good to know transportation DASH Downtown.......................................................82 Subways, Light Rail, Buses........................................82 Regional Rail Services...............................................82 Taxis...........................................................................82 Rental Cars.................................................................82 safety.....................................................................83 community info Downtown Representatives and Advocacy Groups......83 Places of Worship......................................................84 Everyday essentials Grocery Stores............................................................85 Farmers Markets........................................................85 Drug Stores/Pharmacies............................................85 Pet Services...............................................................86 Pizza Delivery............................................................86 Movie Rentals/Theaters............................................87 Beauty Services.........................................................87 Fitness........................................................................88 index........................................................................89

Cover photo by Gary Leonard.

Special thanks to the following businesses and individuals for photos: Gary Leonard; Bradbury Building (Page 18); Jacques Moatti, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion (Page 21); © CHRISTIAN PONDELLA 2010, Christian Pondella/Shazamm/ESPN Images, X Games (Page 21 & 31); Orpheum Theatre, Berger/Conser Photography (Page 22); Onyx Restaurant, Lounge & Bar (Page 25); First & Hope (Page 26); Gallery Bar (Page 26); Karen Knauer, Natural History Museum (Page 34); Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens (Page 41); Bob Baker Marionette Theater (Page 48); Oliver Tam (Page 61); Millennium Biltmore Hotel (Page 76) With grateful thanks to everyone at Cartifact.

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C O N T E N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Downtown Guide For Your Mobile Device

Guide Written by

Kristin Friedrich and Kathryn Maese Editor and Publisher

Sue Laris

General Manager

Dawn Eastin

Executive Editor

Jon Regardie city Editor

Richard Guzmán Staff Writer

Ryan Vaillancourt advertising director

Steve Nakutin

Account Executives

Iedia Hess, Catherine Holloway, Brenda Stevens Art Director

Brian Allison Assistant Art Director

Yumi Kanegawa

Production and Graphics

Alexis Rawlins Accounting

Ashley Schmidt Receptionist

Norma Rodas Distribution Manager

Salvador Ingles

Distribution Crew

Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla The Downtown Los Angeles Guide is published annually by Los Angeles Downtown News. The newspaper covers business, politics, arts and culture. Los Angeles Downtown News is distributed every week throughout the business and government districts, as well as the residences of Downtown Los Angeles.

Although the Downtown Los Angeles Guide strives to be as accurate and comprehensive as possible, there may be some elimination of content due to space requirements. For the latest, most complete ongoing coverage of Downtown Los Angeles and environs read the Los Angeles Downtown News, or visit LADowntownNews.com.

Los Angeles Downtown News is not responsible for changes of schedule following publication, nor does it accept any responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication or information from it. ©Los Angeles Downtown News 2012. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, except brief extracts for the purpose of review or promotion, without the written permission of the publisher and copyright owner.

Address: 1264 W. First St., Los Angeles, CA 90026 Telephone: (213) 481-1448. Fax: (213) 250-4617 E-mail: realpeople@downtownnews.com Website: LADowntownNews.com

WELCOME

discovering downtown’s 16 dazzling districts

››

Take a stroll down historic Spring Street and you’ll find a lively string of boutiques, coffee shops and bars. Look up at the vintage buildings in the Old Bank District or warehouses in the Arts District and you’re likely to spot the glow of light-filled residences.

These days, the new L.A. Live campus around Staples Center is alive with flashing lights, packed restaurants, a movie-plex and hundreds of people taking in the nightlife.

It’s a much transformed Downtown from just a few years ago, and sweeping changes are happening across each of the 16 districts that make up the city’s core. In the jewelry and business centers, which once catered to the nine-to-five crowd, the seasons come alive with concerts, movie nights, community events and even ice skating.

Pockets of new life and activity are popping up everywhere, thanks in part to the more than 45,000 residents who call the area home. Longtime Angelenos are also discovering the Downtown renaissance, venturing across town for a cutting-edge theater performance, checking out a hip new bar or sampling cuisine from one of the many innovative chefs setting up in the area.

The long-awaited Downtown comeback is happening here and now. It is evident across the Central City’s eight square miles that encompass Chinatown and Dodger Stadium on the north, the University of Southern California and Exposition Park on the south, Western Avenue on the west, and the Los Angeles River on the east. The Downtown Guide is meant to take visitors and locals on a journey of the sights, activities, history and treasures of its 16 distinct

districts. Reference the handy index for a quick look at individual listings, or turn to the maps, nightlife guide and seasonal events calendar for a more detailed look.

ARTS DISTRICT

Boundaries: The 101 Freeway to the north, Seventh Place to the south, the Los Angeles River to the east, Alameda Street to the west. overview: In the 1970s, artists looking for abundant, cheap space began to transform abandoned warehouses and railroad buildings into live-work spaces. The city’s ArtistIn-Residence program later made the abodes legal, and the tight-knit community has since flourished with more than 5,000 working artists and creative types. The 52-block Arts District is one of Downtown’s oldest and most diverse residential neighborhoods, housing a mix of industrial lofts and modern condos, eclectic shops, trendy restaurants, galleries, an architecture school and a thriving hub of commerce — cold storage, railyards, manufacturing and produce. Traction Avenue serves as the district’s main artery, with cafes, a general store and several popular eateries. The community is an active one, hosting annual street festivals, organizing neighborhood walks, lobbying on behalf of local issues, launching a dog park, and even expanding its services to include safety and cleaning patrols.

BUNKER HILL

Boundaries: Approximately Temple Street to the north, Third Street to the south, Olive Street to the east, the 110

Freeway to the west. overview: Intrigued by the potential of its stunning vistas, wealthy developer Prudent Beaudry purchased nearly all the land that made up Downtown’s Bunker Hill. In the late 1800s, his vision took the form of an opulent subdivision of two-story Victorian mansions catering to the city’s upperclass residents. It was a stunning pocket of Downtown with gorgeous architecture and bustling activity. The exclusive community thrived until the end of World War I, when the region’s extensive streetcar system helped spur growth in surrounding communities. Increasingly, the hill’s grand homes were subdivided to accommodate a dense population of renters, and adjacent freeway development resulted in an even greater exodus from the city’s center. In time, the tony address was ridden with slum hotels and pensioners.

In 1955, city planners bulldozed any trace of the once grand community, replacing it with a collection of concrete buildings and modern high-rises.

While the city lost a unique part of its history in the ill-conceived redevelopment project, the seed for a new cultural hub was planted in 1967 with the opening of the Music Center campus. Today, Bunker Hill is home to iconic institutions such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Colburn School of Performing Arts and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. The newest cultural addition is the $130 million Broad museum, a design-forward repository of contemporary art set to open in two years. The institutions are part of a larger vision for a multi-billion dollar entertainment, shopping and losangelesdowntown.com | W E L C O M E

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CENTRAL CITY EAST

BOUNDARIES: Central City East consists of two sub-districts: Industrial and Toy. The Industrial District is roughly edged by Third Street to the north, Eighth Street and Olympic Boulevard to the south, Alameda Street on the east and San Pedro Street on the west.

The Toy District occupies a 12-block area with Third Street to the north, Fifth Street to the south, Los Angeles Street to the west and San Pedro Street to the east.

OVERVIEW: This 44-block district covers the eastern half of Downtown. Its diverse territory includes a bustling assemblage of seafood, produce and cold storage warehouses.

Trucks rumble in and out at all hours, ferrying fresh food to the region, while chefs swarm the markets before the sun rises for the best sushi and produce. Amid the industry and gritty streets, modern loft buildings have brought new residents, retail and restaurants. The adjacent Toy District is a hive of activity packed with wholesale and retail shops selling silk flowers, perfume, DVDs, luggage and toys.

Central City East also oversees one of Downtown’s most challenging communities — Skid Row. The concentration of missions and public services brings with it some troubling homeless issues, including safety and street encampments. The local business improvement district has begun to improve conditions here with patrols and safety walks.

Visit centralcityeast.org.

CHINaTOWN

BOUNDARIES: Bernard Street to the north, Cesar Chavez Avenue to the south, North Main Street to the east, Yale Street to the west.

OVERVIEW: One of three major Chinatowns in California, this Downtown district was originally founded in 1880 around Alameda and Macy streets — near Olvera Street and Union Station. During its heyday, Chinatown boasted 200 buildings including three temples, an opera and newspaper. The Chinese, however, were prohibited from acquiring citizenship and property ownership, and with limits on immigration at the time, the district began to decline. From the early 1910s, Chinatown was to descend into a three-decade period of decay. The area was condemned to make way for a new rail station, a devastating decision that erased nearly every trace of its history. In the 1930s, Chinatown was relocated to its current location three blocks north, and became the first modern American district owned and planned from the ground up by Chinese.

Today, a dragon gate at Cesar Chavez Avenue marks the entrance to this district, which encompasses 16 square blocks. Broadway, Spring and Hill streets are the main thoroughfares through the area. Visitors and residents frequent the colorful malls, plazas and shops that carry everything from jewelry and antiques to herbs and clothing. The dining scene is also one of the most popular in the city, with cavernous dim sum houses, authentic Cantonese eateries and tasty soup shops. There is no shortage of special events and festivals throughout the year, and those interested in exploring the area’s history and culture in depth can sign up for one of the many tours of this distinct neighborhood.

Visit chinatownla.com.

CITY WEST

Boundaries: Temple Street to the north, Wilshire Boulevard to the south, the 110 Freeway to the east, Lucas Avenue to the west.

OVERVIEW: The 110 Freeway separates City West from Downtown proper, forming the district’s eastern bound-

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Boundaries: The 101 Freeway to the north, Second Street to the south, Los Angeles Street to the east, Grand Avenue to the west. overview: As its name implies, this district is home to a concentration of major public agencies employing a workforce of more than 90,000. It is defined by what city planners call the 10-Minute Diamond, a network of government and civic buildings accessible within a 10-minute walk of City Hall. The latter 27-story landmark — where the mayor and City Council do business — is instantly recognizable with its white marble façade and shining beacon. A weekly farmers market takes place on the south lawn.

The Civic Center is also home to numerous city, county and state structures, including the California Department of Transportation and the police headquarters. A few blocks west of City Hall is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, and a collection of county and federal courthouses that sees a non-stop flow of jurists and attorneys.

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Boundaries: Cesar Chavez Avenue to the north, the 101 Freeway to the south, Main Street to the west, Alameda Street to the east. overview: This is the birthplace of the city, and the lively El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument details the journey of its first settlers (the site is believed to be near the original pueblo settled in 1781 by 11 Mexican families).

The 44-acre park protects 27 historic structures, and 11 are open to the public, including the 1818 Avila Adobe (the oldest house in the city), Pico House, Italian Hall, the Chinese American Museum and the Plaza Catholic Church. A marketplace known as Olvera Street is a popular draw for locals and tourists who flock to the quaint strip to visit restaurants and vendors selling Mexican handicrafts and gifts.

Across the street from El Pueblo is the regional transit

hub Union Station. Built in 1939, it is considered the last of the great rail stations built in the U.S. The Mission-style terminus draws architecture and history buffs as well as commuters who ride the local subway system, Amtrak and the rail network. Thousands pass through the ornate station daily.

Visit elpueblo.lacity.org or olvera-street.com.

FASHION DISTRICT

Boundaries: Seventh Street to the north, the 10 Freeway to the south, San Pedro Street to the east, Main Street to the west. overview: Spread across 100 blocks, the Fashion District is the hub of the West Coast apparel industry. Visitors will find showrooms, wholesale marts, and alleyways crammed with an endless variety of clothing, accessories and fashionable goods at discount prices. It can be an overwhelming experience for the novice — especially with more than 1,000 stores — but bargain hunters quickly learn the ins and outs of the district. Its epicenters can be found at the wholesale California Market Center on Ninth Street; the Cooper Building at Ninth and Los Angeles streets, also wholesale; retail outlets between Los Angeles, Wall, Ninth and Pico open to the public; menswear stores dotting Los Angeles between Seventh and Ninth streets; and the district’s most popular destination, the bazaar-like Santee Alley (between Santee Street and Maple Avenue, from Olympic to 12th Street).

In addition to fashion, the district includes the sub-district known as the Los Angeles Flower District. Two major marts make up the largest flower market in the country, with an endless array of colorful blooms that supply the region’s floral industry. The public is invited to shop and browse for just a few dollars. With its creative energy and industrial space, the district has become home to a growing community of lofts and apartments.

Visit fashiondistrict.org and laflowerdistrict.com.

FIGUEROA CORRIDOR

Boundaries: The 10 Freeway to the north, Exposition Park to the south, Flower Street to the east, Vermont Avenue to the west. overview: This is Downtown’s southernmost corridor, encompassing a diverse collection of cultural and educational institutions. The University of Southern California is perhaps its largest and most recognized landmark, with more than 17,000 undergrad students. The adjacent Exposition Park features a slew of family-friendly attractions that include the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, the California African American Museum, and the California Science Center and IMAX Theater. All are built

around the sunken Exposition Park Rose Garden, a bloomfilled setting popular for weddings, picnics and photography enthusiasts. New housing projects, restaurants and retail are adding to the energy in the developing district, and city planners are working on a vision for a pedestrian and bikefriendly thoroughfare along Figueroa Street that would take advantage of the new population growth.

Info at (213) 746-9577 or figueroacorridor.org.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Boundaries: Approximately Third Street to the north, Eighth Street to the south, Olive Street to the east, the 110 Freeway to the west. overview: The high-rises that make up much of the Downtown skyline are found just south of Bunker Hill in the Financial District. This cluster of steel and glass sprung up during the 1970s and ’80s after city-zoning regulations raised the height limit of buildings. The tallest, and perhaps most iconic structure on the horizon, is the US Bank Tower (formerly Library Tower). At 73 stories, it is the tallest building west of the Mississippi. The district is also home to several major law, banking, accounting and development firms, as well as the historic Richard Riordan Central Library and the Millennium Biltmore Hotel.

Thanks to the increased momentum Downtown, activity now extends beyond the nine-to-five work day. Several clubs and restaurants draw visitors to the area, among them the hip rooftop of the Standard Hotel and the Elevate Lounge, planted on the 21st floor of the 811 Wilshire building. Loft-style housing brings even more activity with a growing residential populace, and shopping options include the outdoor mall FIGat7th, Macy’s Plaza and the underground 505 Flower. A new Target store is the newest and most exciting tenant on the horizon, a nod to the demand for services in the resurgent Downtown.

moved further from the city center, and the historic heart of the city was abandoned.

The district’s most noted landmarks include the gorgeous Bradbury Building, an architectural wonder with delicate ironwork, terra cotta and cage elevators, and the open-air Grand Central Market with its colorful assortment of produce and ethnic food stalls. A grouping of a dozen theaters within a seven-block area has been designated as the Broadway Theater District. Though several have been restored and are used regularly for live events, the remaining venues are in need of restoration. The development boom has swept the Historic Core, particularly with dozens of loft conversions that have breathed new life into many of its decaying structures, along with an influx of art galleries, restaurants and nightlife.

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HISTORIC CORE

Boundaries: Third Street to the north, Ninth Street to the south, Main Street to the east, Broadway to the west. overview: This is the historic heart of the city, and once served as the center of entertainment, business and retail.

The district houses an impressive collection of pre-1930s buildings, some of which have been restored while others languish in disrepair or serve as shabby shelter for ground-floor swap meets, churches and discount stores.

During its heyday starting in the late 1890s to the early 1930s, visitors could ride streetcars to the major department stores, catch live entertainment at the vaudeville and theater houses, or stroll bustling Broadway in their Sunday best. Ultimately, urban sprawl set in, Angelenos

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FURNITURE AND DECORATIVE ARTS DISTRICT

Boundaries: Bounded by the L.A. Mart to the northwest (at Broadway and Washington Boulevard), Central Avenue to the east, Florence Avenue to the south. overview: This five-square-mile district encompasses Downtown’s newly defined furniture manufacturing sector.

Its northern anchor is the 52-year-old L.A. Mart, an imposing structure housing more than 300 showrooms and 150 temporary exhibitors of gifts, furniture and home accessories to the trade. Bolstered by the influx of design-savvy loft dwellers, and the availability of buildings with ample showroom space and parking, the design business is thriving here. The district is establishing itself as a national player, with several well-attended design shows held every year.

Though most of these events are open only to trade professionals, the public is offered access on select weekends when goods can be had for a steal.

Info at (800) LAMART4 or lamart.com.

JEWELRY DISTRICT

Boundaries: Fifth Street to the north, Eighth Street to the south, Broadway to the east, Olive Street to the west. overview: The Jewelry District got its start in the early 1960s with a lone facility at Sixth and Hill streets. In 1983, the St. Vincent Jewelry Center, followed a few years later by the International Jewelry Center, helped solidify the district’s reputation as a serious player. Today, there are more than 3,000 wholesale and retail jewelers throughout 12 blocks offering below-retail prices on gold, diamonds, silver, platinum and precious gems. The bargain hunting takes place six days a week (almost everything is closed Sunday), and shoppers haggle over the best prices for watches, engagement rings and gold bracelets, among other things. Come lunchtime, visitors often head to a tiny alley next to St. Vin-

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cent’s, which offers a charming European-like setting with a handful of cafes and eateries. Those looking for a nostalgic Downtown dining experience head to the historic Clifton’s Cafeteria, a local institution that serves up comfort food in a vintage setting.

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LITTLE TOKYO

BOUNDARIES: Temple Street to the north, Fourth Street to the south, Alameda Street to the east, Main Street on the west.

OVERVIEW: Within roughly five city blocks, visitors to this tiny Downtown district will discover the cultural center for Japanese Americans in Southern California. Little Tokyo’s main stretch is First Street between San Pedro Street and

Central Avenue, where 13 of Little Tokyo’s historic buildings remain — it was declared a National Historic Landmark District in 1995. Established in the 1880s, the neighborhood has endured many setbacks, namely Japanese internment during World War II, a devastating city redevelopment plan in the 1970s that destroyed many of its original structures, and several demographic shifts over the decades.

Many flock here for the concentration of sushi bars, ramen houses, sweet shops and karaoke bars. The open-air Japanese Village Plaza is perhaps the busiest shopping hub, with everything from a grocery store to a Hello Kitty shop to mochi ice cream. Little Tokyo’s cultural heavy hitter is the Japanese American National Museum, which divides its exhibits between old and new, as well as the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center, the Geffen Con-

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In recent years, the addition of several large-scale apartment and loft projects have helped to boost the residential population and bring renewed street life to the district.

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W E L C O M E | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

OLD BANK DISTRICT

BOUNDARIES: Third Street to the north, Fifth Street to the south, Main Street to the east, Spring Street to the west.

OVERVIEW: As its name implies, the district once served as the city’s financial heart, which for a time was known as the Wall Street of the West. When these institutions fled the urban core, the abandoned structures sat largely empty until the city passed legislation making it easier to convert historic structures into housing. In 1999, the current Downtown loft boom had its start here thanks to Gilmore Associates, which created a residential hub at the intersection of Fourth and Main streets. Stately old bank buildings and historic offices that had been long abandoned or underused were transformed into lofts, bringing with them hundreds of new Downtown pioneers.

The redevelopment eventually spread to other parts of the Historic Core and Downtown, but the Old Bank District continues to have a special kind of community magic.

The sidewalks are filled with professionals, artists, young families, hipsters, dog walkers and, during the monthly Art Walk, thousands of curious Angelenos. There’s a laid back vibe that encourages sitting at a patio table, lingering over a beer at Pete’s Cafe and chatting with neighbors. From bookstores and video shops to a local market and bakery, independent retail is the rule rather than the exception. It all makes for a more colorful and organic streetscape, one that continues to make the Old Bank District a lively destination.

SOUTH PARK

BOUNDARIES: Ninth Street to the north, the 10 Freeway to the south, Broadway to the east, the 110 Freeway to the west.

OVERVIEW: In just over a decade, South Park has become one of Downtown’s biggest bragging points. Since the opening of Staples Center in 1999, the district’s streetscape and skyline have radically transformed. Development has exploded with stunning residential high-rises clad in glass and steel, a full-service supermarket, hip bars and new retail.

The nexus of South Park action is the billion-dollar sports and entertainment campus known as L.A. Live. Visitors flock here to attend concerts and events at the sleek Nokia Theater, dance salsa at the Conga Room, bowl a few sets at the Lucky Strike Lanes, dine at the collection of restaurants or catch a movie at the sprawling cineplex. The final piece of the project opened last year with the JW Marriott and the Ritz-Carlton Residences and hotel — a stunning new tower marking the southern Downtown vista.

ARCHITECTURE

A Bricks-and-Mortar Tour of Downtown

››

Downtown Los Angeles is the historic heart of the city, and its architectural treasures — both old and new — offer a fascinating look at where it has been and where it is going. The area boasts the first and largest historic theater district to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and is home to a dozen jaw-dropping movie palaces built between 1910 and 1931. City landmarks such as the stunning Bradbury Building, the iconic City Hall and the Art Deco beauty, the Eastern Columbia Building, all create a sense of place and identity. So too do the modern structures that continue to rise across the Downtown landscape, from the steel Walt Disney Concert Hall to the stark Spanish cathedral to the 72-story U.S. Bank Tower. Just take a look around — Downtown’s legacy, past and present, can be seen in its bricks and mortar.

HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE AND SITES Angels Flight Railway

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

Eastern Columbia Building

This popular landmark ferries passengers up and down Bunker Hill’s steep incline on twin orange and black cars.

Angels Flight opened in 1901, transporting residents of the Victorian homes above to the shopping and financial districts below on Broadway, Hill and Spring streets. The tiny funicular operated until 1969, when the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency put it in storage with a promise that it would be reinstalled in a few years. It wasn’t until nearly three decades later that Angels Flight was pulled out of retirement and reopened across from Grand Central Market, just a half-block south of its original location next to the Third Street tunnel. Tickets for the nostalgic railway are 25 cents.

Between Third and Fourth streets on Hill Street.

Arcade Theatre Originally named the Pantages, this 1910 vaudeville theater was the earliest of its kind and helped establish the district. Architecture firm Morgan and Walls designed it in the English Music Hall style, though it has undergone exterior changes. A midblock retail arcade passes between Broadway and Spring.

534 S. Broadway.

Bradbury Building

The Los Angeles Theatre 12

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The 1893 Bradbury Building is one of Downtown’s most famous landmarks. Both its history and lore play a part in the mystique surrounding the elaborate structure. Mining millionaire Lewis Bradbury commissioned the office building to stand as the ultimate symbol of his vision. Initially, he hired noted architect Sumner Hunt to design the space; unsatisfied with his design, however, Bradbury secured one of Hunt’s draftsmen, George Wyman, to lead the project. As the tale goes, on advice from his deceased brother via Ouija board, the untried Wyman agreed to design the structure. He was heavily inspired by the 1887 best-selling book Looking Backward by Edward Bellamy, a Victorian’s view of what a futuristic building would look like in the year 2000. The resulting design has been called a blend of Eclectic Victorian Pre-Modern. The traditional sandstone and brick façade give way to a dramatic interior bathed in light from the skylight above. The finishes include ornate ironwork, marble staircases, glazed brick walls, Mexican tile floors, polished wood and cage elevators that still carry passengers up the building’s five flights. Restored in the early 1990s, the Bradbury Building is the oldest commercial office structure remaining Downtown.

Open weekdays 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; weekends 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Guests can enter from the Broadway or Third Street doors, and for a small donation, ride the elevators to the top. [Na-

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Walt Disney Concert Hall

tional Historic Landmark; listed in the National Register of Historic Places; L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument] 304 S. Broadway.

Cameo Theatre Built in 1910 as Clune’s Broadway, the Cameo was the longest continually operating movie theater in California until it closed in the early 1990s. It was designed with Beaux Arts and Italian Renaissance details, and originally seated 775 people. It is now used for retail and storage.

528 S. Broadway.

City Hall It is hard to imagine that City Hall was the tallest structure in the city until 1957. In fact, when it was built in 1928, there was a 150-foot height limit on buildings. But the seat of city government was granted an exemption, and has since become an icon in film and television — it served as The Daily Planet headquarters in TV’s “Superman.” Designed by architects John Parkinson, Albert C. Martin and John C. Austin, City Hall was modeled after the mausoleum at Halicarnassus and blends Classical, Mediterranean and Moderne styles. The structure has been restored and retrofitted to withstand earthquakes, and the shining Lindbergh Beacon once again crowns the tower. Visitors can get a breathtaking view of the city from atop the Tom Bradley Observation Deck on the 27th floor. Free docent-led tours are available weekdays. [L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument] 200 N. Spring St., (213) 485-2121.

Coca-Cola Bottling Company This working bottling plant is considered one of the finest examples of Streamline Moderne design, and certainly is one of the quirkiest. Built in 1937, the edifice resembles an ocean liner inside and out, complete with promenade decks, ship bridges, a catwalk and portholes. Three giant Coke sculptures were added to its corner niches in 1941.

Though it is not open to the public, you can still appreciate its unique exterior. [L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument] 1334 S. Central Ave.

Doheny Mansion Estelle Doheny, widow of oil baron Edward, bequeathed her Gothic Renaissance estate to the Catholic women’s school, Mount St. Mary’s College, in 1958. She and Edward arrived here in 1901, and systematically acquired nine Victorian mansions during their nearly six decades in residence.

They created a gated community called Chester Place, which included their own Doheny Mansion. This showcase home features a marble-pillared great hall, a Pompeian Room with imported Siena marble and a Tiffany iridescent glass dome. The grounds include a wigwam hut where Do14

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heny holed up with lawyer Henry O’Melveny, of Downtown firm O’Melveny & Myers, during the Teapot Dome scandal — the Watergate of its time. [National Register of Historic Places LA Historic-Cultural Monument] The Doheny Mansion is at 8 Chester Place on the Doheny Campus of Mount St. Mary’s College. For tour information, (213) 477-2962.

Eastern Columbia Building When this Art Deco edifice opened in 1930, it was considered the height of opulence. Designed by architect Claud Beelman, the Eastern Columbia served as the retail tower for the Eastern Outfitting Company and the Columbia Outfitting Company. At 13 stories, it was one of the largest buildings constructed in the area before WWII. Its trademark turquoise terra cotta façade trimmed with deep blue and gold adds unmistakable flair to the skyline, as does the four-sided clock tower emblazoned with the name Eastern in neon. Decorative motifs include sunbursts, chevrons, zigzags, geometric shapes and other stylized designs.

Though it took just nine months to build, the Eastern Columbia continues to stand as one of Downtown’s timeless architectural gems. The building is now home to 147 modern loft condos. [Listed in the National Register of Historic Places; LA Historic-Cultural Monument] 849 S. Broadway, easterncolumbialofts.com.

Fire Station #30 This 1913 fire station was one of two segregated fire stations in Los Angeles between 1924 and 1955, serving the Central Avenue African American community. The beautifully restored facility retains the original floor tiles, poles and kitchen out-building. It was designated a cultural heritage site in 1985 and is now the African American Firefighter Museum. Open Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and Sunday 1-4 p.m. Admission is free.

1401 S. Central Ave., (213) 744-1730, aaffmuseum.org.

Globe Theatre Opened in 1913 as the Morosco, this Morgan and Walldesigned structure was made for stage productions, unlike its vaudeville peers. It later became the city’s first newsreel theater. It now houses a nightclub.

744 S. Broadway.

Go For Broke Monument Built to honor Japanese American soldiers who fought in World War II, this Little Tokyo monument near the corner of Temple and Alameda streets was dedicated in 1999. A 9-foot-high, circular black wall is inscribed with the names of 16,126 veterans who served overseas. Its name comes from the battle cry of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team,

the all-Japanese American unit. They went “for broke” as they fought on the battlefields of Italy, faced fierce Nazi resistance in the Rhineland campaign in France, and cracked the Gothic Line in the Apennine Mountains. The unit suffered the highest casualty rate and was the most decorated in military history. Community volunteers can be found Tues.-Sun. from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to explain the fascinating background in person.

160 N. Central Ave., goforbroke.org.

Herald Examiner Building Shuttered since the William Randolph Hearst-owned newspaper folded in 1989, this Mission-Revival structure is still a sight to behold. Designed by the state’s first registered female architect, Julia Morgan, the Herald Examiner opened in 1914 and featured lavish Moorish details — eye-catching yellow and blue mosaic domes on each corner, towers flanking the entry and curved archways. Though it has been mostly used for filming, a loft and office project at the site is under consideration. [LA Historic-Cultural Monument] 1111 S. Broadway.

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L.A. Times Building This 1935 granite and limestone Moderne building houses the city’s major daily newspaper. It was designed by Gordon Kaufmann, who also worked on the Santa Anita Racetrack and Vegas-adjacent Hoover Dam. Three allegorical figures symbolizing the paper’s ethic — Father Time, Spirit of the Times and Gutenberg — adorn the building. The circular lobby features a nearly 6-foot revolving aluminum sphere set atop a mosaic compass inlaid with 13 types of marble from around the world. Of note are the 10-foot-high murals

by Hugo Ballin.

202 W. First St.

Loew’s State Theatre Built in 1921 in the Spanish Renaissance style, this 2,380-seat theater boasts the largest brick façade of the 12 Broadway theaters. Judy Garland got her start on this stage and it hosted several popular vaudeville acts. In the 1960s it screened Spanish language films. It is now occupied by a church.

703 S. Broadway.

Los Angeles Theatre Arguably Broadway’s most lavish theater, the Los Angeles has undergone extensive renovation in recent years. Built

by H.L. Gumbiner at a cost of more than $1 million — at the time the most expensive theater ever built, on a perseat basis — tickets originally cost 25 cents. The ornate French Baroque-inspired interior features a six-story lobby, 2,000-seat auditorium, gilded mirrors and cove-lit murals.

Constructed during the Great Depression, Gumbiner struggled to finish it. Charlie Chaplin stepped in to complete the project and premiered his silent classic City Lights in the venue in 1931. The theater is closed except for occasional tours and special events.

615 S. Broadway, (213) 629-2939, losangelestheatre.com.

Mayan Theatre Designed by Morgan, Walls & Clements, this 1927 edifice is cloaked in intricate Mayan decorations by Francisco Cornejo.

The multi-colored, bas-relief façade features ornate characters, symbols and hieroglyphs, all part of the Mayan revival craze of the 1920s. Though it now houses a salsa nightclub, the 1,491-seat theater was built to host live musical and comedy presentations. [L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument] 1038 S. Hill St., clubmayan.com.

visit www.ChinatownLA.com

Millennium Biltmore Hotel The 11-story Biltmore was designed in the Italian-SpanLOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.cOm | A R C H I T E C T U R E

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ish Renaissance style by Schultze & Weaver, the firm responsible for the storied Waldorf-Astoria in New York.

When it opened in 1923, the 1,000-room hotel was the largest and grandest west of Chicago. Its vaulted ceilings feature frescoes by Italian master Giovanni Smeraldi, whose work also graces the Vatican and the White House; the opulent lobby contains a Moorish beam ceiling and a giant Spanish baroque staircase leading to a 350-foot-long galleria. Today, the hotel has 683 rooms, some of which have housed kings, presidents and celebrities. In 1960, John F. Kennedy was nominated for president here; in 1927 the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded; and the first sketch of the Oscar statuette was later scrawled on a Biltmore napkin. Don’t miss the Gallery Bar and a hallway display of

historic photos. [LA Historic-Cultural Monument] 506 S. Grand Ave., millenniumhotels.com.

The Richard J. Riordan Central Library

Million Dollar Theatre Located across from the landmark Bradbury Building, this ornate Churrigueresque theater anchors the district on the north. One of only two regularly operating venues, the 2,000-seat theater underwent a $1 million renovation to bring back some of its former luster. The Million Dollar was the first movie palace commissioned by legendary showman Sid Grauman, and opened Feb. 1, 1918, with the debut of the cowboy film The Silent Man. The theater was designed by movie house luminary William Woolett and Downtown architect Albert C. Martin. Its exterior is marked by a terra cotta arch with columns, swags and medallions.

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The interior resembles an 18th century Mexican cathedral.

It now hosts film screenings and live music.

307 S. Broadway, milliondollartheater.com.

Orpheum Theatre Celebrating its 85th anniversary, the 2,000-seat Orpheum was the first of the historic theaters to reopen as a modern live music and film venue following a $3.5 million rehab. It is one of the oldest and most ornate theaters in Downtown, and was one of the city’s principal movie houses for nearly 40 years. Designed by preeminent theater architect G. Albert Lansburgh in the French Gothic style, it features a marble terrazo floor, marble walls, bronze fixtures, silk wall coverings and stunning chandeliers.

842 S. Broadway, laorpheum.com.

Oviatt Building Widely considered the first Art Deco structure in Los Angeles, this building opened in 1928 as one of the most prestigious and expensive haberdasheries in the city. The Italian Romanesque building featured more than 30 tons of glass by designer Rene Lalique (most has been lost or sold over the years, but a few original pieces remain in the panels atop the lobby columns). The stunning 10-room penthouse was home to shoe magnate James Oviatt and his wife until the early 1970s, and signed photos of the couple’s friends and clients are still hanging — John Barrymore, Errol Flynn, Leslie Howard and Howard Hughes, among others. The original site of the haberdashery is now home to the restaurant Cicada. The penthouse is a popular location for weddings and special events, with burled mahogany furniture and cabinets, parquet wood floors in geometric patterns, imported fabrics and Lalique glass. [Listed in the National Register of Historic Places; LA Historic-Cultural Monument] 617 S. Olive St., oviatt.com.

COMING 2011

Pacific Electric Building

It’s happening downtown.

1513 South Grand Ave. Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90015 (213) 742.5784

www.lacwh.org 16

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Completed in 1908 by Henry Huntington, the nine-story Pacific Electric was the largest building west of Chicago when it opened, and was considered by many to be the city’s first skyscraper. It was designed by architect Thornton Fitzhugh with elements of the popular Richardsonian Romanesque and Beaux Arts style. The top floors housed the exclusive Jonathan Club, and the stunning eighth floor rotunda is still intact. Both office building and terminal, L.A.’s trolley cars passed through this bustling terminus. When the Pacific Electric Railway disbanded in 1950, the train station was gutted for parking, and by the 1980s the offices sat mostly empty except for filming. Remarkably, many original features survived, including the lustrous white marble corridors,

hand-painted mosaic tiles and Romanesque arches. It has since been converted into loft-style apartments. [LA HistoricCultural Monument; National Register of Historic Places] 610 S. Main St., pelofts.com.

Palace Theatre This 1911 structure dominated the vaudeville circuit for 40 years and is the oldest remaining Orpheum theater in the country. Located on Main Street for more than 20 years, it moved to Broadway to keep pace with development trends.

Every major vaudeville star on the Orpheum circuit performed here. While the exterior is styled after a Florentine Renaissance palazzo, the interior features elegant French details such as garland-draped columns, pastoral murals, and a lovely color scheme of pastels. These days it is used mostly for film and television productions.

630 S. Broadway.

Rialto Theatre Built in 1917 by theater impresario J.M. Quinn as a nickelodeon, the Rialto was added to Sid Grauman’s growing empire in 1919. It originally sat 1,000 and once sported a Greek revival pedimented façade that was torn down in the 1930s. Sadly, virtually none of the original architectural details remain, save for the faded marquee which is the only part of the building that is landmarked (it is the longest one on Broadway). The rundown structure houses retail.

812 S. Broadway.

Richard J. Riordan Central Library Constructed in 1926, this Central City library is the last work of American architect Bertram Goodhue, and was built to mimic ancient Egyptian design. The modern skyscraperlike component bears Egyptian, Roman, Byzantine and Islamic influences, as well as Spanish Colonial and Revival touches. Limestone sculptures depicting various disciplines and literary figures adorn the building’s exterior, and a high-domed rotunda features an illuminated globe and 12 murals detailing the history of California. The grounds of the library are equally rich with sculpture, gardens and fountains. Despite being proposed for demolition in the mid-1970s, and ravaged by fires in 1986, the structure has survived to become one of the city’s most treasured institutions. [L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument; listed in the National Register of Historic Places] 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7000 or lapl.org/central.

Roxie Theatre Opened in 1932, this Art Deco theater was the last major venue built in Downtown. A small tower boasts a vertical losangelesdowntown.com | A R C H I T E C T U R E

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marquee. It closed in 1989 and is occupied by ground floor retail.

518 S. Broadway.

Tower Theatre This French Renaissance venue was S. Charles Lee’s first theater, and perhaps one of his most challenging — he had to squeeze 1,000 seats onto the tiny parcel (it is one of Broadway’s smallest theaters). It was the first movie palace in Downtown wired for sound films. Metropolitan took over the theater in the 1960s and operated it until its lease expired several years ago. It has been used for filming since the 1990s. It is closed to the public, though the glazed terra cotta exterior offers plenty to see from stained glass to a vertical marquee to sculptures depicting directors and actresses.

802 S. Broadway, towertheatrela.com.

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Union Station This 1939 transportation hub was the last of the great train stations built in the nation. When it was proposed, Angelenos narrowly voted to approve the project, which required demolition of much of the city’s original Chinatown. Union Station was partially designed by the renowned father and son duo John Parkinson and Donald B. Parkinson (Los Angeles City Hall), and the notable Jan van der Linden, among others, assisted. It merges styles such as Art Deco, Spanish Revival, Mission and Streamline Moderne, with a smattering of Moorish detail. The gorgeous high ceiling is dotted with Deco light fixtures; the lower walls are clad in travertine marble, and the upper sections are covered with acoustic tile. It still serves as the city’s pulsing transit center. [L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument; listed in the National Register of Historic Places] 800 N. Alameda St.

United Artists Theatre This elaborate 1927 Spanish Gothic theater was founded

by Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks and Charlie Chaplin to screen world premieres. Much of the interior (domed mirrored ceiling and murals of the actors) has been restored over the years and it is home to the late Gene Scott’s Los Angeles University Cathedral. The 2,200-seat theater was designed by architect C. Howard Crane and Walker and Eisen, who were inspired by Pickford’s love of European castles.

933 S. Broadway.

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Modeled after a Baroque church in Barcelona, this is one of L.A.’s last remaining 19th century buildings. Built in 1876

by Ezra F. Kysor, the cathedral was a landmark in the city’s early days. In 1922 it was enlarged and its façade was clad in Indiana limestone. It features neoclassic pilasters crowned with an 83-foot bell tower and a dramatic cupola that can be seen from blocks away. The cathedral once housed the Los Angeles Archdiocese, but in 1996, after suffering earthquake damage two years prior, the Archdiocese began demolition. It became the focus of a major preservation battle and was eventually saved from the wrecking ball. It has been converted into a spectacular special events center, and another structure on the site houses the Little Tokyo Branch Library. [L.A. Historic-Cultural Monument] 114 E. Second St., vibianala.com.

MODERN ARCHITECTURE Caltrans Headquarters This 13-story regional transportation headquarters was designed by noted architect Thom Mayne at a cost of $190 million for the California Department of Transportation. The modern structure houses some 2,300 employees and fea-

A R C H I T E C T U R E | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Bradbury Building tures a bold yet environmentally friendly design — 2,000 window scrims conserve energy and also change the building’s appearance throughout the day as they move with the sun. The building’s super-graphic street address rises four stories above Main Street while an eye-catching neon sculpture on the north side alludes to traffic and the local car culture. There is also an outdoor plaza with public art and a gallery.

100 S. Main St., dot.ca.gov.

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels Built at a cost of $195 million, Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo was commissioned to create an 11-story, 3,000seat house of worship that reflected the region’s heritage and historic missions. His modern interpretation features stark lines, concrete, glowing alabaster walls, 30-foot-tall bronze doors and copious sculpture and art. The building, which opened in 2002, was the first Roman Catholic cathedral constructed in the West in three decades. It was built to last 500 years and withstand an 8.0 earthquake. Beneath the cathedral is the crypt mausoleum — the largest in existence — clad in Spanish limestone and boasting stained glass. Free weekday tours at 1 p.m.

555 W. Temple St., (213) 680-5200, olacathedral.org.

High School for the Visual and Performing Arts Located on the northern end of Grand Avenue, this $232 million, eye-catching modern high school opened in September 2009 with some 1,700 students. The design features a 140-foot helix-wrapped tower that some say resembles a roller coaster. A library is housed in a cone-like structure, with its pointed top sliced off and a skylight that lets natural light beam down on readers. The school is part of an effort to remake Grand Avenue into a cultural corridor.

At 450 N. Grand Ave., (213) 217-8600.

Los Angeles Center Studios This 12-story building served as the Unocal oil headquarters for 40 years. Designed by architect William Pereira, the Tower building was completed in 1958 and features classic elements of vintage Modernism such as black terrazzo floors, and glass and aluminum walls. In 1996 the company moved to El Segundo, leaving the 20-acre campus to an uncertain fate. Three years later, the Unocal building staged a comeback as a filming hub with six state-of-theart sound stages. It was the first movie studio to be built in

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the area since the 1920s.

1201 W. Fifth St., (213) 534-3000, lacenterstudios.com.

Museum of Contemporary Art, Grand Avenue Though most venture here to view the stunning art collection inside, the museum commands its share of attention. Completed in 1986 by architect Arata Isozaki, this post-modern facility sports a red sandstone façade with geometric forms, glass-clad pyramids and distinctive skylights. The north and south wings unite via a copper barrel vault that forms an entryway to the museum.

250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 626-6222, moca.org.

SCI-Arc Occupying the 1907 Santa Fe freight depot in the Arts District, this innovative architecture school is as long as the Empire State Building is tall. At a quartermile in length, the Southern California Institute of Architecture is a sight to behold with students going to and fro on scooters and skateboards. The reinforced concrete structure had been abandoned and covered in graffiti until 2002 when it morphed into a state-of-the-art, 30,000-square-foot campus with studios, workshops, seminar rooms and a library.

960 E. Third St., (213) 613-2200, sciarc.edu.

US Bank Tower Formerly known as Library Tower, this 72-story structure was designed by architect Henry Cobb of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners. Its biggest claim to

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fame is its height: It is the tallest building between Chicago and Hong Kong, the tallest in the state and the tallest with a helipad. Completed in 1989 for an estimated cost of $350 million, the modern glass and steel structure anchors the Downtown skyline with its illuminated crown (lit up with green and red during the holidays or purple and gold when the Lakers make it to the playoffs) and terraced glass façade. Designed to withstand an 8.3 temblor, it has become an iconic part of the Los Angeles skyline and is frequently used in filming.

633 W. Fifth St.

Walt Disney Concert Hall This sinuous steel concert hall atop Bunker Hill quickly became a Los Angeles landmark following its 2003 opening. Home to the L.A. Philharmonic, the $274 million project was conceived by architect Frank Gehry with the help of computer-aided design. All curves and no right angles, it was a complex undertaking that took 16 years to fund, design and construct. The exterior is clad in brushed stainless steel, with mirror-like steel panels wrapping the Founders Room and Children’s Amphitheater. The interior features handsome Douglas fir ceilings that billow like sails and an intimate 2,265-seat amphitheater that provides fascinating people watching and state-of-the-art acoustics. The stunning pipe organ is a spiky centerpiece of the hall. While a tour will give you a glimpse of the exterior, gardens and common areas, only a concert ticket will let you get up close and personal in the hall.

111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211, musiccenter.org.

Red Hot Chili Peppers at Club Nokia

The permanent exhibit Ecosystems at the California Science Center

California Plaza Watercourt

X Games

Don Quixote at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

diversions

Exploring Downtown’s Parks, Performing Arts, Culture and Nightlife

››

Bunker Hill is the epicenter of Downtown culture and performing and visual arts, offering an exciting lineup of classical symphony, opera, theater and museums. Across Downtown’s districts, nightlife options abound for every taste, from mellow wine bars to energetic dance clubs to chic lounges.

PERFORMING ARTS

Downtown’s performing arts scene offers two major venues: the Music Center, a campus that boasts four venues — the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson Theatre and Mark Taper Forum; and L.A. Live, the sprawling entertainment complex that spreads out around Staples Center. In addition to these two apexes, there are a handful of impressive mid-sized venues catering to a multitude of tastes.

Club Nokia

Music Venues

This intimate music venue at L.A. Live seats 2,300, with some of the best acoustics in town. You’ll find emerging music acts, cultural shows and private events.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com.

eclectic world music (jazz, African, chamber music), international dance and performance troupes, and movie nights.

350 S. Grand Ave., (213) 687-2159 or grandperformances.org.

Nokia Theatre

Located at L.A. Live, this sleek venue features pan-Latin cuisine and dancing to everything from salsa to soul. It’s often called the “House of Blues for Latin music.”

800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-0162 or congaroom.com.

This mid-sized venue boasts the largest stage in Southern California, as well as a 7,100-seat configuration in which no guest is further than 220 feet from the action. Nokia hosts 120 events a year, including music, family, dance and comedy acts, and awards and special TV shows.

777 Chick Hearn Court, across from Staples Center.

Visit nokiatheatrelalive.com.

Grand Performances at California Plaza

Orpheum Theatre

Amid dancing fountains and twinkling pools, this non-profit group hosts an exciting slate of free summer entertainment that’s family-friendly. Crowds flock to Cal Plaza for a lineup of

Now celebrating its 85th year, this 2,000-seat former vaudeville house has been restored with all the modern amenities. Still intact is the stunning Wurlitzer organ, one of

Conga Room

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Orpheum Theatre only three original theater organs left in Southern California.

From live acts to “American Idol” tapings, the Orpheum has once again become a premiere venue.

842 S. Broadway, (877) 677-4386 or laorpheum.com.

Staples Center

In this 200-seat state-of-the-art theater, music fans come to see their favorite artists up close and personal. Often, musicians appear for a Q&A, then stick around to play solo sets.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org.

Located next to the Convention Center, Staples Center opened in 1999 as the first component of the glitzy L.A. Live sports and entertainment district. In addition to its four sports franchises (L.A. Lakers, Kings, Clippers and Sparks), the arena hosts everything from boxing matches to rock concerts to red carpet awards shows.

1111 S. Figueroa St. Box office (213) 742-7340 and info at staplescenter.com.

Pershing Square

Walt Disney Concert Hall

This pirate-themed spot is a popular hangout that has hosted local blues outfits, DJs, rockers and even the rockabilly set.

316 W. Second St., (213) 680-2600 or theredwoodbar.com.

Designed to be one of the most acoustically sophisticated concert halls in the world, this 3.6-acre complex debuted in 2003 atop Bunker Hill. Today, it is one of Downtown’s most recognizable landmarks — it is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by Gustavo Dudamel, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, headed by local maestro Grant Gershon. Architect Frank Gehry is said to have drawn inspiration from the look of a ship sailing at full mast when he designed this hall. The billowy stainless steel curves of the exterior and blonde wood ceiling of the 2,265-seat auditorium are both beautiful and functional, creating a stunning clarity of sound that showcases every note.

111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or musiccenter.org.

Smaller Sound Stages Bordello Expect dancing girls, cabaret and classic burlesque acts in this intimate club. The provocative space, which once served as a brothel back in the day, is decked out in lots of red velvet and sultry lighting. An eclectic mix of bands fills out the lineup.

901 E. First St., (213) 687-3766 or bordellobar.com.

Colburn School This renowned performing arts school is often referred to as the “Julliard of the West.” More than 1,700 music, dance and drama students study with some 110 teachers. Both faculty and students, who range in age from infant to adult, perform more than 150 free public concerts year-round — everything from one-player recitals to an orchestral extravaganza. These shows unfold in a handful of onsite halls, including the famed Zipper, which is renowned for pristine acoustics.

200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool.edu.

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Grammy Museum Sound Stage

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Downtown’s central park hosts a regular schedule of free concerts, movie screenings, art exhibits and holiday events, including a winter ice skating rink. Pack a picnic or pick up some food from a local vendor.

Bounded by Hill, Olive, Fifth and Sixth streets. (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/pershingsquare.

Redwood Bar & Grill

Second Street Jazz For a small bar and restaurant, this Little Tokyo outfit packs in a lot of local music. It runs the gamut — jazz, blues, hip hop, soul, rock, pop and R&B. 366 E. Second St., (213) 680-0047 or 2ndstjazz.com.

The Smell Though it’s located in the middle of a nondescript alley, the Smell is a friendly, all-ages refuge. The non-profit, volunteer-run space isn’t just for performances — it’s a hangout and a postmodern salon for emerging musicians and progressive artists. Tickets are generally $5.

247 S. Main St., thesmell.org.

Larger Theater Houses Ahmanson Theatre One of two venues that make up the Center Theatre Group (CTG), the Ahmanson boasts the largest theatrical subscription base on the West Coast and is the largest of CTG’s spaces. Built in 1967, the theater features a flexible 2,000-person seating capacity for a variety of genres — dramas, musicals, comedies, classic revivals and even touring Broadway productions. The 2011 season kicks off in October with a bold slate featuring four major musicals (including two current Broadway hits).

135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or taperahmanson.com.

Dorothy Chandler Pavilion Built in 1964, the Pavilion still makes an impact on visitors with its imposing crystal chandeliers, wide curving staircases, and one of the largest stages in the country. Located

Conga Room 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 745-0162, congaroom.com Located at L.A. Live, this is where salsa dancing (and lessons), good sangria from three bars, and live bands come together in a sleek space that combines the vibes of Barcelona and Mexico City.

Corkbar 403 W. 12th St. (213) 746-0050, corkbar.com This stylish South Park wine bar on the ground floor of the Evo condo building proudly serves California wines — small Paso Robles vintners and the Napa heavy hitters.

There are flights available, and bottles to go.

Angel City Brewing 216 S. Alameda St. (at Traction Ave.) (213) 622-1261, angelcitybrewing.com This longtime brewery recently set up shop in Downtown’s Arts District. To sample their wares, visit the industrial-hip beer hall complete with sausages and gourmet food trucks Thurs.-Sun. The Association 110 E. Sixth St. (213) 627-7385, theassociation-la.com Look for the black door with a lion’s head knocker and you’ve found this cheeky, English-inspired lounge. Inside, mixologists work like mad scientists behind a 60-foot bar crafting cocktails from ingredients like absinthe, cardamom, cava, ginger beer and fresh squeezed juices. There’s a live DJ Thurs.-Sat.

Caña Rum Bar 714 S. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 745-7090, canarumbar.com This “membership” bar with a vintage Latin feel serves handmade rum cocktails, jumbo punch bowls and lots of tastings. There’s a relaxing patio with a fireplace.

Casey’s Irish Bar & Grille 613 S. Grand Ave. (213) 629-2353, bigcaseys.com Venture just below street level into Downtown’s favorite Irish pub, replete with tin ceilings and warm, dark wood.

Cozy up to the mahogany bar or take a pint out onto the covered patio.

Exchange LA 618 S. Spring St. (213) 627-8070, exchangela.com Built in 1930, this former stock exchange is now in its second incarnation as a nightclub. The Art Deco-inspired space is big, loud and ideal for dancing the night away.

Belasco Theatre 1050 S. Hill St. (213) 746-5670, thebelasco.com Inside the historic Belasco Theatre you’ll find a newly minted event space and dance club. It also houses Vintage 1050, a wine and tapas bar with happy hour specials, sushi, burgers and a handful of upscale entrees.

Broadway Bar 830 S. Broadway (213) 614-9909, 213nightlife.com The neon sign outside hints at the ’40s supper club vibe.

The low-lit interior sports a 50-foot circular bar, tiered lounge and a location that lures concertgoers from the Orpheum Theatre next door.

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Edison 108 W. Second St. (213) 613-0000, edisondowntown.com The Edison is a former power plant-turned-vintage cocktail lounge. Entertainment runs the gamut from eclectic bands to Goth acrobats. The main attraction is the space itself, a sumptuous and stunning interior that still retains many of the architectural and mechanical artifacts of its former life.

Be sure to dress nicely.

Elevate Lounge 811 Wilshire Blvd., 21st floor (213) 623-7100, elevatelounge.com It may feel like an office building on the elevator ride up, but once inside guests are transported thanks to the wall-towall views, modern Japanese aesthetic and DJs spinning nightly. Grab a drink from one of the two bars and hit the dance floor.

Bar 107 107 W. Fourth St. (213) 625-7382, myspace.com/bar107 Longtime Downtowners have been throwing back stiff shots and Pabst tall boys for years at this local watering hole. Old favorites course through the speakers, and there’s an impressive collection of kitsch decorating the dimly-lit space.

Bordello 901 E. First St. (213) 687-3766, bordellobar.com This provocative space features a sultry slate of burlesque and cabaret, as well as live jazz, blues and European club music. In keeping with its history as a former house of ill repute, Bordello is decked out with swaths of lush scarlet, ornate black chandeliers, heart-shaped chairs and velvet love seats.

The Down & Out 501 S. Spring St. (213) 489-7800 On the bottom of the Alexandria Hotel, a diverse crowd fills this cavernous dive bar. The walls are decorated with celebrity mug shots, games are usually on TV, and there are plenty of beer and drink specials.

Club 740 753 S. Spring St. (213) 627-6277, 740la.com This 1920s theater has been turned into a three-level, 40,000-square-foot dance club with gold balconies, go-go girls and skybox lounges. The dance floor is huge and DJs play a mix of current and house music.

Cole’s 118 E. Sixth St. (213) 622-4090, colesfrenchdip.com It’s still home to the famed French Dip sandwich, but the historic Cole’s also serves as a modern saloon that slings excellent whiskey drinks and throwback cocktails. There’s ambiance aplenty, with original glass, penny tiles, old photos and a 40-foot mahogany bar.

D I V E R S I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

The Falls 626 S. Spring St. (213) 612-0072, thefallslounge.com Adding to the nightlife collection along Spring Street, this vintage-glam bar has a spot-on mix of great bartenders, good tunes, an eclectic crowd and chic ambiance. It’s just the kind of place where you want to hang out.

Far Bar 347 E. First St., (behind the Chop Suey Café) (213) 617-9990, farbarla.com Tucked behind the Chop Suey Café, this tiny spot’s main draw is its lovely, brick-walled patio strung with twinkling lights. Enter from the narrow, almost hidden alleyway.

Figueroa Hotel 939 S. Figueroa St. (213) 627-8971, figueroahotel.com The Moroccan-inspired Figueroa Hotel is an unexpected oasis just a block north of Staples Center. Lounge poolside

Onyx Restaurant, Lounge & Bar

Icon 1248 Figueroa St. (213) 867-6000, iconlaultralounge.com Located across from Staples Center, this sprawling new club and party space sits on the second floor with two decks, cool views, a dance floor, cabana-lined rooftop bar and cigar lounge. There’s happy hour from 4-7 p.m. and the nightclub opens from 10 p.m.-3 a.m.

J Restaurant & Lounge 1119 S. Olive St. (213) 746-7746, jloungela.com This sprawling South Park lounge offers signature cocktails, cigars, beer and about 20 wines by the glass.

There’s a 10,000-square-foot outdoor patio, a fire pit, and an imposing granite bar.

L.A. Brewing Co. 756 S. Broadway labrewingco.com Sample from the 100 beers on tap, served at a chilly 22 degrees. Munch on burgers, steaks and finger foods while you watch the game or hang out.

or grab a spot on the low, fabric-hung beds where you can take in all the exotic eye-candy. This is the perfect place for summer cocktails.

First & Hope 701 W. First St. (213) 617-8555, firstandhope.com This Art Deco-inspired supper club features a chic bar serving inventive cocktails and well-made classics, as well as a back room where sultry cabaret singers croon.

Entertainment usually starts Friday and shimmies into the weekend.

Gallery Bar, Millennium Biltmore Hotel 506 S. Grand Ave. (213) 624-1011, millenniumhotels.com There’s an Old-World elegance to this historic hotel bar, which has become a hip destination in its own right thanks to a storied history, veteran bartenders and romantic setting.

Golden Gopher 417 W. Eighth St. (213) 614-8001, 213nightlife.com Exposed brick walls, chandeliers and golden gopher lamps augment a rocking jukebox, cheap Pabst Blue Ribbon and an outdoor lounge for the city’s holdout smokers.

Grand Star 943 N. Broadway (213) 626-2285, grandstarjazzclub.com The Grand Star is a vintage Chinatown favorite. Order up a wicked rum drink and soak in the kitsch. There’s lively karaoke and a lineup of jazz, hip hop and R&B. Hank’s Bar 840 S. Grand Ave. (213) 623-7718 Founded by the late great Henry “Hank” Holzer (a former boxer) on the ground floor of the Stillwell Hotel, this is one of Downtown’s last good dive bars. There’s free popcorn, a great jukebox and the drinks won’t break the bank.

La Cita 336 S. Hill St. (213) 687-7111, lacitabar.com If you’re in the mood for an authentic Mexican ranchero bar that welcomes every demographic, then get your drink on here. Booze is cheap, DJs rock, and the covered patio is surprisingly relaxing.

Take in the dazzling skyline and the unbeatable food and drink specials. Happy hour is a Downtown institution here.

Mignon 128 E. Sixth St. (213) 489-0131, mignonla.com Cozy and intimate, this little wine and cheese bar seats about 20. Still, it packs a punch when it comes to the wine selection and assortment of tasty small plates.

Mountain Bar 475 Gin Ling Way (213) 625-7500, themountainbar.com This post-modern Chinatown hangout is where artists talk shop and DJs plug in. It’s a sweaty, fun dance party.

Onyx Restaurant, Lounge & Bar 118 W. Fifth St. (213) 891-1144, onyxloungela.com A candlelit lounge in the historic Security Lofts building serving farm fresh cocktails, and elegant small plates and entrees.

Pattern Bar 100 W. Ninth St. (213) 627-7774, patternbar.com Fabulous corncakes, elegant salads, Spanish omelets, cured meats and cheeses. Sundays feature all things vintage Cuba. Plus inventive cocktails, sangria, beer and wine.

Las Perlas 107 E. Sixth St. (213) 988-8355, 213nightlife.com They’ve got a fabulous selection of tequila and mezcal, and intriguing cocktails made with syrups, Mexican herbs, fruit and spices. You can bring in outside food to help soak up the alcohol. It’s perfectly dim for your journey down the rabbit hole.

Library Bar 630 W. Sixth St. (213) 614-0053, librarybarla.com It may be tricked out like a cozy library with overstuffed chairs and books on the shelves, but the only thing you’ll be checking out here is the selection of craft beers on tap and a smart wine list. Happy hour is a busy affair, and the pub grub is seriously good.

Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 542-4880, bowlluckystrike.com This hip L.A. Live outpost of Lucky Strike takes bowling night to a new level with fancy cocktails, stylish décor, a lounge and dress code.

Mas Malo 515 W. Seventh St. (213) 985-4332, masmalorestaurant.com Customers can select from nearly 240 tequilas and 30 mescals (kept in the building’s original vault). The daily “hora feliz” from 4-6 p.m. brings $5 margaritas and other swell deals. Don’t forget to throw in a fried pickle taco.

McCormick & Schmick’s 633 W. Fifth St., Fourth Level (213) 629-1929, mccormickandschmicks.com

The Perch 448 S. Hill St., 13th floor (213) 802-1770, perchla.com Travel up two elevators to a bar with probably the greatest views and laid back patio vibe Downtown. Dusk is gorgeous, and when the sun goes down, the fire pits light up.

Pete’s Cafe and Bar 400 S. Main St. (213) 617-1000, petescafe.com It’s Downtown’s equivalent of Cheers, where everyone knows your name and you can relax over a dirty martini and plate of blue cheese fries. This longtime Old Bank District hangout offers a lively patio scene, prime people watching and a busy happy hour.

losangelesdowntown.com | D I V E R S I O N S

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First & Hope

(213) 622-5523, 213nightlife.com There’s a casual, Prohibition-era charm to this Arts District locale. You’ll find hand-crafted cocktails, muscular drinks, pool and free ping pong. There’s also a nightly happy hour and a pass-through window from the pizza joint next door.

The Varnish 118 E. Sixth St. (213) 622-9999, 213nightlife.com A nondescript brown door at the back of Cole’s opens to a bygone world of vested bartenders who take their drink-making seriously. It’s dark, intimate and conducive to drinking.

Public School 612 612 S. Flower St. (213) 623-1172, publicschool612.com Get your education in the art of food and beer. The gourmet bar menu features lamb burgers, short rib tacos, artisan cheeses and more.

Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St. (213) 680-2600, theredwoodbar.com Dubbed the “Pirate Bar,” this maritime-inspired tavern is decked out with fishing nets and floats, weathered wooden planks and the stumps of dock timbers. If there aren’t live bands or DJs doing their thing in the back, the jukebox is always a good bet.

The Salvage Bar & Lounge 717 W. Seventh St. (213) 688-7755, salvagela.com Using salvaged materials from the historic Roosevelt Lofts, this lounge comes with lots of vintage style, tap beer, organic cocktails and gourmet eats.

Seven Bar Lounge 555 W. Seventh St. (213) 223-0777, sevenrestaurantbar.com You’ll find a happy hour, dancing, music and lounging at this modern, clubby space in the Financial District.

Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St. (213) 614-0737, 213nightlife.com Behind the hand-carved black walnut bar, more than 120 whiskeys are displayed, and the resident bartenders definitely know how to pour them. The space has an Irish-infused vibe with plaid carpets, taxidermy and pool tables.

Silo Vodka Bar 221 W. Seventh St. (213) 891-1063, silodtla.com You’ll find top-notch cocktails paired with everything that goes well with vodka, including caviar, sliders, cheese, salumi and of course, fried Twinkies.

Spring St. 626-B S. Spring St. (213) 622-5859

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D I V E R S I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

Suspender-wearing barkeeps at this classy beer-centric pub pour from 26 brews on tap. There’s yummy gourmet eats, and no attitude.

Standard Downtown Rooftop Bar 550 S. Flower St. (213) 892-8080, standardhotels.com After nearly a decade, this hotel bar still hasn’t lost its cache. For impact, you can’t beat its stellar rooftop location with endless skyline views, infinity pool, pod-shaped cabanas, and crowds of beautiful people.

Suede Bar & Lounge 404 S. Figueroa St. (213) 489-3590, suedebarla.com This petite bar and lounge on the first floor of the Bonaventure Hotel features a sleek vibe with a red color scheme, a DJ and popular happy hour. You can smoke a cigar from the humidor on the patio.

Swill Automatic 1820 Industrial St. (213) 239-9088, swillautomatic.com Check out this funky Arts District wine bar for a casual, adventurous drinking experience. They serve 58 varietals by the one-, two- and four-ounce pour via automatic wine machines. Buy a card, press a button and sample to your heart’s content.

Villains Tavern 1356 Palmetto St. (213) 613-0766, villainstavern.com This take on an outlaw’s hideaway blends Steampunk and Gothic-chic. It boasts a fabulous patio, shuffleboard, an arched church window and antique apothecary bottles.

Cocktails are painstakingly made and served in charming mason jars. The menu alone is worth a visit.

Weiland Brewery 400 E. First St. (213) 680-2881, weilandbrewery.net This longstanding Downtown outpost—a sporty American bistro in the middle of Little Tokyo—has one of the friendliest, most unpretentious happy hours in town.

Weiland Brewery Underground 505 S. Flower St. (213) 622-1125 or weilandbrewery.net The name doesn’t lie: This Weiland’s is located underground in the City National Bank Building. Open during the week, this underground watering hole features great beer, over 100 wines, and plasma TVs for the sports nuts.

Wurstküche Restaurant 800 E. Third St. (213) 687-4444, wurstkucherestaurant.com Belgian beer, exotic grilled sausages and long communal tables make for a festive scene well after midnight.

Tapas and Wine Bar C 428 E. Second St. (213) 628-8877, barc.biz Don’t let the unassuming strip mall location fool you.

Your head will spin once you catch a glimpse of the Asian waitresses in French maid outfits, the faux fur interior and karaoke scene. They serve up sake, wine and fancy drinks, as well as an eclectic mix of small plates, fondue and pastas.

321 Lounge 1911 Sunset Blvd.

(213) 484-1265, taixfrench.com There are a lot of retro lounges out there, but this is the real thing: a dark, cozy den with sofas, tight tables, and stage that’s hit by everything from indie bands to comedians.

Tony’s Saloon 2017 E. Seventh St.

Gallery Bar

on the south end of the Music Center complex, it houses the fourth largest opera company in the U.S., the L.A. Opera, led by tenor great and General Director Plácido Domingo.

135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or musiccenter.org.

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Housed within the historic Union Center for the Arts in Little Tokyo, this award-winning theater company has premiered more than 100 plays and musicals about the Asian Pacific American experience and has held over 1,000 readings and workshops. Its repertoire features cutting-edge new works as well as adaptations of familiar plays with Asian casts. The mainstage of this 240-seat venue is the David Henry Hwang Theater, which serves more than 10,000 people a year.

120 N. Judge John Aiso St., (213) 625-7000 or eastwestplayers.org.

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Los Angeles Theatre Center This multi-theater facility is operated by the Latino Theater Company, which programs international festivals of dance, theater and spoken word, and often hosts one-off performances of small- to mid-sized touring groups. The LATC also hosts a summer conservatory for youth and works with the community to offer space for rehearsals, performances and cultural events.

514 S. Spring St., (213) 489-0994 or thelatc.org.

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Mark Taper Forum Since 1967, the Taper has been racking up awards for theatrical excellence, including a number of Pulitzers and Tonys. Today, this theater in the round is led by Artistic Director Michael Ritchie, who continues to push the envelope with adventurous productions. The theater is part of a trio of performance spaces at the Music Center (among them the Ahmanson and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion). Designwise, look for the sparkling abalone wall by designer Tony Duquette in the lobby, and a new below-ground lounge that serves as the theater’s social hub.

135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or taperahmanson.org.

REDCAT (Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater) This cutting-edge, black box space has carved out its own niche inside the lauded Walt Disney Concert Hall. Throughout the year, visitors are treated to dance, avant-garde theater, films, panel discussions and literary events. The playful neon out front is just a taste of the surprises to be found inside this creative laboratory, whether you stumble across an impromptu performance in the lounge, stop in for a peek at the stunning art gallery, or take in one of the innovative performances that transform the flexible space.

631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org.

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USC’s Bovard Auditorium This gorgeous red brick building is the centerpiece to the campus, and though it’s home to USC’s formidable symphony, it also serves as a venue for many music groups and performance troupes. Originally built for church services, the building features a large proscenium arch and side organ lofts. Recent renovations have ratcheted up the acoustics and the modern amenities in this 1922 building.

3551 Trousdale Parkway, (213) 740-4211 or usc.edu.

Intimate Theaters Bootleg Theater Located on Beverly Boulevard, this 1930s warehouse theater is a bit off the beaten track. It provides a space for local artists to create original and daring productions in theater, dance, music and film.

2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.com. losangelesdowntown.com | D I V E R S I O N S

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24th Street Theatre This 99-seat theater in Exposition Park has showcased a number of critically acclaimed performances since 1997, including one-offs and Spanish-language productions. They also do youth outreach, art exhibits, music and dance.

1117 W. 24th St., (213) 745-6516 or 24thstreet.org.

MUSEUMS

Downtown Los Angeles is museum central. There are several notable institutions in the area celebrating art, culture and history. The Museum of Contemporary Art sits atop Bunker Hill while its edgier sister locale, the Geffen Contemporary, occupies the opposite end of town in Little Tokyo.

Exposition Park to the south is home to a cluster of venues including the family-friendly Natural History Museum and California Science Center.

For Art Lovers

events keep the museum doors open late with live music, art and cocktails. General admission $10; seniors and students $5; and free from 5-8 p.m. every Thursday. Closed Tuesday-Wednesday.

250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 626-6222 or moca.org.

Museum of Contemporary Art, The Geffen Contemporary Before MOCA’s flagship facility on Grand Avenue opened, a temporary exhibit space was commissioned in Little Tokyo to house the sculptures and installations that were pouring in from donors. Opened in 1983, the lofty space was accessible and approachable, and became an instant hit with visitors. Museum officials decided to make the temporary venue permanent, and its 40,000 square feet continues to house the more playful and unwieldy of MOCA’s shows. General admission $10; seniors and students $5; and free from 5-8 p.m. every Thursday. Closed Tuesday-Wednesday.

152 N. Central Ave., (213) 626-6222 or moca.org.

Culture Vultures and History Buffs

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Grand Avenue MOCA is the only museum in the city devoted exclusively to contemporary art. Founded in 1979, MOCA has amassed one of the country’s most renowned permanent collections of art created since the 1940s. The collection boasts a vast cache of more than 5,000 Abstract Expressionist, Minimalist, Post-Modernist and Pop Art gems. With natural light streaming through the skylights, and a floor plan that makes even a crowded afternoon audience seem to flow, this is a user-friendly space. Look for ambitious themed shows and retrospectives, surrounded by cool programming — especially during the summer, when nighttime

African American Firefighter Museum Fire Station 30 was established in 1913 to serve the largely black Central Avenue community, and from 1924 to 1955, it was one of two segregated fire stations in L.A. It now serves as the first and only freestanding African American firefighter museum in the country. The space offers a fascinating look at vintage fire apparatus (including an 1890 hose wagon and 1940 Pirsch ladder truck), as well as photos, memorabilia and stories of the men and women who served. Free admission. Open Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

1401 S. Central Ave., (213) 744-1730 or aaffmuseum.org.

California African American Museum Designed by African American architects Jack Haywood and the late Vince Proby, CAAM opened its doors in 1984. The museum maintains a vast collection related to African American history, art and culture with an emphasis on California and the western U.S. One permanent exhibit, “African American Journey West,” chronicles the harrowing trek from Africa to America, while many temporary exhibitions unfold throughout the year. Sharing the spacious Exposition Park campus with the Natural History Museum and the California Science Center, the museum’s plaza stays busy, especially on Sundays, when it hosts family days featuring music and activities.

Free admission. Closed Monday.

600 State Dr., (213) 744-7432 or caam.ca.gov.

Chinese American Museum Housed in the oldest and last surviving structure of Los Angeles’ original Chinatown, CAM opened in 2003 after a 20year effort on the part of local politicians, historians, educators, community volunteers and descendants of Chinese American pioneer families. The venue, which is located in the city’s El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, is Southern California’s first and only museum dedicated to telling the history and stories of the Chinese American experience in Los Angeles. Artifacts include antique furniture, herbal store furnishings, traditional wedding gowns, toys, faded photos and letters, dishware and literature. There are also audio recordings of elderly Chinese Americans who shared their memories of growing up in Old Chinatown.

General admission $3; students and seniors $2. Open Tuesday-Sunday.

425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) 485-8567 or camla.org.

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D I V E R S I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

Los Angeles

Creative Capital of the World Discover the wealth of cultural experiences on stage at the University of Southern California. Brilliant opera, theatre, jazz, classical music, art exhibitions and cinematic arts await you at the southern edge of downtown.

visit.usc.edu

Explore arts and culture at USC

A CALENDAR FOR ALL SEASONS YEAR - ROUND

Downtown Art wAlk Take a self-guided tour of the area’s galleries, public museums and art venues, held on the second Thursday of every month from noon-9 p.m. It’s a lively street scene with hundreds of people popping in and out of restaurants and cafes, sipping wine, and soaking up the artsy atmosphere.

Download maps and info at downtownartwalk.com.

WINTER

DECEMBER-JANUARY Pershing squAre ice rink Surrounded by palm trees and high-rises, this popular ice rink offers day and evening skating, hockey workshops for kids and concerts.

Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., (213)-847-4970 or laparks.org.

giAnt mAximus 2011/2012 Sprawling over seven acres Downtown, Giant Maximus claims to be the biggest New Year’s Eve 21-and-over party.

There’s dancing, concerts, fireworks and plenty of entertainment.

Dec. 31, 2011.

Visit giantclub.com.

JANUARY JAPAnese new YeAr Celebrate the New Year Japanese-style with traditional ceremonial events including taiko drumming, dancing, martial arts, calligraphy, folk songs, a kimono fashion show and more.

Main events are at Weller Court, the Kyoto Hotel and Garden, and the Japanese Village Plaza, (213) 626-3067 or jaccc.org. chinese new YeAr Ring in the Chinese New Year with the 113th Golden Dragon Parade and Festival, a feast for the senses complete with a lion dance, floats and firecrackers. It’s the year of the dragon. Free.

Jan. 28-29, 2012.

Visit chinatownla.com.

l.A. kings holiDAY ice At l.A. liVe Nokia Plaza gets in the holiday spirit with an ice skating rink sponsored by the L.A. Kings. You can glide with Santa amid the twinkling lights.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., lalive.com.

DECEMBER chinAtown Art night The quaint alleyways and courtyards of Chung King Road and historic Chinatown come alive during the concurrent opening of hip art galleries.

Visit chinatownla.org. holiDAY seAson lighting ceremonY This is the unofficial start of the holiday season at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, the birthplace of the city. It’s a festive time to visit this colorful landmark.

Visit olvera-street.com. lAs PosADAs Visitors come for the re-enactment and celebration of Mary and Joseph’s nine-day trip to Bethlehem, complete with candlelight procession, singing, and the nightly breaking of a piñata.

From Dec. 16 through Christmas Eve. Free. El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, Sepulveda House Visitor Center, 622 N. Main St., (213) 485-8372, olvera-street.com. l.A. countY holiDAY celebrAtion This holiday extravaganza features an enormous lineup of local choirs, instrumental groups, and dance companies who represent the cultural fabric of L.A. Dec. 24. Free admission and parking. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3099 or lacountyarts.org.

FEBRUARY chinAtown FirecrAcker 5/10k run As part of the Chinese New Year festivities, bike riders, runners and walkers take part in this annual event.

There will be free, live entertainment all weekend.

Feb. 11-12, 2012. Visit firecracker10k.org.

S P RI NG

MARCH lAntern FestiVAl This is the Chinese American Museum’s signature event — a 2,000-year-old festival that takes place at a historic site for L.A.’s Chinese community.

Lantern making, Chinese opera-style face painting, traditional crafts, entertainment and artisans appear in and around the museum.

CAM is at 425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) 485-8567 or camla.org. los Angeles mArAthon

The first Los Angeles Marathon was in 1986, luring almost 11,000 runners. Year to year, the course and the dates 30

D I V E R S I O N S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

change — but the race itself is an institution, with over 20,000 participants and a 26.2-mile course that winds through parts of Downtown. This year it starts at Dodger Stadium. There are several adjunct events, including a 5K run on the same day.

March 18, 2012, (310) 444-5544 or lamarathon.com. blessing oF the AnimAls

Every year on the Saturday before Easter at Olvera Street, Catholic priests bless dogs, cats, iguanas, goats, hamsters — anything that walks, crawls, flies, hops or slithers.

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, 845 N. Alameda St., (213) 625-5045 or olvera-street.com.

APRIL chinAtown Art night Stroll the alleyways and courtyards of Chung King Road and historic Chinatown, where dozens of hip art galleries host concurrent openings.

Visit chinatownla.com.

DoDger seAson

The team’s regular season is April to October. Dodger Stadium’s ticket office is open Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and during home games.

1000 Elysian Park Ave., 866-DODGERS or dodgers.com.

MAY-JUNE lAst remAining seAts Each summer the Los Angeles Conservancy presents classic films in Broadway’s historic theaters. Many of the evening programs include old newsreels and advertisements, and lectures by film historians.

Several venues Downtown.

(213) 430-4219 or laconservancy.org.

MAY-SEPTEMBER DAnce Downtown Get free dance lessons, then hit the floor for a no-pressure dance party under the moonlight with live music and DJs. Music Center Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3660 or musiccenter.org/dancedowntown.

Drum Downtown For a Saturday morning music rush, try this free, informal outdoor drumming experience at the Music Center.

Hand drums, shakers, tambourines and other percussion instruments are provided.

Music Center Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3660 or musiccenter.org.

MAY cinco De mAYo El Pueblo and Olvera Street come alive with traditional music, cultural presentations, dancing and food booths.

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, 125 Paseo de la Plaza, (213) 628-1274 or olvera-street.com. brewerY ArtwAlk Twice a year the residents of the world’s largest artist colony open their studios to the public on the weekend. It’s an art-filled open house you won’t want to miss.

Brewery Arts Complex, 620 Moulton Ave., breweryartwalk.com. bug FAir Want to taste the wares of a bug chef or hold a Madagascar hissing cockroach? This annual celebration attracts vendors, artists and insect aficionados to celebrate all things creepy and crawly.

Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-DINO or nhm.org.

SUM M ER

JUNE l.A. Film FestiVAl This two-week movie extravaganza draws some 90,000 visitors to watch 200 features. There are galas, panel discussions and more.

Regal Cinemas at L.A. Live. Visit lafilmfest.com.

JUNE-AUGUST FriDAY night sing-Alongs Belt out classic tunes with friends, strangers and songbirds, accompanied by live musicians. Free.

Music Center Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 9723660 or musiccenter.org.

JUNE-SEPTEMBER grAnD PerFormAnces The Watercourt comes alive in the summer with local and international performance troupes, and the occasional screening or talk.

Free at the Watercourt, 300-350 S. Grand Ave., (213) 687-2159 or grandperformances.org.

JULY bloomFest lA Bloomfest L.A., which honors late Arts District pioneer Joel Bloom, draws a lively crowd with indie music, food, beer and street art.

At Third Street and Traction Avenue.

Visit bloomfestla.com.

FA L L

chinAtown Art night Stroll the alleyways and courtyards of Chung King Road and historic Chinatown, where dozens of art galleries pop up among the old school antique stores and curio shops.

Visit chinatownla.com. x gAmes Taking over Figueroa Street every summer is a daredevil circus of skate ramps and obstacle courses — and that’s just outside. ESPN’s seasonal contest is a who’s who of extreme athletes.

Events in and around Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., espn.go.com/action/xgames JULY-AUGUST Pershing squAre summer concerts Free outdoor concerts and performances, held in Pershing Square’s plaza. Bring a blanket and picnic.

Various times Thursdays through Sundays.

Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., (888) 527-2757 or laparks.org.

AUGUST nisei week The weeklong celebration of second generation Japanese Americans born in the U.S. draws thousands to Little Tokyo for parades, cultural activities, a car show, sumo wrestling and taiko drumming.

Throughout Little Tokyo, (213) 687-7193 or niseiweek.org.

JULY-SEPTEMBER get Your choPs bAck Were you a high school flutist? A former saxophone god?

Get reacquainted with the music you love in a safe zone for lapsed musicians. Free.

Music Center Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3660 or musiccenter.org.

SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER usc troJAn FootbAll When the mighty USC Trojans play, it’s an allday event with tailgate parties and an eardrumsplitting game.

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 3911 S. Figueroa St., lacoliseum.com or usctrojans.com.

SEPTEMBER cherrY blossom FestiVAl This year’s Cherry Blossom Festival Southern California celebrates “Blossoms in the Fall,” with community awards, a cultural pavilion, a kimono fashion show, most photogenic dog contest, crafts, food, and beer and sake garden. Free admission.

Sept. 24-25, 2011. Visit cherryblossomfestivalsocal.org. chinAtown Art night

The galleries of Chung King Road and historic Chinatown host a concurrent opening for art lovers.

Visit chinatownla.com. miD-Autumn moon FestiVAl This fun, family-friendly cultural festival features performances, music, food and moon viewing. It’s the 73rd annual event.

Sept. 17, 5-10 p.m. Central Plaza, 943-951 N. Broadway, chinatownla.com.

OCTOBER brewerY ArtwAlk A twice-annual open studio art event, unfolding in the world’s largest artist colony.

Brewery Arts Complex, 620 Moulton Ave., breweryartwalk.com. los Angeles cliPPers L.A.’s other basketball team plays from October through April.

Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St. Visit nba.com/ clippers. los Angeles kings The Kings play October through April.

Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St. Visit kings.nhl.com. los Angeles lAkers The championship Lakers regular season is October through April.

Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St. Visit nba.com/lakers.

NOVEMBER DiA De los muertos This Mexican ceremony makes light of death and simultaneously honors the dearly departed with processions in late October; the main event unfolds during the first days of November. Make sugar skulls in honor of a loved one.

El Pueblo Historical Monument, 125 Paseo de la Plaza, (213) 485-8372 or cityofla.org/ELP. LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.cOm | D I V E R S I O N S 31

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument Of this monument’s 27 historic buildings, four function as museums: the Avila Adobe, the city’s oldest house; the Sepulveda House, home to exhibits and the Visitors Center; the Old Plaza Firehouse, which houses late 19th century fire-fighting equipment; and the Italian Hall Museum. The most popular part of the monument is the Olvera Street marketplace with restaurants, shops and booths selling handicrafts. The plaza serves as a lively civic gathering place that hosts sermonizing, performance and a busy calendar of festivals. Visit the El Pueblo website for a schedule of yearly events, which includes the Blessing of the Animals in April, and fiestas such as Cinco de Mayo (May), Dia de Los Muertos (November), and the beautiful candlelight procession Las Posadas (December). Open daily, though hours at shops and halls vary.

845 N. Alameda St., (213) 485-6855 or elpueblo.lacity.org.

Japanese American National Museum JANM is the only museum in the country dedicated to the Japanese American experience. Inside, you’ll find artifacts from the “Issei Pioneers,” first generation Japanese immigrants, and many initiatives that seek to safeguard the Issei’s rich oral histories and the materials that documented the lives of Japanese Americans before, during and after their World War II-era incarceration. Opened in 1992, the museum is located in a former Buddhist temple designed to incorporate Middle Eastern and Japanese aesthetic elements of a temple in Kyoto. A striking, 85,000-square-foot pavilion was added in 1999, allowing the museum to expand its offerings. There are local shows as well as visiting exhibits from institutions such as the Smithsonian. JANM has a museum store on the plaza level as well as a tea house, and it shares its sunny

Dia de los Muertos at El Pueblo Historical Monument exterior plaza with MOCA, the Geffen Contemporary, and the nonprofit National Center for the Preservation of Democracy. Summer often brings family festivals, live concerts and speaker events. General admission $9; students and seniors $5. Admission is free every Thursday from 5-8 p.m. and all day every third Thursday of the month. Closed Monday.

369 E. First St., (213) 625-0414 or janm.org.

La Plaza de Cultura y Artes This $54 million cultural center celebrates the unique Mexican and Mexican American experience in L.A. and

Southern California with interactive exhibits, films, lectures and classes. It is located on a 2.2-acre campus near Olvera Street, and is surrounded by a sprawling garden.

501 N. Main St., (213) 542-6200 or lapca.org.

Latino Museum of History Exhibits focus on Latino art. The museum recently acquired a superb contemporary collection and more than 300 silkscreen prints from the Self-Help Graphics archives. Open Tues.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

514 S. Spring St., (213) 626-7600 or thelatinomuseum.com.

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Wells Fargo History Museum This petite museum can be found inside the Wells Fargo Center in the Financial District. It chronicles the company’s role in Southern California, including the Gold Rush days of the 19th century — stagecoaches, gold nuggets and Old West paraphernalia. The museum attracts school field trips, California history buffs and the occasional office worker looking for a break. Free admission and 30-minute tours. Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

In the lobby of 333 S. Grand Ave., (213) 253-7166 or wellsfargohistory.com.

Special Interests FIDM Museum and Galleries The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising teaches tomorrow’s design stars — you’ll see its stylishly dressed students all over this part of Downtown. But FIDM also takes care of a permanent collection of more than 12,000 costumes, accessories and textiles from the 18th century through the present, including designs from Chanel, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. You can also view the early Hollywood Costume Collection on loan from the City of Los Angeles’ Department of Recreation and Parks. The highlight of the year comes when the museum presents its two major exhibits featuring a stunning display of movie and television costumes from the previous year. Free admission. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 624-1200 or fidm.edu.

its kind in the U.S. — one dedicated to scents. Its namesake Green has been an authority and leader in the fragrance industry since the early 1960s, and the collection contains more than 2,000 bottles, perfume presentations and documentary ephemera dating back to the late 1800s. About 200 objects are displayed and rotated every six months. Free admission. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

919 S. Grand Ave., second floor lobby, (213) 624-1200 or fidm.edu.

Grammy Museum Spanning four, eye-popping floors of unique exhibits celebrating the power and history of music, this sleek venue occupies a spot on the northeast corner of L.A. Live. Incorporating film, sound and interactive experiences, the exhibits highlight genres such as rock and roll, hip-hop, country, classical, Latin, R&B and jazz. The collection of artifacts is vast and unlike anything else — there are lyric notebooks, archival photos, costumes, personal items and much more. The museum also explores the art and technology of the recording process, and the history of the awards, and it programs everything from free guitar lessons for kids and artist-in-residence programs to intimate conversations with Grammy-winning stars. There are often special events surrounding new exhibits, including dinners and expert speakers. General admission $12.95; students and seniors $11.95. Open weekdays 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., weekends 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org.

Earthy Museums

FIDM’s Annette Green Perfume Museum Part of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, the Annette Green Perfume Museum is the only museum of

California Science Center This popular museum destination has seen more than 18

million visitors pour through its doors since opening in 1998. It’s a veritable science wonderland with hands-on and creative exhibits that thrill and fascinate children and adults alike. Rotating special exhibits and displays fill three stories: The Air and Space Gallery features real planes and spacecraft; the World of Life takes a close look at the living environment, from a single-celled bacterium to a 100 trillion-celled human being; and the Creative World looks at the consequences, and amazement, of human invention — from computer technology and digital imaging to solar cars and earthquake-resistant buildings. A new Ecosystems wing features a diverse assortment of live plants and animals, as well as interactive exhibits in 11 environments; you can walk through a live kelp forest or experiment on a

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Chinatown Galleries Natural History Museum

the original storefront names.

Chung King Road is in Chinatown’s West Plaza, adjacent to 949 N. Hill St., (213) 680-0243 or chinatownla.com.

The quaint, 40-foot wide pedestrian thoroughfare known as Chung King Road may look like it came straight out of a vintage movie set, but it is in fact one of the city’s few gallery hubs. In the late ’90s, two art spaces opened on the tiny pedestrian walkway. More galleries followed, and when they started hosting communal openings on Saturday nights in 2000, the scene exploded. Crowds swelled, and today, though the hype and the body mass have mellowed, the galleries remain. Dozens of art spaces have branched off from Chung King Road to adjacent pockets and along Hill Street.

The art here tends to be a bit more mature and internationally sought compared to the art in the spunky, younger spaces of Gallery Row. Many venues still pay tribute to the Chinatown culture and locale, even keeping

Gallery Row and the Downtown Art Walk Since 2004, art lovers have flocked to Downtown’s Gallery Row, roughly defined as Main and Spring between Second and Ninth streets. The hip gallery cluster has since spawned a monthly Art Walk, a free, self-guided public art phenomenon in which participating galleries stay open late on the second Thursday of the month. On these nights, the streets are packed with locals and visitors alike mingling on the sidewalks, drifting in and out of galleries, sipping wine in outdoor cafes, and dropping in on book signings and live music performances. Most of the galleries are clustered

polar ice wall. The best times to visit are on weekends or on weekday afternoons after 1:30 p.m., because weekday mornings are often packed with school kids on field trip. A few steps across the Science Center’s plaza you’ll find the museum’s IMAX Theater, a seven-story screen that puts science in larger-than-life, 3D perspective. Free museum admission. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

700 State Drive, (323) 724-3623 or californiasciencecenter.org.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County The ever-growing and changing NHM is in the throes of an exciting evolution, a $135 million campaign that will transform the space by 2013. The newest and most anticipated addition is the museum’s world-class dinosaur hall, which opened July 2011 and doubled the size of the venue’s old galleries. The 14,000-square-foot space features an impressive array of 300 fossils and specimens, 30 full-body displays using dynamic mounting techniques that let you get up close and personal, and the world’s only T-Rex growth series (an adult, juvenile and baby).

Opened in 1913, the NHM houses a mind-boggling 35 million specimens. Three diorama halls display mammals and habitats from all over the world, and other standouts include the gem and mineral hall, the family-friendly Discovery Center and Insect Zoo, and the Dino Lab, in which visitors can watch as paleontologists work on dinosaur fossils. In addition to the steady stream of field trips and school children during the day, Angelenos also make their way to the museum at night. DJ events and special speakers appear late into the night during the First Fridays series, which runs January through June. Like the California Science Center (listed above), the best times to visit are on weekends or on weekday afternoons, because of the constant flow of school excursions. General admission $12; seniors and students $9. Free the first Tuesday of every month. Open daily 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-DINO or nhm.org.

GALLERIES

Downtown’s art scene has indeed made a comeback in recent years, outgrowing its adolescent stage to form a maturing and serious collection of galleries and art happenings. Events like the monthly Downtown Art Walk, which draws thousands of art lovers and night owls into local galleries, and Chinatown’s openings along Chung King Road, have helped propel the energy and interest to new levels. In total, about 70 galleries have laid down roots in Downtown, creating a thriving art scene that may soon rival that of the early 1970s and ’80s.

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El Pueblo

within walking distance. Gallery hours range from noon to 9 p.m.

Maps and info at galleryrow.org and downtownartwalk.com.

Volunteer docents known as Las Angelitas lead free, 50-minute walking tours of the city’s birthplace.

Highlights include the monument’s historic buildings such as the Avila Adobe (1818), the pueblo’s oldest construction; the Pico House (1870), the largest and the first three-story building built in Los Angeles; and Olvera Street, a quaint Mexican marketplace built in 1930. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon.

130 Paseo de la Plaza, (213) 628-1274 or lasangelitas.org.

TOURS

In a city as big as Los Angeles, there are endless excursions to accommodate just about everyone. In Downtown alone, there are unexpected parks, historic spots and architectural gems.

Architecture Tours L.A. These tours are guided by an architecture historian and guidebook author who knows her way around the city’s most interesting landmarks. Choose from two- and three-hour driving tours (via deluxe van) of more than 70 Downtown sites including buildings that played a part in the formation of the city, historic hotels, elegant department stores, wholesale districts, civic gems, Little Tokyo, Chinatown and modern icons like Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall.

(323) 464-7868 or architecturetoursla.com.

Doheny Mansion Tour Home to the colorful oil baron Edward Doheny and his family for 60 years, this eclectic, Romantic Revival mansion was built in 1899. The home, along with the surrounding historic Chester Place properties, is part of the Mount Saint Mary’s campus. Visitors are welcome to peek inside for a look at the exquisite architectural details. You’ll see the Pompeian Room with its iridescent Tiffany glass dome and imported Siena marble, and learn about the lives of

Esotouric Downtown Art Walk Edward and Estelle Doheny (as well as the influential cast of characters who lived on or near Chester Place). Public tours include the first floor of the mansion and surrounding grounds; the complete tour lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours. Tickets are $25. Reservations required.

On the Mount Saint Mary’s College campus, 10 Chester Place, (213) 477-2962 or dohenymansion.org.

Downtown L.A. Walks Lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore. This helpful website provides free, downloadable podcasts that guide listeners through the streets, sidewalks and walking paths of Bunker Hill, Chinatown, Civic Center, Downtown’s Center, Fashion District, Figueroa Corridor, Historic Downtown, Jewelry District, Toy District and Warehouse District.

Visit downtownlawalks.com.

This is not your run-of-the-mill tour company.

Routes tend to veer off into fascinating, neglected neighborhoods, following provocative and complex themes. You’ll find a mix of crime and social history, music and architecture, literature and film, and art and urban study. All of it is told by expert guides in a witty, well-researched and always passionate manner. Whether on foot or aboard the Esotouric bus, you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s seedy underbelly, find out what life was like through the eyes of local lit legends Charles Bukowski and John Fante, retrace the last steps of the city’s most notorious unsolved mystery, Elizabeth “The Black Dahlia” Short, or delve into the secret history and future of Downtown.

Ticket prices vary.

Visit esotouric.com.

Los Angeles Central Library Tour Daily walk-in, docent-led tours teach visitors about the library’s Goodhue Building, with its sphinxes and rooftop pyr-

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amid; the high-tech Bradley Wing; the Maguire Garden art; and the eight-story atrium decked out in whimsical chandeliers. You’ll also learn about the library’s services too. Tours last about an hour and depart in front of the library store.

630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7168 or lapl.org/central/tours.html.

Los Angeles Conservancy Tours When it comes to the history and architecture of the city, there’s probably no more important an organization than the Los Angeles Conservancy. Not only does it save architecturally and culturally significant buildings from the wrecking ball, it also has a whip-smart cadre of docents. For more than two decades they’ve led fascinating walking tours of the historic Broadway Theater District, Art Deco palaces, civic gems, high-rises and the Historic Core. Most of the twoand-a-half-hour excursions depart at 10 a.m., rain or shine.

Reservations required, as the tours often sell out. Tickets are $10 for the general public, $5 for members.

(213) 623-2489 ext. 2 or laconservancy.org.

Metro Rail Art Tours This transit agency has made a serious commitment to public art, as evidenced when you ride the bus or rail lines. Even if you’re not riding the Metro, you can still check out the commissioned artwork. Free docent-led tours are offered the first Thursday, Saturday and Sunday of every month with insight into the artwork, artists, creative process and community connection. The two-hour tours meet at Hollywood/Highland Metro Station on Saturday and at historic Union Station on Sunday. Participants are introduced to quirky bus shelters with bird sounds, dancing lights, flying men and industrial angels. No reservations required.

(213) 922-2738 or metro.net/metroart.

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Red Line Tours Red Line offers walking excursions of Downtown with either a historic or contemporary focus. The company’s Downtown office is on the ground floor of the famed Bradbury Building. You’ll explore the sleek high rises and modern lofts of the “new” Downtown, the gorgeous movie palaces and vaudeville theaters of Broadway, contemporary architecture, notable filming locales, and Victorian-era Los Angeles. Reservations advised.

(323) 402-1074 or redlinetours.com.

San Antonio Winery It’s the last place you’d expect to find a working winery, but this Downtown-area venue is full of surprises. Follow the signs as they lead beyond warehouses and railroad tracks, and you’ll find the historic San Antonio Winery.

Family-owned since 1917, it’s a rare gem in the middle of the city where you can get an up close look at oak barrels, fermenting cellars, an onsite bottling operation and lots of local history. It’s the last of the producing wineries in Los Angeles and the last of the more than 100 that once lined the L.A. River Basin. The tour highlight, of course, is the complimentary wine tasting. There’s also an onsite restaurant and wine store.

737 Lamar St., (323) 223-1401 ext. 15 or sanantoniowinery.com.

dos, artsy abodes and luxury apartments. In some cases, tenants are already in residence; other projects are under construction with sales offices and model units available to visit. Tours start at 9 a.m. and end at about 1 p.m.

(213) 624-2146 or downtownla.com.

Segwow This company offers all the benefits of a walking tour without actually having to walk. Participants see the sights via Segway — a battery-powered human transporter akin to an upright moped. These two- to three-hour excursions can cover nine miles and 60 blocks, with riders zipping by local landmarks, major hotels and shopping plazas. Participants should be between approximately 100 and 250 pounds (there is no age requirement), physically fit enough to be on their feet for two hours, and capable of continuously shifting their weight from front to back and side to side. Tours are $89 per person.

(310) 358-5900 or segwow.com.

Starline Tours You’ll spot the red, double-decker buses cruising Downtown’s main attractions. They’re a great way to see the city in Hollywood style. You can even hop on and off at 13 sites.

(800) 959-3131 or starlinetours.com.

Saturday Housing Bus Tour

Undiscovered Chinatown Tour

You’ll step inside about half a dozen residences, both for sale and for lease, on this informative bus tour, which is geared towards prospective Downtown residents or the merely curious. These Saturday excursions visit the full spectrum of Downtown spaces: historic loft-style con-

This insider tour takes you beyond the touristy gift shops to find the hidden temples, herbalists, jewelry malls, art galleries and trendy boutiques that abound in this intriguing district. On these two-and-a-half-hour walking tours, you’ll explore alleyways, plaza stalls and ornate courtyards, and

D I V E R S I O N S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

learn how to bargain like a pro. Offered on the first Saturday of every month, and hosted by the Chinatown Business Improvement District. Tours begin at 10:30 a.m.; $20 per person. Reservations required.

(213) 680-0243 or chinatownla.com.

Shepard Fairey at ALOUD

Urban Shopping Adventures Sometimes shopping the Fashion District’s 90 square blocks can be intimidating, especially for the uninitiated.

That’s where this tour company comes in handy. They provide you with all the inside info about the bargains and the don’t-miss spots (like sample sales) you’ll need to shop like a pro. You can walk or take a chauffeured van to find the best fashion, accessories, fabric and flowers at below-retail prices. Custom outings for crafters, brides, bachelorette parties and mother/daughter groups are available. Ticket prices vary.

(213) 683-9715 or urbanshoppingadventures.com.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Tours You don’t always need a ticket to get inside this stunning silver venue. Visitors can choose from a variety of free options including self-guided audio tours, matinee public guided tours, lunchtime expresses and a walk through the nearly one-acre Urban Garden. Though tours often don’t include the auditorium — because of the nearly constant rehearsal and performance schedule — the building’s stunning lobby, exterior and surrounding pockets have plenty to offer. There are also free tours of the other theaters that comprise the Music Center campus — the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum. These are provided by the Symphonians, volunteer docents of the Music Center since 1965. Tours take about

day to make an appearance at the Central Library’s speaker series. For more than a decade, they’ve hosted poets, novelists, scientists, educators, performing artists, environmentalists, journalists, political figures and filmmakers, and the frequent addition of a local scholar, critic or fellow artist makes for a lively dialogue. Free.

630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7025 or lfla.org/aloud.

Live Talks L.A. This newcomer to the scene has already managed to snag a powerhouse lineup for its inaugural season — conversations have featured actors Michael Caine and Dustin Hoffman, and novelist Anne Rice. Proceeds from ticket sales fund literacy and educational causes.

Visit livetalksla.org.

SCI-Arc an hour and begin in the Grand Lobby.

111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 972-4399 or musiccenter.org/visit/tours.html.

SPEAKER SERIES

Downtown’s edgy architecture school hosts a multi-disciplinary slate of speakers that runs summer to fall. The lineup draws architects, artists, film-makers, engineers, theoreticians and performers. Free to the public.

960 E. Third St., (213) 613-2200 or sciarc.edu.

Distinguished speakers tend to flock Downtown, from dignitaries and foreign officials to authors, celebrities and some of the greatest thinkers of our time. The Los Angeles Central Library and Zócalo are two of the biggest players when it comes to snagging marquee names, but there are also a handful of smaller groups that host equally impressive and interesting guests.

Town Hall Los Angeles

ALOUD at the Central Library

Zócalo

You can usually count on the leading newsmakers of the

Over the last seven years, Zócalo (which means “public

HOT time in the city!

Business and city leaders, as well as those who simply want to stay informed, make it a point to attend these timely lectures focusing on issues that affect the lives of Angelenos.

Topics have focused on business, education, the economy, infrastructure, government and beyond.

(213) 628-8141 or townhall-la.org.

Entertainment. Culture. Sports.

Dining. Nightlife. Shopping.

There’s always something hot happening in Downtown LA!

Stop by the Visitors Information Center for your ultimate source to the best deals and attraction tickets, and don’t forget to buy See’s Candies for every occasion.

Check out discoverLosAngeles.com for special offers and the calendar of events to get the latest scoop on the hot happenings in Downtown LA! Find the ultimate guide to Downtown restaurants at dineLA.com. From celebrity chefs to short-order legends, the possibilities are endless in LA! Follow us:

facebook.com/LosAngelesFan

@discover_LA

Visitors Information Center

213.689.8822

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square” in Spanish) has featured more than 800 thinkers and doers in a free-flowing, non-partisan format. The wide range of topics has encompassed politics, governance, economics, education, technology, arts, science and more. Free.

Visit zocalopublicsquare.org.

PARKS AND OPEN SPACE

The residential growth of Downtown has prompted renewed interest in the area’s parks and green space. The Central City’s longtime gathering place, Pershing Square, is evolving into a more user friendly venue with concerts, community events and a lively farmers market; and the sprawling Los Angeles State Historic Park, with its grassy expanse and bucolic setting, has become a respite for jog-

gers, families, pets and nature lovers. Tucked here and there, sometimes in unlikely locales, are creative pocket parks that serve the growing Downtown community.

333 S. Spring St. (Broadway Spring Center, between Broadway and Spring, Third and Fourth streets).

California Plaza Watercourt Biddy Mason Park This tucked away monument honors the life of former slave Biddy Mason, who walked behind her master’s wagon train from Mississippi to California in 1851, and petitioned the court to declare her a free citizen. The courts obliged in 1856, and Mason began her inspiring journey as a midwife, orphanage operator, and later as founder of the city’s First African Methodist Episcopal Church on land she purchased and then donated to the church. Her astonishing story is commemorated on plaques in the courtyard, which is full of camphor, jacaranda trees and public art.

Bringing the brightest talent together in Zipper Hall Sunday October 9 Ebène Quartet

Tuesday November 1 Daniel Hope, violin

Sunday December 11

Jennifer & Laura Frautschi, violins

Sunday February 19 Robert Levin, piano

Surrounded by towering office buildings, the Watercourt is a relaxing oasis amid the corporate hustle and bustle. By day, local workers lounge and lunch by the dancing fountains, or pop into the shops and fast-food eateries lining the plaza. At night, the Watercourt turns into a summertime concert venue, with the nonprofit Grand Performances scheduling free live music and events.

300-350 S. Grand Ave. For info about Grand Performances, (213) 687-2159 or grandperformances.org.

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument Called the “birthplace of Los Angeles,” El Pueblo’s nearly 30 historic buildings (most of which are open to the public) are clustered around a bustling and historic open-air plaza.

Every day of the week, but particularly on weekends, the colorful plaza hosts music, dancing and public speakers, as well as lively mariachis and vendors. Take an afternoon stroll, soak up some history at one of the museums or shop at Olvera Street, just steps away.

125 Paseo de la Plaza. Visitor Center is (213) 628-1274. Info at lacity.org/elp or olvera-street.com.

Exposition Park Rose Garden This sunken oasis spans 7.5 acres and boasts more than 20,000 rose bushes representing 190-plus varieties — visitors will find colorful blooms most of the year. Between April and November, green thumb groups such as the stalwart Secret Garden Pruning Club wander the grounds to care for the bushes, and there are always wedding parties and families setting up photo ops. The grounds surrounding the garden are full of expansive lawns that host picnics and pick-up soccer games. Don’t miss the blooming of the roses festival in April. Open daily 9 a.m.-sunset. Closed Jan.1-March 15 for maintenance.

701 State Drive, (213) 763-0114 or laparks.org.

Grand Hope Park

Sunday April 1

Colburn Contemporary Players

Friday April 13

Menahem Pressler, piano

Located next to the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, this playful little park is well used by FIDM’s hip students lounging on the grass. There’s a playground, fountain, benches and lawn dotted with whimsical coyote statues.

Bounded by South Hope and Ninth streets, Grand Ave. and Olympic Blvd.

James Irvine Garden Walk onto the campus of the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center and you’ll discover this secret Japanese garden. Built in 1979, it covers a sloping, triangular area of 8,500 square feet. Designed by well-known L.A. landscape architect Takeo Uesugi, it features a 170-foot brook, gently cascading waterfalls, meandering paths and lush vegetation that soothe the soul. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and receptions. Closed Mondays.

244 S. San Pedro St. (between Second and Third streets). Visit jaccc.org.

Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens

$25 General Admission 40

• www.colburnschool.edu/tickets • 213-621-1050

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From the lobby of the Kyoto, take the elevator to the third floor “garden in the sky,” a miniature half-acre version of an historic 400-year-old, 10-acre garden in Tokyo. The grounds feature bridges, gurgling streams, waterfalls, bamboo-shaded alcoves, placid ponds and gorgeous views of the Downtown skyline. With each step, the Zen theory goes, comes a release from work and worry.

120 S. Los Angeles St., (213) 629-1200 or kyotograndhotel.com.

Amendment to the United States Constitution.

Southeast corner of Fifth and Flower streets. Visit lapl.org.

Pershing Square

Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens

Los Angeles State Historic Park

Maguire Gardens

In an unlikely stretch of industrial Chinatown, this 32-acre state park boasts a fascinating history. The area was once home to Tongva villages and the Zanja Madre, or “Mother Ditch,” a key part of L.A.’s early water system. The former rail yard also played a prominent role in the railroad history of the late 19th and 20th century. There are winding trails for walks or jogs, picnic areas, and many of Downtown’s dog owners bring their pets here to explore the open space.

The community takes lots of pride in this park (it has its own blog), with a regular slate of events and activities held here. Open daily 8 a.m.-sunset.

1245 N. Spring St., (213) 620-6152 or parks.ca.gov.

These public grounds unfold by the Flower Street entrance of the Richard J. Riordan Central Library. Weddings are a weekend constant, and you’ll see Downtowners and library patrons lying on the low knolls throughout the gardens. In addition to olive trees and a cafe, artist Jud Fine’s “Spine” sculpture pays homage to the infrastructure of a book, with tiered pools of water and steps. Dotted along “Spine,” you’ll find unexpected sculptures — a prehistoric predator fish, a California newt and a peregrine falcon (several of which happen to nest in Downtown high-rises). Don’t miss the Grotto Fountain, a tribute to civil liberties etched with quotes from Frederick Douglass and the Fourteenth

Dedicated in 1866, this five-acre public square started out as a formal Spanish plaza called La Plaza Abaja. It has evolved dramatically over the decades: it served as a scene for militia receptions and public speakers during World War I; it was redesigned with lush, tropical plantings in 1928; and was uprooted in the 1950s to accommodate an 1,800-car underground garage. In 1992, the newly renovated park revealed a “modern” concrete design complete with a 10-story purple bell tower, bright yellow walls, a faux earthquake fault line and a Beethoven bust. Though the trees and grass are sparse, the city makes the most of its central space. There’s a bustling farmers market on Wednesdays, and plenty of events — concerts, films and community programming in the summer, and a popular ice-skating rink from November to January.

Bounded by Hill, Olive, Fifth and Sixth streets. (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/pershingsquare.

Vista Hermosa This 10.5-acre swath of green on the western edge of Downtown, adjacent to the Edward R. Roybal Learning Center, is the first public park built in the area in more than a century. It features walking trails, streams, meadows, oak savannahs, a nature-themed playground, landscaped picnic areas and an amphitheater with a waterfall and graded flat rocks for seating. There’s also a FIFA-regulation soccer field that draws local teams. The field and the park’s mostly native Southern California plants are designed to be ecofriendly. Open sunrise to sunset, daily.

100 N. Toluca St., at First St. and Beaudry Ave. Visit smmc.ca.gov.

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Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

SPORTING/ CONVENTION VENUES

Downtown Los Angeles is home to a number of professional sports teams, among them the Lakers, Dodgers and Kings.

Lucky fans can take their pick of events almost any night of the week, and the central location means they can take advantage of the area’s many restaurants, shops and nightlife options.

Dodger Stadium This 56,000-seat stadium has welcomed baseball fans since 1962, and is one of Southern California’s most treasured landmarks. After scouting a spot at Chavez Ravine just north of Downtown, Brooklyn Dodgers owner Walter O’Malley built the stadium and moved his team to the West Coast.

The venue is noted for its cleanliness, 300 acres of tree-filled landscaping, a vast parking lot, the beloved Dodger Dog, and

a cantilevered design that eliminates view-blocking columns.

Don’t miss the 90-minute, behind-the-scenes tour.

1000 Elysian Park Ave., (866) DODGERS or dodgers.com.

Los Angeles Convention Center Marked by a signature blue-green glass crown, Downtown’s Convention Center is located next to the Staples Center and the snazzy new L.A. Live entertainment district. While its energetic location is certainly a selling point for convention goers, so is the staggering 720,000 square feet of modern exhibit space. A sleek, new headquarters hotel has upped the ante for its competition too, making this venue an even more attractive option for doing business.

1201 S. Figueroa St., (213) 741-1151 or lacclink.com.

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Sports Arena Anchoring Exposition Park and its collection of museums and green space is the imposing Memorial Coliseum,

which opened to sports fans in 1923. It saw action during the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympic Games, the World Series in 1959, and Super Bowls I and VII. John F. Kennedy accepted the Democratic presidential nomination here in 1960, and Pope John Paul II celebrated mass for thousands in 1987. Today, the Coliseum hosts the University of Southern California’s football team, concerts and special events.

Look for the headless bronze male and female nudes that greet visitors at the Art Deco eastern entrance — they’re the work of late sculptor Robert Graham, commissioned for the 1984 Olympics. Together with the smaller Sports Arena located next door, these venues are often credited with the migration of professional sports to the West Coast, and today they still host soccer, raves, concerts and yes, the occasional rodeo.

3911 S. Figueroa St. (Coliseum) and 3939 S. Figueroa St. (Sports Arena), (213) 747-7111 or lacoliseumlive.com.

Staples Center Staples Center is located between the Convention Center and the massive entertainment complex known as L.A. Live. Staples was originally built for the Los Angeles Kings, but in addition to the hockey team, the arena — which opened in 1999 — is home to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA).

When one of those teams isn’t competing, the arena hosts everything from boxing matches to rock concerts to red carpet awards shows. Despite the crowd-drawing championship games and visits from the likes of Prince, U2 and Madonna, the arena’s attendance record is held by The Police, who reunited for a tour in 2007.

1111 S. Figueroa St. Box office (213) 742-7340 and info at staplescenter.com.

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PARTICIPATING DOWNTOWN GNC LOCATIONS: Pershing Square, 6th & Olive: 510 W. 6th St. Phone: 213-622-2078 Arco Plaza: 505 S. Flower St., Level B Phone: 213-489-7732 Macy’s Plaza: 700 S. Flower St. Phone: 213-622-6931 GNC LA CIENEGA PLAZA: 1833 La Cienega Blvd.

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MOVIE THEATERS

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Downtown’s main attraction when it comes to movie watching is the 14-screen Regal Cinemas, a modern new movie theater in the heart of L.A. Live. Rounding out the lineup is a handful of smaller operators that run the gamut from an IMAX theater to an art house destination.

Downtown Independent This 222-seat event and film venue has a modern design and a cool selection of cult movies, foreign films and critical darlings. Keep an eye out for film festival offerings.

251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com.

Flagship Theatres University Village 3 Across the street from the University of Southern California campus, college kids and locals can get their movie fix at the Flagship, a triplex where contemporary films and fun late-night cult and horror flicks screen.

3323 S. Hoover St., (213) 748-6321 or flagshipmovies.com.

IMAX Theater This state-of-the-art theater in the California Science Center offers family-friendly fare that usually ties into exhibits at the museum — namely science and nature-themed adventures.

The seven-story screen is the largest in Los Angeles, and is designed so that the film’s images extend beyond a viewer’s peripheral vision, making him or her part of the action. The 3D projector is the size of a small car. General admission $8.25; children (4-12) $5; students and seniors $6. Open daily.

700 State Drive, (213) 744-2019 or californiasciencecenter.org.

REDCAT (Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater) In addition to its regular schedule of concerts, theater and speakers, REDCAT hosts cutting-edge films — curated surveys and retrospectives, a showcase for local filmmakers and video artists, documentaries, and in-person presentations. It’s a film nerd’s paradise.

631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org.

Regal Cinemas This giant, 14-screen complex is Downtown’s shiny new movie-going destination. The state-of-the-art theaters are located on the western edge of the L.A. Live campus, ideal for grabbing a bite to eat and a cocktail before or after show time.

800 W. Olympic Blvd. (213) 763-6070 or regmovies.com.

KID-FRIENDLY DOWNTOWN

Coming August 28, 2011: Big Blue Bus’ Rapid 10 Freeway Express

Young families are continuing to move Downtown. For them, and for the minions of families living nearby, there are plenty of cultural institutions with diverse programming for kids, and several parks and plazas that hold events year round.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater BigBlueBus.com Customer Service at 310-451-5444 TDD 310-395-6024

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Bob Baker got his start decorating department store windows and performing

D I V E R S I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

marionette shows around town. In 1961, he opened his own theater on the western edge of Downtown. Thanks to the puppeteer’s tenacity, a crew of apprentice and professional puppeteers, and a colorful army of marionettes, his venture is still pulling strings. The kitschy shows rotate in repertory all week long, and there’s scheduled time for ice cream and cake after the shows.

1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com.

Colburn School This school is really two institutions: The community-based School of Performing Arts offers open-enrollment classes in drama, music and dance to students from preschool age to adults; and the Conservatory of Music is a selective college offering classic music training at the baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate levels.

200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool.edu.

Exposition Park Exposition Park is a family friendly, activity-rich paradise starring the kid-approved Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the California Science Center. The former hosts the Butterfly and Spider Pavilion, where free-moving insects live in enclosed outdoor habitats. Inside, there are daily activities, an interactive Discovery Center, and the largest live insect zoo on the West Coast. The California Science Center (with an adjoining IMAX Theater) is just steps away, and is also a great resource for kids — and free. It specializes in colorful, interactive exhibits and science-minded displays. The California African American Museum hosts creative programming for families on Sundays, and the grounds in between all three of these institutions feature expansive lawns, picnic areas, retired spy planes and life-sized dinosaur models.

The Natural History Museum is at 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-DINO or nhm.org. The California Science Center is at 700 State Drive, (213) 744-7400 or californiasciencecenter.org. The California African American Museum is at 600 State Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caam.ca.gov.

El Pueblo and Olvera Street Every day of the week, Olvera Street and the plaza at the center of El Pueblo bustle with activity. In the plaza, there are bands onstage and strolling musicians, and people dancing sporadically to both. Roaming ice cream vendors and clowns ply their trades, and the Old Mexico City-style street has plenty of booths where toys and souvenirs can be had.

845 N. Alameda St., olvera-street.com.

Grand Performances The Watercourt offers the ideal setting for a family-

friendly excursion. Whether they frolic around the dancing fountains and ponds, or take in a summer concert or event with mom and dad in the evening, this Bunker Hill haven is always a hit with the kids. There are cafes and fast-food eateries around the courtyard, or you can bring a picnic and dine al fresco with the little ones.

350 S. Grand Ave., (213) 687-2159 or grandperformances.org.

Little Barn Inside the red barn façade, kids can play to their hearts content in a ball pit, or burn off energy on the slide, bounce house or climbing wall. There’s also an arts and crafts station, a selection of toys, regular puppet shows and a slate of classes including signing, dancing and music. On the weekends, Little Barn is available for children’s parties.

130 S. Beaudry Ave., (213) 481-2276 or littlebarn.org.

Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge Though it may be an adult-only venue after 7 p.m., this bowling alley is available to keep the kids entertained during the day. There are pizza party options, and yes, the rental shoes do come in smaller sizes.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 542-4880 or bowlluckystrike.com.

Music Center In addition to its fun public events in the plaza — free dance lessons, drum circles and weekend sing-alongs — the Music Center also produces a theater series for kids aged three to six. It’s called Pillow Theatre because the audience can sit on provided pillows or bring their own. The 30-minute interactive shows on select Saturday mornings are meant to spark curiosity about music, theater and dance.

135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or musiccenter.org.

Orthopaedic Hospital Playground Open daily to the public, this nearly half-acre, universally accessible playground features a foam ground, colorful slides, tubes, bridges, swings, interactive puzzles, and a dragon that mists kids with water. On the first Saturday of the month the hospital hosts a free play day with face painting, arts and crafts, entertainment and treats.

Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

At 2400 S. Flower St. Parking entrance is on 23rd St., between Flower St. and Grand Ave. Pedestrian entrance on Adams Blvd. Visit orthohospital.org.

Richard J. Riordan Central Library Los Angeles’ Central Library is a must-visit destination for inquisitive young minds, empowering kids and teens with their own reading rooms and programming. Every Saturday at 2 p.m. the library features storytellers, puppet shows, musicians, actors and magicians. Preschool story time (ages 3-5) is Tuesday at 11 a.m.

630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7000 or lapl.org/central.

EXCURSIONS

Just minutes outside of Downtown, dozens of memorable excursions await. From the La Brea Tar Pits on Mid-Wilshire to paddle boat rides at Echo Park to hiking and horseback riding at Griffith Park, the Central City’s adjacent communities are packed with adventure and delight.

Mid-Wilshire

A few miles west of Downtown on Wilshire Boulevard are two stunning Art Deco edifices: the former Bullocks Wilshire Department Store, now home to the Southwestern University School of Law, and the Wiltern Theatre, which packs a full slate of concerts.

3050 Wilshire Blvd., (213) 738-6700 or swlaw.edu; Wiltern Theatre, on the corner of Wilshire and Western Avenue. 3790 Wilshire Blvd., (213) 388-1400.

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FIDM Book Store

The FIDM Store carries logo merchandise as well as school and office supplies, art supplies, greeting cards, tote bags, and gifts. ®

919 South Grand Avenue at 9th, LA 90015 losangelesdowntown.com | D I V E R S I O N S

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(PROPOSED NFL STADIUM SITE)

WEST EXHIBIT HALL

STAPLES CENTER ARENA

JW MARRIOTT & RITZ L.A. LIVE CARLTON REGAL NOKIA CINEPLEX PLAZA NOKIA THEATRE N WEST R EA GARAGE KH CHIC

ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

FRANCISCO ST

LOYOLA LAW SCHOOL

JAM

WILSHIRE BLVD

LUXE CITY CENTER

PICO STATION

CALIFORNIA HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER

VENICE BLVD FRIEDMAN OCCUPATIONAL CENTER

PICO BLVD

AT&T CENTER 12TH ST

11TH ST

GRAND

BROADWAY

HILL ST OLIVE ST

AVE

FLOWER ST

RS FLOWE T

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18TH ST

CA FWY S A N TA M O N I

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14TH ST

14TH PL

THE MAYAN BELASCO THEATRE

CALIFORNIA MARKET CENTER

ORPHEUM THEATER

OLYMPIC BLVD

UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE

9TH ST

8TH ST

MAIN ST

B

GRAND HOPE FIDM PARK

LAAC 7TH ST

STILLWELL HOTEL

SOUTH PARK

RALPHS

FIDM ANNEX

6TH ST

MERCANTILE ARCADE

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LAPD CENTRAL DIVISION

LA MISSION

TOY DISTRICT

FLOWER MARKET

CENTRAL CITY EAST STAY HOTEL

LOS ANGELES ST

PATRIOTIC HALL

RITZ MILNER O HOTEL

MACY'S PLAZA

VERIZON SHERATON HOTEL

7TH ST / METRO CENTER STATION

NEW LATC

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

5TH ST

OLD BANK DISTRICT & GALLERY ROW

MUSEUM OF NEON ART

RONALD REAGAN STATE BLDG

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14TH ST

15TH ST

PARA LOS NINOS

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10TH ST

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ELECTRONICS DISTRICT

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

SEAFOOD DISTRICT

SAN PEDRO STATION

7TH ST

WEINGART CLINIC 6TH ST

LVD GTON B WASHIN

FASHION DISTRICT

MIDNIGHT MISSION

UNION RESCUE MISSION

5TH ST

DOWNTOWN WOMEN’S CENTER

4TH ST

MALL

ST H 4T

BLDG. BIDDY MASON PARK

JEWELRY DISTRICT

BILTMORE HOTEL PERSHING SQUARE

GAS CO TOWER

PERSHING SQUARE STATION

4TH ST

WATER COURT ANGELS GRAND CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FLIGHT MARKET PLAZA

FINANCIAL DISTRICT

HOPE ST

OO ES M W

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777

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WILSHIRE GRAND HOTEL

FIGUEROA AT WILSHIRE

MAGUIRE CITY GDNS NATIONAL JONATHAN PLAZA CALIF. CLUB CLUB THE STANDARD

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MELLON BANK

WELLS FARGO CENTER

GRAND AVE

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GARLAND BUILDING

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WESTIN YMCA UNION BONAVENTURE HOTEL BANK CITIGROUP PLAZA CENTER

MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN

BROADWAY

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CITY WEST

GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL

LAUSD HQ

LOS ANGELES CENTER STUDIOS

T 3RD S CHAMBER OF COMMERCE T 4TH S

OLIVE ST

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MIGUEL CONTRERAS LEARNING COMPLEX

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Continuing westward on Wilshire brings you to the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits. Bubbling up in the shadow of Mid-City office buildings are pits of liquid asphalt that have snared some of the world’s most famous Ice Age fossil remains — mammoths, saber-toothed cats and giant sloths. Paleontologists can be spotted knee-deep in black stuff; they recover hundreds of ancient bones a year.

5801 Wilshire Blvd., (323) 934-7243 or tarpits.org.

Adjacent to the La Brea Tar Pits is a storehouse of art inside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), home to more than 100,000 works of art, blockbuster exhibits, and nighttime programming that packs the grounds well into the night.

5905 Wilshire Blvd., (323) 857-6000 or lacma.org.

Across the street from LACMA is the Petersen Automotive Museum. The first floor chronicles the evolution of the car; the second is composed of five large, changing galleries with race cars, classics, vintage motorcycles, concept cars, and this being L.A., vehicles that have starred in movies or belonged to stars.

6060 Wilshire Blvd., (323) 930-CARS or petersen.org.

Echo Park/Angelino Heights

$46.50

Flat Rate

From Downtown to LAX

48

Just northwest of Downtown lies Echo Park, a gentrifying neighborhood that mixes families and longtime locals with newly arriving hipsters. The result is taquerias next door to wine bars; cool watering holes and galleries next to familyowned businesses; murals everywhere; and most importantly, a laid back vibe.

The area’s centerpiece is Echo Park Lake (closed for a two-year renovation). Picnics unfold on weekends, and a concrete trail welcomes joggers, skaters and strollers.

Ducks and geese freely intermingle, paddle boats are available. Just east of the lake is the hilly residential enclave of Angelino Heights, one of Downtown’s first suburban neighborhoods. Drive down the 1300 block of Carroll Avenue, and the streets branching out from it, for breathtakingly restored Queen Anne, Bungalow and Craftsman homes.

Echo Park Lake is located along Glendale Boulevard, south of Sunset Boulevard, laparks.org.

D I V E R S I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

Hollywood

Hollywood Bowl

With 18,000 seats, this is the largest natural amphitheater in the United States. Opened in 1922, the Bowl hosts hundreds of people who picnic in and around the grounds before shows. In the summer, it is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic (the Phil plays in the Walt Disney Concert Hall the rest of the year) and a slate of touring music acts.

There’s a lineup of jazz and classical music, as well as more youthful concerts. The firework shows are spectacular.

2301 N. Highland Ave. in Hollywood, (323) 850-2000 or hollywoodbowl.com.

Universal Studios Though a bit far afield from Downtown, this SoCal theme park is a worthy attraction for both visitors and locals. The moviethemed destination includes rides, a studio tour, shows and lots of restaurants and shops in its bustling CityWalk.

100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, (800) 864-8377 or universalstudioshollywood.com.

Griffith Park

Just a few miles outside of Downtown you’ll find the largest city-owned park in the U.S. In 1896, gold miner Colonel Griffith J. Griffith gave 3,000 acres of ranchland to Los Angeles, with the stipulation that the land serve people of all classes. The hilly terrain is zigzagged by excellent hiking trails, golf courses, swimming holes and picnic spots.

The outdoor Greek Theater, the domed Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles Zoo are all nestled in its hills.

The Greek Theater is at 2700 N. Vermont Ave., (323) 665-5857 or greektheatrela.com. Griffith Observatory is at 2800 E. Observatory Road, (213) 473-0800 or griffithobs.org.

The L.A. Zoo is at 5333 Zoo Drive, (323) 644-4200 or lazoo.org.

Hustler Casino

South Bay

Those in the mood for a little gambling can try their luck just 15 minutes south of Downtown at the Hustler Casino. Open 24 hours, they specialize in card and classic table games.

1000 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., Gardena, (310) 719-9800 or hustlercasinola.com.

Vlado Footwear

SHOPPING

Discover a Shopper’s Paradise in Downtown’s Diverse Districts

››

Unlike any other place in the city, Downtown Los Angeles is truly a one-stop shopping destination. There are districts within districts specializing in everything from fabric and flowers to jewelry and toys. Just about anything can be found within its boundaries, and exploring the hidden alleyways, trendy new boutiques, ethnic enclaves and sleek malls has never been more exciting.

ARTS DISTRICT

This petite district packs a lot of punch with its charm and authenticity, with cute coffee shops, artist lofts and colorful residents. Likewise, shopping in the Arts District can bring unexpected delights, whether you’re buying art, trying on vintage clothes or rummaging through old movie props.

Freaks Vintage Clothing Great vintage clothing and accessories.

826 E. Third St., (213) 628-1234.

Matteo

Caravan Books

You’ll find beautifully hand-crafted Italian cotton and linen bedding at this stylish Arts District showroom. They’ll often host sample sales of up to 75% off.

912 E. Third St., (213) 617-2813 or matteohome.com.

For rare and antique books with a side of L.A. history, a visit to Caravan is in order. The quaint shop has been in business since 1954, when Morris Bernstein was part of a larger “Book Row” on Sixth Street. These days, son Leonard runs Caravan, and he’s usually seated behind an old wooden desk. He still wraps your purchases in brown paper.

550 S. Grand Ave., (213) 626-9944.

SCI-Arc Supply Store This is the student store for the Southern California Institute of Architecture. The Downtown community can purchase books as well as architecture and art supplies.

811 Traction Ave., (213) 687-0854 or sciarc.edu.

BUNKER HILL/ FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Don’t be fooled — it’s not all business in this bustling district. Downtown’s two major malls can be found here, as well as a host of interesting and unexpected shops that offer plenty of sport.

505 Flower These two towers house a modern underground shopping area boasting a flower shop, fitness center, photo shop, dentist and several eateries including the Weiland Brewery Underground.

505 S. Flower St., B Level.

L.A. Phil Store After a visit to the gorgeous Walt Disney Concert Hall, stop losangelesdowntown.com | S H O P P I N G

49

Dish Factory

in to the gift shop where you can find a range of fun items — Beethoven bobbleheads, stunning modern jewelry, music-related T-shirts, elegant scarves and loads of quirky gifts.

131 S. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3440 or laphilstore.com.

This 35,000-square-foot space carries some 10,000 items ranging from inexpensive restaurant-style dishes to heavy duty stock pots to flatware. It’s an ideal spot to hit if you’re hosting a party and need multiples on the cheap.

310 S. Los Angeles St., (213) 687-9500 or dishfactory.com.

The Library Store The Central Library houses a unique gift shop selling autographed books, exhibit merchandise, apparel, greeting cards, journals, and items for children, readers and writers. Closed Sunday and Monday.

630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7550 or librarystore.org.

Macy’s Plaza

Hats On Spun off of a popular Korean chain, this shop carries around 500 hat types — everything from MLB baseball caps to beanies to classic fedoras for him and her. And don’t miss the endless selection of Kangol berets for the Samuel Jackson in you. Prices range from about $6 to $80.

349 S. Los Angeles St., (213) 625-1561

American Apparel

This longtime shopping mall features more than 30 specialty shops, eateries and services. Macy’s anchors the plaza, which also includes Bally’s Total Fitness, a postal center, and women’s apparel chains such as Express, Casual Corner and Victoria’s Secret. On the first Saturday of every month, there are free children’s activities.

750 W. Seventh St., (213) 624-2891.

MOCA Store There’s lots of browse-worthy material at this fun museum gift shop, including books, toys, calendars, towels, home design items, prints, and other cool gizmos. A museum membership gets you 10% off.

250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-1710 or moca-la.org/store.

FIGat7th This open-air shopping oasis is undergoing a transforma-

tion, with Downtown’s first Target being built and set to open in late 2012. During construction, the major players are still open: Morton’s, Starbucks, Gold’s Gym, California Pizza Kitchen, Adoro Mexican Grille, and Yolanda Aguilar Beauty Institute and Spa. There’s also a weekly farmer’s market, and frequent live music and holiday events.

735 S. Figueroa St., (213) 955-7150 or 7fig.com.

CENTRAL CITY EAST

Cash is king and there are deals galore to be had across this frenetic district. Tiny wholesale shops crammed with every item imaginable offer the public a chance to scoop up cheap toys, party supplies, perfume, electronics, Hello Kitty goodies, car accessories, you name it. It’s fun, fastpaced and a bit gritty. Snag parking where you can and explore on foot.

Toy District Despite its name, you’ll find more than just toys within this 12-block district. There are 500 businesses selling everything under the sun — silk flowers, electronics, DVDs, fashion accessories, incense oils, craft supplies, luggage and so much more. All of it is offered at wholesale prices to the public. Most stores are open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.5 p.m. A good place to start is Los Angeles Street, one of the district’s main thoroughfares.

Third on the north, Fifth on the south, Los Angeles on the west and San Pedro on the east. Visit centralcityeast.org.

Mega Toys This huge space is filled with cheaper versions of whatever toy is in the big name stores. You can usually find

HELPING YOUR BUSINESS GROW The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power offers business assistance programs to support the growth of your business.

The LADWP offers these programs to increase your bottom line: • Loans for utility infrastructure and energy efficiency projects • Case Management services for new and expanding business • Enterprise zone and rate assistance Call LADWP Economic Development Group at (800) 864-4409 or visit us at www.ladwp.com 50

S H O P P I N G | downtown los angeles gUIde

action figuers, fashion dolls, water toys, kitchen sets, costumes, plastic dinosaurs and the like.

905 E. Second St., (213) 617-1353 or megatoys.com.

Los Angeles Mall

CHINATOWN

There’s a magical quality about Chinatown that you can’t find anywhere else in the city — paper lanterns overhead, smoked ducks hanging in the windows and quaint shops filled with fanciful trinkets. The main plazas and walkways are alive with energy, activity and lots of colorful shopping. Whether you pop into a traditional herb shop, stroll the galleries or haggle in the maze of alleyways, it’s almost a guarantee that you won’t leave Chinatown empty handed.

Flock Shop

A distinctive pagoda entryway marks Chinatown’s most popular and historic plaza, strung with fanciful paper lanterns and packed with gift shops selling pretty umbrellas, jade keepsakes and silk pajamas. Central Plaza is bordered by North Broadway, North Hill, Bernard and College streets.

For a well-curated selection of modern and unusual gifts visit Realm, which dazzles with sleek glassware, unique ceramics, silver pieces and statues. There’s also a selection of design books, cards, toys and other novelties. Open daily 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

425 Gin Ling Way, (213) 628-4663 or realmhome.com.

For a more traditional taste of Chinatown, visit Gin Ling

Gifts. The vintage neon sign hints at the 1930s Shanghai vibe. Here you’ll find custom Chinese dresses — both fancy and casual — along with cute accessories. You can even dress up in authentic attire and take a photo.

441 Gin Ling Way, (213) 617-1452.

Chung King Road Though this tiny pedestrian alley is only 40 feet wide, it packs a lot of punch. Visitors will find original Chinese storefronts, romantic lanterns and mahjong clubs mixed in with trendy shops and art galleries. Openings bring in the artsy crowd.

Chung King Road is between Yale and Hill streets.

Dynasty Center Hidden from street view, this huge indoor swap meet is packed with dozens of stalls selling clothes, toys, luggage, purses

MOCA GRAND AVENUE 250 South Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012

THE GEFFEN CONTEMPORARY AT MOCA 152 North Central Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012

A small shop with big style, this boutique offers plenty of surprises such as funky jewelry, silkscreened T-shirts, vintage items, unique leather handbags, cheeky letterpress cards and handmade plushies.

If you want to take home something original, this is the place.

943 N. Broadway #103, (213) 229-9090 or flockshopla.com.

Fong’s You’ll find Asian art, antiques, figurines, opera puppets, jewelry and more at this longtime Chinatown gift shop.

943 Chung King Road, (213) 626-5904, fongsonchungkingroad.com.

Welcome Hunters This edgy boutique sells men’s and women’s clothing with a focus on up-and-coming, avant-garde designers. It’s pricey, but if you want cutting-edge gear you’ll find it here.

454B Jung Jing Rd., (213) 687-9905 or welcomehuntersla.com.

Wing Hop Fung Chinatown’s largest and most popular department store

MOCA PACIFIC DESIGN CENTER 8687 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood, CA 90069 moca.org

photo by Brian Forrest

Central Plaza

DowntownGuide_MOCA_2011-12.indd 1

and fashion jewelry. There are bargains to be had, especially if you are willing to haggle a little. Just next door is the Chinatown Plaza, a collection of jewelry storefronts.

Both the Dynasty Center and Chinatown Plaza are in the 800 block of Broadway, between Alpine and College streets.

losangelesdowntown.com | S H8/23/11 O P P I N4:43 G PM 51

EL PUEBLO/UNION STATION

sprawls over two stories and 20,000 square feet. It’s a breathtaking storehouse of Chinese gifts and is one of the largest herbal retailers in the U.S. Start your adventure on the ground floor, where you can browse endless aisles and shelves of fragrant looseleaf teas — glass jars filled with hand-rolled jasmine pearls and the beautiful, dried pink buds of China rose tea. Upstairs, Wing Hop Fung has an impressive selection of spirits, from unique wine to more than 100 types and dozens of often-scarce Japanese and Korean sake. You’ll also find gifts and home goods, such as dishes, rice cookers, silk pajamas and clothing, decorations, and teapots, among other things.

727 N. Broadway, (213) 626-7200 or winghopfung.com.

In 1781, the city was founded at E Pueblo, just across from the present day transit hub Union Station. This petite district is home to a cluster of colorful shops centered along Olvera Street, which runs through the heart of the historic El Pueblo.

Olvera Street

CIVIC CENTER

This district is home to City Hall, as well as dozens of civic and government buildings. A small crop of shops and services has sprung up to serve the local workforce and surrounding residential community. Most businesses are open weekdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

2nd Street Cigars and Gallery Home of the La Plata Cigar Company, this art-filled shop offers their house line as well as national brands. There is a good supply of accessories too, from torches to cutters to humidors. La Plata also hosts cigar tastings and art openings.

124 W. Second St., (213) 452-4416 or 2ndstreetcigarlounge.com.

The center of El Pueblo is Olvera Street, a lively marketplace that boasts 80 shops and stalls stocked with leather goods, candles, handicrafts, souvenirs, candy, tequila, art, food vendors and restaurants. Olvera Street The Last Bookstore is a must for any tourist and Angeleno. Generally open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Los Angeles Mall 845 N. Alameda St., (213) 628-1274 or olvera-street.com.

Tucked between the County Hall of Administration and the County Courthouse, it is easy to miss this underground FASHION DISTRICT collection of retail. It’s a bit frayed around the edges, but Serious shoppers need look no futher than Downtown’s convenient in a pinch. There are about a dozen eateries, a Fashion District, where a dense hub of shops and alleys CVS pharmacy, dry cleaners, gift shop, shoe repair, and a beckon with cheap prices on fashion, accessories, toys, handful of other services. fabric, beads, flowers and just about anything else you can 201 N. Spring St. dream up. A few shops are wholesale only, but for the most part, this shopping paradise is yours to explore. Come preCity Hall Farmers Market pared with cash and walking shoes.

Every Thursday, the lawn of City Hall transforms into a farmers market with colorful flowers, local produce, rotisCalifornia Market Center serie chicken, olives, honey, artisan bread, crafts and more.

While this 2,000-showroom fashion hub sells to the trade, It’s an enjoyable way to spend the afternoon, especially on the public can get a taste of the action during the monthly warm days when you can eat lunch on the picnic tables. sample sales from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. On the last Friday of South Lawn of City Hall (at First and Main streets), the month, you’ll spot a line that often stretches around the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. block. Expect to find racks of discounted designer clothing

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To qualify for $50 incentive, you must perform at least five transactions per month for the first three months your checking account is open. New checking accounts only. Not valid for members with existing First City checking accounts closed within the last 90 days. Checking account applications are subject to ChexSystem verification.

Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government

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Must be a member in good standing to qualify. Limited time offer. Subject to change without notice. Cannot be combined with other First City promotional offers. You must attach coupons with your applications to qualify for coupon offers.

Downtown News ad special guide June 2010.indd 1

the loft expert!

6/9/10 10:47:49 AM

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, together with CRA/LA, has launched the Industrial Incentive Program (IIP) to promote urban manufacturing, job creation and greening industrial businesses.

The IIP offers the following incentives to businesses seeking to locate, expand or green their industrial operations: Conditional Loans of up to $250,000 for the purchase of capital equipment

Lean Manufacturing Grants of up to $50,000 to identify lean processing opportunities, logistics planning, and cost efficiencies for manufacturers.

Downtown since 2002

Bill Cooper Voted BEST Downtown Residential Real Estate Agent!

52

PROGRAM

Energy Audit Grants of up to $50,000 to identify opportunities for energy efficiency in the business’ operations

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INDUSTRIAL INCENTIVE

213.598.7555

S H O P P I N G | downtown los angeles gUIde

Call LADWP Economic Development Group at (800) 864-4409 or visit us at www.ladwp.com.

TheLoftExpertGroup.com

women’s clothing at a discount. These are the real thing, not the knockoffs you’ll find throughout the district. There is 7,000 square feet to browse and the stock changes frequently. The holidays bring even more bargains.

934 S. Maple Ave., (213) 623-3083.

Sanrio in Little Tokyo

FIDM Museum Shop There’s a surpisingly unique selection of gifts and goods at this fashionable shop, including chic jewelry (recycled from rubber), designer purses from alums, home accessories, toys, books and more.

919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 623-5821 or fidmmuseumshop.com.

Moskatels (Michael’s)

FIDM Scholarship Store

Though there are smaller and cheaper fabric shops throughout the district, this 60,000-square-foot store has it all under one roof, including the latest designs (Amy Butler, Echino, Heather Ross), patterns and notions. The staff is super helpful and there’s even a bathroom. Across the street, you’ll find a space devoted to interior fabrics. Parking is validated in the lot if you spend $20 or more.

920 S. Maple Ave., (213) 622-6259 or mlfabric.com.

Novecento

Morrie’s

Santee Alley is considered the epicenter of Downtown bargain hunting. This open-air street market comprised

This is the place to go for big name and designer label

You’ll find antique European furniture at this unique shop on Olive Street, encompassing everything from Mid-Century items to contemporary designs. There are stunning table and floor lamps, vintage toys, paintings, rugs and one-of-a-kind items.

910 S. Olive St., (213) 622-7700 or novecento.1stdibs.com.

Santee Alley

The Oasis Below the Street

Food Services Shopping

City Hall City Hall East

Los Angeles St.

ACEBSA

Main St.

101 Fwy.

Two cavernous buildings across the street from each other make up the Flower Mart — the main hive of a sub-district focusing on wholesale blooms and floral supplies. The public is welcome to shop alongside designers, who come here for the best and freshest flowers. You’ll find bunches of colorful blooms, pre-made bouquets, potted plants and supplies.

There is an ATM but you should come prepared with cash.

The mart opens to the public at 8 a.m. Mon., Wed. and Fri., and 6 a.m. Tues., Thurs. and Sat. Admission is $2 on weekdays and $1 on Saturday (closed Sunday). There’s parking

Michael Levine

Alison St.

Flower Mart

on Wall and San Julian streets.

Southern California Flower Market is at 742 Maple Ave., (213) 627-2482. Los Angeles Flower District is at 754 Wall St., (213) 627-3696 or laflowerdistrict.com.

First St.

Shop for a good cause at this cute boutique, which stocks deeply discounted clothing, jewelry and accessories — some donated from major manufacturers and department stores. Don’t miss the fun holiday sale where you can score lots of great gifts on the cheap.

919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 624-1200 or fidm.edu.

Craft enthusiasts and party planners flock to this mega store for a wide selection of silk flowers, baskets, ribbon, vases, party goods, scrapbooking kits, frames, seasonal decorations, art supplies and wedding items. Owned by craft store giant Michael’s, you’ll often find better deals on merchandise here. Located between Seventh and Eighth streets, three blocks east of Los Angeles Street and one block west of San Pedro Street. Open Monday through Saturday 6 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

733 S. San Julian St., (213) 689-4590.

Temple St.

and accessories. Cash only.

110 E. Ninth St., (213) 630-3600 or californiamarketcenter.com.

L.A. Mall Enter parking here!

201 N. Los Angeles St.

(At Temple & Los Angeles below street level)

losangelesdowntown.com | S H O P P I N G

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of more than 200 stalls and small shops is open daily, though weekends attract the biggest crowds hunting for cheap jeans, trendy shoes, knock-off sunglasses, toys and men’s suits. Haggling is expected, and though a number of shops now take plastic, prices often go down if you pull out cash.

Parking at the Alley can be intense, but don’t be discouraged. Many lots charge $5 to $7 for the day. For other transportation options, as well as restaurants, restrooms and ATMs, pick up the Fashion District map (at fashiondistrict.org, at the California Market Center, or from a yellow-clad district ambassador on the street).

Olympic Boulevard to 12th Street, between Maple Avenue and Santee Street, (213) 488-1153 or thesanteealley.com.

Santee Street The bazaar-like Santee Alley is packed with people and fun knockoffs, but don’t overlook the street itself. These are shops, not stalls, selling apparel, accessories and lots of sparkly costume jewelry that makes great gifts. Usually, there’s no wholesale license needed.

Santee Street is located just west of Santee Alley.

Roger Stuart Upscale men’s suits and clothing at moderate prices.

Suits are made in Italy and Spain. Professional service.

Open daily.

729 S. Los Angeles St., (213) 627-9661 or rogerstuart.com.

Olde Good Things Architectural salvage is the name of the game at this fun store, located near the L.A. Trade Tech campus. There’s lots to rummage through, from antique mantles to gorgeous mirrors to lighting and furniture. There are decorative collectibles aplenty, and you won’t be dissapointed if you’re looking for a one-of-a kind piece.

Open daily.

1800 S. Grand Ave., (213) 746-8600 or ogtstore.com.

Vlado Footwear This colorful showroom caters to hip-hop culture and serious street dance. Vlado sponsors local dance crews and events for “jerkin,’” a spin-off of break dancing. As owner Jill Kim’s designs evolved on the dance scene, they also caught the attention of celebrities such as Jamie Foxx and hip-hop artist Pit Bull. Pictures of those and other stars wearing Vlados hang in the store.

2200 S. Main St., (213) 629-2591 or vladofootwear.com.

Olde Good Things

FURNITURE AND DECORATIVE ARTS DISTRICT

As the local shopping nexus for the interior design industry, this district features hundreds of furniture manufacturers that sell primarily to the trade only. Occasionally, shoppers can take advantage of special sales. Bounded by the L.A. Mart on the northwest (at Broadway and Washington Boulevard), Central Avenue on the east and Florence Avenue on the south.

L.A. Mart The L.A. Mart is a full-resource center for gifts, decorative accessories and home furnishings. The L.A. Mart is usually for the trade only — in other words a qualified buyer or designer.

But look for the occasional L.A. Mart sample sales, when the public can buy goods at up to 70% off wholesale.

(800) LAMART4 or lamart.com.

HISTORIC CORE

No longer just a collection of cheap electronics, perfume and CDs, this historic Downtown district has diversified with a growing number of hip boutiques selling trendy furniture and designer clothing — many in unique locations.

Broadway Many of Broadway’s historic structures are filled with discount retail shops and mini swap meet malls on the

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S H O P P I N G | downtown los angeles gUIde

ground floor. These shops sell wedding dresses, cheap perfume, bootleg DVDs, shoes, electronics and sunglasses. The strip is a mash of people, blaring music, rumbling buses and vendors proclaiming their bargains to passing customers. It’s uniquely L.A. and definitely worth a visit.

On Broadway between Third and Ninth streets.

Crack Gallery & Boutique This store on the ground floor of the Hayward Hotel offers a blend of sexy, attention-getting men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. It also carries affordable pop art pieces. Open daily.

204 W. Sixth St., (213) 622-3493 or crackgallery.com.

ing — platform beds, stylish chairs, sectional couches, bookshelves and coffee tables. There are also a few MidCentury pieces.

101 W. Fifth St., (213) 243-5881 or suburban-la.com.

JEWELRY DISTRICT

For unbeatable deals on precious gems, watches, engagement rings and other sparkly trinkets, shoppers benefit from impressive savings since they’re buying directly from the manufacturers at wholesale prices. There are a number of jewelry marts throughout the area, including: International Jewelry Center (550 S. Hill St.); California Jewelry Mart (607 S. Hill St.); Jewelry Theater Building (411 W. Seventh St.); and the 556 S. Broadway Building. Parking is widely available throughout the district, and can vary

greatly, from $3 to $22 a day.

Visit lajd.net. The district’s hub is Hill Street, from Fifth to Eighth streets.

Icing on the Ring Engagement rings, diamonds and lots of education for newbies.

607 S. Hill St., Suite 333, (888) 565-6150, icingonthering.com.

Lara’s Jewelry A popular spot for engagement rings and fine jewelry.

550 S. Hill St., Suite 570, (213) 623-0919, larasjewelry.com.

Pershing Square Farmers Market Every Wednesday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Pershing Square

Farmacia Million Dollar At this botanica, visitors will find a large collection of herbs, candles, oils and saintly statuettes for every objective — whether you want to win the lottery, get a promotion, find love or even get revenge. There are traditional drug store sundries and a professional pharmacist on hand, but the real fun is searching the aisles for unusual gifts — voodoo doll anyone? On Sundays, you can sometimes find a palm reader on duty.

301 S. Broadway, (213) 687-3688.

1 !

E S LD A PH SO % 50

Real loft living… …in the downtown Arts District.

Flea It’s billed as a flea market inside a store. There’s used, vintage, consignment and antique stuff such as cool furniture, 1950s artwork, Italian handbags, knickknacks and the like.

It’s small but there’s plenty to see.

548 S. Spring St., (213) 622-2122 or thefleastore.com.

Grand Central Market For more than 90 years, this open-air market has lured tourists and locals alike. The sawdust-covered floors and vintage neon signs are a charming throwback to the old days, when well-to-do Victorians from the mansions above on Bunker Hill would ride the Angels Flight railway down the hill to shop at the marketplace. There are dozens of ethnic foods stalls, fresh produce stands with bargain prices, exotic spices and fresh juices. The market bustles with activity from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

317 S. Broadway, (213) 624-2378 or grandcentralsquare.com.

I-Squared A spinoff of the pricier interior Illusions store, this modern furniture and home accessories outpost offers moderate prices for Downtown dwellers. The selection includes ceramics, sofas, chairs, tables, art, kitchen items, rugs and more.

758 S. Spring St., (213) 817-1053 or isquaredhome.com.

Kapsoul You’ll find this tiny shop of collectibles tucked under the SB Lofts. The fashion, music and cultural high and lowlights of the 1980s and early ’90s are up for sale — everything from vintage shades to vinyl to MC Hammer action figures.

548 S. Spring St., (818) 693-4180.

Ross Cutlery This longtime Downtown store offers an extensive collection of knives including blades for chefs, sportsmen, collectors or personal protection. Counters and walls are also lined with scissors, flashlights, trimmers, razors, lighters and countless other gadgets.

310 S. Broadway, (213) 626-1897 or rosscutlery.com.

(Sub)urban Home Edgy, custom-made furnishings tailored for loft liv-

Loft condominiums ideally located in LA’s sophisticated Arts District provide a uniquely appealing home at Gallery Lofts.

Combining old and new, Gallery Lofts offers the comfort and convenience of state-of-the-art finishes in a historic framework.

• Lighted and gated parking with assigned spaces • Granite counters in kitchens and baths • Open and airy mezzanine-style lofts • Stainless steel GE™ appliances • Pre-wired for TV, Internet and telephone • Lush interior courtyard with bamboo and water features • Walking distance to Metro Stop and Dash Bus Stop

From the mid $300s Decorated models open daily, 10:30 to 5:30 (Closed Tues. & Wed.)

120-130 South Hewitt St., Los Angeles • www.GalleryLoftsLA.com 323-610-7700 Prices, details, specifications and features subject to change without prior notice.

Sales exclusively by Home Builders Marketing Services, Inc. DRE #01163523.

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stretch of historic storefronts along First Street offers restaurants, gifts, flowers and even hardware. Inside the plazas, you will also find a treasure trove of spots to explore, whether you crave delicate japanese sweets, beautiful kimonos or dainty tea sets.

(sweet bean filled rice cakes). These chewy, pillow-like confections come in a rainbow of colors and flavors, such as green tea, chocolate and even peanut butter.

315 E. First St., (213) 625-8595 or fugetsu-do.com.

Japanese Village Plaza American Apparel These modern cotton basics — T-shirts, leggings, leotards, short shorts and other retro-inspired garb — are sweatshop free and made Downtown.

363 E. Second St., (213) 617-7222 or americanapparel.net.

comes alive with colorful produce displays, tasty food stalls, crafts, jewelry and other goodies. Lunchtime is busiest, when the workers from the surrounding towers descend. Be sure to bring cash. Get off at the Pershing Square metro stop and avoid parking.

532 S. Olive St., rawinspiration.org.

St. Vincent Jewelry Center At some 200,000 square feet, this is the largest and arguably the most popular complex in the Jewelry District.

There are nearly 500 tenants selling every jewel, stone, precious metal and bead imaginable. There are prices to fit every budget, with some items priced at up to 80 percent less than the competition. There’s a 250-car parking structure adjacent to the center on Broadway. Open 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

640-650 S. Hill St., (213) 629-2124 or svjc.com.

LITTLE TOKYO

Though it spans just a few blocks, this district is perhaps one of the most enjoyable to stroll and shop. The quaint

Anzen Hardware Since 1946 they’ve offered finely crafted gardening tools, gadgets and knives — professional chefs even frequent the store. There are also kitchen utensils, carpentry goods, household items and bonsai tools. They make keys too.

309 E. First St., (213) 628-7600.

Kimski Makes A trendy apparel boutique featuring vintage and designer items at moderate prices.

369 E. Second St., (213) 626-0340 or kimski.com.

Bunkado

Little Tokyo Galleria

This 66-year-old store isn’t much to look at from the outside. But inside, the immaculate yet cozy Bunkado (which means “house of culture”) is crammed with so many different kinds of Japanese-themed items it is overwhelming at first. The inventory ranges from parasols to stationary to intricate Japanese dolls.

340 E. First St., (213) 625-1122 or bunkadoonline.com.

This indoor Japanese shopping mall is anchored by the Woori Market, a full-service grocery store specializing in Asian products and ready-made food. There are several restaurants including Sushi Go 55 and Honda Ya, and shops filled with lovely housewares, dishes, knickknacks and more. Parking is validated.

333 S. Alameda St., (213) 625-7104 or littletokyogalleria.net.

Fugetsu-Do

Pop Killer

Family-owned and operated since 1903, Fugetsu Do is located on the historic First Street East. You’ll find a counter full of traditional Japanese rice cakes (mochi) and manju

This colorful boutique has a cheeky selection of vintage goodies that you’ll definitely want to take home. There are heart-shaped sunglasses, “I Heart L.A.” T-shirts, novelty toys

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Hats On

Japanese Village Plaza is Little Tokyo’s most popular place to shop and stroll. You can browse the gift shops, sample green tea frozen yogurt, visit the market for a selection of Japanese goods, or simply sit by the fountain and people watch. The First Street entrance is marked by a traditional fire tower. Two-hour parking with validation on Central Avenue between First and Second streets.

335 E. Second St., (213) 617-1900.

OPEN

6am to 10pm DAILY

Nick’s Cafe 1300 N. Spring St.

Across from LA Historic Park

Now Open for Dinner www.NicksCafeLA.com Since 1948 56

323-222-1450

S H O P P I N G | downtown los angeles gUIde

1001 N. Alameda St. L.A., CA 90012 213-628-3781 www.PHILIPPES.com

Breakfast All Day Famous Ham N Eggs Hand-Packed Burgers Great Sandwiches Daily Dinner Specials

An Extensive Seafood Menu including Dim Sum at Moderate Prices Relaxed Dining in an Elegant Ambiance Live Lobster Tank In Chinatown, Just North of Downtown L.A. 700 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 TEL: (213) 617 • 2323 FAX: (213) 617 • 0065 FREE PARKING NEXT TO RESTAURANT

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Winner 2011 Best Of Downtown 3 Best Bargain Lunch 3 Best Sandwich/Wrap 3 Best Old School Restaurant

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and lots of accessories that make you smile.

343 E. Second St., (213) 625-1372 or popkiller.us.

453 S. Spring St., (213) 488-0599 or lastbookstorela.com.

Rafu Bussan

Old Bank District Market

At 7,000 square feet, this is the largest gift shop in Little Tokyo. There’s an eye-catching selecting of beautiful ceramics and tea sets, as well as cookery, paper lanterns, sushi-shaped candles and Japanese dolls. This is a great place to go for that special gift.

326 E. Second St., (213) 614-1181.

This is the area’s go-to market for all those necessary sundries you forgot to pick up earlier — pita chips, beer, wine, chicken stock, martini olives, ice cream. There’s also a deli counter and coffee bar, and great patio seating. The owners are always super friendly and helpful too.

409 S. Main St., (213) 680-9000.

RIF

Raw Materials

A sneaker consignment store with rare names.

These shoes are pricey but unique.

334A E. Second St., (213) 617-0252 or rif.la.

Stop in to this friendly neighborhood shop for art and architectural supplies, as well as fine art printing and custom framing.

436 S. Main St., (213) 627-7223 or rawmaterialsla.com.

Bunkado

Sanrio If you like Hello Kitty, you’re in luck at this store, which calls itself the official home of the cartoon cat with the bow on her ear. The Little Tokyo outpost of this Japanese chain carries clothing, bags, stationary and even pillows featuring Hello Kitty and her animated friends. It’s not just kid stuff though: There are also whimsical grown-up items such as a Hello Kitty toaster oven or iPod speaker system.

115 Japanese Village Plaza, (213) 620-0830 or sanrio.com.

House. There’s also a bookstore, salon and sport shop.

123 Onizuka St., (213) 617-3696.

Centered along Fourth and Main streets, you’ll find a diverse collection of entrepreneurs who have set up shop to serve the local loft community. It’s a fun, vibrant slice of Downtown life, with plenty of unique shopping.

The retail showroom for this L.A.-based design house features avant-garde designs (somewhere between underground and couture) with accessories starting at $100 and the priciest items topping $1,000. If for nothing else, go for the window shopping.

125 W. Fourth St., (213) 626-2662 or skingraftdesigns.com.

Weller Court

The Last Book Store

Stelladottir

This shopping center includes several restaurants, shops, karaoke clubs and a cafe. Don’t miss the Marukai Market, where you can pick up groceries as well as pre-packaged snacks and food items. If you want a sit-down meal, be sure to visit the always popular Orochan Ramen and Curry

Located on the ground floor of the Spring Arts Tower, this indie shop sells old and used books. The assortment is eclectic, including everything from cookbooks and sci-fi to fiction and photography. Most titles are less than $10.

They’ll also buy your used books and CDs.

These one-of-a-kind vintage and Goth pieces from dreadlocked designer Stella Dottir will certainly catch your eye.

There are unique pieces for sale, but Dottir also specializes in custom-made clothes.

430 S. Main St., (213) 623-8464 or stelladottir.com.

OLD BANK DISTRICT

Skin.Graft

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RESTAURANTS

A Guide to Eating Your Way Through Downtown key

$

to

abbreviations

Entrees under $10

$$ Entrees $10-20 $$$ Entrees $20 and up

B -- Breakfast L -- Lunch D -- Dinner W -- Open Weekends CO -- Cash Only W/B -- Wine and Beer FB -- Full Bar De -- Delivery

ARTS DISTRICT Angel City Brewing 216 S. Alameda St. (at Traction) angelcitybrewing.com This new Downtown brewery offers a weekly beer garden and gourmet food trucks.

International, $,D,W,W/B Cafe Metropol 923 E. Third St. (213) 613-1537, cafemetropol.com Lofty space with salads, pastas, pizzas and sandwiches.

California/Fusion, $$, B,L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B Church & State 1850 Industrial St. (213) 405-1434, churchandstatebistro.com A delectable French bistro with tasty cocktails.

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French, $$$, L,D,W,FB The Flying Pig Café 141 S. Central Ave. flyingpigtruck.com This popular food truck recently set up a bricks-and-mortar locale in Little Tokyo, where it serves up all its Asianinspired street food faves like pork belly bao, peanut butter carnitas and pork sliders.

Asian, $$, L,D French Garden 1936 E. Seventh St. (213) 623-4028 A French cafe with a bougainvillea-covered patio.

French, $$, L,W/B K-Town BBQ 738 E. Third St. (213) 680-3008, k-townbbq.com Korean barbecue plus an all-you-can-eat option.

Korean, $$, L,D,W,W/B Nola’s 734 E. Third St. (213) 680-3003, nolasla.com Stop in for a taste of Creole cooking at this relaxed supper club. There’s Sunday brunch and nightly live jazz.

Southern, $$, L,D,W,FB The Novel Cafe 811 Traction Ave. (213) 621-2240

R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Spice Table

Great lattes, panini and free Wi Fi. Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L,W The Pie Hole 714 Traction Ave. thepieholela.com This family-owned shop serves up savory and sweet pies with gourmet coffee. It’s a marriage made in heaven.

American, $, L,D,W Pizzanista!

2019 E. Seventh St. (213) 627-1430, pizzanista.com Artisan, NY-style pizza by the pie or slice.

Pizza, $, L,D,W R23 923 E. Second St. (213) 687-7178, R23.com High-end sushi that’s worth the hunt.

Japanese, $$$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B Urth Caffe 451 S. Hewitt St. (213) 797-4534, urthcaffe.com Get your daily fix of coffee, pastries and savory goodies.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,D,W Wurstküche 800 E. Third St. (213) 687-4444, wurstkucherestaurant.com Sleek sausage kitchen with beer o’plenty.

German, $, L,D,W,W/B

Zip Fusion 744 E. Third St. (213) 680-3770, zipfusion.com Sushi, fusion entrees and a lovely patio.

Asian/Fusion, $$, L,D,W,W/B BUNKER HILL California Pizza Kitchen 330 S. Hope St. (213) 626-2616, cpk.com A fast and affordable lunch favorite.

California/Fusion, $$, L,D,W,FB Casa 350 S. Grand Ave. (213) 621-2249, casadowntown.com A contemporary taqueria with patio “casitas” for lounging.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),FB Esaan Thai 601 W. Fifth St. (213) 488-9995, esaanthai.com Quick, healthy Thai-fusion eats.

Thai, $, L First & Hope 710 W. First St. (213) 617-8555, firstandhope.com Art Deco glamour and upscale comfort food.

American/Fusion, $$, L,D,W,FB Lemonade 515 S. Flower St. (213) 488-0299, lemonadela.com A casual eatery with salads, sandwiches and lemonades.

American $$, B,L Market Cafe 330 S. Hope St. (Wells Fargo Center) (213) 680-7387, patinagroup.com Salads, casual breakfast and lunch, plus good coffee.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L Mendocino Farms 300 S. Grand Ave. (213) 620-1114, mendocinofarms.com Some of the best gourmet sandwiches Downtown.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, L Nick & Stef’s 330 S. Hope St. (213) 680-0330, patinagroup.com Sleek steakhouse with dry-aging chamber and city views.

Steakhouse, $$$, L,D,W,FB Noe (Omni Hotel) 251 S. Olive St. (213) 356-4100, noerestaurant.com Rotating market-driven menu.

Neo Bistro, $$$, D,W,FB Skews 300 S. Grand Ave. (213) 613-0300, skewsdowntown.com Skewers, bowls and salads.

California/Fusion, $, L Starry Kitchen 350 S. Grand Ave. (213) 617-3474, starrykitchen.com Eclectic Asian eats with lots of charm.

Asian/Fusion, $, L,D CENTRAL CITY EAST

Farmer Boys 726 S. Alameda St. (213) 228-8999, farmerboysla.com Fast food and grill items made from scratch. There’s also a convenient drive-thru.

American, $, B,L,D,W

Fisherman’s Outlet 529 S. Central Ave. (213) 627-7231, fishermansoutlet.net This no-frills favorite serves fresh fish, shrimp and scallops fried or grilled.

Seafood, $, L,W(Sat. Only) L.A.’s Best Deli and Cafe 605 S. Central Ave. (213) 622-7437 Hearty diner and Italian classics.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,W(Sat. Only) Yxta Cocina Mexicana 601 S. Central Ave. (213) 596-5579, yxta.net A modern take on Mexican food, and a happening happy hour.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),FB CHINATOWN Authentic Thai 637 N. Spring St. (213) 613-1115, authenticthaila.com Fresh, tasty Thai at reasonable prices.

Thai, $, L,D,W,De CBS Seafood 700 N. Spring St. (213) 617-2323 A Hong Kong-style seafood house with dim sum service.

Chinese, $$, L,D,W,W/B Eastside Market Italian Deli 1013 Alpine St.

Serving a little of everything from breakfast to dinner.

atering W h t u Mo ure Signat s.

Burger

Alway

s Farm

Fresh !

O

ur menu features more than 75 freshly-prepared items including award winning burgers, specialty sandwiches, freshly-made salads, and signature side items such as fried zucchini and monster-sized onion rings. Made-to-order breakfast include omelets, French toast, pancakes, and breakfast burritos.

20% OFF 213-228-8999

farmerboysla.com

726 Alameda St. 1.5 miles south of Union Station

Orders Over $10 With this coupon.

✔ Open 24 Hours ✔ Free Parking ✔ Kids Meals ✔ Drive Thru or Dine In ✔ Free WiFi ✔ Breakfast Served All Day

losangelesdowntown.com | R E S T A U R A N T S

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(213) 250-2464, esmdeli.com A landmark lunch spot with huge sandwiches stuffed with cold cuts, meatballs and eggplant parmesan.

Italian, $, L,W(Sat. Only) Empress Pavilion 988 N. Hill St., Suite 201 (213) 617-9898, empresspavilion.com It’s Chinatown’s biggest dim sum house and it’ll make your head spin.

Chinese, $$, L,D,W,FB Homegirl Cafe 130 W. Bruno St., homegirlcafe.org (213) 617-0380 This cafe with a social mission serves breakfast and lunch.

Café, $, B,L,W(Sat. only) Hop Li Seafood Restaurant 526 Alpine St. (213) 680-3939, hoplirestaurant.com Seafood and Cantonese fare, and popular shrimp with honey glazed walnuts.

Chinese, $, L,D,W,W/B Lucky Deli 706 N. Broadway (213) 625-7847 Cheap Chinese takeout when you crave pork buns, dim sum and roasted duck.

Chinese, $, L,D,W Nick’s Cafe 1300 N. Spring St. (323) 222-1450, nickscafela.com This old-school diner has been serving killer ham and eggs

(213) 628-3781, philippes.com Home of the French dip sandwich, it’s an L.A. landmark.

American, $, B,L,D,W,W/B Phoenix Bakery 969 N. Broadway (213) 628-4642, phoenixbakeryinc.com This longtime, family-operated bakery is famous for its strawberry and whipped cream cakes.

Bakery/Cafe, $, W Pho 97 727 N. Broadway (213) 625-7026 Chaya Brasserie Authentic Vietnamese noodle soups, quick and cheap. since 1948.

Vietnamese, $, L,D,W American, $, B,L,W,CO Plum Tree Inn Ocean Seafood 913 N. Broadway 750 N. Hill St. (213) 613-1819, plumtreeinn.com (213) 687-3088, oceansf.com This Chinatown favorite is popular for its addictive honey Choose a lobster from the huge tanks or dim sum from walnut shrimp and crispy beef. circulating carts.

Chinese, $$, L,D,W,De,FB Chinese, $$, L,D,W,W/B Regent China Inn On Spring Cafe 747 N. Main St. 1279 N. Spring St., (213) 680-3333, regentchinainn.com (310) 306-5554, urbangreenla.com You’ll find lots of authentic seafood and Cantonese This organic cafe features salads, soups, sandwiches and dishes. wraps.

Chinese, $, L,D,W Salads/Sandwiches, $, L,W Spring Street Smoke House Philippe The Original 640 N. Spring St. 1001 N. Alameda St. (213) 626-0535, sssmokehouse.com

Gourmet Fast Casual Restaurant 1657 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90017 (3rd & Union)

FREE PaRking

(213) 483-8885 Daily 7am-10pm Frying with no trans fat, no cholesterol vegetable oil. All breakfast and grilling is done with nature’s miracle food, OLIVE OIL.

SIT DOWN - TAKE OUT - DRIVE THRU

COUPON

Buy any entrée and receive 50% off your second one of equal or lesser value.

Offer not valid with any other offer, one per customer per visit. Expires 9/30/2012.

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R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Pork ribs, Texas hotlinks and brisket cooked in a pit barbecue.

American, $, L,D,W,W/B Via Cafe 451 Gin Ling Way (213) 617-1481, viacafechinatown.com Casual, Vietnamese fusion fare in an artsy space.

Asian/Fusion, $, L,D,W,W/B Yang Chow 819 N. Broadway (213) 625-0811, yangchow.com Some of the best Mandarin and Szechwan dishes including the favorite slippery shrimp.

Chinese, $, L,D,W CITY WEST Flix Cafe 421 S. Beaudry Ave. (213) 534-3000, lacenterstudios.com The commissary for Downtown’s sound stages.

American, $, B,L Gus’ Drive In 1657 W. Third St. (213) 483-8885 Drive through or dine in, they’ve got great burgers, sandwiches and traditional Mexican.

American, $, B,L,D,W Original Tommy’s 2575 W. Beverly Blvd.

(213) 389-9060, originaltommys.com The chain’s original stand, open 24 hours and home to the city’s most famous chili burger.

American, $, B,L,D,W,CO CIVIC CENTER Kendall’s Brasserie 135 N. Grand Ave. (213) 972-7322, patinagroup.com A lovely French bistro beneath the Music Center.

French, $$$, L,D,W,FB Patina 141 S. Grand Ave. (213) 972-3331, patinagroup.com Fine dining and stunning design in the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

California/Fusion, $$$, D,W,FB

Spotlight Cafe and Tina Tacos 135 N. Grand Ave. (Music Center) (213) 972-7525, patinagroup.com A gourmet marketplace and taco stand with beer.

American/Fusion, $, L,D,W/B DOWNTOWN ADJACENT Barragan’s 1538 Sunset Blvd.

(213) 250-4256, barragansrestaurants.com Traditional favorites and wicked margaritas.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W,FB Boxwood Cafe 1020 N. San Vicente Blvd.

(310) 358-7788, thelondonwesthollywood.com Gordon Ramsay’s newest L.A. venue.

California, $$, B,L,W,FB Brooklyn Bagel Bakery 2217 W. Beverly Blvd.

(213) 413-4114, brooklynbagella.com New York-style bagels made on site daily.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,W La Parrilla 1300 Wilshire Blvd.

(213) 353-4930, laparrillarestaurants.com Cozy Mexican eatery with homemade tortillas.

Mexican, $$, B,L,D,W,FB Pacific Dining Car 1310 W. Sixth St. (213) 483-6000, pacificdiningcar.com This old-school steakhouse in a converted rail car is open 24 hours.

American/Steakhouse, $$$, B,L,D,W,FB Palermo 1858 N. Vermont Ave. (323) 663-1178, palermorestaurant.net Located adjacent to Downtown in Los Feliz, diners come to this neighborhood favorite for the classic Italian eats and quaint ambiance.

Italian, $$, L,D,W,FB Papa Cristo’s 2771 W. Pico Blvd.

(323) 737-2970, papacristos.com Greek specialties served in a family-style dining room.

There’s also a deli and market.

Greek, $, L,D,W,W/B

Get $10 OFF! With Every $40 Purchase

Excludes Friday & Saturdays.

Excludes Special of the Day. Expires 9/25/12.

HOURS:

Monday-Friday Lunch 12:30-2pm Tuesday-Thursday Dinner 6-9pm Friday & Saturday Dinner 6-10pm Closed Sundays & Monday Nights LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A U R A N T S

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San Antonio Winery and Maddalena Restaurant 737 Lamar St. (323) 223-1401, sanantoniowinery.com Tour the city’s only producing winery and dine on hearty Italian cuisine.

Italian, $$, L,D,W,W/B Taix 1911 Sunset Blvd.

(213) 484-1265, taixfrench.com Affordable French country fare in Echo Park.

French, $$, L,D,W,FB EL PUEBLO/UNION STATION La Golondrina W-17 Olvera St. (213) 628-4349 Beautiful patio, huge margaritas and people watching.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W,FB La Luz Del Dia W-1 Olvera St. (213) 628-7495, luzdeldia.com A cafeteria-style eatery with some of the best carnitas and handmade tortillas around.

Mexican, $, L,D,W,CO Traxx 800 N. Alameda St. (213) 625-1999, traxxrestaurant.com A Deco-inspired restaurant in Union Station.

California/Fusion, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),FB

FASHION DISTRICT Casa Jalapeño 1300 S. Los Angeles St. (213) 747-7750, casajalapeno.com Surprisingly tasty eats with a Latin twist. Try the horchata milkshake and house burger.

Latin, $, L,De Gram & Papa’s 227 E. Ninth St. (213) 624-7272, gramandpapas.com Fresh baked bread, salads and sandwiches.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L L’Angolo 101 W. Ninth St.

A Downtown Tradition Since 1929!

LA’s Original French Brasserie

Eastside Market ✔ Italian Deli ✔ Hot & Cold Sandwiches ✔ Dine In or Take Out ✔ Catering for All Occasions

6 M e e t i n g Ro o m s TA I X Fr e n c h R e s t a u r a n t 1 9 1 1 W. S u n s e t B l v d .

L o s A n g e l e s , CA 9 0 0 2 6

1013 Alpine St., L.A. 213-250-2464 | 800-964-2464

Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat 8am-2pm, Sun CLOSED

www.esmdeli.com

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R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

w w w. t a i x f r e n c h . c o m

(213) 484-1265

(213) 622-2262, langolo-cafe.com Pasta, salads, seafood and grilled items.

Italian, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B Market Restaurant 862 S. Los Angeles St., (Cooper Building) (213) 488-9119, marketrestaurants.com Yummy sandwiches, juicy burgers and hearty salads.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L New Moon 102 W. Ninth St. (213) 624-0186, newmoonrestaurants.com The Chinese chicken salad is a specialty.

Chinese, $, L,W(Sat. Only),De Mas Malo O’Mamamia Italian Restaurant 1300 S. San Pedro St., Suite 220 (213) 744-1211, omamamiadowntown.com A tranquil Italian eatery with reasonable prices.

Italian, $$, L,De Tiara Cafe 127 E. Ninth St. (213) 623-3663, tiara-cafe.com Fusion food with a healthy bent including rustic pizzas, wraps and veggie burgers.

California/Fusion, $$, L,De,W Wood Spoon 107 W. Ninth St. (213) 629-1765 This charming eatery serves up home-style Brazilian eats.

Brazilian, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B

FIGUEROA CORRIDOR Chick-fil-A 3758 S. Figueroa St. (213) 747-8721 USC can now get a taste of this beloved chicken chain.

American, $, B,L,D,W(Sat. Only) El Taurino 2306 W. 11th St. (213) 738-9197 Casual Mexican joint with late-night hours.

Mexican, $, B,L,D,W,W/B Pasta Roma 2827 S. Figueroa St. (213) 742-0303, pastaroma.com A USC hangout with affordable pizza, pasta and salads.

Italian, $$, L,D,W,W/B 29th Street Cafe 2827 S. Hoover St. (213) 746-2929, thetwonine.com A restored Victorian serving salads and sandwiches.

American, $, L,D,W,W/B FINANCIAL DISTRICT Adoro Mexican Grille 735 S. Figueroa St. (213) 955-9204, adorogrille.com Upscale Mexican food and a tequila bar.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W,FB Angry Chef 404 S. Figueroa St., #417 (213) 629-2000, angrychefgrill.com Italian favorites in the Bonaventure Hotel.

Italian, $$, L,D,W,W/B Bar & Kitchen (O Hotel) 819 S. Flower St. (213) 623-9904, barandkitchenla.com American cuisine with market fresh flavors in a cozy, modern space.

American, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),FB Big Man Bakes 633 W. Fifth St. (second level) (213) 622-2127, bigmanbakes.com The second outpost for cupcake delights.

Bakery, $, W Blimpie 444 S. Flower St. (213) 622-9227, blimpie.com Sub sandwiches and salads.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, L,De Bonaventure Brewing Company (Westin Bonaventure) 404 S. Figueroa St., Suite 418A (213) 236-0802, bonaventurebrewing.com Enjoy your microbrew and burger on the skyline patio.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Border Grill 445 S. Figueroa St. (213) 486-5171, bordergrill.com Formerly Ciudad, this colorful spot serves up modern Mexican eats.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W,FB Bottega Louie Restaurant & Market 700 S. Grand Ave. (213) 802-1470, bottegalouie.com Bistro-style eats, a small bar and a market with beautiful pastries.

California/Fusion, $$, B,L,D,W,FB The Cabbage Patch 520 W. Sixth St. (213) 489-4489, cabbagepatchla.com

Gourmet, local, organic fare.

California/Fusion, $$, L,D,W/B Cafe Pinot 700 W. Fifth St. (213) 239-6500, patinagroup.com Business lunches and romantic dinners.

California/Fusion, $$$, L,D,W,FB Caffe Primo Downtown 612 S. Flower St. (213) 895-5013, primohg.com House-roasted coffees and a selection of freshly made salads, pizzas, pastas and grilled panini.

Cafe, $$, B,L,D,W California Pizza Kitchen 735 S. Figueroa St.

(213) 228-8500, cpk.com Affordable and fast, the BBQ chicken pizza is king.

California/Fusion, $$, L,D,W,FB Casey’s Irish Bar and Grille 613 S. Grand Ave. (213) 629-2353, bigcaseys.com American and Irish pub food like fish and chips and Guinness stew.

Irish, $$, L,D,W,FB Chaya Brasserie 525 S. Flower St. (213) 236-9577, thechaya.com Fine dining Japanese and French fusion. A lounge and sushi bar looks onto the garden patio.

Asian/Fusion, $$$, L,D,W(Dinner Only),FB

OVER 100 YEARS 1910 - 2011

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Japanese Village Plaza Mall, Los Angeles: 118 Japanese Village Mall, Los Angeles, CA 90012 • (213) 624-1681 Mitsuwa Marketplace, Torrance: 21515 Western Ave., Torrance, CA 90501 • (310) 320-4551 Little Tokyo Galleria, Los Angeles: 333 S. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 • (213) 613-0611 Pacific Square, Gardena: 1630 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., Gardena, CA 90247 • (310) 538-9389 Honolulu: Opening Soon • (808) 944-2548 www.mikawayausa.com • www.mochiicecream.com LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A U R A N T S

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Checkers Downtown (Hilton Checkers) 535 S. Grand Ave. (213) 891-0519, hiltoncheckers.com California cuisine with French and Asian influences in an elegant dining room.

California/Fusion, $$$, B,L,D,W,FB Chipotle 601 W. Seventh St. (213) 283-2058, chipotle.com Downtown can now get its burrito fix at this popular Mexican food chain.

Mexican, $, L,D,W,WB Cicada 617 S. Olive St. (213) 488-9488, cicadarestaurant.com Northern Italian fare in a 1920s Art Deco setting.

Italian, $$$, D,W,FB Corner Bakery Café 801 S. Figueroa St. (213) 239-0424, cornerbakerycafe.com Cafe fare, cookies, bundts, whoopies and brownies.

Bakery/Cafe, $$, B,L,D Daily Grill 612 S. Flower St. (213) 622-4500, dailygrill.com This restaurant has a busy happy hour and a diverse menu.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Denny’s 888 S. Figueroa St. (213) 629-4250, dennys.com Get your pancake fix 24 hours a day.

American, $, B,L,D,W

Drago Centro 525 S. Flower St., #120 (213) 228-8998, dragocentro.com Elegant Italian by chef Celestine Drago.

Italian, $$$, L,D,W,FB Dublin’s Irish Pub 815 W. Seventh St. (213) 489-6628, dublinsdtla.com This Sunset Strip transplant offers 100 taps, pub and Irish food.

Irish, $$, L,D,W,FB

Eco Asian 521 W. Seventh St. (213) 489-1811, eco-asian.com Healthy, eco-friendly fare, fast.

Asian, $, L Emerson’s 606 S. Olive St., Suite 101 (213) 623-3006, orderemersonscafela.com Coffee, espresso, muffins, salads and sandwiches.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L Engine Co. No. 28 644 S. Figueroa St. (213) 624-6996, engineco.com Sophisticated comfort food in a restored fire station.

American, $$, B,L,D,W,FB Garage Pizza 100 1/2 W. Seventh St. (213) 622-3390, garagepizzala.com Great thin-crust, New York-style pizza. Vegan options.

Open late-night.

Pizza, $, L,D,W,W/B,De Green Hut Cafe 808 W. Seventh St. (213) 627-8166, greenhutcafe.com Gourmet sandwiches like braised short rib and pear-brie, as well as salads, wraps and soup.

Sandwiches, $, L,D IHOP 800 S. Flower St. (213) 629-1759, ihop.com Arashi Sushi All your diner favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

American, $, B,L,D,W

eat. drink. listen.

A delicious dining experience next to the Music Center.

FIRST & HOPE American Bistro | 710 W. 1st Street | Los Angeles, CA 90012 For reservations call: 213-617-8555 | www.firstandhope.com 64

R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Op en am every Day 3pm-2

(213) 689-4833, nazos.net Savory croissants, pastries, coffee drinks.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L Ocho Mexican Grill 630 West Sixth Street, Suite 110A (888) 988-6246, eatocho.com Healthy fresh Mexican food.

Mexican, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only) Octopus Japanese Restaurant 729 W. Seventh St. (213) 402-1500, octopusrestaurant.com This sushi bar has a modern Asian vibe.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W,FB Panda Express 350 S. Grand Ave., Suite R1A; 630 W. Fifth St.

(213) 626-5018; (213) 688-8783, pandaexpress.com Quick and convenient Chinese food.

Chinese, $, L Qdoba 655 S. Hope St. (213) 572-0344, qdoba.com Healthy Mexican salads, soups and specialty burritos.

Mexican, $, B,L,D,W Restaurant Standard 550 S. Flower St. (213) 892-8080 Lemon yellow booths, retro decor and diner eats 24 hours.

American, $$, B,L,D,W

Spring for Coffee Just Baked 555 W. Fifth St. (213) 488-0948 Savory sandwiches as well as cupcakes and pastries.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L La Bistecca (Millennium Biltmore) 535 S. Grand Ave. 506 S. Grand Ave. (213) 624-1011, millenniumhotels.com Italian-style steakhouse in the Biltmore Rendezvous Court.

Steakhouse, $$$, D,W,FB L.A. Prime (Westin Bonaventure) 404 S. Figueroa St. (213) 612-4743, westin.com/bonaventure Come for the stunning city views and steakhouse grub.

Steakhouse, $$$, D,W,FB Maria’s Italian Kitchen 615 S. Flower St. (213) 623-4777, mariasdowntownla.com Tempting Italian classics.

Italian, $, L,D,W,FB Mas Malo 515 W. Seventh St. (213) 985-4332, malorestaurant.com Hip Mexican eats and tequila bar.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W,FB McCormick & Schmick’s 633 W. Fifth St., fourth level (213) 629-1929, mccormickandschmicks.com Extensive seafood menu and a stellar happy hour.

Seafood, $$, L,D,W,FB Mendocino Farms 444 S. Flower St. (213) 627-3262, mendocinofarms.com Some of the best gourmet sandwiches Downtown.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, L Morton’s, The Steakhouse 735 S. Figueroa St. (213) 553-4566, mortons.com Upscale steakhouse with a lively happy hour.

Steakhouse, $$$, L,D,W,FB Nazo’s Bakery 810 W. Eighth St. LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A U R A N T S

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Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine 800 S. Figueroa St., Suite 100 (213) 488-4994, roysrestaurant.com An upscale Hawaiian eatery.

Hawaiian, $$$, L,D,W,FB Soi 7 518 W. Seventh St. (213) 537-0333, soi7la.com Modern Thai cuisine with a twist.

Thai, $$, L,D,W,W/B Takami Sushi & Robata 811 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2100 (213) 236-9600, takamisushi.com A penthouse sushi restaurant and lounge.

Japanese, $$$, L,D,W,FB Tommy Pastrami 516 W. Sixth St. (213) 362-3354, tommypastramideli.com Lemonade at MOCA Overstuffed sandwiches and bread baked onsite.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, L,D,De Urbano Pizza Bar You’ll find good burgers and two happy hours.

630 W. Sixth St. American, $$, L,D,FB (213) 614-1900, urbanopizzabar.com Westin Bonaventure Food Court Hand-crafted Neapolitan style pizza with a modern touch.

404 S. Figueroa St. Italian, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B (213) 624-1000, bonaventuregalleria.com Water Grill A diverse selection, from Middle Eastern to Cajun to 544 S. Grand Ave. Japanese.

(213) 891-0900, watergrill.com Food Court, $, L,D,W One of the best seafood restaurants in the city.

Wokcano Seafood, $$$, L,D,W,FB 800 W. Seventh St. Weiland Brewery Underground (213) 623-2288, wokcanorestaurant.com 505 S. Flower St., #B410 Pan-Asian cuisine and sushi.

(213) 622-1125, weilandbrewery.net Asian/Fusion, $$, L,D,W,De,FB

BOOK YOUR EVENT AT THE CENTER AT

CATHEDRAL PLAZA

R HOLIDAY PARTY AT THE T CATHEDRAL PLAZA AND S D’OEUVRES ARE ON US!

nts is offering a complimentary hors n when you book your next event!*

Cathedral Plaza is a full-service event he heart of downtown Los Angeles.

a Lopez • 213.680.5271 pez@levyrestaurants.com w.cathedralcatering.com

The Center at Cathedral Plaza is a full service event site & conference center.

Any Size Event From 10-900 Fully Integrated Audio/Visual • On Site Parking Maria Lopez • 213.680.5271 • mlopez@levyrestaurants.com www.cathedralcatering.com 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles

| DOWNTOWN events booked not 66 by ROctober E S T A U30, R A2009, N T S does LOS ANGELES GUIDE ked events. Offer not valid for Saturday evenings.

HISTORIC CORE Babycakes 130 E. Sixth St. (213) 623-5555, babycakesnyc.com This New York import offers tempting vegan treats.

Bakery/Cafe, $, L,W Clifton’s Brookdale Cafeteria 648 S. Broadway (213) 627-1673, cliftonscafeteria.com This landmark cafeteria serves American classics.

American, $$, B,L,D,W CoffeeBar 600 S. Spring St. (213) 327-1157, coffeebarla.com Raising coffee to new heights on Spring Street with hand-crafted brews and lots of style.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L Cole’s 118 E. Sixth St., colesfrenchdip.com (213) 622-4090 This French Dip sandwich comes with a serious side of history.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Colori Kitchen 429 W. Eighth St. (213) 622-5950, colorikitchen.com Super reasonable and casual Italian food.

Italian, $$, L,D,W D-Town Burger Bar 216 W. Sixth St.; (213) 228-0022 421 W. Eighth St., (213) 228-1200

Simple but yummy burgers, fries and shakes with a retro vibe.

American, $, L,D,W Ensenada Restaurant 517 S. Spring St. (213) 489-2950, ensenadarest.com Traditional Mexican eatery with seafood specials.

Mexican, $$, B,L,D,W,De,W/B Flames Mediterranean Grill 225 W. Seventh St. (213) 622-3033, flamesla.com Tasty kabobs, hummus and salads.

Mediterranean, $, L,D,W,De The Gorbals 501 S. Spring St. (213) 488-3408, thegorbalsla.com You’ll find an amalgam of cuisines at this cheeky eatery.

International, $$, D,W(Sat. Only),FB Gourmet LA Bakery 548 S. Broadway (213) 623-4244, gourmetlabakery.com Mexican sweet bread, croissants, cakes and tortas.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,D,W Grand Central Market 317 S. Broadway (213) 624-2378, grandcentralsquare.com Downtown’s historic open-air market offering produce, ethnic food, meat and dry goods.

International, $, B,L,D,W,CO L.A. Brewing Co. 756 S. Broadway labrewingco.com Sample from the 100 beers on tap, burgers, steaks and finger foods.

American, $, L,D,W,W/B Liliya China Bistro 108 W. Second St. (213) 620-1717, liliyachinabistro.com This modern Chinese eatery offers all the favorites.

Chinese, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B Mac and Cheeza 223 W. Eighth St. (213) 622-3782 or macandcheeza.com.

Customizable mac and cheese.

American, $, L,D,W,De Mignon 128 E. Sixth St. (213) 489-0131, mignonla.com Hip wine and cheese bar with a global spin.

Fusion, $, D,W,W/B Mikado 1001 S. Broadway (213) 744-1505, mikadosushiroll.com Casual eatery with at least 20 varieties of sushi and rolls.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),De Nickel Diner 524 S. Main St. (213) 623-8301, 5cdiner.com A retro diner with lots of historic charm and comfort food.

American, $, B,L,D,W Night Toast 653 S. Spring St. (213) 488-9944, nighttoast.com This cafe serves breakfast all day, and is home of the Jerusalem sesame bagel toast. There’s also salads, soup and sandwiches.

Mediterranean, $, B,L,D,W,De Onyx Restaurant, Lounge & Bar 118 W. Fifth St. (213) 891-1144, onyxloungela.com

(213) 626-6320 A Grand Central Market favorite for pupusas.

Latin, $, B,L,D,W Schnitzly 119 E. Seventh St. (213) 488-9511, schniztly.com Get your schnitzel fix in 10 different flavors, from garlic to Indian to Dijon.

Kosher, $, L,D Semi Sweet Bakery (opening 2011) 105 E. Sixth St. semisweetbakery.com The former pastry chef of the Nickel Diner has plans to open her own venue selling coffee, tea, morning treats, cakes and pies.

A candlelit lounge in the Security Lofts serving farm fresh cocktails, and elegant small plates and entrees.

American, $$, D,W,FB Pitfire Pizza 108 W. Second St. (213) 808-1200, pitfirepizza.com Rustic pies, pastas and salads in a lofty space.

Italian, $$, L,D,W,W/B,De Redwood Bar & Grill 316 W. Second St. (213) 680-2600, theredwoodbar.com Good burgers and eats in a pirate-themed setting.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Sarita’s 317 S. Broadway

Southern California’s Best Sushi Restaurant LA Times Readers’ Choice 2011

Dine In or Carry Out 213.747.9797 | sbe.com/katsuya

Plan Your Special Event 323.525.2400 | sbe.com/events Ask about our Downtown Resident Discount.

Parking validated for two hours with purchase.

800 West Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90015 /katsuyabysbe

LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A U R A N T S

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Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,D The Spice Table 114 S. Central Ave. (213) 620-1840, thespicetable.com They use a wood-burning hearth to cook satay and other Southeast Asian dishes. The bahn mi are awesome.

Asian, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B Spring for Coffee 548 S. Spring St. (213) 228-0041, springforcoffee.com Freshly brewed single cups and gourmet pastries.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,D,W Stray Cat Cafe 500 S. Spring St. (213) 891-1144, straycatla.com Casual fare like salads and sandwiches.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L,D,W Syrup Desserts 611 S. Spring St. (213) 488-5136 Decadent desserts, waffles, floats, cakes and more. Open late night.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B/L,D,W Wakana Sushi 750 W. Seventh St. (213) 688-7811 Lunchtime sushi from 11:30 a.m. until it runs out.

Japanese, $, L Yorkshire Grill 610 W. Sixth St. (213) 629-3020,yorkshiregrill.com A well-worn eatery with grill favorites.

American, $ B,L,W(Sat. Only),De

CoffeeBar

JEWELRY DISTRICT Arda’s Cafe 418 W. Sixth St. (213) 689-4438, ardascafe.com Boldly seasoned sandwiches on homemade baguettes.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L,W(Sat. Only),De City Thai 726 S. Hill St. (213) 489-7118, citythai.net

Thai favorites at very affordable prices.

Thai, $, B,L,D,W,De Coly’s Stromboli 456 S. Hill St. (213) 627-9990, colystromboli.com They’ve got all the tasty pizza logs you crave, stuffed with meats, cheeses and baked till gooey. Reach level four of Space Invaders and you get one free. BYOB. Italian, $, L,D,De Olive Bistro & Catering 619 S. Olive St. (213) 327-1186, olivebistrocatering.com Fresh pastas, salads and catering.

Mediterranean, $, B,L,De St. Vincent Court Between buildings at 650 S. Hill St. (213) 629-2124, svjc.com A Parisian-inspired alleyway with cafes and restaurants.

Food Court, $, B,L,W(Sat. Only),CO LITTLE TOKYO Aloha Cafe 410 E. Second St. (213) 346-9930, eatalohacafe.com Awesome Loco Moco, Kalua pork and shaved ice.

Hawaiian, $, B,L,D,W Azalea (Kyoto Grand) 120 S. Los Angeles St. (213) 253-9235, kyotograndhotel.com Continental cuisine in an elegant setting.

American, $$, B,L,D,W,FB Chado Tea Room 369 E. First St.

Authentic Mediterranean

20%OFF

Order of $10 or more for pickup OR $20 or more for delivery 1 coupon per order and/or delivery. Expires 9-26-12.

Elegant Dining • Private/Party Rooms Prompt Take Out • Professional Catering Open HOurs: Sun. 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. / Mon.-Thur. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Fri. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. / Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

913 N. Broadway, Los Angeles

609 Spring St., Los Angeles | 213-489-9555 Order Online! www.medicitygrill.com Now Serving Breakfast! Hours: Mon-Sat 7am-11pm, Sun 9am-9pm 68

R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Call about our daily Lunch & Dinner Specials

213.613.1819

www.plumtreeinn.com

(213) 258-2531, chadotea.com Traditional tea house with sandwiches and light fare.

Bakery/Cafe, $, L,W Curry House 123 Onizuka St. (Weller Court) (213) 620-0855, house-foods.com There’s usually a line for this delicious Japanese curry.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Daikokuya 327 E. First St. (213) 626-1680, daikoku-ten.com One of the best ramen houses in the city.

Japanese, $, L,D,W Frances Bakery & Coffee Border Grill 404 E. Second St. (213) 680-4899 French pastries in an unexpected location.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,W(Sat. Only) Frying Fish 120 Japanese Village Plaza (213) 680-0567 A conveyor belt carries rolls and sushi to hungry diners.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Green Bamboo 136 S. Central Ave. (213) 625-2228 Fresh Chinese favorites that you can eat in or take out.

Chinese, $, L,D,W,W/B Hama Sushi 347 E. Second St. (213) 680-3454

Serious sushi lovers flock to this tiny spot.

Japanese, $$ D,W,W/B Hashi Ramen 442 E. Second St. (213) 617-0237 Ramen bowls and comfort food sides.

Japanese, $ L,D,W,W/B Honda Ya 333 S. Alameda St., #314 (213) 625-1184 Succulent Japanese small plates and grilled meat.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Izakaya Fuga 111 S. San Pedro, izakayafu-ga.com

(213) 625-1722 A modern spin on Japanese small plates with a lounge-like aesthetic.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,FB Kouraku 314 E. Second St. (213) 687-4972 A Japanese diner with cheap noodles and comfort food.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Lazy Ox Canteen 241 S. San Pedro St. (213) 626-5299, lazyoxcanteen.com This popular gastropub serves global small plates.

International, $$, L,D,W,W/B Mikawaya 118 Japanese Village Plaza (213) 624-1681, mikawayausa.com Serving traditional Japanese pastries since 1910.

Bakery/Cafe, $, L,D,W Mitsuru Sushi and Grill 316 E. First St. (213) 626-4046 Japanese and American favorites in a casual atmosphere.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Oomasa 100 Japanese Village Plaza (213) 623-9048 Pull up a stool at the 40-seat sushi bar.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B The Pho Shop 333 S. Alameda St.

Discover South Park where over 30 restaurants, night club and entertainment locations are within a 10 minute walk in Downtown Los Angeles.

www.SOUTHPARK.LA for a complete guide to everything South Park has to offer.

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LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A 8/5/11 U R A N T1:48 S PM 69

(213) 617-8533 Tasty Vietnamese noodles and cuisine.

Vietnamese, $, L,D,W San Sui Tei 313 E. First St. (213) 613-0100 A diner-style noodle house.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Señor Fish 422 E. First St. (213) 625-0566, senorfishla.net A Baja-style eatery with inventive dishes.

Mexican, $, B,L,D,W,F/B Shabu Shabu House 127 Japanese Village Plaza (213) 680-3890 One of Little Tokyo’s busiest eateries.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B K-Town BBQ Spitz 371 E. Second St. (213) 613-0101, eatatspitz.com Get your meat wrapped in lavash or focaccia.

Mediterranean, $, L,D,W,W/B Suehiro Cafe 337 E. First St. (213) 626-9132 Homey diner with noodles, bento boxes and tempura.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Sushi Gen 422 E. Second St. (213) 617-0552, sushigenla.com This is where the purists go to get their fix.

Japanese, $$$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B

Sushi & Teri 116 Japanese Village Plaza (213) 687-8368 Affordable udon, teriyaki, tempura and good sushi.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W,W/B Takumi 333 E. Second St. (213) 626-1793, takumirestaurant.com Fresh sushi in the heart of Little Tokyo.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W,W/B Tenno Sushi 209 S. Central Ave. (213) 625-0602, tennosushi.com

FIRST STREET CUISINE Catering & Events

www.FirstStreetCuisine.com 213-458-4151 3 Corporate Breakfast Catering 3 Sandwich and Dessert Platters 3 Craft Beer and Liquor Service 3 Office Holiday Parties 3 Box Lunch Delivery

Starting at $6.50 per person!

Ask about our exclusive Concierge Catering Service.

LA’s First Choice in Catering!

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R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Reasonably priced sushi and rolls in a lounge-like setting.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,FB Toranoko 243 S. San Pedro St. (213) 621-9500, toranokola.com A chic, stylish sushi and izakaya cocktail bar.

Japanese, $$$, L,D,W,FB Wakasaya 335 E. First St. #104-106 (213) 621-2121 This eatery serves up customized seafood bowls.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B Weiland Brewery 400 E. First St. (213) 680-2881, weilandbrewery.net A popular lunch and happy hour spot.

American, $, L,D,W,FB Zencu 319 E. Second St., #206 (213) 687-7780, zencu.com Casual sushi and lots of specials.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W,W/B OLD BANK DISTRICT Big Man Bakes 413 S. Main St. (213) 617-9100, bigmanbakes.com Cupcakes and more at this Old Bank District location.

Bakery/Cafe, $, W(Sat. Only) Blossom 426 S. Main St.

Bonaventure Brewing Company (213) 623-1973, blossomrestaurant.com Super fresh and tasty Vietnamese food at bargain prices.

Vietnamese, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B The Perch 448 S. Hill St., 13th floor (213) 802-1770, perchla.com A compact menu of French-focused favorites, in a gorgeous patio setting.

French, $$$, D,W,FB Pete’s Cafe and Bar 400 S. Main St. (213) 617-1000, petescafe.com Downtown’s longtime favorite for drinking, eating and people watching.

American, $$, B,L,D,W,FB Rocket Pizza Lounge 122 W. Fourth St. (213) 687-4992, rocketpizzalounge.com Pizzas, antipasto salads and hot sandwiches.

Italian, $, L,D,W,De,W/B Urban Noodle 118 W. Fourth St. (213) 626-0662 or urbannoodlela.com Get your noodle and dumpling fix.

Japanese, $, L,D,W,W/B SOUTH PARK Arashi Sushi 1111 S. Hope St., #100 (213) 749-1900, arashisushi.com Casual sushi restaurant with affordable lunch specials.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W,W/B Big Wangs 801 S. Grand Ave. (213) 629-2449, bigwangs.com Watch the game with a pint and some sliders.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Boca at Conga Room (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 745-0162, congaroom.com A salsa club with upscale Nuevo Latino cuisine.

Latin, $$$, D(Thurs., Fri. & Sat. Only),W,FB Bottle Rock L.A. 1050 S. Flower St. (213) 747-1100, bottlerockla.com Wine, beer and delicious small plates.

California/Fusion, $$, L,D,W,W/B Cucina Rustica 888 Wilshire Blvd.

(213) 988-8880, cucinarusticala.com All the Italian classics in a casually elegant setting.

Italian, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),FB El Cholo 1037 S. Flower St. (213) 746-7750, elcholo.com This classic L.A. chain now operates a Downtown outpost.

Mexican, $$, B,L,D,W,FB ESPN Zone (L.A. Live) 1011 S. Figueroa St. (213) 765-7070, espnzone.com A sports-themed dining and entertainment experience.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB The Farm of Beverly Hills (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 747-4555, thefarmofbeverlyhills.com Upscale comfort food favorites with fresh ingredients.

American, $$, B,L,D,W,FB Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 745-9911, flemingssteakhouse.com

Classic steakhouse and 100-plus wines by the glass.

Steakhouse, $$$, L,D,W,FB Freebirds 3335 S. Figueroa St. (213) 746-1212, freebirds.com This growing Mexican chain uses fresh, natural ingredients to roll their legendary burritos. It’s a hit with the USC crowd.

Mexican, $, L,D,W Gill’s Cuisine of India (Stillwell Hotel) 838 S. Grand Ave. (213) 623-1050, gillsindia.com A notoriously good, and cheap, Indian food buffet.

Indian, $, L,D,W(Sat. Only),W/B,De Hooters 1248 S. Figueroa St.

option 2

1020 N. SaN viceNte blvd

weSt hollywood, ca 90069

theloNdoNweSthollywood.com

e N J oy a ta S t e o F G o r d o N r a m S ay

Indulge in the new flavor of sophistication at Gordon Ramsay at The London West Hollywood, where culinary excellence exudes from every bite.

Sample chef Gordon Ramsay’s Boxwood Café—a relaxed California dining experience featuring a bistro-style ambiance and menu in a sunny, informal setting.

F o r r e S e r vat i o N S , c o N ta c t 310 . 3 5 8 . 7 7 8 8 o r e m a i l G o r d o N r a m S ay w h @ l u x u r y r e S o r t S . c o m

LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A U R A N T S

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RESTAURANTS BY CUISINE key

to

$ $$ $$$

abbreviations

Entrees under $10 Entrees under $20 Entrees $20 and up

American

Azalea ........................................................................$$ .....................68 Bar & Kitchen ..........................................................$$ .....................63 Big Wangs................................................................$$ .....................71 Bonaventure Brewing Company ...................$$ .....................63 Chick-fil-A ................................................................$........................63 Clifton’s Brookdale Cafeteria ...........................$$ .....................66 Cole’s .........................................................................$$ .....................66 Daily Grill ..................................................................$$ .....................64 Denny’s ....................................................................$........................64 D-Town Burger Bar ..............................................$........................66 Engine Co. No. 28 .................................................$$ .....................64 ESPN Zone ...............................................................$$ .....................71 The Farm of Beverly Hills...................................$$ .....................71 Farmer Boys ............................................................$........................59 Flix Cafe ....................................................................$........................61 Gus’ Drive In ...........................................................$........................61 Hooters .....................................................................$$ .....................71 IHOP ...........................................................................$........................64 L.A. Brewing Company.......................................$........................67 Lawry’s Carvery .....................................................$$ .....................73 Lemonade ...............................................................$$ .....................51 Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge...........................$$ .....................73 mac and Cheeza....................................................$........................67 magnolia ..................................................................$$ .....................73 Nickel Diner ............................................................$........................67 Nick’s Café ...............................................................$........................60 Onyx Restaurant, Lounge & Bar .....................$$ .....................67 Original Pantry Cafe ............................................$........................73 Original Tommy’s .................................................$........................61 Pacific Dining Car .................................................$$$...................61 Pete’s Cafe & Bar ...................................................$$ .....................71 The Pie Hole............................................................$........................58 Philippe the Original ...........................................$........................60 Redwood Bar & Grill ............................................$$ .....................67 Restaurant Standard ...........................................$$ .....................65 Riordan’s Tavern ...................................................$$$...................74 Spring Street Smoke House .............................$........................60 29th Street Cafe ....................................................$........................63 Weiland Brewery...................................................$........................70 Weiland Brewery Underground .....................$$ .....................66 Yard House..............................................................$$ .....................74 Yorkshire Grill .........................................................$........................68 American/Fusion

First & Hope ............................................................$$ .....................59 J Restaurant & Lounge .......................................$$$...................73 Spotlight Cafe and Tina Tacos ........................$........................61 Uncle John’s Cafe .................................................$........................74 Asian/Fusion

Chaya Brasserie .....................................................$$$...................63 Eco Asian..................................................................$........................64 Flying Pig Cafe .......................................................$$ .....................58 The Spice Table .....................................................$........................68 Starry Kitchen.........................................................$........................59 Via Cafe .....................................................................$........................61 Wokcano ..................................................................$$ .....................66 WP24..........................................................................$$$...................74 Zip Fusion ................................................................$$ .....................59 Bakery/Cafe/coffee

Babycakes ................................................................$........................66 Big man Bakes........................................................$................ 63, 70 Brooklyn Bagel Bakery........................................$........................61 Caffe Primo Downtown .....................................$$ .....................63 Chado Tea Room ..................................................$........................68 CoffeeBar .................................................................$........................66 Corner Bakery Cafe ..............................................$$ .....................64 Frances Bakery and Coffee ...............................$........................69 Gourmet L.A. Bakery ...........................................$........................67 Homegirl Cafe ........................................................$........................60 Hygge Bakery .........................................................$........................73 Just Baked................................................................$........................65 L.A.’s Best Deli and Cafe.....................................$........................59 mikawaya .................................................................$........................69 Nazo’s Bakery .........................................................$........................65 Phoenix Bakery......................................................$........................60 Semi Sweet Bakery ..............................................$........................67 Spring for Coffee ..................................................$........................68 Syrup Desserts .......................................................$........................68 Urth Caffe.................................................................$........................58 Brazilian

Wood Spoon ..........................................................$........................62 California/Fusion

Bar & Kitchen ..........................................................$$ .....................56 Bottega Louie.........................................................$$ .....................63

72

Bottle Rock ..............................................................$$ .....................71 Boxwood Cafe........................................................$$ .....................61 The Cabbage Patch .............................................$$ .....................63 Cafe metropol ........................................................$$ .....................58 Cafe Pinot ................................................................$$$...................63 California Pizza Kitchen......................................$$ ............. 59, 63 Checkers Downtown ..........................................$$$...................64 Noé .............................................................................$$$...................59 Patina.........................................................................$$$...................61 Skews.........................................................................$........................59 Tiara Cafe .................................................................$$ .....................62 Traxx ..........................................................................$$ .....................62 Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill .................................$$$...................74 Chinese

CBS Seafood ...........................................................$$ .....................59 Empress Pavilion...................................................$$ .....................60 Green Bamboo ......................................................$........................69 Hop Li ........................................................................$........................60 Liliya China Bistro .................................................$$ .....................67 Lucky Deli ................................................................$........................60 New moon...............................................................$........................62 Ocean Seafood ......................................................$$ .....................60 Panda Express .......................................................$........................65 Plum Tree Inn .........................................................$$ .....................60 Regent China Inn ..................................................$........................60 Yang Chow..............................................................$........................61 Food CourT

St. Vincent Court ...................................................$........................68 Westin Bonaventure Food Court ...................$........................66 French

Church & State.......................................................$$$...................58 French Garden .......................................................$$ .....................58 Kendall’s Brasserie................................................$$$...................61 mignon .....................................................................$........................61 The Perch .................................................................$$$...................70 Taix .............................................................................$$ .....................62 German

Wurstküche .............................................................$........................58 Greek

Papa Cristo’s ...........................................................$........................61 Hawaiian

Aloha Cafe ...............................................................$........................68 Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine .......................$$$...................66 Trader Vic’s ..............................................................$$$...................74 Indian

Gill’s Cuisine of India ...........................................$........................71 International

Angel City Brewing ..............................................$........................58 The Gorbals .............................................................$$ .....................67 Grand Central market .........................................$........................67 Lazy Ox Canteen ...................................................$$ .....................69 Irish

Casey’s Irish Bar and Grille ................................$$ .....................63 Dublin’s.....................................................................$$ .....................64 Italian/pizza

Angry Chef ..............................................................$$ .....................63 Cicada........................................................................$$$...................64 Colori Kitchen ........................................................$$ .....................66 Coly’s Stromboli ....................................................$........................68 Cucina Rustica........................................................$$ .....................71 Drago Centro .........................................................$$$...................64 Eastside market Italian Deli ..............................$........................59 Garage Pizza ...........................................................$........................64 La Bella Cucina.......................................................$$ .....................73 L’Angolo ...................................................................$........................62 maria’s Italian Kitchen ........................................$$ .....................65 O’mamamia Italian Restaurant .......................$$ .....................62 Palermo ....................................................................$$ .....................61 Panini Cafe ..............................................................$$ .....................73 Pasta Roma .............................................................$$ .....................63 Pitfire Pizza ..............................................................$$ .....................67 Pizzanista! ................................................................$........................58 Rocket Pizza Lounge ...........................................$........................71 San Antonio Winery & maddalena Restaurant ..$$ .....................62 Urbano Pizza Bar...................................................$........................66 Japanese

Arashi Sushi ............................................................$$ .....................71 Curry House ............................................................$........................69 Daikokuya ................................................................$........................69 Frying Fish ...............................................................$........................69 Hama Sushi .............................................................$$ .....................69 Hashi Ramen ..........................................................$........................69 Honda Ya Izakaya .................................................$........................69 Izakaya Fuga ...........................................................$$ .....................69 Katsuya .....................................................................$$$...................73 Kouraku ...................................................................$........................69 mikado ......................................................................$$ .....................67 mitsuru Sushi and Grill .......................................$........................69 Octopus Japanese Restaurant ........................$$ .....................65

R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Oomasa ....................................................................$$ .....................69 R23 ..............................................................................$$$...................58 San Sui Tei ...............................................................$........................70 Shabu Shabu House............................................$........................70 Suehiro Cafe ...........................................................$........................70 Sushi Gen .................................................................$$$...................70 Sushi & Teri..............................................................$$ .....................70 Takami Sushi & Robata.......................................$$$...................66 Takumi ......................................................................$$ .....................70 Tenno Sushi ............................................................$........................70 Toranoko ..................................................................$$$...................70 Urban Noodle ........................................................$........................71 Wakana Sushi .........................................................$........................68 Wakasaya .................................................................$........................70 Yojie Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar ...............$$ .....................74 Zencu.........................................................................$$ .....................70 Korean

K-Town BBQ............................................................$$ .....................58 Kosher

Schnitzly ...................................................................$........................67 Latin American

Casa Jalapeno ........................................................$........................62 Conga Room...........................................................$$$...................71 Homegirl Cafe ........................................................$........................60 Rivera .........................................................................$$$...................74 Sarita’s .......................................................................$........................67 Mexican

Adoro mexican Grille ..........................................$$ .....................63 Barragan’s ................................................................$$ .....................61 Border Grill ..............................................................$$ .....................63 Casa ............................................................................$$ .....................59 Chipotle ....................................................................$........................64 El Cholo.....................................................................$$ .....................71 El Taurino .................................................................$........................63 Ensenada Restaurant ..........................................$$ .....................67 Freebirds ..................................................................$........................71 La Golondrina ........................................................$$ .....................62 La Luz Del Dia ........................................................$........................62 La Parrilla ................................................................$$ .....................61 mas malo..................................................................$$ .....................65 Ocho mexican Grill...............................................$........................65 Qdoba .......................................................................$........................65 Rosa mexicano.......................................................$$ .....................74 Señor Fish ................................................................$........................70 Yxta Cocina mexicana ........................................$$ .....................59 Mediterranean

Flames mediterranean Grill ..............................$........................67 Night Toast..............................................................$........................67 Olive Street Bistro.................................................$........................68 Shekarchi .................................................................$$ .....................74 Spitz ...........................................................................$........................70 Salads/Sandwiches

Arda’s Cafe ..............................................................$........................68 Blimpie .....................................................................$........................63 Eastside market Italian Deli ..............................$........................59 Emerson’s ................................................................$........................64 Gram & Papas.........................................................$........................62 Green Hut Cafe ......................................................$........................64 market Cafe.............................................................$................ 59, 73 market Restaurant................................................$........................62 mendocino Farms ................................................$................ 59, 65 The Novel Cafe ......................................................$........................58 On Spring.................................................................$........................60 Stray Cat Cafe.........................................................$........................68 Tommy Pastrami...................................................$........................66 Seafood

Fisherman’s Outlet...............................................$........................59 mcCormick & Schmick’s.....................................$$ .....................65 Rock’N Fish ..............................................................$$$...................74 Water Grill ................................................................$$$...................66 southern

Nola’s .........................................................................$$ .....................58 Steakhouse

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.....$$$...................71 La Bistecca ...............................................................$$$...................65 L.A. Prime .................................................................$$$...................65 morton’s The Steakhouse .................................$$$...................65 Nick & Stef’s ............................................................$$$...................59 Pacific Dining Car .................................................$$$...................61 Palm Downtown...................................................$$$...................73 Rock’N Fish ..............................................................$$$...................74 Thai

Authentic Thai .......................................................$........................59 City Thai....................................................................$........................68 Esaan Thai................................................................$........................59 Soi 7............................................................................$$ .....................66 Vietnamese

Blossom ...................................................................$........................70 Pho 97 .......................................................................$........................60 The Pho Shop.........................................................$........................69

(213) 222-9464 Downtown’s first outpost of this hot wings chain, complete with 40 flat screens and seating for 270. It also serves as the home for the Fox Sports Broadcasting booth.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Hygge Bakery 1106 S. Hope St. (213) 995-5022, hyggebakery.com Modern Danish bakery serving pastries, cakes and breads.

Bakery/Cafe, $, B,L,W J Restaurant & Lounge 1119 S. Olive St. (213) 746-7746, jloungela.com Upscale American cuisine, three bars and a patio.

American/Fusion, $$$, L,D,W,FB Katsuya (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 747-9797, sbe.com/katsuya/l.a.live Upscale, sexy sushi and robata restaurant with lounge.

Japanese, $$$, D,W,FB La Bella Cucina 949 S. Figueroa St. (213) 623-0014, labellalive.com Mid-range Italian eatery, popular for pre-event dining.

Italian, $$, L,D,W,FB,De Lawry’s Carvery (L.A. Live) 1011 S. Figueroa St., #115 (213) 222-2212, lawrysonline.com Get your prime rib fix fast.

American, $$, L,D,W,W/B Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 542-4880., bowlluckystrike.com Bowl while you sup on small plates and burgers.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Magnolia 825 W. James M. Wood Blvd.

(213) 362-0880, magnoliala.com Modern American comfort food and cocktails.

American, $$, L,D,W(Sat. Only),FB Market Cafe 1150 S. Olive St., Garden Level (AT&T Center) (213) 536-4090, patinagroup.com Salads, casual breakfast and lunch fare, plus good coffee.

Salads/Sandwiches, $, B,L The Original Pantry Cafe 877 S. Figueroa St. (213) 972-9279, pantrycafe.com

Open 24 hours, this L.A. institution fills your belly with huge breakfasts, steak and burgers.

American, $, B,L,D,W Palm Downtown 1100 S. Flower St. (213) 763-4600, thepalm.com Serious steaks, lobsters and expert martinis.

Steakhouse, $$$, L,D,W,FB Panini Cafe 600 W. Ninth St. (213) 489-4200, mypaninicafe.com Sit on the sprawling patio while you munch panini, soups and salads.

Italian, $$, B,L,D,W,W/B

Syrup Dessert

“We’re BBQ People”

American Bar-B-Que

Holiday Parties & Events Office Drop-offs

sssmokehouse.com 213-626-0535 640 N. Spring St. (Chinatown) LOSANGELESDOWNTOWN.COm | R E S T A U R A N T S

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Riordan’s Tavern 875 S. Figueroa St. (213) 627-6879, riordanstavern.com New York-style pub with classic fare.

American, $$$, L,D,W, FB Rivera 1050 S. Flower St. (213) 749-1460, riverarestaurant.com Chef John Sedlar turns up the heat on Latin cuisine.

Latin American, $$$, L,D,W,FB Rock’N Fish (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 748-4020, rocknfishlalive.com This Manhattan Beach import serves up surf and turf.

Steakhouse/Seafood, $$$, L,D,W,FB Trader Vic’s Rosa Mexicano (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 746-0001, rosamexicano.com Authentic Mexican food and killer margaritas.

Mexican, $$, L,D,W,FB Shekarchi 914 S. Hill St. (213) 892-8535, shekarchirestaurant.com Come for the grilled kabobs and specialty rice.

Mediterranean, $$, L

Trader Vic’s (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 785-3330, tradervicsla.com This legendary chain features tropical drinks and an old school Hollywood vibe that dates back to 1934.

Hawaiian, $$$, L,D,W,FB Uncle John’s Cafe 834 S. Grand Ave.

PALERMO RISORANTE ITALIANO

(213)623-3555, ujcafe.com A longtime Downtown diner in a new locale.

American/Fusion, $, B,L,W (Sat.only) Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 748-9700, wolfgangpuck.com Puck’s signature take on bar and grill cuisine.

California/Fusion, $$$, L,D,W,FB WP24 900 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 743-8824, wolfgangpuck.com Celebrity restaurateur Wolfgang Puck’s newest Downtown venture on the 24th floor of the Ritz-Carlton at L.A. Live.

Asian/Fusion, $$$, D,W,FB Yard House (L.A. Live) 800 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 745-9273, yardhouse.com American fusion dishes and more than 100 beers on tap.

American, $$, L,D,W,FB Yojie Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar 501 W. Olympic Blvd., #102 (213) 988-8808, yojie.com You’ll find shabu shabu and dessert fondue.

Japanese, $$, L,D,W,W/B

Palermo Wine Special

Take home ANY marked bottle, get 2nd for

JuSt $1.00!

Plus tax. Only for specially marked bottles. Valid only for take home (to go). Not for consumption at the restaurant.

Delicious Italian Cuisine Old World tradition LunCh SPeCIaLS - Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri Great Food at Great Lunch Deal Prices!

Lunch • Dinner • Takeout • Delivery

1858 N. Vermont Ave. • 323.663.1178

*

*

*

819 s flower st btw 8th & 9th 213.623.9904 74

R E S T A U R A N T S | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

www.barandkitchenla.com

accommodations

Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza

Staying and Playing at Downtown Hotels key to a b b r e v i at i o n s

♦♦♦♦♦ ♦♦♦♦ ♦♦♦ ♦♦ ♦

Luxury Deluxe First Class Moderate Economy

Hotel ratings from aaa

››

Tourism is booming in Downtown Los Angeles, in part due to the opening of a new Convention Center hotel as well as a streak of renovations at existing inns. The local hospitality industry is forging ahead with renewed energy and presence, giving neighboring cities such as San Diego and San Francisco a run for their money.

The exciting L.A. Live entertainment district, coupled with scores of hip bars, restaurants and entertainment options lighting up the central city, have provided even more reason to stay in Downtown Los Angeles. As added incentive, there are plenty of packages designed to lure visitors to explore the city’s cultural attractions, whether you seek a night at the

opera, dinner at the stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall or a day at the museum. Business and pleasure have never been more fun.

RITZ-CARLTON AT L.A. LIVE

♦♦♦♦♦

900 W. Olympic Blvd.

(213) 743-8800 ritzcarlton.com; lalive.com This high-end, high-rise newcomer offers luxury accommodations as part of the new Convention Center hotel complex at L.A. Live. Check in on the 23rd floor of this 54-story tower, which also houses posh condominiums on the upper levels. The Ritz offers 123 five-diamond rooms, including a 3,000-square-foot suite for a lucky VIP. Amenities include a 3,400-square-foot-lounge, rooftop pool and bar, and stunning views of the city. The hotel also boasts a top-notch, full-service spa.

Hotel Restaurants: WP 24, Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL

♦♦♦♦

900 W. Olympic Blvd.

(888) 832-9136, (213) 765-8600 lalivemarriott.com; lalive.com The towering JW Marriott Hotel Los Angeles at L.A. Live is the sparkling new jewel of the Downtown hospitality industry. Its 879 guest rooms occupy floors four through 21 of the sleek glass high-rise marking the final phase of the sports and entertainment hub known as L.A. Live. Literally at their feet, visitors can explore the L.A. Convention Center, Staples Center, movie theaters, concert venues, restaurants, the Grammy Museum, nightclubs and even a bowling alley. There are 40 meeting rooms and some 100,000 square feet of meeting space.

Hotel Restaurants: L.A. Market Restaurant, gLAnce wine bar, ION rooftop lounge, the Mixing Room, Illy Espressemante Coffee Bar

OMNI LOS ANGELES HOTEL AT CALIFORNIA PLAZA

♦♦♦♦

251 S. Olive St. (888) THE-OMNI, (213) 617-3300 omnilosangeles.com This 453-room hotel occupies the ideal perch atop Bunker losangelesdowntown.com | A C C O M M O D A T I O N S

75

turn. The lovely rooms come with plush bedding, flat screen TVs, spacious bathrooms and custom designed work areas. Guest can enjoy a dip in the rooftop lap pool, a leisurely book in the library, or a hand-made classic cocktail at the chic lounge.

Hotel Restaurants: Checkers Downtown, Checkers Lounge

Millennium Biltmore Hotel

KYOTO GRAND HOTEL & GARDENS

♦♦♦

120 S. Los Angeles St. (888) 354-0831, (213) 629-1200 kyotograndhotel.com Asian-fusion style marks this elegantly redone hotel in the heart of Little Tokyo. The 434 rooms feature a contemporary design with spacious floor plans, deluxe bedding, Wi-Fi and picture windows. The Kyoto features a beautiful half-acre Japanese garden on its rooftop, replete with private seating areas tucked into winding paths, a waterfall and mini bridges. The unique setting makes it a favorite spot for weddings and summer nights in the hotel’s beer garden.

Hotel Restaurants: Azalea Restaurant and Bar, Pangea Garden Lounge, Rendezvous Lounge Hill, allowing guests easy access to the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Music Center and the fanciful fountains of the California Plaza Watercourt. The hotel’s Noé restaurant offers fine dining with a market-driven bistro menu, while the elegant bar is a pleasant way to spend the evening. Rooms are comfortable and modern, with all the necessary business amenities. Banquet and meeting facilities are found on the second floor.

Hotel Restaurants: Grand Cafe, Noé

HILTON CHECKERS LOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN

535 S. Grand Ave. (800) 445-8667, (213) 624-0000 hiltoncheckers.com This historic hotel seamlessly blends elegant accommodations with modern amenities. Built in 1927, the 12-story Hilton Checkers has a boutique feel with 140 rooms, antique and marble finishes, and attention to detail at every

333 S. Figueroa St. (800) 260-0227, (213) 617-1133 losangelesmarriottdowntown.com Especially popular with the business traveler, this nicely appointed hotel features 469 spacious guest rooms and suites, a smoke-free environment and a lovely lobby accentuated with skylights and a sunken bar where a pianist

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cocina mexicana

H A PPY HO UR M ond ay 4 p m - 9 p m Tu e s da y t hr u Fr id ay 4 p m - 7 p m Sa t u r d ay 5 p m - 7 p m

www.y x ta .net | 213.596.5579 601 S. Central Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90021 (On the corner of 6th St. and Central Ave.) 11:30am-9pm, Thurs-Fri 11:30am-10pm, Sat 5pm-10pm CAAMAd_DowntownGuide_Layout 1 8/9/11 HOURS: 10:27Mon-Wed AM Page 1

Regular Mass Schedule Horario de Misas Monday-Friday Lunes-Viernes

CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM

600 State Drive, Exposition Park • Los Angeles, CA 90037 39th and Figueroa Streets

Admission is FREE A California State Museum / Jerry Brown, Governor

www.caamuseum.org • 213-744-7432 76

A C C O M M O D A T I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

7:00 am - English | Inglés 12:10 pm - English | Inglés

Sunday | Domingo 8:00 am - English | Inglés 10:00 am - English | Inglés 12:30 pm - Spanish | Español

Hours of Operation Horario de Operación Monday-Friday | Lunes-Viernes: 6:30am - 6:00pm Saturday |Sábado - 9:00am - 6:00pm Sunday | Domingo - 7:00am - 6:00pm

www.olacathedral.org Parish Office: 213-680-5200

often entertains guests. There are abundant, windowed rooms and salons for special events, conferences or business meetings, as well as a heated pool, 24-hour fitness center and convenient concierge service.

Hotel Restaurants: 333, Back Porch Restaurant, Lobby Bar and Lounge

LuxE CITY CENTER HOTEL, LOS ANGELES

♦♦♦

1020 S. Figueroa St. (888) 336-3745, (213) 748-1291 luxecitycenter.com Following a $12 million transformation, the former Holiday Inn City Center reopened in fall 2010 as the Luxe Hotel. Located across from Staples Center and L.A. Live, this upscale chain hotel features 162 rooms and 16 suites. Amenities include cordless speaker phones, ionic hair dryers, rain showers, 42-inch LCD televisions and Keurig coffee makers. There is also a business center, spa and meeting facilities.

RADISSON HOTEL MIDTOWN

SHERATON LOS ANGELES DOWNTOWN

3540 S. Figueroa St. (800) 333-3333, (213) 748-4141 radisson-midtown.com The newly remodeled Radisson is across from the University of Southern California, and is a central jumping off point for exploring Exposition Park’s museums and cultural institutions. Just a few minutes south of Downtown via the DASH bus, the 240-room Radisson features business suites, Sleep Number beds, flat screen TVs, a restaurant and cafe, swimming pool, and 24-hour fitness and business center. More than 15,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space is available.

Hotel Restaurants: McKay’s Restaurant, Rosso’s Pizzeria

711 S. Hope St. (800) 325-3535, (213) 488-3500 sheraton.com/losangeles This 487-room hotel in the heart of the Financial District is the perfect jumping off point for business or leisure.

Recently remodeled rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with cozy bedding, marble bathrooms, room service, high-speed Internet access and city views. The property is connected to the Macy’s Plaza mall, offering even more shopping and dining options. Guests can also take advantage of the lobby lounge, gym and full-service business center.

Hotel Restaurants: The Brasserie, The Lobby Bar

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♦♦♦

MILLENNIuM BILTMORE HOTEL

♦♦♦

506 S. Grand Ave. (800) 245-8673, (213) 624-1011 millenniumhotels.com/biltmore A stay at the historic and stunning Biltmore is an unforgettable experience. Hotel guests are surrounded by the history and lore of the fabled inn, which was built in 1923.

The awe-inspiring Italian Renaissance architecture drips with decorative detail and splendor, and the hand-painted frescoes, sparkling chandeliers and elegant furnishings are a sight to behold. There are 683 rooms and suites featuring modern amenities and classic style reflective of the hotel’s history. Amenities include a Roman-style indoor swimming pool, health club, beautiful ballrooms (which frequently host weddings and special events), restaurants and the destination Gallery Bar which serves vintage cocktails. Don’t miss the daily high tea from 2 to 5 p.m. in the grand Rendezvous Court.

Hotel Restaurants: Sai Sai, Smeraldi’s Restaurant, La Bistecca

MIYAKO HOTEL LOS ANGELES

♦♦♦

328 E. First St. (800) 228-6596, (213) 617-2000 miyakoinn.com Located in the middle of Little Tokyo’s historic First Street North block, the 120-room Miyako is a quaint respite from the hustle and bustle of Downtown. Inside the welcoming lobby, guests will find contemporary décor with traditional Japanese touches. Rooms are comfortable and offer all the basic amenities. Be sure to visit the lovely health spa and sauna where you can get a topnotch shiatsu massage. The hotel also houses a small business center, restaurant and karaoke bar.

Hotel Restaurants: Tamon, Cafe Take 5

Rediscover the city.

Recover your balance.

When you book your next stay at The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites the city comes alive and so do you.

QuALITY INN & SuITES HOTEL 250

♦♦♦

250 Silver Lake Blvd.

(213) 639-1920 hotel250.com Just a mile west of Downtown, this multi-level hotel is simple but efficient. It features views of the Hollywood sign and is located amid the restaurants and shops in the artsy Silver Lake neighborhood. Rooms are updated and come with free high-speed Internet and a complimentary breakfast bar.

For more information or to make a reservation visit

www.thebonaventure.com or call 213.624.1000 losangelesdowntown.com | A C C O M M O D A T I O N S

77

WESTIN BONAVENTuRE HOTEL AND SuITES

♦♦♦

404 S. Figueroa St. (213) 624-1000 thebonaventure.com Located in Downtown’s bustling Financial District, the landmark mirrored towers of the 1,368-room Bonaventure beckon convention goers, business travelers and tourists alike.

The recently renovated guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling views of the city, as well as the hotel’s signature 10-layer Heavenly Bed feature. The 35-story Bonaventure is a sprawling city within a city, with color-coded elevators, 42 shops and restaurants, the revolving Bona Vista Lounge, the upscale L.A. Prime Steakhouse, and a state-of-the-art gym. The hotel is the largest convention facility with 110,000 square feet of meeting space and a full-service business center.

Hotel Restaurants: Bona Vista Lounge, Bonaventure Brewing Company, Lakeview Bistro, L.A. Prime

COMFORT INN CITY CENTER

♦♦

1710 W. Seventh St. (213) 616-3000 comfortinnla.com Just a mile from the L.A. Convention Center and Staples Center, the Comfort Inn is a budget-friendly locale with free wireless Internet, continental breakfast and coffee, and an outdoor heated pool.

METRO PLAZA HOTEL

♦♦

711 N. Main St.

(213) 680-0200 metroplazahoteldowntownla.com Nestled between Union Station (just two blocks away) and Chinatown, this comfortable hotel offers 80 guest rooms and suites. Clean, modest and situated in a prime location for exploring Downtown’s cultural attractions on foot, Metro Plaza is a good bet for travelers coming into Union Station via train, bus, Metro or FlyAway from LAX.

RITZ MILNER HOTEL

♦♦

813 S. Flower St. (877) MILNERS, (213) 627-6981 milner-hotels.com Just a few blocks from the L.A. Convention Center and L.A. Live, this comfortable boutique hotel offers affordable rates with lots of history. There is complimentary breakfast, Internet, and a restaurant and pub onsite. Just a block from the Metro and Macy’s Plaza.

FIGuEROA HOTEL

NR 939 S. Figueroa St. (800) 421-9092, (213) 627-8971 figueroahotel.com Known affectionately as the Hotel Fig, this is a one-of-a-kind oasis where the city ceases to exist. Part Morocco, part Spain and completely unique, a stay at the Fig is a vacation unto itself. Built in 1925, the hotel’s lobby and common areas are decked out in antiques, Oriental rugs, brass urns, palms and vibrant fabrics. Outside at the sprawling Veranda Bar, you can sip your cocktail amid wrought iron, a languid pool and a mellow vibe. The suites are pretty spectacular too.

Figueroa Hotel

THE HISTORIC MAYFAIR HOTEL

NR 1256 W. Seventh St. (800) 821-8682, (213) 484-9789 mayfairla.com Built in the 1920s, the hotel retains a sense of its history with glass etchings, brass fixtures, skylight and pillars. The 295 rooms are clean, air-conditioned and affordable, with free Wi-Fi. The staff prides itself on an Old World, gracious kind of service.

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A C C O M M O D A T I O N S | downtown los angeles gUIde

former oil company headquarters was converted into a bold, bright boutique hotel with plenty of eye candy and modern design details. There are platform beds, open bathrooms, foot sculptures and even bathtubs that can accommodate two or more. The lobby and common areas are decked out in retro wallpaper and mod furnishings while the infamous rooftop lounge comes with infinity pool, red seating pods and Astroturf. Meeting and event space available.

Hotel Restaurant: Restaurant Standard

STAY ON MAIN NR 636 S. Main St. (800) 896-5294

stayhotels.net This hotel/youth hostel features mod touches like white leather couches and a colorful floral lightbox. The 138 rooms are simple, stylish and inexpensive with iPod docks, flatscreen TVs and bright bedding.

STILLWELL HOTEL

NR 838 S. Grand Ave. (213) 627-1151 Located in South Park, the Stillwell offers clean and comfortable guest rooms in a secure facility at very modest rates. The vintage property is quirky with a low-key bar and an Indian Restaurant.

Hotel Restaurant: Gill’s Cuisine of India

KAWADA HOTEL

NR 200 S. Hill St. (800) 752-9232, (213) 621-4455 kawadahotel.com Conveniently located between the Civic Center and Historic Downtown, this budget- and family-friendly hotel is popular for both business and leisure. The 116 rooms are comfortable and updated with color TV/remote, VCR, full kitchenette, high-speed Internet, on-site laundry room and same-day valet service. Discounts offered for members of AAA and AARP.

LOS ANGELES ATHLETIC CLuB

NR 431 W. Seventh St. (213) 625-2211 laac.com This historic athletic and social club offers 72 deluxe rooms including nine high-end club-themed suites (Bruin, Trojan, beach and yacht, among them). The newly renovated rooms feature custom furniture, large tiled bathrooms, plush robes, luxurious linens and flat screens. Guests can also take advantage of the club’s athletic facilities, including a stunning pool and basketball court. Centrally located amid the Historic and Jewelry districts.

Hotel Restaurants: The Grill Room, Duke’s, Main Bar, Snack Bar

O HOTEL

NR 819 S. Flower St. (213) 623-9904 ohotelgroup.com Beyond the frosted glass doors you’ll find a minimalist lobby that feels very New York — dark wood, dim light, a postmodern fireplace. This sleek little boutique spot was converted out of a 1920s building, so the 67 rooms aren’t gigantic, but they boast a sleek design with amenities such as desks and plush bedding. It also houses a trendy restaurant and bar.

Hotel Restaurant: Bar & Kitchen

THE STANDARD DOWNTOWN L.A.

NR 550 S. Flower St. (213) 892-8080 standardhotels.com This hip hotel is still the place to sleep and party. The losangelesdowntown.com | A C C O M M O D A T I O N S

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Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites 404 S. Figueroa St., thebonaventure.com (800) 937-8461 • (213) 624-1000

JW Marriott Hotel

900 W. Olympic Blvd., lalivemarriott.com (888) 832-9136 • (213) 765-8600

Millennium Biltmore Hotel

506 S. Grand Ave., millenniumhotels.com/biltmore (800) 245-8673 • (213) 624-1011

Cecil Hotel

640 S. Main St., thececilhotel.com (213) 624-4545

Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown 711 S. Hope St., sheraton.com/losangeles (800) 233-1234 • (213) 488-3500

Los Angeles Marriott Downtown

333 S. Figueroa St., losangelesmarriottdowntown.com (800) 260-0227 • (213) 617-1133

Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza 251 S. Olive St., omnilosangeles.com (800) 442-5251 • (213) 617-3300

Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens

120 S. Los Angeles St., kyotograndhotel.com (800) 421-8795 • (213) 629-1200

Historic Mayfair Hotel

1256 W. Seventh St., mayfairla.com (800) 821-8682 • (213) 484-9789

Figueroa Hotel

939 S. Figueroa St., figueroahotel.com (800) 421-9092 • (213) 627-8971

Radisson Hotel Midtown

3540 S. Figueroa St., radisson-midtown.com (213) 748-4141

Stillwell Hotel

838 S. Grand Ave. (800) 553-4774 • (213) 627-1151

The London West Hollywood

1020 N. San Vicente Blvd., thelondonwesthollywood.com (866) 282-4506

The Standard Downtown L.A. 550 S. Flower St., standardhotels.com (213) 892-8080

Luxe City Center Hotel

1020 S. Figueroa St., luxecitycenter.com (888) 336-3745 • (213) 748-1291

Hilton Checkers Los Angeles

535 S. Grand Ave., hiltoncheckers.com (800) 445-8667 • (213) 624-0000

Miyako Hotel Los Angeles 328 E. First St., miyakoinn.com (800) 228-6596 • (213) 617-2000

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Soaring atrium of glass and concrete, lobby bar, food court, shopping galleria and bridge access to other Downtown landmarks.

878 73

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The JW Marriott is the sleek new 878-room hotel attached to the L.A. Live complex.

683 55

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Beautiful, ornate historic landmark building. Handsome restaurants, chic bars, beautiful ballrooms and top-notch service.

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This 1927 budget hotel features Italianate design, Internet access, 24-hour cafe, in the heart of historic Downtown.

485 40

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Great location adjacent to shopping mall, financial center and Jewelry District. Casual dining. Polished look, polished service.

469 69

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Across from World Trade Center, closest to Bunker Hill and Music Center.

453 14

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Nestled between Bunker Hill and the Financial District.

Walking distance to museums and Music Center. Casual restaurant, swank bar.

437 20

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Understated elegance, service to meet every need. Great shopping, several restaurants and cafes. In the heart of Little Tokyo.

297 12

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Vintage 1920s building renovated to serve the needs of business travelers as well as tourists looking for great value.

Mezzanine restaurant.

280 5

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240 19

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Newly remodeled. Central location next to USC. Executive lounge for business travelers, restaurant and cafe. Free shuttle.

232 8

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Historic hotel straddling Financial District and South Park.

Air-conditioned rooms, near California Mart, Convention Center and Staples.

223 223

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This hotel has only suites and offers full amenities. The hotel is home to Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant.

207 21

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Trendy decor, retro restaurant, chic bar popular with singles.

Former oil company headquarters in heart of Financial District.

162 16

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Eclectic decor, gracious international atmosphere and service. Walking distance from L.A. Convention Center and Staples.

Couldn’t be closer to Staples, L.A. Live and Convention Center. Newly renovated.

Beautiful boutique hotel with European charm. Top-notch service, classy restaurant. Adjacent to Richard J. Riordan Central Library.

An oasis in the middle of Little Tokyo. Comfortable rooms, invigorating spa and health club, restaurant, karaoke bar.

636 S. Main St., stayhotels.com (213) 213-STAY (7829)

Ritz Milner Hotel

813 S. Flower St., milner-hotels.com (800) 827-0411 • (213) 627-6981

Clarion Hotel Downtown

1901 W. Olympic Blvd., clarionhotel.com (213) 385-7141

Ritz-Carlton at L.A. Live

900 W. Olympic Blvd., ritzcarlton.com (213) 743-8800

Kawada Hotel

200 S. Hill St., kawadahotel.com (800) 752-9232 • (213) 621-4455

Comfort Inn City Center

1710 W. Seventh St., comfotinnla.com (213) 616-3000

Howard Johnson

603 S. New Hampshire Ave. (213) 385-4444

Metro Plaza Hotel

711 N. Main St., metroplazahoteldowntownla.com (213) 680-0200

Los Angeles Athletic Club 431 W. Seventh St., laac.com (800) 421-8777 • (213) 625-2211

Vagabond Inn Los Angeles at USC

3101 S. Figueroa St., vegabondinn-los-angeles-hotel.com (800) 522-1555 • (213) 746-1531

Ramada Limited Los Angeles Downtown 611 S. Westlake Ave., ramadalimitedla.com (213) 483-6363

O Hotel

819 S. Flower St., ohotelgroup.com (213) 623-9904

Quality Inn & Suites Hotel250 250 Silver Lake Blvd., hotel250.com (888) 470-5808

Rodeway Inn Convention Center Los Angeles 1904 W. Olympic Blvd., laconventioninn.com (213) 380-9393

Best Western Dragon Gate Inn 818 N. Hill St., dragongateinn.com (877) 574-2464 • (213) 617-3077

Knights Inn Los Angeles

1255 W. Temple St., knightsinn.com (213) 250-8925

ervice Busin ess Se rvices

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Small, quaint hotel located in Civic Center and on the edge of the Historic Core. Pleasant decor and coffee shop.

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Complimentary Continental breakfast, free HBO, full-service business center and free high-speed Internet, convenient to Downtown.

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A short drive to Downtown, this budget hotel is geared toward the business traveler.

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Located between Olvera Street, Chinatown, and Union Station. Continental breakfast, 24-hour desk.

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Extensive corporate business services. Newly remodeled rooms. Free local calls and complimentary hot breakfast.

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Modern, budget-friendly hostel in the Historic Core.

Upscale boutique hotel recently remodeled with large rooms, high-speed Internet, adjacent to Macy’s Plaza.

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A modest inn about a mile from Staples Center and Convention Center.

An intimate five-diamond hotel with all the amenities.

Established in 1880. New refurbished rooms. Athletic and spa facilities, luxury meeting and conference rooms.

Restaurant and bar.

A stone’s throw from the USC campus. Business friendly amenities, free high-speed Internet.

Minutes from Downtown. Free breakfast, high-speed Internet, business center, fitness room, restaurant.

A few blocks from L.A. Live. This boutique hotel features stylish yet affordable accommodations. Fitness center and restaurant.

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One mile from the Convention Center. All the basics and a heated pool.

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This hotel is in the heart of Chinatown. Asian decor, beauty shop, pharmacy, cafe.

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One the western edge of Downtown. Free Continental breakfast and high speed internet.

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GOOD TO KNOW

Ralph’s Downtown

Your Cheat Sheet to Downtown’s Essential Services TRANSPORTATION

››

The nation’s second largest transit agency is headquartered Downtown, and the regional nexus of Union Station allows commuters to take any number of buses, subway lines and trains to just about any destination in the city and beyond. Look for signs marking tourist destinations, districts and other services for both pedestrians and motorists.

DASH Downtown The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) operates a network of buses in Downtown called the DASH, which circulates in and around the Central City.

For 50 cents, you can travel from one end of Downtown to the other. Five routes operate weekdays, with two on weekends. Monday through Friday Routes A, B, D and E operate at least every eight minutes; and F operate every 10 minutes. On Saturday and Sunday, Routes E and F operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and take riders to the Fashion District, Financial District, City West and Exposition Park/USC. For information call LADOT at (213, 310, 323 or 818) 808-2273, or visit ladottransit.com. Look for the DASH bus signs on every street, or ask a DASH driver for a map and schedule.

Subways, Light Rail, Buses Metro operates one of the largest fleets of buses in the nation. In addition, its four local Metro Rail lines (Green Line, Blue Line, Red Line and Gold Line) can take you to Uni82

versal City, Hollywood, Pasadena, Downtown Los Angeles (including Staples Center), LAX, Long Beach and more for $1.50 one way. Day passes can be had for $6. The regional EZpass can be used for travel on Metro buses and trains as well as buses operated by 11 municipal bus operators in Los Angeles County. The cost is $84 for a regular monthly EZpass or $35 for seniors and disabled.

Call (323) GOMETRO for Metro information or check MTA’s 24-hour interactive trip planner at metro.net.

Flyaway This non-stop bus, which operates daily, is one of the most convenient ways to travel directly from Downtown to LAX. One-way fare is $7.

Union Station, (866) IFLYLAX, lawa.org/flyaway.

Regional Rail Services From Union Station you can access Metrolink trains, the regional rail system that connects most cities in Southern California. Amtrak operates regional rail service with connections to its national network.

For AMTRAK information call (800) USA-RAIL (8727245) or amtrak.com.

For Metrolink information and fares call (800) 371-5465 or metrolinktrains.com.

Taxis Taxis congregate around hotels, office towers, shopping malls and transit hubs such as Union Station. Several franchise taxi operators work in Los Angeles, so look for the official Los

G O O D T O K N O W | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Angeles Taxicab Seal before taking a ride. A cab without the seal is a bandit cab without legal authorization to operate.

For a map and full list of L.A.-area cabs, visit taxicabsla.org.

Listed below are the authorized taxi companies that service Downtown, their coverage areas and telephone numbers: Bell Cab Los Angeles, (800) 666-6664 Beverly Hills Cab Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, (800) 273-6611 Checker Cab Los Angeles and West Hollywood, (800) 300-5007 City Cab Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley, (800) 750-4400 Independent Taxi Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, (800) 521-8294 United Independent Taxi Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, (800) 411-0303 Yellow Cab Los Angeles, (800) 200-1085

Rental Cars There are ample car agencies that will cater to you at your office, hotel or conference center. Here are a few options: Avis Rent-A-Car 888 S. Figueroa St., #130, (213) 533-8400, avis.com.

Budget Car and Truck Rental Union Station, 800 N. Alameda St., (213) 617-2977, budget.com.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car 404 S. Figueroa St., (213) 312-0070, enterprise.com.

1801 S. Figueroa St., (213) 746-6616, enterprise.com.

1944 S. Figueroa St., (213) 746-6654, enterprise.com.

530 S. Olive St., parking level 1, (213) 627-5432, enterprise.com.

930 Wilshire Blvd. (213) 627-1487, enterprise.com.

Hertz Rent-A-Car 333 S. Figueroa St., (213) 625-0997, hertz.com.

Union Station, 800 N. Alameda St. (213) 625-1034, hertz.com.

711 S. Hope St. (213) 629-7421, hertz.com.

Zipcar Hourly car rental near USC, ideal for appointments and daytrips. Requires a monthly membership.

(866) 494-7227, zipcar.com.

SAFETY

Since the start of revitalization efforts and the growing residential population, Downtown has become increasingly safe to walk and enjoy. The Los Angeles Police Department is headquartered here, and is aided by local Business Improvement Districts (BID) whose security and bike officers regularly patrol each district. For more information about the local BIDs and Los Angeles Police Department, call the following: Central City East Association This group administers two BIDs — the L.A. Downtown Industrial District and the Arts District. The area covers the eastern swath of Downtown, some 97 blocks from San Pedro to the Los Angeles River.

(213) 228-8484, centralcityeast.org.

Chinatown BID The BID’s crimson-shirted Red Patrol keep Chinatown’s streets clean and safe.

Red Patrol (213) 252-1600, press 7. BID office (213) 680-0243, chinatownla.com.

Downtown Center BID With more than 400 property owners in 65 blocks of the Central Business District, this is Downtown’s largest BID. Its purple-clad officers and ambassadors can often be seen throughout the area answering questions or giving directions from information kiosks.

For general inquiries call (213) 624-2146, after hours (213) 624-2425, downtownla.com.

Fashion District BID The yellow-garbed clean and safe team patrols the bustling Fashion District on bike and via cruisers.

For 24-hour public safety assistance call (213) 741-2661, fashiondistrict.org.

Figueroa Corridor BID This organization covers the area just south of Downtown including Exposition Park and USC. For information, call weekdays at (213) 746-9577, the service hotline at (213) 746-3444, figueroacorridor.org.

Historic Downtown Los Angeles BID This BID aims to improve the Broadway Theater District and its historic resources.

(213) 239-8336, hdlabid.com.

Little Tokyo BID This BID supplements city services by providing a professional security patrol, street maintenance, and marketing programs.

(213) 620-0570, visitlittletokyo.com.

LAPD Central Division Located at 251 E. Sixth St., about five blocks east of the Pershing Square Red Line station. It is served by several bus lines.

To report non-emergency crimes call (877) 275-5273, or for general inquiries call (213) 485-3294.

South Park BID This BID makes use of a fleet of electric vehicles to patrol its active residential and entertainment district.

(213) 663-1111 or southpark.la.

COMMUNITY CONTACTS

Downtown RepReSentAtiveS AnD ADvocAcy gRoupS Ninth Council District, Councilwoman Jan Perry Covers the majority of Downtown including the Central Business District, South Park, parts of the Historic Core and Skid Row. 200 N. Spring St., Room 420, (213) 473-7009.

First Council District, Councilman Ed Reyes Covers Chinatown, City West and L.A. River issues.

200 N. Spring St., Room 410, (213) 473-7001.

14th Council District, Councilman José Huizar Covers the Broadway Theater District and part of the Historic Core.

200 N. Spring St., Room 465, (213) 473-7014.

Neighborhood Prosecutor This office deals with community crimes such as drug dealing, littering, prostitution, panhandling and transient issues. Email neighborhood@atty.lacity.org.

312 S. Hill St., second floor, (213) 847-8003.

Downtown Visitors Information Center Pick up brochures, maps and guides about the city.

685 S. Figueroa St., (213) 624-7300 or discoverlosangeles.com.

HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY 4 to 10

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Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council This neighborhood advocacy group advises city leaders on local issues and plans community events.

Meetings held in various locations, (213) 291-0933, dlanc.com.

FilmLA Inc. Call this office with complaints, concerns or questions about filming and how it affects you.

Open weekdays 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and 24-hour on-call staff; 1201 W. Fifth St., suite T-800, (213) 977-8600 (after hours call main line and press option #2). Visit filmla.com.

Historic Cultural Neighborhood Council Covers Chinatown, El Pueblo, Elysian Park, Little Tokyo, and the Industrial and Arts districts.

307 E. First St., (800) 523-7621, hcncla.org.

PLACES OF WORSHIP Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels 555 W. Temple St., (213) 680-5200, olacathedral.org Centenary United Methodist Church 300 S. Central Ave., (213) 617-9097 Central City Church of the Nazarene 419 E. Sixth St., (213) 689-1766, lacentralcity.org First Chinese Baptist Church 942 Yale St., (213) 687-0814, fcbc.org First Congregational Church of Los Angeles 540 S. Commonwealth Ave., (213) 385-1341, fccla.org First United Methodist Church of Los Angeles, Villa Flores Multipurpose Room 1020 S. Flower St., (213) 749-0212, firstla.org Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple 505 E. Third St., (213) 626-4200, hhbt-la.org Jodo Shu Betsuin Buddhist Temple 442 E. Third St., (213) 346-9666

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G O O D T O K N O W | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Koyasan Buddhist Temple 342 E. First St., (213) 624-1267, koyasanbetsuin.org La Placita Church 535 N. Main St., (213) 629-3101, laplacita.org Live Church L.A. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 493-4329, livechurchla.com Maryknoll Japanese Catholic Center 222 S. Hewitt St., (213) 626-2279 New City Church of L.A. 514 S. Spring St., (213) 471-2415, newcitychurchla.com Nishi Hongwanji Los Angeles Betsuin 815 E. First St., (213) 680-9130, nishihongwanji-la.org Second Church of Christ, Scientist 948 W. Adams Blvd.

St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church 712 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2938, croatianchurch.org St. Bridget (Chinese) Catholic Church 510 Cottage Home St., (323) 222-5518 St. John’s Cathedral 514 W. Adams Blvd., (213) 747-6285, stjohnsla.org St. Peter’s Italian Church 1039 N. Broadway, (323) 225-8119, stpeterschurchla.org St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church 621 W. Adams Blvd., (213) 749-8950 Union Church of Los Angeles 401 E. Third St., (213) 629-3876, unionchurchla.org Wilshire Christian Church 634 S. Normandie Ave., (213) 382-6337, wilshirechristianchurch.org Zenshuji Soto Mission 123 S. Hewitt St., (213) 624-8658

counter, and tasty premade deli foods.

Validated garage parking.

Open daily; 333 S. Alameda St., (213) 617-0030, woorimarketusa.com.

EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS

GROCERY STORES Bunker Hill Market & Deli Basics, plus beer, wine and spirits. They’ll deliver Downtown too.

Open Sun.-Thurs. 7 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 7 a.m.-midnight; 800 W. First St., (213) 6241245.

Grand Central Market Fresh produce, meat and prepared food stalls. One-hour free parking with $10 purchase.

Open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; 317 S. Broadway, (213) 624-2378, grandcentralsquare.com.

Joe’s Downtown Market (Toy Factory Lofts) Snacks, drinks, gourmet items, soy cheese, beer and other sundries.

Open Sun.-Thurs. till 11 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. till midnight; 1855 Industrial St., (213) 612-0248.

Marukai Snacks, drinks, produce, meat, Japanese items and sundries.

Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; 123 S. Onizuka St., (213) 893-7200, marukai.com.

Old Bank District Market Basic groceries, milk, wine, coffee, gourmet items, deli and magazines.

Open daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; 409 S. Main St., (213) 680-9000.

Ralphs Fresh Fare Full-service market with coffee counter, bakery, deli, fresh sushi and dry cleaning. Validated parking accessed from Flower Street.

Open 5 a.m.-2 a.m.; 645 W. Ninth St., (213) 452-0840, ralphs.com.

Two Bits Market This gourmet grocer is a small but welcome addition to the area. You’ll find dry goods, organic produce, cheeses, wine, spirits and fresh deli fare.

Open Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-midnight; Sun. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; 210 W. Fifth St., (213) 627-2636, twobitsmarket.com.

Woori Market Inside the Little Tokyo Galleria, this full-service Korean grocery chain offers Asian products, a meat and seafood

FARMERS MARKETS Bank of America Farmers Market Fridays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.: Food stalls, produce, flowers and crafts.

333 S. Hope St., at Bank of America Plaza, ccfm.com.

City Hall Farmers Market Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Farm fresh produce, flowers, olives, oils, hummus, dips, bread and crafts. Music 11:30 a.m.2 p.m.

South Lawn of City Hall, between Main and Spring streets, downtownfarmersmarket.org.

Pershing Square Farmers Market Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Produce, flowers, baked goods and crafts are just a few of the items for sale at this lively market in Pershing Square.

532 S. Olive St., rawinspiration.org.

FIGat7th Farmers Market Thursdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: The outdoor mall in the Financial District offers a small assortment of produce, kettle corn, flowers, honey, breads, bonsai trees, tamales, olives, nuts and more.

725 S. Figueroa St., (213) 955-7150, 7fig.com.

DRUG STORES/PHARMACIES CVS Pharmacy Large, bright store with pharmacy, cosmetics, spirits and

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lot parking.

Open 24 hours (pharmacy hours vary); 1050 W. Sunset Blvd., (213) 975-1200.

GNC Shop for vitamins, supplements, sports nutrition, health and beauty products.

There are multiple Downtown locations.

700 S. Flower St., (213) 622-6931; 505 S. Flower St., (213) 489-7732; 510 W. Sixth St., (213) 622-2078; or gnc.com.

Rite-Aid Drug store necessities and toiletries, plus good deals on wine.

Open daily 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; 500 S. Broadway, (213) 623-5820; Open weekdays 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6p.m.; 600 W. Seventh St., (213) 896-0083.

Salon Eleven Uptown Drug & Gift Shop Old-school pharmacy with personal service, screenings and free prescription delivery.

Open weekdays 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; 444 S. Flower St., #100, (213) 612-4300, uptowndrugs.com.

Walgreens Located at the corner of Seventh and Hope streets, this is the chain’s first Downtown store.

Open weekdays 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; 617 W. Seventh St., (213) 694-2880, walgreens.com.

PET SERVICES Bark Avenue They’ve got a “spaw,” grooming, boarding, daycare and a training academy.

Open weekdays 7 a.m-7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m-7 p.m.; 545 S. Main St., (213) 748-7485, barkavela.com.

DSN Vet Clinic In partnership with Bark Avenue, they offer spay/neuter, an online pharmacy, emergency and walk-in service.

Open weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; 3016 S. Hill St., (213) 493-4435, dsnpetrx.com.

Go Dog LA A 9,000-square-foot open space for doggies as well as cage-free boarding, grooming and outdoor yards.

Open weekdays 6:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; weekends 7:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; 1728 Maple Ave., (213) 748-4364, godogla.com.

Muttropolitan A modern, full-service salon for pets including a self-ser-

vice wash.

Open Tues.-Sat. 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; 408 E. Second St., (213) 626-8887, muttropolitanla.com.

Pet Project LA This retail store offers pet food and supplies, and they deliver it free to your door.

Open Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; and weekends 11a.m.-7 p.m.; 548 S. Spring St., #107, (213) 595-4225, petproject-losangeles.com.

Pussy & Pooch This chic pet boutique offers a bathhouse, “Pawbar” cafe and monthly socials. You can also find pet food, treats and accessories. Local delivery.

Open Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; 564 S. Main St., (213) 438-0900, pussyandpooch.com.

South Park Doggie Day Care Spa and Supplies Daycare, boarding, grooming, spa, training and supplies.

Check the website for special offers.

Open weekdays 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; and weekends 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 1320 S. Grand Ave., (213) 747-3649, southparkdoggie.com.

PIZZA DELIVERY Domino’s Free delivery and basic pies.

Open daily 10 a.m.-1 a.m.; 545 S. Olive St., (213) 623-2424.

Los Angeles Pizza Company Free delivery and several gourmet options.

Open Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; 712 N. Figueroa St., (213) 626-5272 or losangelespizzacompany.com.

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213.624.3311

Pitfire Pizza Free delivery and individual gourmet pizzas, pasta, salads and sandwiches.

Open Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 3-10 p.m.; 108 W. Second St., (213) 808-1200, pitfirepizza.com.

Rocket Pizza Free delivery with a $10 minimum purchase.

Open weekdays 11:30 a.m.-midnight; Sat. noonmidnight.; and Sun. noon-10 p.m.; 122 W. Fourth St., (213) 687-4992, rocketpizzalounge.com.

MOVIE RENTALS/THEATERS Angel City Drive-In Bring your car, bike or walk to these fun neighborhood movies, which usually screen twice a month in a parking lot. There is Astroturf, and car hops bring food. Tickets are $10.

240 W. Fourth St., angelcitydrivein.com.

Downtown Independent This small theater specializes in indie and classic films.

Open daily; 251 S. Main St.; (213) 617-1033, downtownindependent.com.

Old Bank DVD Art house, classics, foreign, independent and new releases.

Open Sun.-Thurs. noon-11 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. noon-midnight; 400 S. Main St., (213) 613-9654, oldbankdvd.com.

Regal Cinemas This state-of-the-art theater is Downtown’s biggest with 14 screens. Located on the L.A. Live campus.

800 W. Olympic Blvd.; (213) 763-6070, regmovies.com.

BEAUTY SERVICES Candolyn’s Hair, mani-pedi, scalp treatment and massage at the California Plaza Watercourt.

Open weekdays 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 350 S. Grand Ave., D-9; (213) 625-7895, candolyns.com.

C&J Beauty Center and Salon This newcomer offers beauty supplies, hair and nail service, skincare and waxing.

Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; 804 W. Seventh St.; (213) 624-3000 or cnjbeauty.com.

European Hair Design Inside the Bonaventure Hotel, this full-service salon has built a loyal clientele of men and women over the last 30 years.

Open weekdays 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; 404 S. Figueroa St., Suite 413; (213) 892-1580, wolfeurosalon.com.

Jacqueline’s Salon Hair and nail services on Bunker Hill.

108 W. 2nd St., #202; (213) 617-7911, jacquelinessalon.com.

Nail Service Cool 3D nail art, lash extensions, waxing and facials; validated parking in garage on Second Street.

Open Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; 244 E. First St.; (213) 626-0315, nailserviceusa.com.

Neihule This chic, full-service salon across from Pershing Square is decked out in mod white. They even have a bar for refreshments. Early morning appointments available.

Open Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tues. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wed.-Fri. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; 607 S. Olive St., (213) 623-4383, neihule.com.

Neihule 2 This second location complements the flagship Olive Street salon with a nail spa, tanning and blow dry bar.

Open Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tues. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 512 W. Seventh St.; (213) 627-5300 or neihule.com.

Rudy’s Barber Shop Cuts and color on the cheap and trendy.

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Open weekdays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; weekends 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Standard Hotel, 550 S. Flower St.; (213) 439-3058, rudysbarbershop.com.

Salon Eleven A hip, upbeat salon in South Park offering cuts, color, styling, waxing, makeup and Brazilian Blowouts. Validated parking.

Open Tues. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri. 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 420 W. 11th St., (213) 744-9944, salon-eleven.com.

Salon on 6 Hip, modern salon and day spa in the Historic Core. Complimentary consultations are available, and highly recommended.

Open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; 548 S. Spring St.; (213) 623-5033, salonon6.biz.

Salon Pure Unisex cuts, color, nails and waxing in the Santa Fe Lofts.

Open weekdays 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (Thurs. until 9 p.m.); weekends 9 a.m.-6 p.m.117 E. Sixth St.; (213) 624-7873, salonpurela.com.

Ultima Beauty Center Located in Macy’s Plaza, you’ll find beauty supplies, as well as a full spectrum of services including cuts, color, nails, facials, massage, waxing and tanning.

Open Mon.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 750 W. Seventh St.; (213) 689-9308, ultimabeautycenter.com.

Yolanda Aguilar Beauty Institute & Spa With more than 40 years in the biz, this lovely, tranquil spa does everything from facials to massages to body wraps.

Open weekdays 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; 735 S. Figueroa St. (FIGat7th), suite 100; (213) 687-6683, yabeauty.com.

Pershing Square Farmers Market

Listen closely and you will hear the future Midori and the USC Thornton Symphony September 15, 6:30 p.m., Live broadcast on Classical KUSC 91.5 Internationally renowned violinist Midori, chair of Thornton’s Strings department, joins the USC Thornton Symphony.

USC Thornton Contemporary Music Ensemble November 14, 7:30 p.m., Alfred Newman Recital Hall The CME presents world premiers performed

by Thornton faculty guitarists Brian Head, Martha Masters and Scott Tennant.

USC Thornton Chamber Singers and Concert Choir October 21, 8:00 p.m., Alfred Newman Recital Hall The Thornton Choral department celebrates the music of faculty composer Morten Lauridsen, 2007 National Medal of Arts recipient.

USC Thornton Jazz Orchestra November 2, 7:30 p.m., Alfred Newman Recital Hall The TJO, winner of Downbeat’s Best Collegiate Jazz Ensemble 2011, celebrates faculty composers Vince Mendoza and TJO director Bob Mintzer.

Explore the Thornton School. Visit us online at www.usc.edu/music/go/downtown 88

G O O D T O K N O W | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

FitneSS Bally’s (Macy’s Plaza) Personal trainers, tons of equipment, classes and a juice bar.

700 S. Flower St., (213) 624-3933, ballyfitness.com.

CrossFit Mean Streets This is the method used by cops, martial artists and athletes. You get hard-core, no frills personal training that’ll make you want to barf but will get you in great shape.

265 S. Main St.; (213) 290-2367, crossfitmeanstreets.com.

Educogym Get buff on the 57th floor of the U.S. Bank Tower with a custom exercise and nutrition program.

633 W. Fifth St., Suite 5750, (213) 617-8229, educogym.com.

Gold’s Gym You’ll find every class imaginable, from boot camp to cycling to Pilates.

735 S. Figueroa St., (213) 688-1441, goldsgym.com.

Ketchum-Downtown YMCA Basketball/volleyball, aerobics, indoor track and FitLinxx program.

401 S. Hope St., (213) 624-2348, ymcala.org.

Los Angeles Athletic Club This private club features a pool, personal training, classes and social events.

431 W. Seventh St., (213) 625-2211, laac.com.

Pilates Plus Downtown LA A hip Pilates gym using the Systeme Dynamique to tone, strengthen and tighten.

845 S. Broadway, (213) 863-4834, ppdtla.com.

TapouT This 9,800-square-foot gym offers mixed martial arts and fitness classes for men, women and kids.

400 W. Pico Blvd., (213) 699-2344, tapoutla.com.

The Yard Beginners and pros learn the art of Muay Thai and kickboxing at this serious Arts District gym.

1335 Willow St. (at Santa Fe), (213) 706-6827, theyardmuaythai.com.

YAS Fitness Push yourself to the limit at this sleek South Park facility. Classes include yoga for athletes, indoor cycling and more.

Open 5:30 a.m.-close; 831 S. Hope St., (213) 430-9053, go2yas.com.

INDEX

downtown los angeles from a to z ACTIVITIES Angel City Drive-In...................................................87 Aloud at the Central Library.....................................39 Bob Baker Marionette Theater.................................44 Blessing of the Animals...........................................30 Bloomfest LA............................................................31 Brewery Artwalk.......................................................31 Bug Fair.....................................................................31 Cherry Blossom Festival..........................................31 Chinatown Art Night ........................................ 30, 31 Chinese New Year....................................................30 Chung King Road.....................................................35 Cinco de Mayo..........................................................31 Dance Downtown.....................................................30 Dia de los Muertos...................................................31 Dodger Season.........................................................30 Downtown Art Walk.......................................... 30, 35 Downtown Independent.................................... 44, 87 Drum Downtown......................................................30 Flagship Theatres University Village 3....................44 Friday Night Sing-Alongs.........................................31 Get Your Chops Back...............................................31 Giant Maximus.........................................................30 Grand Performances................................................31 Griffith Observatory..................................................48 Holiday Season Lighting Ceremony........................30 IMAX Theater............................................................44 Japanese New Year..................................................30 L.A. County Holiday Celebration..............................30 L.A. Film Festival......................................................31 L.A. Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. Live..........................30 L.A. Live....................................................................10 Lantern Festival........................................................30 Las Posadas.............................................................30 Last Remaining Seats..............................................30 Live Talks L.A............................................................39 Los Angeles Clippers...............................................31 Los Angeles Kings....................................................31 Los Angeles Lakers..................................................31 Los Angeles Marathon.............................................30 Mid-Autumn Moon Festival.....................................31 MOCA........................................................................28 Nisei Week................................................................31 Pershing Square Ice Rink........................................30 Pershing Square Summer Concerts.......................31 REDCAT....................................................................44 Regal Cinemas................................................... 44, 87 Richard J. Riordan Central Library..........................17 SCI-Arc Speaker Series............................................39 Speaker Series..........................................................39 Town Hall Los Angeles.............................................39 USC Trojan Football..................................................31 Walt Disney Concert Hall.................................. 19, 22 X Games...................................................................31 Zócalo.......................................................................39 COMMUNITY INFO Downtown Representatives and Advocacy Groups.....................................................83 Places of Worship....................................................84 DISTRICTS Arts District....................................................5, 49, 58 Bunker Hill.....................................................5, 49, 59 Central City East............................................7, 50, 59 Chinatown......................................................7, 51, 59 City West...............................................................7, 61 Civic Center....................................................8, 52, 61 El Pueblo/Union Station................................8, 52, 62 Fashion District..............................................8, 52, 62 Figueroa Corridor.................................................8, 63 Financial District...................................................9, 63 Furniture & Decorative Arts District....................9, 54 Historic Core..................................................9, 54, 66 Industrial District........................................................7 Jewelry District..............................................9, 55, 68 Little Tokyo...................................................10, 56, 68 Old Bank District..........................................10, 57, 70 South Park......................................................... 10, 71 Toy District............................................................7, 50 EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS Beauty Services........................................................87

Drug Stores/Pharmacies..........................................85 Farmers Markets......................................................85 Fitness.......................................................................88 Grocery Stores.........................................................85 Movie Rentals/Theaters...........................................87 Pet Services..............................................................86 Pizza Delivery............................................................86

EXCURSIONS Bullocks Wilshire Department Store.......................45 Echo Park/Angelino Heights....................................48 Greek Theatre...........................................................48 Griffith Park...............................................................48 Hollywood Bowl.......................................................48 Hustler Casino..........................................................48 La Brea Tar Pits........................................................48 Los Angeles County Museum of Art.......................48 Los Angeles Zoo.......................................................48 Mid-Wilshire.............................................................45 Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits.....................48 Petersen Automotive Museum................................48 Southwestern University School of Law...........................................................45 Universal Studios.....................................................48 Wiltern Theatre.........................................................45 HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE & sites Angels Flight Railway...............................................12 Arcade.......................................................................12 Avila Adobe...............................................................32 Bradbury Building....................................................12 Broadway Theater District.........................................9 Cameo Theater.........................................................14 City Hall.....................................................................14 Coca Cola Bottling Company...................................14 Doheny Mansion......................................................14 Eastern Columbia Building......................................14 Fire Station #30........................................................14 Globe Theatre...........................................................14 Go For Broke Monument.........................................14 Herald Examiner Building........................................15 Italian Hall.............................................................8, 32 L.A. Times Building..................................................15 Loew’s State Theatre................................................15 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum............................42 Los Angeles Theatre.................................................15 Mayan Theatre..........................................................15 Millennium Biltmore Hotel.......................................15 Million Dollar Theatre...............................................16 Mount St. Mary’s College........................................14 Olvera Street.............................................................32 Orpheum Theatre.....................................................16 Oviatt Building..........................................................16 Pacific Electric Building............................................16 Palace Theatre..........................................................17 Plaza Catholic Church................................................8 Pico House.................................................................8 Rialto Theatre...........................................................17 Richard J. Riordan Central Library..........................17 Roxy Theatre............................................................17 Tower Theatre...........................................................18 Union Station............................................................18 United Artists Theatre..............................................18 USC.............................................................................8 Vibiana......................................................................18 HOTELS Best Western Dragon Gate Inn................................81 Clarion Hotel Downtown..........................................81 Cecil Hotel.................................................................80 Comfort Inn City Center.................................... 78, 81 Figueroa Hotel................................................... 78, 80 Hilton Checkers Los Angeles............................ 76, 80 Historic Mayfair Hotel....................................... 78, 80 Howard Johnson......................................................81 JW Marriott Hotel ............................................ 75, 80 Kawada Hotel..................................................... 79, 81 Knights Inn Los Angeles..........................................81 Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens.......................... 76, 80 Los Angeles Athletic Club................................. 79, 81 Los Angeles Marriott Downtown..................... 76, 80 Luxe City Center................................................ 77, 80 Metro Plaza Hotel.............................................. 78, 81

Millennium Biltmore Hotel................................ 77, 80 Miyako Hotel Los Angeles................................ 77, 80 O Hotel............................................................... 79, 81 Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza..... 75, 80 Quality Inn & Suites Hotel250.......................... 77, 81 Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Midtown............. 77, 80 Ramada Limited Los Angeles Downtown..............81 Ritz-Carlton at L.A. Live.................................... 75, 81 Ritz Milner Hotel................................................ 78, 81 Rodeway Inn Convention Center Los Angeles.......81 Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown.................... 77, 80 Standard Downtown L.A................................... 79, 80 Stay On Main..................................................... 79, 81 Stillwell Hotel..................................................... 79, 80 Vagabond Inn USC Hotel Los Angeles...................81 Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites.............. 78, 80

KID-FRIENDLY DOWNTOWN Bob Baker Marionette Theater.................................44 Colburn School.........................................................44 Exposition Park.........................................................44 El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument...............................................44 Grand Performances................................................44 Little Barn..................................................................45 Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge.................................45 Music Center............................................................45 Olvera Street.............................................................44 Orthopaedic Hospital Playground...........................45 Richard J. Riordan Central Library..........................45 MODERN ARCHITECTURE Caltrans Headquarters.............................................18 Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.......................18 High School for the Visual and Performing Arts.........18 Los Angeles Center Studios....................................18 Museum of Contemporary Art, Grand Avenue.......20 SCI-Arc......................................................................20 US Bank Tower.........................................................20 Walt Disney Concert Hall.................................. 19, 20 MUSEUMS & GALLERIES African American Firefighter Museum....................28 California African American Museum.....................28 California Science Center.........................................34 Chinatown Galleries..................................................35 Chinese American Museum................................8, 28 Chung King Road.....................................................35 Downtown Art Walk.................................................35 Downtown Galleries.................................................35 El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument...............................................32 FIDM Museum & Galleries......................................34 FIDM’s Annette Green Perfume Museum...............34 Gallery Row..............................................................35 Grammy Museum....................................................34 Japanese American National Museum...................32 La Plaza de Cultura y Artes......................................32 Latino Museum of History.......................................32 MOCA, Geffen Contemporary ................................28 MOCA, Grand Avenue..............................................28 Natural History Museum..........................................35 Wells Fargo History Museum..................................34 MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS Ahmanson Theatre...................................................22 Bootleg Theater........................................................27 Bordello.....................................................................22 California Plaza.........................................................21 Club Nokia................................................................21 Colburn School.........................................................22 Conga Room............................................................21 Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.......................................22 East West Players.....................................................27 Grammy Museum Sound Stage...................... 19, 22 Grand Performances................................................21 Los Angeles Theatre Center.....................................27 Mark Taper Forum....................................................21 Music Center............................................................21 Nokia Theatre............................................................21 Orpheum Theatre.....................................................21 Pershing Square.......................................................22 REDCAT....................................................................27 Redwood Bar and Grill.............................................22 24th Street Theatre...................................................28 Second Street Jazz...................................................22 The Smell..................................................................22 Staples Center..........................................................22 USC’s Bovard Auditorium........................................27 Walt Disney Concert Hall.................................. 19, 22

NIGHTLIFE & BARS Angel City Brewing...................................................24 Association...............................................................24 Bar 107.....................................................................24 Belasco Theatre........................................................24 Bordello.....................................................................24 Broadway Bar...........................................................24 Caña Rum Bar..........................................................24 Casey’s Irish Bar & Grille.........................................24 Club 740...................................................................24 Cole’s.........................................................................24 Conga Room............................................................24 Corkbar.....................................................................24 The Down & Out......................................................24 Edison.......................................................................24 Elevate Lounge.........................................................24 Exchange LA.............................................................24 The Falls....................................................................24 Far Bar.......................................................................24 Figueroa Hotel..........................................................24 First & Hope.............................................................25 Gallery Bar................................................................25 Golden Gopher.........................................................25 Grand Star................................................................25 Hank’s Bar.................................................................25 Icon...........................................................................25 J Restaurant and Lounge........................................25 L.A. Brewing Co........................................................25 La Cita.......................................................................25 Las Perlas.................................................................25 Library Bar................................................................25 Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge.................................25 Mas Malo..................................................................25 McCormick & Schmick’s.........................................25 Mignon......................................................................25 Mountain Bar............................................................25 Onyx Restaurant, Lounge & Bar.............................25 Pattern Bar................................................................25 The Perch..................................................................25 Pete’s.........................................................................25 Public School 612....................................................26 Redwood Bar and Grill.............................................26 Salvage......................................................................26 Seven Bar Lounge....................................................26 Seven Grand.............................................................26 Silo............................................................................26 Spring St...................................................................26 Standard Downtown................................................26 Suede Bar & Lounge................................................26 Swill Automatic.........................................................26 Tapas and Wine Bar C..............................................26 321 Lounge..............................................................26 Tony’s Saloon...........................................................26 The Varnish...............................................................26 Villains Tavern...........................................................26 Weiland Brewery......................................................26 Weiland Brewery Underground...............................26 Wurstküche Restaurant...........................................26 PARKS & OPEN SPACES Biddy Mason Park....................................................40 California Plaza Watercourt......................................40 Echo Park Lake.................................................. 40, 48 El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument...............................................40 Exposition Park Rose Garden..................................40 Grand Hope Park......................................................40 Griffith Park...............................................................54 James Irvine Garden................................................40 Kyoto Grand Hotel and Garden...............................40 Los Angeles State Historic Park..............................41 Maguire Gardens......................................................41 Pershing Square.......................................................41 Vista Hermosa..........................................................41 RESTAURANTS Adoro Mexican Grille................................................63 Aloha Cafe.................................................................68 Angel City Brewing...................................................58 Angry Chef................................................................63 Arashi Sushi.............................................................71 Arda’s Cafe................................................................68 Authentic Thai...........................................................59 Azalea Restaurant and Bar.......................................76 Babycakes.................................................................66 Back Porch................................................................77 Bar & Kitchen.................................................... 63, 79 Barragan’s.................................................................61 Big Man Bakes................................................... 63, 70 Big Wang’s................................................................71 Blimpie......................................................................63

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Blossom....................................................................70 Boca..........................................................................71 Bonaventure Brewing Company....................... 63, 78 Border Grill...............................................................63 Bottega Louie Restaurant & Market........................63 Bottle Rock...............................................................71 Boxwood Cafe..........................................................61 Brasserie...................................................................78 Brooklyn Bagel Bakery.............................................61 The Cabbage Patch..................................................63 Cafe Metropol...........................................................58 Cafe Pinot.................................................................63 Caffe Primo Downtown............................................63 California Pizza Kitchen..................................... 59, 63 Casa..........................................................................59 Casa Jalapeno...........................................................62 Casey’s Irish Bar and Grille......................................63 CBS Seafood.............................................................59 Chado Tea Room......................................................68 Chaya Brasserie........................................................63 Checkers Downtown......................................... 64, 76 Chick-fil-A.................................................................63 Chipotle.....................................................................64 Church & State.........................................................58 Cicada.......................................................................64 City Thai....................................................................68 Clifton’s Brookdale Cafeteria....................................66 CoffeeBar..................................................................66 Cole’s.........................................................................66 Colori Kitchen...........................................................66 Coly’s Stromboli.......................................................68 Corner Bakery...........................................................64 Cucina Rustica..........................................................71 Curry House.............................................................69 Daikokuya.................................................................69 Daily Grill...................................................................64 Denny’s.....................................................................64 Drago Centro............................................................64 D-Town Burger Bar..................................................66 Dublin’s.....................................................................64 Eastside Market Italian Deli......................................59 Eco Asian..................................................................64 El Cholo.....................................................................71 El Taurino..................................................................63 Emerson’s.................................................................64 Empress Pavilion......................................................60 Engine Co. No. 28....................................................64 Ensenada Restaurant...............................................67 Esaan Thai................................................................59 ESPN Zone................................................................71 Farmer Boys.............................................................59 The Farm of Beverly Hills.........................................71 First & Hope.............................................................59 Fisherman’s Outlet....................................................59 Flames Mediterranean Grill......................................67 Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar...............71 Flix Cafe.....................................................................61 Flying Pig Cafe..........................................................58 Frances Bakery and Cafe.........................................69 Freebirds...................................................................71 French Garden..........................................................58 Frying Fish................................................................69 Garage Pizza.............................................................64 Gill’s Cuisine of India......................................... 71, 79 The Gorbals..............................................................67 Gourmet L.A. Bakery................................................67 Gram & Papas..........................................................62 Grand Cafe................................................................76 Grand Central Market...............................................67 Green Bamboo.........................................................69 Green Hut Cafe.........................................................64 Gus’ Drive In.............................................................61 Hama Sushi..............................................................69 Hashi Ramen House................................................69 Homegirl Cafe...........................................................60 Hooters.....................................................................71 Hop Li.......................................................................60 Honda Ya Izakaya.....................................................69 Hygge Bakery...........................................................73 IHOP..........................................................................64 Izakaya Fuga.............................................................69 J Restaurant & Lounge............................................73 Just Baked................................................................65 Katsuya.....................................................................73 Kendall’s Brasserie...................................................61 Kouraku ...................................................................69 K-Town BBQ.............................................................58 La Bella Cucina.........................................................73 La Bistecca......................................................... 65, 77 La Golondrina...........................................................62 La Luz Del Dia..........................................................62

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La Parrilla ................................................................61 L’Angolo....................................................................62 L.A. Brewing Co........................................................67 L.A. Market Restaurant............................................75 L.A. Prime.......................................................... 65, 77 L.A.’s Best Deli and Cafe..........................................59 Lawry’s Carvery........................................................73 Lazy Ox Canteen.......................................................69 Lemonade.................................................................59 Liliya China Bistro.....................................................67 Lucky Deli.................................................................60 Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge.................................73 Mac and Cheeza.......................................................67 Magnolia...................................................................73 Maria’s Italian Kitchen..............................................65 Market Cafe........................................................ 59, 73 Market Restaurant....................................................62 Mas Malo..................................................................65 McCormick & Schmick’s.........................................65 McKay’s.....................................................................77 Mendocino Farms............................................. 59, 65 Mignon......................................................................67 Mikado......................................................................67 Mikawaya..................................................................69 Mitsuru Sushi and Grill............................................69 Morton’s The Steakhouse........................................65 Nazo’s Bakery...........................................................65 New Moon................................................................62 Nick & Stef’s.............................................................59 Nickel Diner..............................................................67 Nick’s Café................................................................60 Night Toast................................................................67 Noe..................................................................... 59, 76 Nola’s........................................................................58 The Novel Cafe.........................................................58 Ocean Seafood.........................................................60 Ocho Mexican Grill...................................................65 Octopus Japanese Restaurant.................................65 Olive St. Bistro..........................................................68 O’Mamamia..............................................................62 On Spring..................................................................60 Onyx Restaurant.......................................................67 Oomasa.....................................................................69 Original Pantry Cafe.................................................73 Original Tommy’s.....................................................61 Pacific Dining Car.....................................................61 Palermo.....................................................................61 Palm Downtown.......................................................73 Panda Express ........................................................65 Panini Cafe ..............................................................73 Papa Cristo’s.............................................................61 Pasta Roma..............................................................63 Patina........................................................................61 The Perch..................................................................71 Pete’s Cafe & Bar......................................................71 Philippe the Original.................................................60 Phoenix Bakery.........................................................60 Pho 97......................................................................60 The Pho Shop...........................................................69 Pie Hole ...................................................................58 Pitfire Pizza...............................................................67 Pizzanista!.................................................................58 Plum Tree Inn...........................................................60 Qdoba........................................................................65 R23............................................................................58 Redwood Bar & Grill................................................67 Regent China Inn......................................................60 Restaurant Standard......................................... 65, 79 Riordan’s Tavern.......................................................74 Rivera........................................................................74 Rocket Pizza Lounge................................................71 Rock’N Fish...............................................................74 Rosa Mexicano.........................................................74 Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine................................66 Sai Sai.......................................................................77 San Antonio Winery & Maddalena Restaurant.......62 San Sui Tei................................................................70 Sarita’s......................................................................67 Schnitzly....................................................................67 Semi Sweet Bakery..................................................67 Señor Fish.................................................................70 Shabu Shabu House................................................70 Shekarchi..................................................................74 Skews........................................................................59 Smeraldi’s ................................................................77 Soi 7..........................................................................67 The Spice Table........................................................68 Spitz..........................................................................70 Spotlight Cafe and Tina Tacos.................................61 Spring for Coffee......................................................68 Spring Street Smoke House....................................60

I N D E X | DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES GUIDE

Starry Kitchen...........................................................59 Stray Cat Cafe...........................................................68 St. Vincent Court......................................................68 Suehiro Cafe.............................................................70 Sushi Gen.................................................................70 Sushi & Teri..............................................................70 Syrup Desserts.........................................................68 Taix............................................................................62 Takami Sushi & Robata...........................................66 Takumi.......................................................................70 Tamon Sushi.............................................................77 Tenno Sushi..............................................................70 333............................................................................77 Tiara Cafe..................................................................62 Tommy Pastrami......................................................66 Toranoko...................................................................70 Trader Vic’s...............................................................74 Traxx..........................................................................62 29th Street Cafe........................................................63 Uncle John’s Cafe.....................................................74 Urban Noodle...........................................................71 Urbano Pizzeria.........................................................66 Urth Caffe..................................................................58 Via Cafe.....................................................................61 Wakana Sushi...........................................................68 Wakasaya..................................................................70 Water Grill.................................................................66 Weiland Brewery......................................................70 Weiland Brewery Underground...............................66 Westin Bonaventure Food Court.............................66 Wokcano...................................................................66 Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill.......................................74 Wood Spoon............................................................62 WP24........................................................................75 Wurstküche..............................................................58 Yang Chow................................................................61 Yard House...............................................................74 Yojie Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar.........................74 Yorkshire Grill...........................................................68 Yxta Cocina Mexicana..............................................59 Zencu........................................................................70 Zip Fusion.................................................................58

SAFETY Arts District BID........................................................83 Central City East Association...................................83 Chinatown BID..........................................................83 Downtown Center BID.............................................83 Fashion District BID.................................................83 Figueroa Corridor BID..............................................83 Historic Downtown BID...........................................83 LAPD Central Division..............................................83 Little Tokyo BID........................................................83 South Park BID.........................................................83 SHOPPING & SERVICES American Apparel.....................................................56 Anzen Hardware.......................................................56 Bank of America Plaza Farmers Market..................85 Beauty Services........................................................87 Bunkado....................................................................56 Broadway..................................................................54 California Jewelry Mart............................................55 California Market Center..........................................52 Caravan Books..........................................................49 Central Plaza.............................................................51 Chung King Road.....................................................51 City Hall Farmers Market.........................................52 Crack Gallery & Boutique.........................................55 Dish Factory..............................................................50 Drug stores/pharmacies..........................................85 Dynasty Center.........................................................51 Farmers Markets......................................................85 Farmacia Million Dollar............................................55 FIDM Museum Shop................................................53 FIDM Scholarship Store...........................................53 FIGat7th....................................................................50 FIGat7th Farmers Market.........................................85 Fitness.......................................................................88 505 Flower................................................................49 556 S. Broadway Building.......................................55 Flea............................................................................55 Flock Shop................................................................51 Flower Mart...............................................................53 Fong’s........................................................................51 Freaks Vintage Clothing...........................................49 Fugetsu Do...............................................................56 Gin Ling Gifts............................................................51 Grand Central Market...............................................55 Grocery stores..........................................................85 Hats On.....................................................................50

Icing on the Ring......................................................55 International Jewelry Center....................................55 I-Squared..................................................................55 Japanese Village Plaza.............................................56 Jewelry District.........................................................55 Jewelry Theater Building..........................................55 Kapsoul.....................................................................55 Kimski Makes...........................................................56 L.A. Mall....................................................................52 L.A. Mart...................................................................54 L.A. Phil Store...........................................................49 Lara’s Jewelry...........................................................55 The Last Bookstore..................................................57 Littoe Tokyo Galleria.................................................56 Library Store.............................................................50 Macy’s Plaza.............................................................50 Matteo.......................................................................49 Mega Toys................................................................50 Michael Levine..........................................................53 MOCA Store..............................................................50 Morrie’s.....................................................................53 Moscatels..................................................................53 Movie rental/theaters................................................44 Novecento.................................................................53 Old Bank District Market..........................................57 Olde Good Things....................................................54 Olvera Street.............................................................52 Pershing Square Farmers Market...........................55 Pet Services..............................................................86 Pizza delivery............................................................86 Pop Killer..................................................................57 Pussy & Pooch.........................................................86 Ralphs Fresh Fare.....................................................85 Rafu Bussan.............................................................57 Raw Materials...........................................................57 Realm........................................................................51 Regal Cinemas..........................................................87 Rif..............................................................................57 Roger Stuart.............................................................54 Ross Cutlery.............................................................55 Sanrio........................................................................57 Santee Alley..............................................................53 Santee Street............................................................54 SCI-Arc Supply Store...............................................49 2nd Street Cigars and Gallery..................................52 Skin.Graft..................................................................57 St. Vincent Jewelry Center.......................................56 (Sub)urban Home....................................................55 Toy District................................................................50 Vlado Footwear.........................................................54 Welcome Hunters.....................................................51 Weller Court..............................................................57 Wing Hop Fung........................................................51 Woori Market............................................................85

SPORTING & CONVENTION VENUES Dodger Stadium.......................................................42 L.A. Live............................................................. 10, 42 Los Angeles Convention Center..............................42 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum............................42 Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena......................42 Staples Center..........................................................42 TOURS Architecture Tours L.A.............................................36 Doheny Mansion Tour..............................................36 Downtown L.A. Walks..............................................36 El Pueblo...................................................................36 Esotouric...................................................................36 Los Angeles Central Library Tour............................36 Los Angeles Conservancy.......................................38 Metro Rail Art Tours.................................................38 Red Line Tours.........................................................38 San Antonio Winery.................................................38 Saturday Housing Bus Tour.....................................38 Segwow....................................................................38 Starline Tours............................................................38 Undiscovered Chinatown Tour................................38 Urban Shopping Adventures...................................39 Walt Disney Concert Hall Tours...............................39 TRANSPORTATION Amtrak......................................................................82 DASH Downtown.....................................................82 Flyaway.....................................................................82 Metrolink...................................................................82 Regional Rail Services.............................................82 Rental Cars...............................................................82 Subway, Light Rail, Buses.......................................82 Taxis..........................................................................82

WiNNer: Downtown’s “Project of the Decade” Award

1 Pete’s Cafe & Bar

400 South Main Street | 213.617.1000 petescafe.com

4 Baco Mercat

400 South Main Street Restaurant Opening Soon

7 Wine Bar

124 West 4th Street, Harlem Place Alley Opening Fall/Winter 2011

10 Yoga Circle

400 South Main Street | 213.620.1040 yogacircledowntown.com

gilmoredev.com

2 Urban Noodle

118 West 4th Street | 213.626.0662 urbannoodlela.com

5 Big Man Bakes

413 South Main Street | 213.500.4351 bigmanbakes.com

8 OBD Market & Deli

409 South Main Street | 213.680.9000

11 elmer Ave.

125 West 4th Street | 888.ELMERAV elmerave.com

Gilmore Associates is a proud supporter of the urban redevelopment of the Old Bank District in DTLA.

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Eat, shop, and stroll through the Old Bank District and see why it’s known as the destination of choice for Downtown locals.

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SPRING STREET

DOWNTOWN LA

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3 rocket Pizza Lounge

5TH STREET

122 West 4th Street | 213.687.4992 rocketpizzalounge.com

6 Blossom restaurant

426 South Main Street | 213.623.1973 blossomrestaurant.com

9 Skingraft

125 West 4th Street | 213.626.2662 skingraftdesigns.com

12 Old Bank DVD

400 South Main Street, 105 | 213.613.9654 oldbankdvd.com

obdLA.com

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SOMETHING IS HAPPENING...