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casual & CHEF-DRIVEN
D O W N TO W N L A’ S O N LY BOUTIQUE CALIFORNIA DINING COLLECTION
FIGAT7TH.COM
735 S. FIGUEROA STREET, DOWNTOWN LA
Local, Lively and Loving It Downtowners Get a Taste of the Good Life Thanks to a Diverse Menu of Restaurants
D
owntown’s pioneering spirit seems to create an incubator of sorts for the equally adventurous restaurants opening their doors in the Central City. It’s a relationship that has blossomed into a veritable food scene — one that is setting the trends for the rest of the city. From farm-to-table concepts to craft beer emporiums to a blossoming cluster of gourmet vegan eateries, the area offers dynamic dining options for just about everyone. Smaller chain restaurants are expanding their empires here too, as the hungry workforce fuels a lunchtime boom and residents demand more late-night options. One of the biggest trends of the past year has been the explosion of craft beer offerings across Downtown. Just about every restaurant seems to have revamped its bar menu to offer a thoughtful lineup of micro brews from local makers. The much-anticipated spring opening of the Angel City Brewery in the Arts District has helped cement the area’s reputation as a serious artisan beer hub. Alchemy & Science revamped a centuryold warehouse to include an Art Deco-inspired bar and beer garden, an event space, store and brewery tours. Likewise, the Bonaventure Brewing Co. continues to pump out tasty craft creations, while Little Tokyo’s Far
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Bar has morphed into a haven for craft beer drinkers with some 40 taps dedicated to great brews. These days, chefs are also focusing on local, farmfresh fare, scouring farmers markets and establishing relationships with purveyors to come up with the best seasonal products possible. It’s a philosophy that is paying off on the plate, with a creative fusion of cuisine styles and ingredients. The popular Flying Pig turns out Korean-inspired dishes like crispy pork belly tacos, while newcomer Fickle offers seasonal delicacies such as blue mussels and oxtail in kimchee broth. Vegans and vegetarians have never had so many options. At least half a dozen new restaurants have joined the ranks in the past year: Localita and the Badasserie serves playfully delicious vegan breakfast sandwiches; Sage Vegan Bistro offers gourmet fusion dishes as well as vegan ice cream; while Birdsong’s Veggietaria covers the gamut with vegetarian, vegan and raw options. For more information about local dining options, check out the 2013 Downtown Restaurant Guide. Breakfast , lunch , dinner , weekends , , happy hour , entertainment , delivery , reservations , free Wi-Fi , catering cash only .
BISTROT BOULANGERIE LOUNGE w w w . F I G A R O B I S T R O T . c o m
LOS FELIZ – 323.662.1587
DOWNTOWN – 213.622.2116
1802 N. VERMONT AVE., LOS ANGELES, CA, 90027 SUNDAY - THURSDAY, 8:30 AM TO 10:30 PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8:30 AM TO 11 PM
618 S. BROADWAY, LOS ANGELES, CA, 90014 SUNDAY - THURSDAY, 8 AM TO 11 PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8 AM TO 12 PM
R ESTAU R ANTS A L PHA B ETI C A L LY Aloha Cafe................................................................................................48 Amante Pizza & Pasta...........................................................................54 Angel City Brewery...............................................................................40 Bäco Mercat.............................................................................................59 Bar Amá.....................................................................................................59 Barragan’s Mexican Restaurant........................................................18 Big Man Bakes........................................................................................59 Birdsong’s Veggietaria.........................................................................50 Blossom Restaurant..............................................................................59 Blue Cow Kitchen & Bar......................................................................... 8 Bonaventure Brewing Co....................................................................56 Border Grill Downtown LA.................................................................16 Cabbage Patch.......................................................................................53 Café Pinot................................................................................................... 7 California Kabob Kitchen....................................................................32 California Pizza Kitchen.......................................................................45 CBS Seafood............................................................................................22 Chaya.........................................................................................................54 Chimney Coffee House........................................................................44 Chynna Dim Sum...................................................................................22 Cities Restaurant and Lounge...........................................................33 Colori at Figueroa..................................................................................31 Colori Kitchen.........................................................................................31 Daily Dose................................................................................................50 Daily Grill..................................................................................................34 Eastside Market Italian Deli................................................................26 El Paseo Inn Restaurant.......................................................................38 E-Sea Fresh Thai Food..........................................................................57 Far Bar........................................................................................................37 Farmer Boys.............................................................................................23 Fatburger..................................................................................................48 Fickle..........................................................................................................51 Figaro Bistrot............................................................................................. 5 FIG@7th....................................................................................................... 3 505 Flower at City National Plaza....................................................15 Flix Cafe at Los Angeles Center Studios........................................20 The Flying Pig Café...............................................................................43 Frying Fish................................................................................................42 Fugetsu-Do..............................................................................................12 Full House Seafood Restaurant........................................................20 Galero Grill...............................................................................................45 Gallery Bar................................................................................................17 Gill’s Indian Restaurant........................................................................26 Gourmet LA Bakery..............................................................................55 Grand Café...............................................................................................46 Guisados...................................................................................................41 Gus’s Drive-In..........................................................................................16 Honda Ya Little Tokyo...........................................................................57 Hooters......................................................................................................14 Katsuya......................................................................................................38 Kendall’s Brasserie................................................................................... 7 Kiss Pizza & Deli......................................................................................52 Kitchen Table...........................................................................................59 L.A. Cafe.............................................................................................. 18, 60 Langer’s Delicatessen-Restaurant...................................................44 L.A. Prime..................................................................................................25 La Parrilla..................................................................................................47 Le Ka............................................................................................................. 9 Localita and the Badasserie...............................................................47 Maccheroni Republic...........................................................................39 Maria’s Italian Kitchen..........................................................................24 Market Café............................................................................................... 7 Mendocino Farms................................................................................... 8 Morton’s The Steakhouse...................................................................52 Nick’s Cafe................................................................................................36 Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse....................................................................... 7 Noé Restaurant and Bar......................................................................46 Nola’s..........................................................................................................29 OBD Market & Deli................................................................................59 Oiwake......................................................................................................32 Oomasa.....................................................................................................58 Palm Restaurant.....................................................................................36 The Pantry Cafe......................................................................................49 The Park’s Finest.....................................................................................21 Patina........................................................................................................... 7 Patina Catering......................................................................................... 7 Perch..........................................................................................................55 Pete’s Cafe & Bar.............................................................................. 27, 59 Philippe, The Original...........................................................................28 The Pie Hole.............................................................................................40 Pinot Grill.................................................................................................... 7 Pitfire Pizza...............................................................................................39 Plum Tree..................................................................................................49 Public School 612..................................................................................34 Rendezvous Court.................................................................................17 Riordan’s Tavern.....................................................................................49 Rocket Pizza Lounge..................................................................... 27, 59 Rock’n Fish...............................................................................................42 Roy’s...........................................................................................................52 Sage Vegan Bistro..................................................................................13 Sai Sai Noodle Bar.................................................................................17 Salvage Bar & Lounge..........................................................................14 San Antonio Winery & Maddalena Restaurant...........................53 Sandwich Smith.....................................................................................51 Silo Vodka Bar.........................................................................................48 Smeraldi’s.................................................................................................17 Spring Street Smokehouse................................................................24 Taix Restaurant.......................................................................................12 Trader Vic’s...............................................................................................35 Trattoria 25...............................................................................................46 Traxx...........................................................................................................28 Two Bits Market......................................................................................41 Weiland Underground Brewery.......................................................43 Wokcano...................................................................................................19 Wurstküche Restaurant.......................................................................50 Yojié Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar..............................................2, 10 Yxta Cocina Mexicana..........................................................................10 Zip Sushi & Izakaya...............................................................................29
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Restaurant Rating Key
$ Inexpensive, $10 & Under $$ Moderate, $11 to $20 $$$ Expensive, $20+
LEGEND
CONTENTS Breakfast Lunch Dinner Weekends
Happy Hour Entertainment Delivery
Catering Reservations Cash Only
Free Wi-Fi
D owntown M a p........................................................................................ 30 A m e r ican
Blue Cow Kitchen & Bar..................................................................................... 8 Bonaventure Brewing Co................................................................................56 Cabbage Patch...................................................................................................53 Chimney Coffee House....................................................................................44 Cities Restaurant and Lounge.......................................................................33 Daily Grill..............................................................................................................34 Farmer Boys.........................................................................................................23 Fatburger..............................................................................................................48 Galero Grill...........................................................................................................45 Gallery Bar............................................................................................................17 Gus’s Drive-In......................................................................................................16 Hooters..................................................................................................................14 L.A. Cafe.......................................................................................................... 18, 60 Le Ka......................................................................................................................... 9 Nick’s Cafe............................................................................................................36 The Pantry Cafe..................................................................................................49 The Park’s Finest.................................................................................................21 Pete’s Cafe & Bar.......................................................................................... 27, 59 Philippe, The Original.......................................................................................28 The Pie Hole........................................................................................................40 Public School 612..............................................................................................34 Rendezvous Court ...........................................................................................17 Riordan’s Tavern.................................................................................................49 Salvage Bar & Lounge......................................................................................14 Silo Vodka Bar.....................................................................................................48 Spring Street Smokehouse............................................................................24 Traxx.......................................................................................................................28
Chinese
A s ian
CBS Seafood........................................................................................................22 Chynna Dim Sum...............................................................................................22 Full House Seafood Restaurant....................................................................20 Plum Tree..............................................................................................................49
hawaiian
Aloha Cafe............................................................................................................48 Roy’s.......................................................................................................................52 Trader Vic’s...........................................................................................................35
thai
E-Sea Fresh Thai Food......................................................................................57
Japanese
Frying Fish............................................................................................................42 Honda Ya Little Tokyo.......................................................................................57 Katsuya..................................................................................................................38 Oiwake..................................................................................................................32 Oomasa.................................................................................................................58 Yojié Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar..........................................................2, 10
vietnamese
Blossom Restaurant..........................................................................................59
asian fusion
Chaya.....................................................................................................................54 Far Bar....................................................................................................................37 The Flying Pig Café...........................................................................................43 Sai Sai Noodle Bar.............................................................................................17 Wokcano...............................................................................................................19 Zip Sushi & Izakaya...........................................................................................29
b r e w e ry
Angel City Brewery...........................................................................................40 Bonaventure Brewery Co................................................................................56 Weiland Underground Brewery...................................................................43
ca j u n/c r e ol e
Nola’s......................................................................................................................29
C ali f o r nia
Café Pinot............................................................................................................... 7 California Pizza Kitchen...................................................................................45 Flix Cafe at Los Angeles Center Studios....................................................20 Noé Restaurant and Bar..................................................................................46
E u ro p e an
Figaro Bistrot......................................................................................................... 5 Kendall’s Brasserie............................................................................................... 7 Noé Restaurant and Bar..................................................................................46 Patina....................................................................................................................... 7 Perch......................................................................................................................55 Taix Restaurant...................................................................................................12
g e r man
Wurstküche Restaurant...................................................................................50
I ndian
Gill’s Indian Restaurant....................................................................................26
I nt e r national
Bäco Mercat.........................................................................................................59 Fickle......................................................................................................................51 FIG@7th................................................................................................................... 3 505 Flower at City National Plaza................................................................15 Flix Cafe at Los Angeles Center Studios....................................................20 Grand Café...........................................................................................................46 Kitchen Table.......................................................................................................59 Public School 612..............................................................................................34 Smeraldi’s.............................................................................................................17
I talian
Amante Pizza & Pasta.......................................................................................54 Colori at Figueroa..............................................................................................31 Colori Kitchen.....................................................................................................31 Eastside Market Italian Deli............................................................................26 Maccheroni Republic.......................................................................................39 Maria’s Italian Kitchen......................................................................................24 Pitfire Pizza...........................................................................................................39 San Antonio Winery & Maddalena Restaurant.......................................53 Smeraldi’s.............................................................................................................17 Trattoria 25...........................................................................................................46
L atin/M e x ican
Bar Amá.................................................................................................................59 Barragan’s Mexican Restaurant....................................................................18 Border Grill Downtown L.A............................................................................16 El Paseo Inn Restaurant...................................................................................38 Guisados...............................................................................................................41 La Parrilla..............................................................................................................47 Yxta Cocina Mexicana......................................................................................10
P e r s ian
California Kabob Kitchen................................................................................32
pizza
Amante Pizza & Pasta.......................................................................................54 California Pizza Kitchen...................................................................................45 Kiss Pizza & Deli..................................................................................................52 Pitfire Pizza...........................................................................................................39 Rocket Pizza Lounge................................................................................. 27, 59
Salad s, Sandwic h e s & M o r e
Big Man Bakes....................................................................................................59 Birdsong’s Veggietaria.....................................................................................50 Daily Dose............................................................................................................50 Eastside Market Italian Deli............................................................................26 Fugetsu-Do..........................................................................................................12 Gourmet LA Bakery..........................................................................................55 Langer’s Delicatessen-Restaurant...............................................................44 Localita and the Badasserie...........................................................................47 Market Café........................................................................................................... 7 Mendocino Farms............................................................................................... 8 OBD Market & Deli............................................................................................59 Patina Catering..................................................................................................... 7 Philippe, The Original.......................................................................................28 Pinot Grill................................................................................................................ 7 Rendezvous Court . ..........................................................................................17 Sandwich Smith.................................................................................................51 Two Bits Market..................................................................................................41
S e a f ood
CBS Seafood........................................................................................................22 Full House Seafood Restaurant....................................................................20 Rock’n Fish...........................................................................................................42
St e a k h o u s e
L.A. Prime..............................................................................................................25 Morton’s The Steakhouse...............................................................................52 Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse................................................................................... 7 Palm Restaurant.................................................................................................36 Riordan’s Tavern.................................................................................................49 Rock’n Fish...........................................................................................................42
v e gan/v e g e ta r ian
Birdsong’s Veggietaria.....................................................................................50 Localita and the Badasserie...........................................................................47 Sage Vegan Bistro..............................................................................................13
1264 W. First St., Los Angeles, CA 90026 Website: LADowntownNews.com Phone: 213-481-1448 Fax: 213-250-4617 Email: realpeople@downtownnews.com The 2013 L.A. Downtown News Restaurant Guide is partially written by Kathryn Maese and Kristin Friedrich. Cover by Alexis Rawlins. Production and design by Yumi Kanegawa. The 2013 L.A. Downtown News Restaurant Guide is published annually by L.A. Downtown News. ©L.A. Downtown News 2013. 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.
CHEF JOACHIM SPLICHAL WELCOMES YOU TO HIS DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS 101
Fre
ewa
CAFÉ PINOT Voted Best Outdoor Dining Downtown y
Music Center
Kendall’s Brasserie & Bar eew ay
Walt Disney Concert Hall
Patina
2nd
St.
St.
5th The Standard Hotel
6th
St.
Sheraton Hotel
St.
LA Live & Nokia
ay
400 S. Hope St. | 213 680 7387 1150 S. Olive St. | 213 536 4090
St.
213 814 3051
St.
St. Hill
St.
Oliv e
nd A Gra
9th
MARKET CAFÉ Gourmet marketplace
ve.
e St Hop
er Flow
ero a Figu Marriott & Ritz Carlton
135 N. Grand Ave. | 213 972 3190
PATINA CATERING Events at Walt Disney Concert Hall, AT&T Penthouse & more
.
8th
Biltmore Hotel
St.
adw
e Oliv
Café Pinot
PINOT GRILL Pre-theater dining al fresco
St.
Bro
nd Gra
Los Angeles Central Library
KENDALL’S BRASSERIE Fresh seafood and French fare
141 Grand Ave. | 213 972 3331
Wells Fargo Center
4th
St.
PATINA RESTAURANT Four-starred contemporary French
Market Café Atrium Café
ope S. H
Westin Bonaventure Hotel
7th
NICK + STEF’S STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks dry-aged on site
135 N. Grand Ave. | 213 972 7322
Omni Hotel
Hill
3rd
Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse
Wilshire Grand Hotel
St.
330 S. Hope St. | 213 680 0330
Marriott Hotel
110 Fr
1st
700 W. Fifth St. | 213 239 6500
Oly
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d.
Staples Center
11th Market Café St. 12th
AT&T Center
St.
patinagroup.com
Chef Joachim Splichal’s Patina Restaurant Group
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photo courtesy of Blue Cow Kitchen & Bar
Mendocino Farms
I
photos courtesy of Mendocino Farms
t was a risk seven years ago to open a sandwich shop Downtown with high-quality ingredients featuring local farming, but the bet paid off. Mendocino Farms is one of the most popular lunch spots in Los Angeles. For serious sandwich connoisseurs, the avant garde Mendocino menu reads like a good novel. There’s no boring roast beef here, no bland tuna salad. Everyday standards include the turkey confit with yellow rooster sauce, the carved steak with applewood bacon, the prosciutto with roasted chicken and honey roasted almonds, and fan favorites like the vegan shawarma with lentil and bean puree and cucumber tzatziki. There’s even a modern take on the traditional Vietnamese banh mi sandwich that’s made with either pork belly or carved steak. Mendocino Farms has won numerous awards for being the best sandwich in Downtown. And this year, Nation’s Restaurant News acknowledged Mendocino Farms as one of the top 50 restaurant concepts in the country. Mendocino Farms is a Downtown L.A. landmark worth checking out. During lunch, Mendocino customers line up and place their order with a roving employee who makes sandwich creation easy, then hands the order off to the chefs behind the counter. This is a sight to see: Assembly lines aren’t known for their grace and sense of fun, but this one is like a ballet as Chef Judy Han orchestrates a team of bandana-clad masters. Even at high noon, no matter how long the line, it moves fast, and after one taste of your sandwich, you’ll see what the praise is all about. The menu specials change seasonally, with creations such as the lamb sandwich with slowbraised lamb shoulder, mint pesto, goat cheese and pickled red onions on toasted ciabatta bread.
Blue Cow Kitchen & Bar Or try a turkey confit sandwich with a recipe derived straight from Chef Judy’s Thanksgiving dinner table. She cooks turkey leg in its own fat then it is pulled and served with a signature spicy housemade yellow rooster sauce and sesame ginger green papaya slaw on toasted scallion roll. Another option is a sandwich with mac n’ cheese, double smoked bacon marmalade, smoked gouda and steamed kale. You can always find something to whet your appetite at Mendocino Farms. The summer cubano is stuffed with carnitas, prime honey ham, Mendocino mustard, Cuban mojo sauce and crispy plantains. Another standout is the shrimp po’boy featuring garlic marinated shrimp, meyer lemon relish aioli, applewood smoked bacon, candied jalapeños, Mendo’s krispies, shredded romaine and tomatoes on a Dolce Forno soft roll. The newest Mendocino Farms location is in the redesigned FIGat7th shopping center on the Taste level. It is the third Downtown store and the first to open seven days a week. Downtown denizens will not have to venture west anymore to satiate their Mendocino Farms craving. Join them for Sunday Fundays in the plaza for a game of foosball or ping pong, as well as monthly community events. At 735 S. Figueroa St., (213) 430-9040; open daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. At 444 S. Flower St., (213) 627-3262 by the Westin Bonaventure and The Standard; open weekdays. It is 11 a.m.-7:15 p.m. At 300 S. Grand Ave. on Bunker Hill, (213) 620-1114; open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m. or mendocinofarms.com. Cuisine: Gourmet Sandwiches $
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I
nspired by Downtown’s gourmet sandwich king Mendocino Farms — and its colorful bovine mascot — Blue Cow Kitchen debuted earlier this year as the company’s stylish new fullservice restaurant and bar. While there are now six Mendo Farms locales (including three Downtown), Blue Cow is the sophisticated evolution of the gourmet sandwich concept. Billed as a farm-to-table sandwich atelier, diners will find a seasonal menu of creations. In the Two California Plaza space, Blue Cow has found the perfect niche in this corporate enclave. Diners can stop in for a quick bite and working lunch, or meet up after work or before a concert for a stylish dinner and artisanal cocktails. The interior has been designed with a wine country-meets-industrial feel, complete with open kitchen, reclaimed wood, chalkboards on the walls, galvanized metal chairs and stools, and vintage doorknobs used as beer pulls. The overall effect is laid-back but chic, the kind of go-to neighborhood spot Downtown has been looking for. Waiters bustle about in plaid shirts, shuttling food to the comfy tables inside or the lovely patio and bar gracing the open-air plaza. Blue Cow pays homage to the ultimate sandwich, the burger, with an eight-ounce beef patty topped with spicy remoulade on a buttermilk bun. Happy hour is the perfect time to get acquainted with Blue Cow, with stellar prices on drinks and small plates. At 350 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2249 or bluecowkitchen.com. Open weekdays 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturdays 4:30-10 p.m. Happy Hour 4:30-6:30 p.m. on weekdays. Cuisine: New American $$
$$
Heated Patio
New Age Cocktails
A CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN RESTAURANT
HAPPY HOUR Mon - Fri Sun
3pm - 7pm 5pm - 7pm
LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR Mon - Sat Sun
11pm - 2am 11pm - 12am
SUNDAY SPECIAL Half price on select bottles of wine
Private Dining Rooms
Reservations
32oz Prime Rib Eye
213.688.3000
800 W 6th Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 lekarestaurant.com
Hours Mon - Fri Saturday Sunday
11am - 2am 5pm - 2am 5pm - 12am
Contact Malinda Riesberg for large party reservations malinda@lekarestaurant.com
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Yxta
Yxta Cocina Mexicana
Yojié Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar
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entrees, available after 4 p.m. The aforementioned slow-cooked carnitas are plated with guacamole, rice and beans; there’s a Shelton Farms free-range chicken steeped in homemade molé poblano sauce. These Mexico City-style plates play with all kinds of surprises — color from zucchinis, chipotle mash, grilled corn, rajas poblanas (mild green peppers), and nopalitos (cactus). There are some classic entrees that shine with fresh ingredients: pulled chicken enchiladas suizas, enchiladas rancheras with pulled chicken or steak, and chile rellenos stuffed with seasonal fillings. But there are also some sly and delicious updates to the classics — tostadas with sashimi-grade tuna, for instance, or sweet shrimp taquitos. Despite the perfection of its bar offerings and solid evening vibe, Yxta is a lunch standby in the neighborhood as well. Scrumptious tortas are available until 4 p.m., packed with marinated skirt steak, that famous al pastor pork, or grilled chicken. The salads are meals too: salmon or seared tuna atop organic greens with agave nectar vinaigrette or a nice take on the Caesar, with romaine hearts, queso cotija, and croutons made from the telera torta bread. Whatever time of day you drop in, and whatever part of the menu you tackle, Yxta is one of those places that you feel better off knowing about. At 601 S. Central Ave., (213) 596-5579 or yxta.net. Open Mon. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Tues.Wed. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.10 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. Valet parking for $1 during lunch. Free lot parking after 2 p.m. Cuisine: Mexican $$
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$$$ photo courtesy of Yojié Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar
W
hen owner Jesse Gomez chose Yxta’s Central Avenue strip mall location, he knew what he was doing. There wasn’t a hip, sit-down Mexican restaurant for miles. The spot had its own parking lot. And he knew that he could design it in a way that made diners feel immediately transported. Today, when people walk into Yxta (pronounced eeks’-tah), there’s a feeling that everyone is in on the same secret — they’ve found a gem in an unlikely area. Gomez has a talent for this; he has just added Mercado in Santa Monica to the mix. Yxta’s modern, eclectic interior has high ceilings, concrete floors and white washed brick walls covered with cool art. Lighting is low and intimate, thanks to airy filament chandeliers, and the seating arrangement feels at once spacious and cozy. There are happy hour denizens sipping margaritas at the bar, large groups sharing taco plates at the communal tables, and couples and friends taking up the perimeter of the restaurant at cozy tables. All the while, the chefs in the open-air kitchen stay busy, plating the restaurant’s specialties at a fast clip. Yxta bartenders shake several kinds of margaritas daily. There’s a respect for tequila here — there are more than 50 silver, reposado and anejo varieties — because sugary, generic sweet and sour mixes never water them down. Instead, the bartenders pair them with hand-squeezed fruit juices — blood red orange, pomegranate and fresh sour, among many others. The margaritas are all calibrated for the slight savory of the chips, the homemade salsas, the guacamole, and nightly food specials. There’s a serious beer program too: 15 draft and bottled brews. To the happy hour crowd, Yxta is probably best known for the tacos al pastor. These consist of incredibly tender and generously-portioned pork, chile sauce, a little grilled pineapple — a nice surprise — and onion, all cradled inside of a homemade tortilla. Pork is also a standout in the carnitas, slow cooked and crispy around the edges, coupled with a fresh onion-cilantro mix, Mexican rice, and frijoles de olla. While the appetizers and tacos feed the drinking crowd, the restaurant also offers serious
ost shabu shabu spots evoke images of crowded counters with steaming pots of water, rustic decor and no-frills service. But Yojié Japanese Fondue & Sake Bar, just three blocks from L.A. Live and Staples Center, has broken the mold. The sleek space melds a modern Japanese aesthetic with a sexy lounge vibe. There are monthly art shows, dark wood booths, onyx tables and polished stainless steel hoods over each table. The concept is simple — diners get to play chef as they cook vegetables and paper-thin cuts of meat in steaming broth or water and then dip each morsel in a flavorful sauce. Discover a selection of certified Angus beef, free range chicken and salmon. Each order comes with a feast of assorted vegetables, shirataki, udon and harusami noodles, tofu, Japanese mushrooms, seaweed and rice. The sukiyaki also comes with the warishita sweet broth and a fresh egg for dipping. For lunch, specials range in price from $11 to $17. Be sure to save room for the decadent chocolate fondue — there is milk, dark, red velvet and the signature green tea. Dippers include a choice of strawberries, bananas, rice crispy treats, pound cake and marshmallows. Yojié’s daily happy hour from 5:30-7:30 p.m. offers a diverse selection of sake cocktails and an extensive sake menu and Japanese beer. The chic restaurant, which was ranked in OpenTable Diner’s Choice: Most Romantic, also hosts private parties and events. Diners can now visit Yojié at their new Diamond Bar location at 2803 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (909) 274-7588. At 501 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 988-8808 or yojie.com. Open Sun.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight. Free parking in the lot across the street with validation. Cuisine: Japanese
photo courtesy of Taix Restaurant
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Fugetsu-Do Taix Restaurant
T
his bastion of French country cuisine is a Los Angeles original. Celebrating its 86th year in business, the restaurant’s affordable prices, extensive wine cellar, and rich history have attracted a loyal following, not only from diners but from its staff — many have served at Taix for more than three generations. They’re consistently kind and dedicated, and known to give impromptu tours of the walls’ memorabilia. The Taix family’s roots go back to the HautesAlpes in southern France, where they were third and fourth generation sheepherders and bakers. In the late 1800s, they opened a hotel in the French Quarter of Downtown Los Angeles. In 1927, a restaurant debuted on the bottom floor of the hotel, and 35 years later that restaurant moved to its current location — a chalet-like icon that attracts city politicos, businessmen, couples looking for a little romance, late-night hipsters and Francophiles who can’t get enough of the region’s cuisine. It’s just five minutes from the heart of Downtown in Echo Park, with inexpensive valet parking for meals. Today, the Taix family has stayed true to the tradition of affordable elegance and hearty French country cuisine. Chef Hugues Quintard serves all the classics, from garlicky escargot to daily quiche to French onion soup to two versions of a salade Niçoise. Diners are known to flock to Taix just for the soup, served tableside from a silver tureen, in a bow to Old World dining. They’re all made using aromatic vegetarian stock — except for Friday’s famed clam chowder — and the servers will keep refilling until you surrender (and you should, there’s more to come). Taix is known for tender cuts of meat, generous portions, and rich sauces that still find a way not to overshadow the star of the plate. The lamb chops and pot roast are pure comfort, served with a soup or wedge salad. The osso bucco is mouthwatering, served with creamy polenta. The skirt steak is just as tender and accompanied by crispy, rosemary-tinged 12 DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM
Sh o p
photo by Gary Leonard
Sw eet
pommes frites. Diners are drawn to $9.95 lunch specials and the very reasonable daily specials — among these, the coq au vin and the braised short ribs are spectacular. Wine lovers will be hard-pressed to pick just one glass from the vast, award-winning wine list — the large cellar offers the most affordable selections in L.A. It was named “L.A.’s best kept wine secret” by the Los Angeles Times. Whether dining or enjoying a cocktail, the dimly lit 321 Lounge has become a popular gathering place for trendy locals — open until the wee hours. There is live music Thursday to Saturday after 10:30 p.m.; an underground stand-up comedy night Sundays at 8:30 p.m.; and things are always lively around game time, baseball or basketball (the Times also declared Taix the “one of the five best places to watch the Lakers game”). Taix’s Dodger Stadium adjacent location makes it a popular meeting place before and after games, you can leave your car and walk to the game. Despite the famed wine cellar, it’s not all red and white inside this Sunset Boulevard chalet: the 321 bartenders know their stuff — and can shake a mean martini. Taix also houses six banquet rooms for breakfast meetings, luncheons and dinners that can accommodate up to 200 guests. Professional, fullservice offsite catering is also offered. At 1911 Sunset Blvd., (213) 484-1265 or taixfrench.com. Open Mon.-Tues. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Wed.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-1 a.m., Sat. noon-1 a.m., and Sun. noon-9 p.m. Late-night menu Wed.Sat. until 1 a.m. Lounge open nightly until last call. Cuisine: Country French $$
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Mochi Bits
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ugetsu-do is the finest Japanese mochi artisan in Los Angeles.
You can check us out on Yelp or Google us to see countless positive reviews of our products. We thank everyone who has enjoyed our mochi over the past 109 years.
We invite you to come by the store or to order online to have our mochi shipped fresh to your doorstep.
110th Anniversary SINCE 1903
315 East First St. | 213-625-8595 www.fugetsu-do.com
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Sage Vegan Bistro
Sage Vegan Bistro
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age Vegan Bistro, located minutes from Downtown in Echo Park, has been gaining a growing following since it opened in 2011. Its success can be attributed to the winning combination of an elegant, casual ambiance and decadently satisfying food. Located in the gorgeous corner space of the historic Jensen Recreation Center, Sage fulfills many needs at once. At the vanguard of accessible plant-based dining, Sage offers a large and well-rounded menu with options for everyone from the fried food aficionado to the health nut. This is neighborhood dining at its best. Sage also shares space with popular vegan dessert spot Kindkreme, which makes raw, vegan “ice cream,” fresh squeezed juices, smoothies, shakes and desserts for Sage diners as well as walk-in customers. Kindkreme’s recently expanded des-
sert offerings include gluten-free, vegan and organic baked goods such as the excellent pecan bun; a dense, sticky and sweet homage to the classic breakfast treat that’s filling enough to serve as a snack or perfect for sharing after a meal. The lunch menu offers several options from which to choose. The hearty Brazilian Bowl comes with plantain, black beans, avocado, leeks and mushrooms on a bed of sautéed kale and quinoa, and is topped with guacamole and pico de gallo. Have time for an appetizer before your main course? The heart of palm mozzarella sticks are a genre-bending combination of Italian-American comfort food and innovative plantbased vegan. If you are looking for something lighter, the butternut squash tacos with sautéed kale, caramelized onions and a drizzle of cashew-based nacho
cheese on an organic corn tortilla is both healthy and satisfying. While the lunch menu is available all day, the dinner menu becomes the star of the show after 5 p.m. The smaller dinner menu showcases owner Mollie Engelhart’s Italian roots with a pasta-heavy slant. One popular dish that never fails to please is the potato broccoli pirogues with a sweet soy ginger sauce served over a bed of kale. The pirogues are in good company with another pasta favorite, the flavor-packed spinach basil ravioli. There’s a reason why the extensive menu offers options for every palate. Owner Engelhart, who was raised a vegan, recalls that the experience of getting “icekream” or dining out was a limiting one. She frequently had to choose from only two options and sometimes only one. Her goal as a restaurateur is to offer a place where people with varied diets can feel
catered to rather than feel like an afterthought. Sage/Kindkreme is a place where those with dietary restrictions can bring their friends, and everyone leaves feeling satisfied and happy. Sage also has a special relationship with several farmers who provide the restaurant’s produce, the foundation upon which the menu is built. Engelhart and her chefs frequent as many as five Los Angeles farmer’s markets each week to select the best ingredients that drive the cuisine. They are on a first-name basis with the people growing fresh, organic produce, and in a state known for its agricultural output, this kind of relationship is a no-brainer. Ultimately, the real payoff is for the customer who gets the most flavorful food for the best price. As if diners needed any more incentive to make the long or short trip to Sage Vegan Bistro, the vibrant community of small businesses surrounding the restaurant is not to be missed. From Stories bookstore to local designer boutique the Echo Park Co-Op to Origami Vinyl, there are plenty of places to check out pre or post meal. Whether it is for the weekend brunch, lunch or dinner, dining at Sage and Kindkreme always pleases. At 1700 W. Sunset Blvd., (213) 989-1718 or sageveganbistro.com. Open Mon.-Wed. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Thurs.-Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sun. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. (kitchen is closed 4-5 p.m. on weekends). Cuisine: Vegan $$
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Salvage Bar & Lounge
C We validate parking
FREE
parking ‘til 5pm
on non-event days
ples Center a t S e h t m o r f Across
arved out of a corner of the ground floor of the 1926 Roosevelt Residences, this stunning bar and lounge was created using salvaged materials and fixtures from the historic Seventh Street building. Carrera marble slabs, stained glass panels and a gorgeous wood bar made from old elevator doors set the tone for the unique venue. Salvage is divided into three rooms: the romantic patio strung with twinkling glass orbs, the main room with worn leather couches, and a modern lounge with cozy ottomans and modular seating (great for groups and parties). There’s a diverse mix of people here from local business professionals and residents to tourists. Salvage Bar boasts friendly service and no stuffy dress codes, which makes it ideal for relaxing after work with a few happy hour craft beers or a night cap later in the evening when the lights dim and the music flows. There are also special nights throughout the week offering entertainment, including live music on Wednesdays and DJs during the weekend. The bar turns out an intriguing lineup of specialty cocktails made with organic, seasonal ingredients. “A Sure Thing” is a refreshing favorite, for example, made with light vodka, strawberries and champagne. Salvage also offers a tapas-style bar menu with small bites like the tempura-style jalapeño poppers stuffed with ahi tuna and cream cheese. At 717 W. Seventh St., (213) 688-7755 or salvagela.com. Open weekdays 3 p.m.-2 a.m., and Sat. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Cuisine: Bar Bites photo courtesy of Salvage Bar & Lounge
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(213) 222-9464
Facebook.com/WestCoastHooters Twitter@WestCoastHoots 14 DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM
EAT, SHOP, GET THINGS DONE...
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CITY NATIONAL PLAZA
It’s All Beneath Your Feet EATERIES Gourmet Coffee & Nuts Johnnie’s Pizza Just Juice KC's Mediterranean Grill Lemonade Mangia Mangia McDonald’s Mrs. Fields Cookies Pam's Deli Delight Plaza Grille Café Rice Garden Saffron Salata
Starbucks Togo's Eatery Weiland Brewery
RETAIL Downtown Flowers GNC (General Nutrition Center) Russell’s Convenience Store
CONVENIENCES & SERVICES 24 Hour Fitness Barbershop on “A” Level City National Bank
FREE PARKING!
Courtyard Wellness Famima!! Genaro Rivera's Shoe Shine Overnight Express Parcel Service Drop Box Plaza Dental Office Sears Shoe Repair Selective Cleaners UPS Drop Box U.S. Post Office Valet Parking Weight Watchers Xpress Auto Wash
30 minutes free parking at 505 Flower, “A” Level with retail parking validation. 2 hours free parking at J2 garage, 400 South Flower, with retail parking validation.
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Border Grill Downtown L.A.
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Breakfast • lunch • dinner sit down, take out, drive thru, phone orders
213-483-8885
1657 W. 3rd Street
(Corner of 3rd & Union) Los Angeles, CA 90017
open daily 7am-10pm
FREE PARKING www.GUSSDI.COM
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We do catering
njoy modern Mexican food at Border Grill Downtown L.A., the hip, urban cantina from celebrity chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, of Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters” and Food Network’s “Too Hot Tamales.” Presenting the bold flavors of Mexico, Border Grill has set the standard for gourmet Mexican fare in Los Angeles with a menu of complex, authentic dishes based on the home cooking of Oaxaca, the Yucatan and beyond. At lunch, Border Grill is the place for tacos, quesadillas, salads, sandwiches, ceviches, and signature dishes including lobster tacos, Peruvian ceviche, Yucatan pork and grilled skirt steak. Fast forward to 4 p.m. and sip on a handcrafted cocktail while you take in the lively atmosphere of The Cantina. The happy hour menu includes $3 tacos with handmade corn tortillas and $5 Border margaritas, mojitos and red sangria. Begin dinner with unique appetizers such as green corn tamales or plantain empanadas. For entrees, try chicken molé verde or sautéed shrimp. Dulce de leche infused churro tots and tres leches cake tantalize the taste buds for dessert. The perfect pre-theater dining location, Border Grill Downtown L.A. offers a free shuttle running Tuesday through Saturday evenings. Private party spaces and full-service catering are available. At 445 S. Figueroa St. (corner of Fifth St.), (213) 486-5171 or bordergrill.com. On Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram @ BorderGrill. Open for lunch weekdays 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; dinner Sun.-Thurs. 5-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. Happy hour in The Cantina is 4-7 p.m. weekdays and Sun. 4-9 p.m. Validated parking in the Union Bank garage. Cuisine: Mexican
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Millennium Biltmore Hotel Rendezvous Court photos courtesy of Millennium Biltmore Hotel
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hile the landmark Millennium Biltmore Hotel has become an L.A. icon thanks to its 90-year history, stunning architecture and roster of notable guests, it has also earned acclaim for its culinary contributions and nightlife scene. The hotel is home to distinctive bars and restaurants that have garnered a loyal foodie following. For more information visit www.thebiltmore.com.
Sai Sai Noodle Bar
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his Asian-fusion casual noodle bar is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a new Chinese chef and offering a phenomenal, revitalized menu featuring traditional Chinese cuisine. Guests can create their own noodle experience, selecting from choices of protein, broth and noodles. House specials include pho and wonton soup, all made with the freshest ingredients. Surf the Internet or catch up on the sports via several flat screens. The spacious interior is airy with colorful accents. There’s also a selection of beer, wine or sake, with stellar happy hour prices from 3-7 p.m. Open 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. weekdays, (213) 624-1100 or saisainoodlebar.com. Cuisine: Asian Fusion $$
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Smeraldi’s
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nside this bright, split-level dining room with carved ceilings, wood-paneled walls and sleek tiled floors, guests will find a distinctly California ambiance coupled with the delicious flavors of Continental cuisine. The restaurant offers a broad selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. The menu features weekly buffets, along with salads, sandwiches, burgers, seafood and pasta. A casual-elegant dinner menu fuses vibrant flavors with in-house sauces, pastas, seafood and more. A scrumptious 3-course Sunday Buffet will inspire guests to rise and shine. Guests who provide their email address will receive a Smeraldi’s Loyalty Card with 15% off lunch and dinner (except holidays) through 2013. Open daily 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., (213) 612-1562 or thebiltmore.com. Cuisine: Continental $$
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he Rendezvous Court — the original 1923 lobby of the historic hotel — is widely considered to serve one of the best afternoon teas in Los Angeles. Visitors can also enjoy light meals, coffee and cocktails amid the grand setting of “Downtown’s living room.” With Italian travertine stone walls, a handpainted wood-beam ceiling, crystal chandeliers, a rose marble fountain and graceful Spanish-Baroque bronze staircase, the Rendezvous Court offers a distinctly elegant, European atmosphere. Afternoon tea is served Wednesday-Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. and includes miniature sandwiches, freshly-baked scones with Devonshire cream and jam, exquisite pastries and desserts, and an assortment of hot and iced teas. A light afternoon menu served Wednesday-Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. features salads, sandwiches, snacks and dessert. Coffee and cocktails are available daily. Call (213) 624-1011 or thebiltmore.com. Cuisine: American, Afternoon Tea, Cocktails, Coffee Bar $$ (suggested for tea)
Gallery Bar
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amous for the live jazz on weekends that draws a crowd from all over Los Angeles, this sultry, vintage space is also known for the fantastic classic cocktails it serves. Signature drinks include the renowned Black Dahlia martini and the Manhattan menu, a series of modern takes on the standard bourbon cocktail that honors the hotel’s long history with whiskey blends — the Biltmore bottled its own in the 1940s. Sleek leather banquettes, the intimate adjacent Cognac Room and a delicious food menu make the Gallery Bar a must-see destination for an evening Downtown. Open 4 p.m.-2 a.m. daily. Food served until 11 p.m. weekdays and 1 a.m. Fri.-Sat. Cuisine: Bar, American
Celebrating 90 Years:
Rendezvous at the Biltmore
Reservations: 213-612-1562
Glorious Easter Brunch
Sunday, March 31, 2013, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Smeraldi’s Dining, Candy Jar Buffet, Caricature Artist & Easter Egg Hunt
Elegant Mother’s Day Brunch Sunday, May 12, 2013
Smeraldi’s Delectable Buffet to Celebrate Mom
Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday, November 28, 2013 Smeraldi’s
Christmas Buffet
Wednesday, December 25, 2013 Smeraldi’s
Holiday Parties Hosted in Intimate, Decorated Suites Holidays, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.; 3-6 p.m. Presidential & Music Suites (Up to 25 Guests)
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Tuesday, December 31, 2013 Smeraldi’s, Rendezvous Court, Gallery Bar & Cognac Room Live Music & Manhattan’s Times Square Ball Drop on Flat Screens
Valentine’s Day Friday, February 14, 2014
Smeraldi’s Three-Course Dinner & Long Stemmed Rose, 5-10 p.m. Rendezvous Court Traditional Afternoon Tea, 2-5 p.m. Gallery Bar & Cognac Room Love Affair Martinis
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
L.A. Cafe
Barragan’s Mexican Restaurant
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the fixings, or one of the tempting breakfast sandwiches like the Caprese, the South of the Border or the Kitchen Sink. Later in the day, you’ll find countless items to satisfy your hunger. There are salmon tacos, carne asada combos, the cafe’s famous chili bowl, a Mediterranean-inspired plate with hummus and flatbread, the tender pub steak with grilled onions and mashed potatoes, or the grilled chicken breast with seasonal vegetables. If you crave a burger, the ground chuck version with cheddar on brioche will do the trick nicely, as will the salmon burger with tzatziki sauce. There are about a dozen creative panini served with the house Buzz chips, as well as hot and cold sandwiches and wraps. The grilled chicken chipotle wrap will become a favorite, as will the pesto chicken panini. Vegetarians will love the pesto veggie panini with greens, avocado, tomato and cheddar — add a cup of the aromatic tomato-basil soup for the perfect meal. Customers can now order online for pick up or delivery. The convenient service even keeps track of your favorite orders and “usuals.” If you can’t seem to get out of the house, L.A. Cafe offers delivery 24 hours a day. At 639 S. Spring St., (213) 612-3000 or lacafe.com. Open 24 hours. Cuisine: American $
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his longtime California-style Mexican eatery has been a tradition for many families in Los Angeles since 1961, thanks to founders Ramon and Grace Barragan who with their labor of love, a loan against their home and just 25 seats, made their restaurant a Los Angeles staple. Some 50 years later, the Downtown community continues to flock to the original Echo Park location for hearty breakfasts and business lunches. The family-owned business still serves a menu of traditional Mexican favorites for lunch and dinner including burritos, enchiladas, sopes and tacos, all with sides of freshly cooked beans and Spanish rice. They also offer plenty of house specialties that keep hungry customers coming back for more. There’s the succulent chile rellenos oozing with cheese and draped with red sauce, tender pork ribs in chipotle salsa, and fragrant pork simmered in green chile. Weekend breakfast turns up some tasty options, including menudo, chorizo and eggs, chilaquiles, huevos rancheros and cactus and eggs. There’s also a selection of American favorites like hotcakes, hash browns, ham and eggs, and omelets. Add a strong cup of coffee or a Bloody Mary, and you’ve got a great start to the weekend. Happy hour is a special occasion, and Downtowners and locals know Barragan’s has it covered with two full bars, a lovely outdoor patio, energetic music, and specials like the $2.75 margarita Wednesdays. At 1538 Sunset Blvd; (213) 250-4256; 814 S. Central Ave., Glendale, (818) 243-1103; 730 N. Victory Blvd., Burbank, (818) 848-2325. Visit barragansrestaurants.com. Open Mon.-Wed. and Thurs. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m., and Sun. 9 a.m.9:30 p.m. Cuisine: Mexican $
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photos courtesy of L.A. Cafe
onsider, for a moment, L.A. Cafe’s lobster grilled cheese. Taken individually, each ingredient — tender lobster and gooey brie — is enough to make the average foodie swoon. Taken as a whole, well, it’s enough to make your knees buckle and your heart skip a beat. Superlatives aside, this oozing culinary creation marries flavorful bits of lobster with a serious amount of brie and cheddar, a slather of grainy mustard and tarragon mayo. It’s all encased between perfectly golden, grilled country bread that barely contains the cheesy magma within. It’s pure bliss — and you can even get it delivered 24 hours. But the lobster grilled cheese is just one of many menu items that keep customers coming back for more. It is familiar comfort food taken up a notch, and it’s exactly the kind of thing that this beloved cafe is known for. Everything is made from scratch daily, from the sauces to the soups to the irresistible baked goods. Located along the newly revitalized Spring Street corridor, L.A. Cafe unfurls its black and yellow striped awning on the ground floor of a historic bank building. Since opening in 2001, it has become an anchor for the area’s growth, servicing the expanding loft and business community. It’s a popular place to enjoy coffee before work or laze away a warm summer afternoon over lunch at one of the sidewalk tables. The free Wi-Fi makes laptop surfing convenient, too. Start the morning with a buzz, namely from any of the gourmet brewed coffees, teas, espresso drinks, blended coffees or fresh squeezed OJ. Be sure to check out the mouth-watering bakery display, where you’ll find peanut butter and banana bacon cookies, pink shortbread piggies, double fudge brownies, giant chocolate chip cookies, mini cheesecakes, chocolate yo-ho’s and even fruit and nut vegan bars. For breakfast, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with the giant sticky cinnamon rolls, or the yogurt parfait with fresh fruit and the excellent housemade granola. For savory options, choose from the Lumberjack plate with buttermilk pancakes and all
Off-Site Catering Available
Happy Hour 3pm - 7pm Daily
Reverse Happy Hour 10pm - 2am Daily
Private
Delivery Until 2AM
Dining 800 W 7th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 213.623.2288 | WokcanoRestaurant.com
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Los Angeles Center Studios
Flix Cafe at Los Angeles Center Studios
Full House Seafood Restaurant
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stages were recently home to the film Hitchcock and the hit TV shows “Mad Men,” “Arrested Development” and “Southland.” The six, 18,000-square-foot sound stages have silent air conditioning and high-tech amenities. Sound stages can be reserved for large events and short-term projects. The 20-acre campus also offers a wide variety of enclosed city streets. The past party list reads like a who’s who of the business and entertainment world: Sony PlayStation, Maxim, AOL/Time Warner, Warner Music Group, NBA All-Star Party, Activision, Electronic Arts, HBO and KPMG. Events have ranged from dinners for 100 guests to extravaganzas for 7,000 at this unique facility, where the gorgeous, 16-foot rotating door to the cafe alone is worth the visit. Guests are sure to remember their experience at Los Angeles Center Studios, whether it takes place on a sound stage or on the dramatic outdoor decks. Flix Cafe, a green certified restaurant, is at Los Angeles Center Studios, 1201 W. Fifth St., (213) 534-3000 or lacenterstudios.com. Open weekdays for breakfast 8-10:30 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Coffee Bar and snacks available 8 a.m.-4 p.m. For cafe and catering information, email flixcafe@lacenterstudios.com. For special events email echambers@lacenterstudios.com. Cuisine: California/World Cuisine $
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party or meal at Los Angeles Center Studios combines all the glamour and glitz of Hollywood, but in Downtown’s backyard. The magnificent Tower Building completed in 1958 features classic elements of vintage Modernism such as black terrazzo floors, glass and aluminum walls. The architectural gem has been restored to its original state. The low-slung, modern cafe is fit for any studio mogul. Remarkable daytime views of the lush outdoor garden and city skyline across the way are relaxing by day and stunning by night. Custom design elements and lighting futuristically transform the cafe and intimate patios into elegant areas for pre-screening cocktail parties and sit-down dinners. Operated by Guckenheimer, a leader in corporate foodservice, Flix Cafe offers full breakfast, lunch, daily specials, specialty coffee and catering. Diners will find delicious, seasonal fare in a cheery atmosphere. The food is simple, pure and full of flavor, with ingredients (often organic) sourced from local farmers and artisans. Everything is cooked from scratch, and the menus at the LACS feature a wide range of nutritious and gourmet dishes using the freshest ingredients available. Items include everything from roasted farm-raised meats to exhibition-style entrees made to order. Flix Catering is perfect for private parties from casual buffets to network mixers, sit-down gourmet table service to elegant gala events. Whether the party is for 20, 200 or several thousand, Flix Catering and LACS will create the perfect menu, theme and atmosphere to transform any vision into a memorable experience. The Beaudry Building offers a variety of special event areas in addition to Flix Cafe. This site includes two intimate patios with unobstructed skyline views, a 400-seat theater and a private dining area. L.A. Center Studios state-of-the-art sound
here aren’t many restaurants where you can stroll in at 2 a.m. and order one of the best Cantonese meals in the city, but at Full House Seafood Restaurant, diners come in droves at all hours of the day. After a night on the town, nothing hits the spot like a comforting bowl of the sizzling rice soup or plate of decadent honey walnut shrimp. For more than 25 years, this Chinatown favorite has earned a reputation for supremely fresh seafood specialties and budget-friendly prices. Owner Ronald Kam Lau has created an authentic Cantonese menu that draws diners to gather in the comfortable dining room and feast on abundant, family-style dishes. The vast offerings feature standout soups like tasty hot pots flavored with stuffed bean curd, lamb, crab and vegetables, as well as shark’s fin soup and bird’s nest soup. Seafood runs the gamut from shrimp and abalone to lobster and whole fish. Any of the fried rice dishes are stellar, whether you order it prepared with chicken, pork or shrimp. The tender pork chop covered in the restaurant’s signature spicy salt will make you come back for more, while the tangerine chicken bursts with citrus flavor. The dinner combinations (for two or more) are a steal, and offer three options for $12.95, $11.95 and $10.95. For a taste of authentic Cantonese fare, Full House Seafood Restaurant satisfies at any hour — even 2 a.m. At 963 N. Hill St., (213) 617-8382 or lafullhouserestaurants.com. Open Sun.-Thurs. 11-3 a.m. and Fri.-Sat. 11-4 a.m. Cuisine: Chinese
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
CBS Seafood
photos courtesy of Chynna Dim Sum
Chynna Dim Sum
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are appropriately satisfying with standouts such as the Singapore-style noodles, beef chow fun and house combination fried rice. The beauty of Chynna is that you can eat your sui mai and have your martini too. Mixologist and Bar Manager Janice Paik makes more than a dozen hand-crafted drinks, many infused with tea (the Earl Grey vodka citron is delightful). There’s a serious selection of craft beers on tap as well, more than two dozen in all, with titles such as Elemental Lighting Pilsner, Eagle Rock Manifesto, Eel River Double IPA and Golden Road Hefeweisen. The wines hail from the Charles Smith winery, while a list of sake and soju reflects the Little Tokyo neighborhood. Happy hour brings $5 draft and well drinks, and $8 signature cocktails daily from 4 to 7 p.m. Comedy and acoustic music nights are also in the works. Chynna offers a winning, and long overdue, combination that is a tasty addition to the Little Tokyo dining scene. Think of it as dim sum, and then some. At 333 S. Alameda #115, (213) 625-2009 or chynnadtla.com. Open Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.midnight, Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 a.m., and Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Validated parking. Cuisine: Chinese $$
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im sum aficionados came running when this Little Tokyo eatery opened its doors late last summer. The idea was simple but revolutionary — dim sum for dinner. While most traditional dumpling eateries only offer the tiny treats until lunch, Chynna Dim Sum allows you to get your fix well into the night. It sets itself apart even further with its modern, lounge-like setting where diners can sample from a slate of locally brewed craft beers, wines and cocktails. Located inside the Little Tokyo Galleria at Third and Alameda streets, Chynna’s menu presents an American take on Chinese tapas, as well as an array of family-style dishes. The bustling dim sum carts found in Chinatown have been replaced here with friendly table service, all set against the relaxing backdrop of oversized green booths, blonde wood accents and stunning circular chandeliers. Dim sum is taken seriously at Chynna, with homage paid to all the classics such as shrimp har gow, pork sui mai, succulent steamed pork buns, sticky rice in lotus leaves and crispy-gooey sesame balls. There is stuffed tofu, finger-licking spare ribs, excellent potstickers, fried shrimp balls and tiny egg custards. Most of the small plates average $4 or $5, making them ideal for sharing with a group. The Shanghai pork dumpling is a house specialty, the restaurant’s version of the storied soup dumpling that fills your mouth with pure juicy bliss upon first bite. Chynna is expanding the menu with 38 new items, entrees include the rich honey walnut shrimp, which is done exceptionally well here, along with sautéed string beans, crispy tofu and salt and pepper calamari. Rice and noodle dishes
f the exotic culinary art of dim sum is one of your passions, or just something you’ve been curious about, CBS Seafood Restaurant, a Hong Kong-style seafood house, belongs on your go-to dining list. Select from rolling carts packed with steamed or baked buns filled with barbecue pork, har gow (translucent shrimp-filled dumplings), jing joon (sticky rice and meat steamed in lotus leaves), deep-fried taro turnovers and more than 50 other varieties of traditional Chinese small plates. For the finale, wait for a cart of creamy egg tarts, sesame balls or mango pudding to arrive at your table. Seating 180, this lively Chinatown establishment is decorated with polished granite, blonde wood with turquoise accents, gleaming brass columns and crystal chandeliers. One room, ideal for banquets, offers a stage behind a brilliant red curtain embroidered with a golden dragon. While dim sum at CBS can be ordered all day, dinner also brings Cantonese delicacies such as shark fin soup, scallops in black bean and chili sauce, Peking duck with crispy, lacquered skin, and lobster or king crab from the restaurant’s show tanks. Dining banquet-style is the best way to explore CBS’s vast menu of more than 250 tempting items. This restaurant offers one of those remarkable cultural feasts for which L.A. is so famous. At 700 N. Spring St., (213) 617-2323. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Cuisine: Chinese
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Farmer Boys
Farmer Boys
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hen you need a good burger fix, there’s no shortage of fast food places competing for your dollars. But standing out from the pack is Farmer Boys Restaurant, which prides itself on the fact that nothing on the menu is warmed over, pre-made or frozen (except for the real ice cream milkshakes, of course) — despite being open 24 hours. The menu has a little bit of everything, from breakfast to dinner. Still, the restaurant’s trademark is its mouthwatering Signature Farmer’s Burger, which attracts everyone from police to fire personnel to those in
burger. Chili lovers will love the double chiliburger with Farmer Boys’ homemade chili poured over freshly cooked patties. You can add fresh avocado to any burger or sandwich for an additional charge. Farmer Boys Restaurant is not just
you to choose from bacon, ham, sausage or chili meat. Farmer Boys makes a pint-sized Kid’s Breakfast as well. It wouldn’t be fast food without a generous helping of tasty sides. French fries are popular but Farmer Boys’ other two signature items are
For the health conscious, Farmer Boys offers several salad options. The Farmer’s chopped Cobb salad and the chicken barbecue ranch are two of the most popular, as well as the classic chicken salad, chef’s salad and tuna salad.
the garment and produce industries. Voted best burger by My Fox LA Hot List, Channel 2 News and KFRG Radio, the Farmer’s Burger is huge, satisfying and always made to order. The Farmer Boys burger line offers nearly a dozen choices so diners can get theirs prepared exactly to taste. Even vegetarians can order a tasty garden burger. Try the standard option or go wild with a double bacon burger or double cheese-
about the burgers. Start your day with one of the signature breakfasts (you can order breakfast anytime). Order a stack of hotcakes, French toast, omelets or the three-egg plate. All omelets or three-egg plates are served with hash browns, toast and jelly. If you like your eggs between bread, go for the egg sandwich and add bacon, sausage or ham. Farmer Boys Restaurant also has its own version of the popular breakfast burrito, a secret recipe that allows
the colossal onion rings and zucchini spears, which are both hand cut and breaded daily. Besides favorites such as the fish and tuna sandwich, the restaurant also has a new line of chicken sandwiches that come on a honey oat wheat bun. The chicken club, chicken barbecue ranch and the improved chicken sandwich are some of the new items added to the menu. Either of these sandwiches makes a great meal with a salad on the side.
Diners can call ahead to place phone orders for faster service, or use the convenient drive thru. For those who need to get work done, there is free Wi-Fi (except Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.) as well as plenty of free parking — a rarity Downtown. The restaurant also has a frequent diner program allowing customers to earn a point for every dollar spent (100 points adds up to $5). As an added bonus, you can sign up for email coupons and discounts. Farmer Boys Restaurant is also open late, which is perfect for those times when you need a quick, fresh and delicious burger fix. • Free Wi-Fi • Free parking • Frequent diner program • Breakfast served 24 hours • Email coupons and discounts • Open 24 hours At 726 S. Alameda St. (1.5 miles south of Union Station), (213) 2288999 or farmerboysla.com. Open 24 hours. Drive thru or dine in. Cuisine: American $
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photo courtesy of Spring Street Smokehouse
LA Downtown Rest Directory.JLH.qk_Layout 1 3/1/13 1:16 PM Page 1
VOTED L.A.’s Best ITALIAN RESTAURANT and Best HAPPY HOUR!
Spring Street Smokehouse
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� Full Bar � Happy Hour Specials � Full Service Catering � Business Group Dining
Plus
FOR FAST DINING
visit our Maria’s Express next door! 615 Flower Street
www.mariasitaliankitchen.com
�
Downtown Los Angeles
FREE appetizer with purchase of an entree when you dine in after 2:30 pm
Downtown L.A. ONLY. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Present this ad when ordering. Offer valid through 01/01/2014.
�
(213) 623-4777
10
$
UP TO
VALUE
ince it opened, this unlikely barbecue joint on the edge of Chinatown has captured the appetites and hearts of many a Downtowner. Cops, city workers, tourists and locals flock to Spring Street Smokehouse for some of the best ’cue in town. The interior has a simple, downhome charm with butcher paper and rolls of paper towels on each table, old license plates on the wall, aluminum siding behind the bar and a chalkboard touting the tempting array of craft beers. But it’s the food that’s the real star here, namely the copious amounts of succulent meat smoked onsite with hickory wood from four to 18 hours. Add the restaurant’s signature barbecue sauce with a spicy-vinegar kick and you’ve got a killer meal. The menu offers all the classics — beef and pork ribs, Texas hot links, brisket — along with the delicious requisite sides like hush puppies, collard greens, mac and cheese, baked beans and even sweet potato fries. Among some of the specialties are the burnt ends, the addicting trimmings from the brisket that are slathered in sauce; the beef sandwich topped with creamy gorgonzola sauce; and the Cajun stuffed chicken with sliced jalapeños, onions and Jack cheese wrapped in bacon and pit-smoked. Don’t forget the decadent bourbon bread pudding and peach cobbler. You can wash it all down with fresh limeade and sweet tea, or if you’re so inclined, sample from the diverse selection of craft beer on tap or wines by the glass. During the weekday happy hour from 3-6 p.m. you can pull up a seat at the bar for 20% off sandwiches and $3 drafts. At 640 N. Spring St., (213) 626-0535 or sssmokehouse.com. Open Mon.-Thurs. 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat. noon10 p.m., and Sun. noon-9 p.m. Cuisine: American $
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of L.A. Prime
L.A. Prime
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his stunning steakhouse has long been the jewel atop the 35th floor of the historic Westin Bonaventure Hotel. Dining at L.A. Prime offers an unparalleled experience as a million twinkling lights create a breathtaking vista from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Few venues in L.A. can compare, and even fewer offer the kind of innovative steakhouse cuisine that this Downtown favorite does. Executive Chef Andreas Nieto creates a masterful menu highlighted by local, seasonal produce and an award-winning wine cellar. Diners are seated inside an elegant dining room rimmed with linen-covered tables illuminated with candlelight and curtained booths perfect for intimate conversations. Sip on a glass of wine or a martini as you order one of the excellent starters. The pan-roasted bone marrow with black pepper gastric is a luxurious treat spread on toasted brioche, while the miso-glazed tofu with braised shimeji mushrooms is at once delicate and satisfying. The restaurant’s signature seafood platter is perfect for two, loaded with a half Maine lobster, juicy prawns, crab and oysters. There is also a selection of excellent soup and salads, notably the roasted Main lobster bisque, the Caesar prepared tableside and the grilled white asparagus with caramelized Mission figs. Particularly noteworthy is the restaurant’s version of the Caprese, composed with juicy heirloom tomatoes, hand-pulled burrata cheese, micro sprouts, fresh basil and 50-year balsamic. L.A. Prime’s meaty lineup features hand-picked USDA Prime steaks (wet aged) provided exclusively for the restaurant by the Southern California Brant Beef ranch and Chicago Stockyards. Cattle are raised without hormones and are fed a vegetarian corn-based diet for more than 300 days without the use of antibiotics. Diners will find a succulent 22-ounce bone-in Delmonico rib eye, the 14-ounce primal cut New York strip, 24-ounce porterhouse or the 10-ounce center cut
filet mignon. There’s also a 12- or 14-ounce house smoked sea saltcrusted prime rib served with a gorgonzola Yorkshire pudding, or the peppery steak au poivre deglazed with brandy. Select from three tasty sauces to accompany your steak: traditional hollandaise, pink and green peppercorn, and bordelaise. Steaks aren’t the only meaty star here. The kitchen turns out a succulent braised prime beef short rib plate with sautéed tiny carrots, turnips, radishes and roasted French fingerling potatoes. The brined double-thick center cut pork chop with Vidalia onion relish, lavender honey and whipped salsify is also a favorite. All the steakhouse sides are available a la carte, including the crispy crust baked potato with crème fraiche, Vermont white cheddar macaroni, honey glazed petite carrots, Bloomsdale spinach with smoked bacon, and a sautéed trio of market mushrooms.
Pastas are a lovely choice too, with tempting options like the handmade citrus tagliatelli with garlic sautéed crayfish, sweet white corn and chervil. The risotto is luscious and flavorful, and you can’t go wrong with the classic white truffle with English peas or the seafood version with scallops, prawn and lump crab. L.A. Prime’s seafood entrees are elevated with creativity and top-notch ingredients: the Provencal wild striped bass is served with poached baby heirloom tomatoes, tarragon, lemon and aged balsamic; and the panseared wild King salmon is prepared with arugula, crispy pancetta and blood orange oil. If you crave dining drama, order the three-pound live Maine lobster served with drawn or lemon butter, or have it prepared Thermidor style. Don’t forget to ask your server to bring by the tray of delectable desserts for your inspection. Though the menu rotates, you’ll often find creamy
cheesecake, chocolate cake with gelato, delicate panna cotta, banana cream pie brûlée or even a decadent chocolate mousse. The restaurant’s bar turns out excellent drinks, but for something a little more unexpected, head downstairs to the famed, rotating Bona Vista Lounge — where there’s an upscale bar menu, classic cocktails (Manhattans and Tom Collins), and top shelf spirits. Enjoy pre- or post-dinner dinner drinks with a singular L.A. experience. Whether you come for a special occasion, romantic night out, or a business dinner, L.A. Prime offers fine dining at its best — and although the spectacular views set the tone, the elegant food will leave a lasting impression. At 404 S. Figueroa St., (213) 6241000 or thebonaventure.com. Open Sun.-Thurs. 5-10:30 p.m., Fri.Sat. 5:30-11 p.m. Cuisine: Steakhouse $$$
DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 25
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Eastside Market Italian Deli
Eastside Market Italian Deli
Gill’s Indian Restaurant
Authentic food from India
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ooking for one of L.A.’s best sandwiches? Look no further than Eastside Market Italian Deli. Located just north of Downtown’s city center, the Eastside Market Deli has been family owned and operated for more than 35 years, first opening its doors to the community in 1929. Once upon a time Eastside was one of many Italian markets in the community, but today stands as one of the last remaining true Italian delis in town. With a steady stream of local police, fire, DWP, City Council and other devotees, lines are rarely short but always move fast. Remaining true to its Old World roots, patrons can peruse the deli counters’ freshest cuts of meat, cheeses and produce alongside the olive oil, pasta and huge barrels of wine. The simple menu gets right to the point: it boasts a classic assortment of award-winning, traditional sandwiches (hot or cold) and pasta dishes. Choose from specials like the Italian sausage with cooked peppers and cheese (the Number One, served hot), the eggplant Parmigiana and cheese (the Number Four, also served hot), or go for the Number Seven — the hot roast beef, pastrami and cheese combo is an all-time favorite and best seller at the eatery (the deli cooks more than 700 pounds of roast beef a week). Cold sandwiches come with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and mustard, and customers choose from a variety of fresh toppings ranging from mortadella (a cold cut of finely hashed or ground pork sausage and flavored with spices) to capicollo (a type of fine salami) and cheese, to roast beef with turkey and cheese all in one. More than generous pricing and portions are
26 DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM
standard at Eastside, but even so specials are offered on Tuesday and Thursday and feature lasagna or pasta with sausage and meatballs for just $9.20. The D.A. Special, for example, is comprised of sausage, meatballs, roast beef and pastrami with a side of humor for only $10.95. If that’s not enough heartiness for you, Eastside also offers a soup of the day, potato and macaroni salads, and a fruit bowl. In addition to the dine-in or takeout options, Eastside’s full catering service will accommodate sit-down or buffet-style events, with a minimum of 10 people. Whether you are eating, ordering or just browsing the fresh fare Eastside has to offer, you can’t help but be swept up in the experience of this landmark delicatessen. At 1013 Alpine St., (213) 250-2464 or esmdeli.com. Open weekdays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m., closed Sundays. Cuisine: Italian Deli $
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Cooked in Tandoori Oven & Exotic Indian Curries Giving Seductive Flavor & Tantalizing Aroma
(213) 623-1050
gillsrestaurant.com 838 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90017 (in Stillwell Hotel)
Serving Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week 4th & Main | DTLA 213-617-1000
petescafe.com HOURS Monday–Friday 11am - 2am Saturday & Sunday (Offering Brunch) 9am - 2am
American Bistro & Fine Wine | Outdoor Terrace | Pets Welcome
APPetIZers sUBs sALADs entrees PIZZA
local craft beer happy h our
Weekd ays 4-7 pm all nig ht tue sday
treet, 122 West 4th s A 90013 Los AngeLes, C
ge.com rocketpizzaloun 213.687.4992
local delivery
photo by Gary Leonard
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
all trains lEad to
Philippe, The Original
W
ElEgant amErican
and imaginativE
cuisinE, showcasing a
convErgEncE of flavors and ingrEdiEnts from around thE world.
800 north alamEda strEEt (in union station) los angElEs, ca 90012 www.traxxrEstaurant.com ~ 213.625.1999 Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm Dinner: Mon-Sat 5:00pm-9:00pm Bar Menu is Available Continuously Through the Day
ant a taste of L.A. history? How about a 45 cent cup of coffee? Incredibly, you can find them both at the same place, a block away from Union Station, at Philippe, The Original. In 1908, Philippe Mathieu opened what would become one of the city’s oldest restaurants, and was credited with creating the first French dipped sandwich a decade later. Like many great discoveries, this one was an accident, as Mathieu inadvertently dropped a sliced French roll into a roasting pan filled with cooking juices. A goodnatured customer, an LAPD officer, agreed to take the sandwich anyway, soggy roll and all. He loved it so much that he returned the next day with friends, asking for the same thing. The rest is culinary history. Today, six people involved with Philippe’s are descendants of the family that bought the restaurant to the area in 1927. Freeway construction forced it to move from Aliso Street to its current location in 1951, where it has welcomed diners with its signature sawdust-covered floor and long communal tables for more than 50 years. Hearty breakfasts are served daily until 10:30 a.m. Philippe’s offers several delicious versions of the French Dip, including roasted pork, leg of lamb, turkey, ham and roast beef. They’re all served on freshly baked crusty French rolls, which can be single-dipped or double-dipped. Add one of the tasty side dishes, such as tangy coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni salad or the signature eggs pickled in beet juice, and you’ve got a classic L.A. meal. Open daily from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At 1001 N. Alameda St., (213) 628-3781 or philippes.com. Free parking. Beer and wine served. Cuisine: American $
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Nola’s
photo courtesy of Zip Sushi & Izakaya
Nola’s
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nything that lasts more than a decade in the Arts District deserves kudos. When Zip Sushi & Izakaya debuted in 2003, it was a friendly, unconventional Asian fusion eatery that became a breakout hit — thanks to inventive sushi rolls, Korean-inspired entrees, and price points that made sense. The restaurant feels like an intimate oasis from the moment you step onto the hip patio decked out with murals. Located in the heart of the Arts District — a destination for both visitors and local loft dwellers — the lunch crowd heads in for quick turnaround time and specials priced under $10 (including the famed seaweed salad and generous bento box combinations of sushi, sashimi, tempura and soup). When the sun goes down, the soju comes out. The dinner menu boasts more than 30 specialty rolls, while the sushi selection features an array of fresh standards and inspired creations. The popular low-carb, no-rice Whisky and Soda Back Roll is a delicate mosaic of tuna, salmon, tamago, asparagus, crab, gobo and avocado, double wrapped in seaweed and a flash-fried tempura coating. The long list of must-tries begins with the show-stopping Zip Albacado, which highlights fresh, seared albacore wrapped in avocado slices. There’s also the tuna tartare with finely chopped spicy tuna topped with masago and avocado served with crispy wonton chips, or the yakitori tasting combo (12 skewers of bacon-wrapped shishito peppers, sweet and spicy Thai beef, spicy teriyaki chicken, zucchini and sun squash, and guajillo chili shrimp). At 744 E. Third St., (213) 680-3770 or zipizakaya.com. Open for lunch weekdays 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; dinner Mon.-Thurs. 5-10:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11:30 p.m. Cuisine: Asian Fusion $$
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here’s live music Down town, plenty of eateries, and an eyebrow-raising amount of bars. But there aren’t many places that combine all three. Friendly and kinetic restaurateur Jason Ha saw a niche. He opened Zip Sushi & Izakaya (also described on this page) in 2003. So he’s not only been in the area for more than a decade, he’s been on this block of Third Street for more than a decade. With that expertise under his belt, he decided to try something bold — bolder even than opening a restaurant in Downtown’s emerging Arts District. He wanted a location that combined food, music and genres. He wanted a place in which, once locals and destination diners were inside to eat, they wouldn’t have to go anyplace else to hear live music or have a nightcap. The result was Nola’s, a 200-seat jazz club with a Cajun and Creole menu, which opened in 2011. Ha handled the business aspects; a friend from Louisiana advised him on the menu, the vibe and the experience. As they developed the concept, Ha embarked on many an adventure in the Big Easy — he smiles as he describes these “research trips” — and came back with photography, art and vintage newspapers that fill the walls and tabletops. Nola’s interior color palette is flush with dark red, black and gold, with rich red curtains covering the stage where a baby grand piano sits. Vintage orange light fixtures that resemble upside-down streetlamps hang above floors that are decorated with a dark diamond pattern and the fleur-de-lis. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, with music playing late. Though Nola’s used to operate with brunch, lunch and dinner menus, it is transitioning into a Cajun and Creole buffet spot. It helps owner Ha keep prices down, and provide live bands with either no cover charges, or no charges until after 11 p.m. The buffets include all the favorites that the menu boasted. Both types of cuisine feature the “holy trinity” — onions, bell peppers and celery — and a lot of rice and beans. Creole food is often thought of as more refined and subtle; Cajun fare is rustic and spicy. Nola’s incorporates both. Chef Kai Firstley, who often stands at the buffet and describes the recipes (many of which are her grandma’s), says that the seafood gumbo is rouxbased (a mixture of flour and fat that’s slow-cooked and used to thicken the dish) and prepared with a shrimp and chicken stock. The crab and shrimp are prepared separately from the gumbo and are seasoned with an in-house mix. The chicken jambalaya leans Creole. It contains
tomatoes and is made with andouille pork sausage. It’s a tasty and filling meal, with a healthy dose of rice and a spicy flavor that comes into focus after a few bites. The rice and beans — which in New Orleans is more a main than a side — are prepared with camellia red beans, which are thick and saucy, and imported from Louisiana. The fried chicken is prepared with the house seasoning in a light flour batter before being deep fried in vegetable oil. The meat is tender, but the skin is the standout — almost as juicy as the chicken, but with a great crunch. The restaurant is booked many nights of the week, and Sundays, with live jazz acts and jam sessions, and DJs once the players hit the buffet and leave. It’s best to check the website for acts. Like New Orleans itself, Nola’s incorporates the whole package — jazz, food and people. At 734 E. Third St., (213) 680-3003 or nolasla.com. Open Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Cuisine: Cajun/Creole $$
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Colori Kitchen
Colori at Figueroa
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photo courtesy of Colori Kitchen
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$$
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Get $10 OFF! With Every $40 Purchase
he Financial District can now get a taste of Colori for lunch at the restaurant’s new location at 800 S. Figueroa St. The longtime Downtown favorite now offers a second venue with the same great Italian menu at affordable prices. The family-owned restaurant has taken its passion for good food and hospitality, and extended it to the Downtown community. Colori is committed to using fresh, local and organic produce, as well as humanely raised meats. Workers from surrounding office buildings will find unbeatable deals on lunch combos that include soup, a choice of entree and a drink for about $12. Colori also serves sandwiches, fresh and organic salads, and plenty of pasta dishes to fill you up. Colori also specializes in catering large special events and business meetings. The new location can seat more than 100 guests and features draft beer and amazing prices on local and imported wine – they also allow you to bring in your own bottle. The new restaurant is a popular spot for happy hour from 6 to 8 p.m., with daily specials bringing half-priced discounts on wine, beer and tapas (or as Italians call them, spuntini). Located just a few blocks from L.A. Live, Colori@Figueroa is the perfect stop for a meal before or after an event at Staples Center or Nokia. At 800 S. Figueroa St., (213) 622-5950 or colorifigueroa.com. Open weekdays for lunch 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; dinner 6-9 p.m. weekdays and Fri.-Sat. 6-10p.m. For private events contact colorifigueroa@att.net. Cuisine: Italian $
$$ photos courtesy of Colori at Figueroa
hef Luigi Barducci Contessi came to the east side of town from Ca’Brea, a stalwart MidCity food destination. But at Colori, Contessi has something intimate, something that stands alone. He’s not the only big-name chef in the area — there has been a steady migration of them in the last few years — but he’s the only one who has pulled off a homey neighborhood restaurant that has become a beloved staple among lunchtime workers, residents and foodies who come to Eighth Street from all over the city. The cozy, trattoria-style vibe inside can only come when an eatery is run by a family of passionate food lovers. The knowledgeable servers know not only the ingredients but the history and Contessi’s spin on things — because they’ve eaten all of it. The appetizers are simple, from bruschetta to a delicious, no-frills antipasto plate to the beloved melanzane parmigiana — thinly sliced eggplant, tomato sauce and mozzarella (if you watch the regulars, this is the dish they often open with). There are a couple of ways to take the evening after that. Pay attention to specials — if the burrata (billowy white cheese atop tomatoes) or cioppini (a deep bowl of seafood stew) make the board, order them. And it’s a sure thing to stick to the traditional Italian dishes: the homemade tagliatelle pasta with meat Bolognese sauce; the ravioli filled with pumpkin in cream walnut sauce; and for serious meat lovers, the spaghetti carbonara, with creamy sauce and smoky bacon. At 429 W. Eighth St., (213) 622-5950 or colorikitchen.com. Open for lunch Tues.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner Tues.-Thurs. 6-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. 6-10 p.m. Cuisine: Italian
Excludes Friday & Saturdays. Excludes Special of the Day. Expires 3/25/14.
HOURS:
Monday-Friday Lunch 11:30-2pm Tuesday-Thursday Dinner 6-9pm Friday & Saturday Dinner 6-10pm Closed Sundays & Monday Nights
DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 31
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
California Kabob Kitchen
32 DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM
photos courtesy of California Kabob Kitchen
F
rom the outside, it’s a short stretch of dark glass with no hint of what’s on the other side. But upon entrance, the realization sets in that California Kabob Kitchen is a gem. The petite, impeccably decorated restaurant has warm color on the walls, leather chairs, white tablecloths, and a clientele that keeps coming back for more. Well-heeled Fashion District executives talk shop at the tables, greeted by the kindly owner and then attended to by a wait staff that remembers their favorite sodas and appetizers without having to be told. While there are plenty of kabob joints Downtown, California Kabob Kitchen is a true restaurant, a place to sit down and relax, where food is prepared by people who understand the intricacies of Persian spices and flavors. Appetizers, which all start at a surprisingly affordable $3, are delicious and unique. The hummus is topped with roma tomatoes and basil, and tastes fresher than any other around. The salsa, a colorful house signature, is made with tomatoes and three blends of chili peppers, and the steamed spinach dip borani is an Iranian twist on the American version, with fresh herbs, garlic and yogurt. But the standout starter may just be CKK’s eggplant. Prepared differently from region to region, here at CKK it is grilled and sautéed, then topped with kashk (similar to sour cream), a touch of mint and onion. It is a taste that’s both exotic and comforting, and like the rest of the starters, it’s served with warm pita bread. The main events are the kabobs. The boneless chicken is lean and tender, yellow from the saffron and herbs with which it is flame broiled. There is also chicken koobideh, a seasoned, ground fillet that is mashed and cooked on a skewer, and Cornish hen. For beef fans, the kabob is made with skewered and marinated filet mignon, and the minced koobideh with USDA choice ground beef seasoned with spices. There are also kabobs with fresh white fish or Scottish salmon, both marinated in saffron and broiled. These entrees are served with fluffy white Basmati rice or a colorful garden salad with olive oil and a touch of garlic. But for a dollar or two more, diners can explore CKK’s specialty rice dishes, and these are well worth the small charge. Baghali polo is a wonderful mix with dill and lima beans; the rich albaloo polo is mixed with sweetened sour cherries; zereskh polo finds saffron and barberries (little red berries that play into many Iranian wedding dishes); and the adas polo with lentils, raisins and dates — the fruits of traditional Iranian farming. If you watch the regulars, they’re not just eating kabobs. They’re ordering from a quartet of house
RESTAURANT
Traditional
Japanese C u i s i n e
SUSHI I SASHIMI I MASUBI UDON I TEMPURA I RAMEN YAKITORI I SOBA I CURRY stews on the menu — true Persian specialties. The gormeh sabzi has beef and red kidney beans, with sautéed fresh cilantro, green onion, parsley and the herb fenugreek (storied in the Middle East for its medicinal properties). If diners want something more portable, most of the aforementioned proteins — boneless chicken, minced beef and chicken koobideh — also appear in sandwich form, wrapped in Persian bread with diced tomato, basil, pickle and the house-made dressing. There are entree salads too: mixed greens topped by veggie or chicken kabobs, and in a tip of the hat to other cuisines, a Caesar, a Greek and a Chinese chicken salad made with the restaurant’s signature poultry. CKK offers free local delivery, and for customers who snag the loading zone parking spot just outside, the staff will rush the to-go orders and make sure hurried customers are in and out in minutes. Online orders are available for even faster service. CKK continues to strive for quality and excellence, as evidenced by its recent collection of accolades: It won Grub Hub’s 2013 Golden Grub Award; was named a top-rated restaurant by Eat 24; and was voted “Best Middle Eastern” food by the Downtown News. At 141 W. 11th St., (213) 747-9500 or ckkabob.com. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Cuisine: Persian $$
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Full Bar
Happy Hour: Tues.–Sat. 5pm to 8pm
All You Can Eat Buffet
Featuring crispy tempura, fresh sushi, chicken teriyaki and much more. Lunch: 11am - 3pm : $8.50 Dinner: 5pm - 9pm: $10
Downtowns Best Karaoke Starts Every Night from 9pm 122 Japanese Village Plaza
Easy-In, Easy-Out, Validated Parking 213.628.2678 | www.OIWAKE.com
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos by Gary Leonard
Cities Restaurant and Lounge
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ust east of Downtown Los Angeles is a hidden gem tucked away in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Its name is fitting, because this casually elegant restaurant and lounge draws patrons from cities across the basin, whether it be for the gourmet New American cuisine, the live jazz trio on Saturdays, or perhaps dancing the night away in the hip lounge. Inside, Cities is a lovely mix of modern and rustic, with dark wood finishes, white tablecloths, exposed brick walls and high wooden trussed ceilings. The effect is warm and chic, creating a space that welcomes visitors inside. Take your pick of venues, from the sparkling formal dining room, to the lounging areas with leather sofas and pillows, or the separate space for private parties. A good place to start is with a cocktail at the full bar, where you can relax with friends or catch a game on one of the large flat screen TVs. Happy hour is one of the most reasonable in town, and specials on cocktails and appetizers abound — get half off wine bottles every Wednesday. Don’t miss Cities’ legendary micheladas, a house specialty drink that blends Mexican beer, lime juice, hot
sauce and Worcestershire with a salted rim — it’s heaven in a glass and you’ll crave more than one. During warm evenings, take your cocktail out to the inviting patio, where you can sprawl out on the comfortable furniture after work. The menu offers plenty of options that pair well with wine and cocktails. If you want something to whet your appetite, standout starters include the refreshing passion fruit ceviche, with chunks of ahi tuna, plump shrimp, cucumber and citrus juices. The Kobe beef sliders with aioli are a meaty option, or you can go with the fried green tomatoes with Fourme d’Ambert blue cheese dressing. The addicting bacon wrapped dates drizzled with tamarind honey sauce will fast become a favorite, as will the perfectly seared scallops with tomatillo and jalapeño puree. For lunch or dinner, the menu tempts with a trio of American Kobe burgers on a brioche bun served with garlic fries. The signature Cities Burger is made with aged white cheddar, applewood smoked bacon and piled high with lettuce, tomato and house spread. The barbecue version adds tangy bourbon sauce and crispy onions, while
the wild mushroom burger melds gooey brie with peppery arugula. The half sandwich combos are popular at lunch, with choices like the brie panini with prosciutto, pear and walnuts, the pastrami Reuben, or the salmon burger. Standout salad selections include the Caprese with grilled vegetables, the Cobb, Greek or watermelon. Entrees are a serious affair at Cities, and you’ll be hard-pressed to choose just one for dinner. Customers can’t resist the chipotle braised short ribs on a bed of mashed potatoes with glazed carrots and draped with a heavenly red wine demi glace. The blackened wild mahi mahi is a creative assemblage served with a jalapeño polenta cake, zucchini relish and Creole beurre blanc. For pure comfort, there’s the pork rib loin chop with apple butter and bacon bread pudding, or the chilirubbed flank steak topped with pepper jack fondue. Carb lovers will adore the chipotle fettuccini in garlic cream sauce, or perhaps prawn carbonara with bacon, lardons, sweet peas and pecorino. Saturday nights bring an excellent jazz trio, making it the perfect evening when you add cocktails and dinner. At 10 p.m. the dining room morphs into a dance floor where you can show off your moves while the DJ spins till 2 a.m. Cities is also a popular venue for parties and other special events, and the restaurant can accommodate up to 100 people. With its gourmet menu, warm vibe and stunning setting, Cities is the ideal choice for a night on the town. At 4512 E. Cesar E. Chavez Ave., (323) 5264555 or citiesflavor.com. Open Mon. 5 p.m.12 a.m., Tues.-Wed. 11:30 a.m.-12 a.m., Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., Sat. 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Cuisine: New American $$
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DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 33
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Public School 612
Daily Grill
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his gastropub has embarked on a noble mission: To educate patrons in the “art of food and beer.” While there are a handful of beercentric watering holes Downtown, Public School 612 puts a cheeky spin on the tasty trend with a trip down memory lane. For starters, the stylish bar takes cues from the tiled halls of high school, and the industrial swivel stools could have been pulled from a chemistry class. The whimsical menu mimics a black-andwhite composition book, while the napkins look like ruled paper. But make no mistake, there’s not a school cafeteria in the country with the kind of gourmet eats — and drinks — you’ll find here. Beer and food get equal billing, and each selection complements the other. There are nearly two dozen beers on tap as well as an assortment of bottles and cans — initially developed by “Beer Chick” expert Hallie Beaune. The bartenders and servers are knowledgeable and friendly, removing the snobbery one can often encounter when ordering a craft beer (you can even sign up for beer tasting classes). The menu lists a glossary of beer terminology to further demystify the ordering process. With domestic and foreign beers categorized under American History, Semester Abroad and Study Group (beers to split with friends). A few of the notable selections include a Belgian-style Allagash White from Portland, the Craftsman 1903 lager from Pasadena and the Unibroue Ephemere hailing from Quebec. The menu also features a selection of hand-crafted signature cocktails. While the bartender can offer pairing suggestions, you really can’t go wrong with any of the luscious food coming out of the kitchen. For munchies, the hand-cut brown bag fries can be dipped in Sriracha ketchup and mustard barbecue sauce, or you can nibble on a plate of speck &
34 DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM
eggs, or deviled eggs, topped with a slice of crispy prosciutto. Another popular choice is the cutting board, a wood slab spread with a selection of artisan cheese and cured meats. The crispy naked wings are sublime, as is the wild mushroom and taleggio lavash — both are great for sharing. For heartier appetites, the juicy Colorado lamb burger with tomato cranberry jam and gooey brie is a must; and the 1903 fish and chips satisfies with its remoulade sauce and a good dousing of malt vinegar. And if you still crave an afterschool snack, be sure to try the L.A. street dog. PS 612 is the ideal post-work hangout. The scene is lively yet unpretentious, and it’s centrally located in the Financial District. Happy hour, or Recess as it’s called here, is one of the best in Downtown. Patrons will find a daily $4 handle of draft, and stellar food specials for $2, $4 and $6. On Sundays, the deals stick around all day, which means you won’t mind racking up some extra credit. At 612 S. Flower St., (213) 623-1172 or publicschool612.com. Open daily 4-11 p.m. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. (all day Sunday). Cuisine: Gastropub $$
$$
$$$ photo courtesy of Daily Grill
Public School 612
his Downtown staple grinds its beef twice daily — an unheard of practice in most restaurants — producing the ultimate, freshest burgers around. Each half-pound Angus patty is hand-formed and grilled to perfection. It’s a toothsome creation that speaks to the culinary excellence of the Daily Grill. Since opening eight years ago, this popular Downtown outpost has served a tried-and-true menu of American favorites to locals and visitors. From home-style meatloaf and pork chops to its famed chicken pot pie and seasonal cobblers, dining at Daily Grill is comfort at its best. The interior is warm, casually elegant and inviting, with white tablecloths, dark wood finishes and black and white photos. Service is impeccable, which is part of the reason this eatery maintains a devoted following. Lunch bustles with diners who come for the large selection of entree salads like the grilled skirt steak and classic Cobb, as well as house-made soup and sandwich specials, satisfying pastas and the aforementioned burgers. Daily Grill has also created a new low-calorie menu dubbed Simply 600, with options such as a turkey club, chicken meatballs with angel hair pasta, Southwest chicken taco salad and Moroccan chicken. Dinner brings heartier fare such as crispy Tuscan brick chicken, jumbo lump crab cakes, and New York strip steak served with addicting shoestring fries. You can’t go wrong, whether you grab a burger after work or linger over a glass of wine at dinner. At 612 S. Flower St., (213) 622-4500 or dailygrill.com. Open weekdays 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 5-10 p.m. Cuisine: American Contemporary
ORIGINAL
Our authentic Polynesian cuisine gives you a direct sense of Hawaii. Come experience and indulge in our traditional dishes featuring our world famous Chinese Wood Fired Oven while refreshing yourself with an exotic, tropical cocktail.
Fine Dining • Exotic Drinks • Tidbits & PuPus • Desserts Happy Hour • Pre & Post Game/Event Dining Group Dining • Banquet Room
Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday Hours
LUNCH: Mon - Fri: 11:30 AM - 3 PM DINNER: Mon - Thu: 5 PM - 10 PM, Fri - Sat: 5 PM - 11 PM, Sun: 4 PM - 9 PM LOUNGE: Mon - Fri: 11:30 AM - Close, Sat: 12 PM - Close, Sun: 3 PM - Close HAPPY HOUR: Mon - Fri: 3 PM - 6 PM LATE NITE HH: Sun - Thur: 10 PM - Close
800 West Olympic, #A120 Los Angeles, CA 90015 213.785.3330 www.tradervicsla.com
Make Your Reservation Now at 213.785.3330 or on OpenTable.com
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Palm Restaurant
Nick’s Cafe
photos courtesy of Palm Restaurant
1300 N. Spring St.
Across from LA Historic Park
Breakfast & Lunch Mon-Fri 5:30am-3pm Sat-Sun 6:30am-4pm
323-222-1450 NicksCafeLA.com facebook.com/NicksCafe Look for us on Yelp! Since 1948
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he Palm’s philosophy is simple: Treat guests like family, serve great food and always exceed expectations. This philosophy was born in 1926, when Pio Bozzi and John Ganzi opened the original Palm at 837 Second Ave., on the Upper Eastside of Manhattan. The original menu was strictly Italian, but grew into the famous Prime steakhouse that is known for its friendly, attentive service — “A customer wanted a steak, we would run down to the corner butcher and cook it to order.” In 1975 and three generations later, the Palm Restaurant was brought to Hollywood by grandsons Wally Ganzi and Bruce Bozzi. The West Hollywood Palm quickly became the place to see-and-be-seen, and countless celebrities and a who’s who list of L.A. luminaries adorn the famous cartoon and caricature driven walls. The tradition began at the original Palm during the Depression when local artists and cartoonists would draw their own creations on the walls in exchange for a meal. In 2002, Palm opened its second California location, in Downtown’s South Park located across from the landmark Staples Center, home to the Lakers, Clippers and Kings. At a time when new business in Downtown was scarce, the Palm helped spearhead the revitalization of Downtown L.A. Eleven years later, it is still a favorite venue before or after a game. Here, you will find caricatures signed by Laker superstars Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson and Shaquille O’Neal, actor Liam Neeson and Producer Dick Wolf. The Palm Downtown boasts two levels of dining, an expansive outdoor patio, five private dining rooms, two full bars and the finest and friendliest staff to serve the needs of each guest. A classic American steakhouse, the Palm features USDA Prime steaks, succulent jumbo Nova Scotia lobsters, and Italian family recipes such as chicken parmigiana, veal marsala, and linguine
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Nick’s Famous Ham Steak and clam sauce. Premium seafood is delivered fresh daily and signature side dishes like Creamed Spinach and the Palm’s famous Half & Half (cottage fries and fried onions) are a must. But don’t stop there. The restaurant’s famous cheesecake is flown in directly from New York, and who could deny themselves a warm bag of doughnuts served with raspberry and chocolate dipping sauces. The Palm’s new lunch menu features fresh salads, chilled and grilled sandwiches, 12-ounce Prime Steak burgers and a three-course Power Lunch with choice of starter, entree and dessert for $25.90 (Valet parking is complimentary). The Palm is “a party that’s been going strong for four generations,” the perfect spot for a business lunch, a get-together before the game, or any special occasion to be shared with family and friends. At 1100 S. Flower St., across from Staples Center and L.A. Live, (213) 763-4600 or thepalm.com/ los-angeles-downtown. Serving lunch weekdays 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner served Mon.-Thurs. 3-10 p.m., Fri. 3-11 p.m., Sat. 5-11 p.m. and Sun. 59:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Cuisine: Steakhouse $$
$$$
Great Burgers Vienna Beef Hot Dogs Weekend Benedicts Open 7 Days a Week
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Far Bar
Far Bar
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he Far Bar has come a long way since opening in 2005. What started out as a modest cocktail bar has now morphed into a haven for serious craft beer drinkers with some 40 taps dedicated to great brews. What’s more, the Far Bar’s kitchen is whipping up gourmet gastropub cuisine with an Asian-fusion twist. It’s a winning combination that has helped create a new and loyal clientele for this storied Little Tokyo landmark. Located in the historic Far East Building, the Far East Cafe (as it was known then) opened in the 1930s and quickly became the place for family and community gatherings. It drew both immigrants and politicians, along with a string of notables like gangster Mickey Cohen and actress Anna May Wong to its curtained booths. In 1994 the Northridge earthquake forced the restaurant’s closure, and for more than a decade the iconic vertical “Chop Suey” neon sign was the only reminder of the cafe’s long history. In 2002, the Little Tokyo Service Center began a $4 million restoration project, bringing back the Far East Cafe along with affordable housing and a community center. In 2006, the restaurant reopened as the Chop Suey Cafe and Lounge. Today, the space operates as the Far Bar, packing in new generations to enjoy a piece of history with a cocktail and side of wasabi fries. Part of the Far Bar’s allure is its near-secret entrance. Look for the clapboard sign and enter through a narrow alleyway tucked between two buildings that leads to the bar’s charming brick
patio strung with twinkling white lights and paper lanterns. It’s a slice of L.A. that time forgot, a romantic high-walled retreat perfect for relaxing after work with a craft beer or specialty drink (like a bacon Old-Fashioned) from the busy bar inside. Among the taps are some fine choices, like the Tokyo Pale Ale, Hitachino Nest White Ale and Angel City Eureka Wit, or sample from any of the special flights. Of course, beer drinking requires some tasty accompaniments, and the appetizers here are the ideal place to start. Crowd favorites include the aforementioned fries tossed in garlic and drizzled with wasabi aioli, the fried mac and cheese lollipops or the addicting Ming’s Wings rubbed with Asian spices. The Far Bar tacos make the ideal plate to share with friends and come three to an order with Asian slaw and pickled jalapeños (choose from Sapporo-braised short rib, sake pork or spiced shrimp). The half-pound Angus burgers are the restaurant’s specialty, with almost a dozen creative versions. There’s the signature Far Bar burger on a brioche bun with smoked gouda, grilled onions and miso mayo, the Mongolian lamb burger with crispy wontons, or the exotic wild boar burger with caramelized onions and Asian pear butter. The spicy tuna burger is a lighter but still tasty option with seared ahi, Asian greens, pickled ginger and wasabi aioli. Don’t miss the third-pound Kobe beef hot dog, a decadent meal you can top with bacon, caramelized onion, tomatoes, crispy Okinawa yams and miso sauce. The menu also offers several hearty entrees, including a 12-ounce New York steak, lamb chops with Israeli couscous, crispy striped bass with
sunchoke puree, seafood pasta with Korean cream sauce, bacon fried rice with char shu pork, and a bulgogi beef bowl with kimchi and a fried egg. Diners can get their sushi fix too with the Far Bar’s menu of handmade rolls. Enjoy a pint while catching comedy night or perhaps a live music act on the patio and take advantage of the unbeatable happy hour prices on burgers and appetizers. With its fascinating history and modern appeal, Far Bar is an L.A. treasure that will continue to serve as a gathering place for generations to come. At 347 E. First St., (213) 617-9990 or farbarla. com. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-2 a.m., weekends 10 a.m.-2 a.m. Happy hour weekdays 3-7 p.m., weekend brunch 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cuisine: Asian Fusion $$
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DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 37
photo courtesy of El Paseo Inn Restaurant
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
El Paseo Inn Restaurant
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here is history in every corner of this Olvera Street restaurant — from its old days as a winery (and a soda pop factory during Prohibition), to the years when an enormous dance floor on the premises was filled with folklorico dancers and a full Latin orchestra. Today, El Paseo is one of the area’s most popular restaurants, boasting a sheltered patio with a view of the street’s shops, the live mariachi performers, and one of Los Angeles’ oldest bars — so old it’s actually designated a historical landmark. El Paseo is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an expansive menu of traditional Mexican favorites. There are combinations and solo plates filled with chile rellenos; chicken and enchiladas in the restaurant’s molé sauce; sizzling fajitas; and the best-selling chile verde, succulent roast pork simmered in green chile sauce. But these hearty dishes are just the start. There’s a huge T.J. Caesar salad, which tips its hat to the famed salad created by Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico, and tostadas filled with beef or chicken. There are also a handful of soups, which many local Mexican restaurants offer only on the weekends, including a filling meatball; a tortilla soup (the recipe was given to the restaurant by the chief of the Gucci Indians, according to lore); and a spicy caldo de camarones, with prawns cooked in guajillo broth. Accompanying everything are handmade tortillas, and if you dare, a 48-ounce Camacho margarita, named for the restaurant family that owns this and several other popular Mexican eateries. At 11 E. Olvera St., (213) 626-1361 or elpaseoinn.com. Become a fan on Facebook or follow on Twitter. Open Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Live mariachi on Saturdays and Sundays. Cuisine: Mexican $$ (weekend) $$ $$
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Maccheroni Republic
Maccheroni Republic
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ean Louis De Mori and Antonio Tommasi opened their first Italian restaurant together in Los Angeles — Locanda Veneta — almost 25 years ago. Since then, they have traveled culinary paths both separately and together, but are now bringing their collective experience back to a humble place that reflects their roots. Maccheroni Republic is their new artisan pasta concept that calls an up-and-coming section of Downtown’s Broadway home. De Mori and Tommasi have created an intimate space that is reminiscent of the true osterias of Italy, with an exposed brick wall, antiques peppered with personal mementos, and a charming outdoor patio. Like a true osteria, it is a neighborhood place of warmth and camaraderie that provides respite from the chaos of daily life — a simple place to share a meal and quality time with friends and family. The menu contains many of Italy’s most popular pasta specialties, and other favorites like gnocchi, risotto and polenta, for which they provide a daily special. The tripe soup (trippa con passatelli) has quickly become a favorite, as well as the house made nduja, a delicious, spicy, spreadable sausage. Those with dietary restrictions or preferences will be pleased to find a variety of vegetarian and glutenfree options to choose from including an earthy porcini risotto. Most dishes are offered for under $15, an added advantage in today’s economy. Daily trips to the local markets provide the best fresh, local fare the seasons have to offer and determine the specials each day, which provide
an ongoing opportunity for unhampered creativity. Perfecting the simplicity of traditional Italian dishes is really the true art and sophistication the partners wish to achieve. “After years of chasing culinary sophistication and success, we found ourselves yearning for the simplicity of home,” De Mori says. Contrary to popular belief, true fresh Italian pasta is light and happily leaves the diner room for dessert. Maccheroni Republic offers homemade desserts daily, which will likely make you rethink what you have come to know about popular Italian staples such as tiramisu or crema di vagnilia. Finish your meal with a freshly brewed espresso and your Italian experience will be complete. From their rich culinary roots of Italy, De Mori and Tommasi are striving to bring the delicious, simple and social pleasure of Italian cuisine to Downtown Los Angeles. At 332 S. Broadway, (213) 346-9725. Open weekdays 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5:30-10 p.m., Sat. 5:30-10 p.m. Cuisine: Italian $$ $$ (Sat. Only) DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 39
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Angel City Brewery
The Pie Hole
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Head brewer Dieter Foerstner heads the production at Angel City, and hails from Arizona where he worked as head brewmaster for Gordon Biersch. Brewing began in April 2012, and eventually eight beers will be available on tap. Already, two beers have been released to rave reviews. Eureka! Wit is a California-style white beer reminiscent of the Belgians so popular in L.A. — but brewed for the California palate with a grapefruit hop aroma and flavor. It’s golden-hued, citrusy, light bodied and full flavored. Angeleno IPA is hopped with Citra, Nelson, Simcoe and Nugget to make the perfect treat for hop heads. Beer lovers will also find an excellent lineup of revolving Angel City brews on draft, including a number of beers exclusively available at the brewery. The bar also sells the popular growler — a half-gallon glass jug that allows you to fill up and take your fresh brew home to enjoy. Angel City Brewery has become part of the brewing renaissance of Downtown L.A. by bringing OldWorld, small-batch, craft brewing to the emerging Arts District. At 216 S. Alameda St., (213) 622-1261 or angelcitybrewery.com. Open Thurs.-Fri. 4-10 p.m., Fri. 4-10 p.m., Sat. 1-10 p.m., and Sun. 1-8 p.m. (Check website for extended hours beginning Summer 2013). Cuisine: Brewery $
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et’s talk crust. Tender, crispy, flaky, buttery pie crust. The kind that makes you ache for grandma and reminisce about bake sales, nickel coffee and luncheonette counters. It’s the heavenly foundation for everything at The Pie Hole, whether it be the sky-high meringue and mouth-puckering lemon filling or the other-worldly maple custard that leaves you craving more. This Arts District’s eatery has struck a serious chord with L.A.’s pie-loving populace, resurrecting the nostalgic tradition of the neighborhood pie shop — with a modern twist, of course. The simple seasonal menu features just pie, both savory and sweet, along with their very own Pie Hole organic coffee, roasted to match their pies. It’s all made from scratch and ingredients are sourced locally. The shop’s cobalt blue exterior leads into a stark white space set with rustic wood tables, a display case of pies and rolls of butcher paper unfurled to reveal the day’s offerings written in black marker. There are hand pies, pot pies, pie bars and slices, served simply on a white plate with a square of kraft paper beneath. It all serves as a modest backdrop for the main attraction. There are favorites like the aforementioned maple custard, a rich but not overly sweet creation full of caramelized goodness, and the Mexican chocolate pie with its perfect graham cracker crust, chocolate-cinnamon filling and clouds of hand-whipped cream flecked with coffee. Depending on the season, customers can sample the delicate Earl Grey cream pie, a lovely grapefruit meringue or decadent peanut butter cream topped with dark chocolate on a crust of crushed salted pretzels. Savory pies tempt with options such as the steak and ale pot pie, the mushroom spinach pie or the signature mac and cheese hand pie. At 714 Traction Ave., (213) 537-0115, thepieholela.com or twitter:@thepieholela. Open Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., and Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (or until sold out). Cuisine: American $
$ photo courtesy of The Pie Hole
photos by Angel City Brewery
owntown has been abuzz over the long-awaited opening of the Angel City Brewery this spring, an arrival that has helped to cement the Central City’s reputation as a craft beer hub. Founded in 1997, the brewery started modestly but quickly became a leader in the L.A. craft beer scene. In 2004, Angel City bought an 8,000-barrel German-made brewery in Alpine Village near Los Angeles on Ebay, and lovingly restored the facility. In late 2010, Angel City relocated the brewery to the century-old John A. Roebling Building in Downtown’s Arts District. The vision was, and remains, to give the city a great brewery. In 2011, Angel City Brewery was acquired by Alchemy & Science, a craft beer collaboration led by Alan Newman and Stacey Steinmetz, formerly of Magic Hat Brewing Company. As part of the brewery restoration project, the 27,000-square-foot space has been revamped to include a bar and beer garden, an event space, retail store and brewery tours. Touches of the warehouse’s industrial past remain intact, most notably the whimsical winding slide descending from the second floor — it was once used to transport wire cable. The cavernous space features a curvy, illuminated bar outfitted with Art Deco touches, where beer aficionados quaff their pints next to towering stainless steel tanks producing the very brews coming out of the taps. There’s communal seating at picnic tables, which creates a sense of camaraderie among patrons. Angel City also serves as part gallery for local artists who display their work throughout the venue. While there is no kitchen onsite, Angel City welcomes visitors to bring their own eats from local restaurants or even a picnic from home. There is also a rotating lineup of gourmet food trucks in the parking lot on any given day, which means you can get a bacon hot dog, Angus burger or even a kimchee taco if you’re lucky.
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Guisados photos courtesy of Guisados
Two Bits Market is
produce sourced from local farms.
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acos are like sunny days in Los Angeles — there are a lot of them. So when a taqueria gathers momentum in this town, it means something. Guisados was born in Boyle Heights, just east of Downtown. The menu was inspired by traditional Mexican braised meats and vegetables (or “guisados”). The owner’s brother has a bakery that makes the masa for the tortillas daily — a perfect foundation for those scoops of stewed goodness. Good word of mouth and food critic acclaim led to thriving business, so another Guisados opened this year in Echo Park. This second location has a rare L.A. parking lot, a cozy outdoor patio, and a sunny room of indoor tables. The bulk of the cooking still happens in Boyle Heights — busy employees shuttle over masa and meats from the home base throughout the day — but the very helpful staff onsite plates the tacos and helps customers determine spiciness. The menu’s the same too, though Echo Park’s hipsters order more fish and veggie options. It’s the flavors — familiar and new, at the same time — that continue to lure people into the Guisados fold. There are spices and kicks and textures that just don’t show up in the city’s thousand other carne asada or al pastor or carnitas tacos. Tender chicken is stewed in a smoky molé poblano with crunchy sesame and pumpkin seeds. Slow-roasted pork varieties include chicharron, chorizo, chuleta en salsa verde, and cochinita pibil. People who order the latter choose their spice level from a 1 to 10 scale, and newcomers would be wise to go low — the habanero burn is not for a wimpy palette. Vegetarians have options at Guisados too. The calabacitas tacos — stewed squash, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions and kernels of sweet corn — are so good that meat eaters cross over to the light side to order them. There are also hongos, mushrooms, sautéed with onion and cilantro.
Each day, there are about a dozen varieties of tacos listed on the chalkboard by the register. By far the most common order is the sampler — which combines six of the most popular chicken, beef, and pork varieties (but can be switched out with veggie options too). Until you’ve worked your way through the menu, this is the way to go. In plastic jugs behind the counter sit the restaurant’s other secret weapon: a handful of homemade agua frescas. These fresh juices include tart red jamaica, melon, and horchata with a cinnamon snap that’s more pronounced than at other Mexican restaurants in the city. With the Echo Park location, the father and son team that runs the restaurants have a second hit on their hands — and a third location is planned at the Downtown Spring Arcade Building later this year. There’s a new taco sheriff in town, and it’s called Guisados. At 2100 E. Cesar Chavez Ave., (323) 264-7201. Open Mon.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. At 1261 W. Sunset Blvd., (213) 2507600. Open Mon.-Thurs. 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 10:30 a.m.5 p.m. Coming soon to 541 S. Spring St. Visit guisados.co. Cuisine: Mexican $
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DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 41
photo by Gary Leonard
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Frying Fish
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hile there are numerous sushi joints in Little Tokyo, Frying Fish has carved out a niche. The dining experience here is literally a moveable feast for the senses, as a rotating conveyor belt speeds inventive rolls, fresh cuts of sashimi, seaweed salads and other delectable goodies before your eyes. This unique restaurant features a 29-seat counter, where you can pick and choose menu items from the comfort of your stool. In the center of the activity, master sushi chefs slice, dice and wrap colorful creations as they joke with customers and keep the experience lively. Among the favorites are the Palm Springs roll, an oversized combination of scallop, eel and vegetables, and the tempura hand roll, a delicious surprise that marries hot, crisp shrimp or salmon tempura with avocado, green onion and rice. Frying Fish has several cooked fish delicacies, such as green mussels baked with Japanese mayonnaise and topped with minced chives; broiled neck of yellowtail or salmon, both incredibly tender and moist; and the Dynamite — a broiled mixture of diced scallop, mushroom, shrimp, smelt egg and mayonnaise. Nothing lasts very long, so your best bet is to be adventurous and grab whatever catches your eye. At the end of the meal, a waitress will calculate the bill by counting the number and color of serving dishes you’ve piled up. Validated parking is available at Japanese Village Plaza mall, accessible off Central Avenue (a block west of Alameda), or ride the “A” DASH bus to Central Avenue. At 120 Japanese Village Plaza, (213) 6800567. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cuisine: Japanese $$
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$$
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of The Flying Pig Café
The Flying Pig Café
LUncH DinneR FULL BAR
HAPPY HOUR
3pm to 7pm & 10pm to Close HOURS
Mon - Wed 11am to 11pm Thurs - Fri 11am to 2am
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or several years, tracking the Flying Pig truck’s whereabouts was a serious L.A. pursuit. Chef and owner Joe Kim combined a Le Cordon Bleu training pedigree with quick, cheap food truck culture, and the result was spectacular. Where that magical pink truck rumbled, Twitter surges, long lines, and food critic buzz followed. He fed his fans melt-in-their-mouth pork buns and duck tacos, and he made them not only try, but fall in love with, peanut butter carnitas. Two years ago, he laid down some restaurant roots in Little Tokyo, a neighborhood that has turned into a dynamic food scene — dozens of sushi and ramen joints alongside hip vanguards. The interior is cozy, with that signature happy pig making a couple of appearances, along with a giant screen TV and equally giant chalk board decorated with Chinese characters. The restaurant has kept the same perfect little tacos and buns that the Flying Pig truck made famous — but don’t mistake “little” to mean “not filling” — a couple of buns is a meal. Inside the tortillas and puffy buns are scoops of tender pork and tamarind duck, playing with vegetables like oranges and green papaya, and sauces that merge Kim’s Asian, French and Latin American food interests. A permanent location for the Flying Pig may eliminate the old thrill of finding the truck, but it also does away with the long lines, and provides tables and chairs instead of curbs. Most importantly, it frees up the fusion-minded Kim to explore bigger and more complicated plates with the help of newly hired Executive Chef Brandon Corby (who trained at the Culinary Institute of America in High Park New York and high-end kitchens in New York and China). Together, they’re focusing on Asian comfort food that incorporates local produce and humanely raised animal products —
with the Flying Pig twist, of course. There are luxurious treats like the duck-fat fried brown rice (with bacon, shishito pepper, scallop, and shitake), lobster mac-and-cheese, Vietnameseinspired shrimp and grits, and the restaurant’s spin on the classic French Canadian poutine — this one with crispy spiced pork belly, Kennebec potatoes, spicy gravy and cheddar. The entrees, or big plates, are truly big, with generous portions meant to satisfy your pig-like hunger. The “osso porco” has soy-braised pork shank with a hominy gratin and yuzu salad, while the L.A.co Moco is a riff on the Hawaiian favorite with rice, short rib chili, a fried egg and beef patties. The weekday happy hour from 5-7 p.m. is a hidden gem: great craft beer (the origins of which span the globe) and $5 food specials that comprise what’s arguably the most interesting bar menu in town — don’t miss the classic tacos (duck, spicy pork, carne asada, crunchy tofu or smoked chicken) or fish and chips with black vinegar tartar sauce and taro chips. Kim apparently likes the permanence and menu opportunity of a restaurant: He’s opening a second Flying Pig Café in the FIGat7th food court this spring. Because he anticipates a big lunch crowd that visits frequently, he’ll expand and rotate his menu more than in Little Tokyo. But the tacos and the buns — rest assured, they’ll be there. At 141 S. Central Ave. and 735 S. Figueroa St., (213) 621-0300 or flyingpigcafela.com. Open Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Cuisine: Asian Fusion $$
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Weiland Underground Brewery @ City National Plaza 505 S. Flower St. I 213.622.1125 VALIDATED PARKING 90 min. FREE @ Lunch After 5pm $3 Flat Rate
DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 43
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photo courtesy of Langer’s
Chimney Coffee House
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photos courtesy of Chimney Coffee House
ituated on an unassuming block a stone’s throw away from Union Station and Los Angeles State Historic Park, Chimney Coffee House exemplifies Los Angeles as a city full of hidden treasures. One look inside the artisan coffee house’s warm yet vaguely industrial-chic interior, complete with a red brick wall and stone tables, and you’ll feel transported to the Pacific Northwest, by way of Main and Alameda streets. Each morning, hungry and caffeine-deprived patrons are greeted by Chimney’s friendly, knowledgeable baristas, eager to serve up expertly crafted coffee. A rotating selection of Third Wave Coffee roasters is featured every month, ranging from L.A.’s very own Handsome Coffee Roasters, to San Diego’s Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, to Durham’s Counter Culture. Each cup of single origin coffee is ground and brewed to order via Kalita Wave pour-over method. Espressobased drinks are prepared freshly and with great attention to flavor. There’s also something for the non-coffee drinkers such as the delicious hot chocolate or matcha green tea latte. Retail bags of whole bean coffee from the featured roasters are available for purchase in store for those that want to brew their own cup at home. A cup of impeccably brewed coffee is complemented by Chimney’s delectable pastries, made in-house from scratch daily. The flaky, buttery bacon Nutella croissant strikes a fine balance between sweet and savory while the chocolate croissant is a decadent classic. The Shibuya-inspired, milkinfused brick toast is offered in a variety of flavors such as matcha green tea and cinnamon apple, each with its own homemade flavored butter and served with a scoop of Fosselman’s ice cream. The housemade granola is a healthy option featuring pumpkin seeds, oats, and golden raisins and is served either as a snack by itself or with a side of milk. Breakfast sandwiches made with a choice of sausage, bacon, or veggie patty and the house-made
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Langer’s DelicatessenRestaurant
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wheat bread are available to jump start your day. For lunch, favorites such as the grilled havarti sandwich and house-made tomato soup combo, turkey and Swiss panini, and Black Forest ham wrap are served. For those looking for something on the lighter side, there are full-sized seasonal salads. Take a step off the beaten path and discover one of Los Angeles’ true culinary diamonds in the rough. With its emphasis on handcrafted foods and artisanal coffee in a colorful, unexpected locale, Chimney Coffee House may be the most pleasant surprise you’ll encounter east of Downtown. At 1100 N. Main St., Ste B, (323) 343-0030 or chimneycoffee.com. Open weekdays 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cuisine: American $
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ou know you’ve reached legend status when your restaurant’s signature item is so good that people simply refer to it as the #19 — tender pastrami, coleslaw, Swiss cheese and tangy Russian dressing on mind-blowing rye bread. It’s perfection between two slices. Since founder Al Langer created this sandwich masterpiece, it has become one of those storied L.A. traditions that is passed down from generation to generation. The pastrami at Langer’s Delicatessen is known world-wide, and is consistently ranked among the best in the country. Last year, this family-owned Jewish deli celebrated its 65th anniversary. When Langer’s first opened, there were about a dozen seats. Today there are 135, though the vintage appeal has remained virtually unchanged — wood paneling, upholstered booths, and coveted counter stools. Many of the friendly servers have worked here for decades, becoming part of the Langer’s family. In true deli fashion, the menu here is epic, starting with breakfast favorites like corned beef, lox and cream cheese and a chicken liver omelet. There are heavenly cheese blintzes, golden potato pancakes and soul-warming matzo ball soup. Specials feature grilled liver and onions, roast brisket and a half-dozen cold fish plates. Langer’s still has soda fountain favorites such as egg creams, chocolate phosphate, root beer floats and sundaes. You’ll want to save room for dessert when the options include apple pie with brandy sauce, rice custard, noodle kugel and cheesecake. From humble beginnings to a thriving business, the corner of Seventh and Alvarado streets has become the historic Langer’s Square. Through post-war growth, recession and urban blight, Langer’s reflects the story of L.A. and its indomitable spirit. At 704 N. Alvarado St., (213) 483-8050 or langersdeli.com. Open Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Cuisine: Deli $$ $$ (Sat. Only)
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
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At the Cathedral Our Lady of the Angels 555 West Temple Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 213-680-5271/5273 For all your SPECIAL EVENT needs please call The Center at Cathedral Plaza. HOURS OF OPERATION Monday-Friday 7-4 pm / Sun 7-4 pm
FriendlyWe proudly accept American Express, Discover, Visa, and Mastercard.
©2005 Levy Restaurants
“Meet me on the Plaza”… The Galero Grill Cafe, Reader’s Choice Winner
Best Midday Escape located on the Plaza Level at the Cathedral Our Lady of the Angels. A “Grab and Go” Style Café featuring: Daily Specials
Hearty Sandwiches
Gourmet Salads
Fresh Baked Goods
Homemade Soup
Starbucks
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Coffee
Hot lunch served daily till 2:00 pm.
www.levyrestaurants.com
his popular pizza chain has long been known by Downtowners for its tasty pizzas and pastas, from the original barbecue chicken with smoked gouda, red onions and cilantro, to dishes like the creative chicken tequila fettuccini. While the classics continue to draw regulars, CPK has begun to win over new converts with its adventurous new menu options. The familiar black and yellow awnings and sidewalk seating beckon hungry visitors to sit down for lunch or dinner and sample from the reinvented menu with many new items under 650 calories. The healthy quinoa and arugula salad is sure to become a new favorite with its colorful combination of asparagus, sundried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts and feta. Noteworthy entrees also include cedar plank salmon, fire-roasted chile rellenos, grilled chicken chimichurri and shrimp scampi atop zucchini fettuccini. There are tempting small plates and appetizers too, whether you opt for the tortilla spring rolls, sesame ginger chicken dumplings or the crispy mac and cheese nuggets. The gourmet salads share equal time on the menu, especially with versions like the caramelized peach with toasted pecans and gorgonzola, the Thai withatpeanut sauce or Thecrunch Galero Grill the roasted veggie with balsamic-Dijon vinaigrette. Pizzas still reign supreme at CPK, and you can get them in thin crust or original. You can’t go wrong with the classic Margherita, the roasted artichoke and spinach or the excellent pear gorAt the Cathedral Our Lady of and the Angels gonzola. The white with roasted garlic and 555pizza West Temple Street Angeles, spinach is always aLosgood bet,CAas90012 is the wild mush213-680-5271/5273 room with pesto or the California Club topped with avocado and For crisp lettuce. anneeds extraplease spicy all your SPECIALFor EVENT call Center at Cathedral Plaza. kick, don’t miss The the mouth-watering habanero HOURS OF OPERATION carnitas pizza. CPK has several pasta specials that We proudly accept American Express, Discover, tempt, from the Kung Pao spaghetti to the BologVisa, and Mastercard. nese to the jambalaya fettuccini. Beyond the pizza and pasta, diners will find a number of dishes with an international flair including the grilled chicken Caesar on focaccia and Se-
©2005 Levy Restaurants
dona tortilla soup. Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with CPK’s tantalizing selection of desserts, notably the extravagant red velvet cake, tart key lime pie, Belgian chocolate soufflé, decadent butter cake or creamy tiramisu. But CPK is more than lunch and dinner. After work it becomes the perfect spot for happy hour fun and lounging. The bar serves a full selection of cocktails (try the Asian plum martini or expertly made mojito), an extensive wine list, beers and even sangria. For parties or work events, CPK’s catering team can help plan or customize any menu to suit your needs. They even offer a tricked-out mobile kitchen for larger events. CPK is also conscientious when it comes to special dietary needs, whether diners require gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan or allergy-free meals. Downtown is lucky enough to have two locations from which to choose, so there’s no excuse not to try out one of the new entrees or stop in for a glass of wine with friends. Two locations: Wells Fargo Center, 330 S. Hope St., (213) 626-2616; and 735 S. Figueroa St., (213) 228-8500, cpk.com. Cuisine: California/Pizza $
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
FINE ITALIAN CUISINE
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Grand Café FULL BAR * FREE PARKING PATIO SEATING
Trattoria 25 is an Italian oasis in the heart of an industrial setting. Enjoy grilled salmon with Italian black risotto, homemade pizza or the signature dish, “Bigoletti Al Frutti Di Mare” or spaghetti in light tomato sauce with lobster tail, manila clams, shrimp and crab cake.
Mon-Wed 10:30am - 9pm Thur-Sat 10:30am - 10pm Dinner starts at 5pm Closed Sunday
2501 Santa Fe Ave, Vernon, CA 90058
323.587.1494 trattoria25.com
Just55minutes minutes from Just from
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DOWNTOWN
E. 25th St.
S. Santa Fe Ave.
Alameda Blvd.
Washin gton B lvd.
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Trattoria 25
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ocated at The Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza atop historic Bunker Hill in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Grand Café features California-inspired cuisine that focuses on seasonal, local ingredients with an array of choices such as spinach and mushroom egg white frittata, California French toast, burrata caprese, or pork belly melt. This authentic Downtown L.A. restaurant is a popular lunch spot for businesses surrounding the California Plaza, as well as visitors attending matinees at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Ahmanson Theater, Dorothy Chandler or those visiting MOCA. Grand Café has a comfortable bistro setting and an intimate outdoor patio overlooking magnolia trees as well as one of the many reflection pools found on California Plaza. Open daily, the cafe serves breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday and a special weekend brunch menu. Choose from one of the signature menu items or enjoy a variety of options with the popular Art of Breakfast Buffet or the rotating International Lunch Buffet. At the Omni Los Angeles Hotel, 251 S. Olive St., (213) 356-4155. Open weekdays 6:30 a.m.3 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. $5 valet parking with validation. Cuisine: International $$
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os Angeles fine dining is showcased at Noé Restaurant at The Omni Los Angeles Hotel, voted Best Romantic Restaurant by L.A. Times Readers Choice Awards. A sophisticated yet relaxed dining oasis in the midst of Downtown, Executive Chef Glen Ishii’s delectable Neo Bistro cuisine features fresh, high-quality products to define his frequently rotating menu. Dinner features an elegant array of seasonal and market-driven dishes. Start with the roasted artichoke and asparagus salad with Humboldt Fog cheese and almonds or tuna sashimi with ginger relish and seaweed pearls. For the main course, perhaps a seafood entree such as the Stress Free Snapper with geoduck clam and shimeji mushrooms and herb broth or the Maine lobster carbonara with tagliatelle pasta and smoked pancetta. Heartier options include the miso-marinated duck breast with grilled apple and arugula or the vintage ribeye with caramelized shallots and truffle essence. Savvy diners have long flocked to this Downtown gem, both for an after-work cocktail or an elegant dinner. Whether seated at the spectacular outdoor patio flanked by Downtown’s sleek high rises, or inside the warm and tranquil dining room, Noé Restaurant and Bar provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. At the Omni Los Angeles Hotel, 251 S. Olive St., (213) 356-4100. Open Sun.-Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11 p.m. Bar open daily 3 p.m.-2 a.m. $5 valet parking with validation. Cuisine: Neo Bistro $$$ photo courtesy of Omni Los Angeles Hotel
Italian restaurant in the heart of Vernon
Noé Restaurant and Bar
photo courtesy of Omni Los Angeles Hotel
Trattoria 25
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Localita and the Badasserie
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t just 80 square feet, this diminutive takeout spot packs a lot of punch with its spunky vegan menu and friendly sandwich bike messengers. The offspring of Locali restaurant in Franklin Village, Localita and the Badasserie is home to the famed Baaadasss Breakfast Sandwich — a creation with the power to “shut your mouth.” Inside you’ll find a few shelves stocked with vegan-friendly sundries like chips, granola, candy and soda. Come morning you’ll want to grab a cup of the organic, fair trade, shade grown drip coffee and perhaps a sprouted bagel with vegan cream cheese. The smoothie bar whips up 16-ounce custom organic smoothies — the Rebuild mixes hemp milk, coconut kefir and banana, while the Refresh does just that with apple cider and mixed berries. There are more than a dozen add-ons to make it your own. Vegans and carnivores alike come here for the meatless wonders, namely the sandwiches. In the a.m., the aforementioned breakfast creation marries a vegan sausage patty with vegan soy-free cheddar, vegan chipotle sauce and maple syrup on a sprouted multigrain English muffin. The Sir Nasty is the spicier sibling with the addition of red onion and scorching sriracha sauce. Among the artisan sandwiches are the stellar Reuben (voted L.A.’s best vegan Reuben), with marinated tofu slices, vegan cheese, sauerkraut and homemade house-made vegan Russian dressing on rye — you’ll never miss the pastrami. The spicy Thai BBQ and the deli classic on a pretzel hoagie are also standouts. You can even text your order for pick up. What’s more badasserie than that? At 817 S. Los Angeles St., (213) 623-3223 or localita.co. Open weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cuisine: Vegan photo courtesy of Localita and the Badasserie
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Celebrating 35 Years Serving the Finest Healthy Authentic Cuisine with a Touch of the Past
Boyle Heights
Downtown
2126 Cesar Chavez Blvd. 323-262-3434
1300 Wilshire Blvd.,LA 213-353-4930
La Parrilla began in Boyle Heights in 1978. We then opened our Downtown location on Wilshire Blvd. You will find plenty of spice on the menu, recipes handed down from Carlotita to her daughter Maria Carmen. Recipes that have been recreated with TLC. We use the best ingredients available to obtain the unique Mexican taste you will enjoy.
Visit us!
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our Downtown location Features: special
Party & Buffet Facility
FULL PATIO BAR & DINING
Happ Houry
mon-
Fri, 4 pm-
7pm
Party and Buffet facilities also available at the Boyle Heights Location.
Handmade Tortillas • Catering Available Open 7 Days a Week • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Takeout
www.laparrillarestaurants.com
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Fatburger
Aloha Cafe
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here’s gotta be something special about a place that gets the “best” burger vote from capitals like Beijing, Dubai, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. And now Downtown L.A. will get a taste of the beefy greatness too. The lauded Fatburger chain has arrived at Eighth and Figueroa streets on the ground floor of the 888 International Tower building, much to the delight of local burger lovers. The 50-seat, diner-style eatery opened its doors earlier this year in the revamped 1,700-square-foot space, the ideal location for feeding hungry office workers from the Financial District and pre- and post-game diners from the nearby Staples Center. The Downtown Fatburger boasts the chain’s signature 1950s red and yellow theme, along with a jukebox and music-inspired decor. The menu features the signature Fat Burger, a 100-percent lean beef patty that comes in a range of sizes from small (2.5 ounces) all the way up to XXX large (24 ounces). To make your meal even more decadent, you can pile on extras like bacon, cheese, chili, grilled onions, jalapeños and even a fried egg. There are tasty chicken, turkey and veggie sandwiches too, as well as classic sides that include the fat fries, skinny fries, cup of chili or the massive onion rings that are irresistible dunked in ranch sauce. For a sweet addition, the shakes are classically thick, rich and delicious, whether you choose strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, Maui-banana or cookies and cream. There’s also the blissfully good root beer float or ice cream sandwich. Finally, Downtown can get its Fatburger fix, 24 hours a day. At 888 S. Figueroa St., (213) 891-0899 or fatburger.com. Open 24 hours. Cuisine: American $
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photo courtesy of Fatburger
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f comfort food is what you crave, then Aloha Cafe is the place for you. This quaint Little Tokyo eatery serves up authentic Islandstyle food in a laid back setting, with plenty of aloha spirit. Originally opened in 1996 in Monterey Park, the restaurant later moved to Downtown’s Honda Plaza, where it has become an instant favorite among diners looking for heaping plates of soulsatisfying goodness. The simple decor is warm and welcoming with high-backed brown booths, blonde wood tables and a few black and white photos on the wall. Start your visit with a sweetened Hawaiian iced tea or glass of fruit punch while you peruse the menu. There are tantalizing combos, teriyaki bowls, hearty breakfast plates, noodle and rice dishes, and daily specials (like braised short ribs on Friday and Kalua pork on Saturday). Attention must be paid to one of the star attractions — the Loco Moco. Customers come here just for a taste of this indulgent dish, which starts with a bed of white rice, topped with a housemade hamburger patty, two fried eggs and the famous brown gravy. On the weekend, Aloha makes pork lau lau from scratch, sinfully tender with a hint of smokiness and steamed in taro leaves. The Korean barbecue is phenomenal too, particularly the kalbi ribs served with rice and a side of macaroni salad. There’s the chicken long rice on Saturdays, just like a Hawaiian grandma would make, and the flavorful oxtail soup on Friday. The lomi salmon salad is also a standout, made with fresh chunks of cured salmon and green onion. Of course, don’t forget to order a few pieces of the mandatory Spam musubi, a taste of the Islands that’ll definitely get you in the aloha mood. At 410 E. Second St., (213) 346-9930 or eatatalohacafe.com. Open Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.4 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Cuisine: Hawaiian $
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photo courtesy of Plum Tree
The Pantry Cafe & Riordan’s Tavern
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t the intersection of Ninth and Figueroa streets, two great landmarks occupy one Downtown corner: The Pantry Cafe and Riordan’s Tavern. While both offer completely different dining experiences — one a historic diner and the other a classic steakhouse — they nonetheless share a common passion for giving visitors an unforgettable meal. Centrally located in Downtown, The Pantry and Riordan’s Tavern are accessible from the 101, 110 and 10 freeways.
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ngelenos looking for an authentic taste of Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine head to Plum Tree Inn. For decades, this favorite Chinatown eatery has become a mainstay for everyone from City Hall workers to residents to tourists. Located on a bustling stretch of Broadway, Plum Tree is centrally located and even boasts its own convenient parking lot. The attractive, contemporary space features an inviting dining room with airy artwork on the walls and a stunning dragon sculpture hanging from the ceiling. The restaurant also offers a cozy bar for a pre-dinner glass of wine or a cocktail. The food, of course, is the main attraction. The vast menu features all the classics like pan-fried noodles and fried rice to orange chicken and sweet and sour pork. But there’s also a selection of house specialties that are not to be missed. Among the favorites are the rich and creamy shrimp with honey walnuts, the crispy tangerine beef, the tender scallops in lemon sauce and the Kung Pao Three Delicacies with shrimp, fish filet and scallops sautéed with the restaurant’s famous Szechuan sauce. For a special treat (order ahead), try the Beijing duck, a true showstopper with lacquered skin, Chinese pancakes, spring onions and hoisin dipping sauce. The lunch specials are a steal at Plum Tree, with dozens of delectable chicken, beef, seafood and vegetable dishes from which to sample. At 913 N. Broadway, (213) 613-1819 or plumtreeinn.com. Open Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.9:30 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. and Sunday 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Cuisine: Asian/Mandarin $
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Riordan’s Tavern
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pened in 2007 next to the Pantry, Riordan’s Tavern was a dream realized for the former mayor. Riordan has long had a soft spot for the kind of warm and inviting neighborhood taverns so prevalent on the East Coast. The concept was simple: Bring a classic steakhouse and bar to the heart of L.A. that contributes to the fabric of the city and evokes the nostalgia of its sister eatery The Pantry. Riordan’s welcomes with rich wood finishes, exposed brick and a patina of wellworn elegance. Service is always top-notch, and the food and drinks rise to the occasion. The daily menu features juicy cuts of meat, hefty burgers and freshly made salads worthy of any great steakhouse. Diners also enjoy lingering over weekend brunch (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) with an expertly made Bloody Mary. The full bar turns out excellent cocktails as well, from icy martinis to Manhattans to Irish coffee. At 875 S. Figueroa St., (213) 627-6879 or riordanstavern.com. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Cuisine: American/Steakhouse $$
photo courtesy of Riordan's Tavern
Plum Tree
his Los Angeles institution is beloved by locals and visitors alike thanks to its rich history, heaping portions of comfort food and nostalgic dining room. Since 1924 it has never closed or never been without a customer. The 24-hour restaurant opened with only five employees and consisted of one room, a 15-stool counter, a grill and a hot plate. The Pantry survived the difficult years of the Depression and even managed to expand by adding a dining room in 1934. When World War II began almost half of the staff joined the armed forces. All but one had returned by the end of the war. In 1946 the dining room expanded to its present day capacity of more than 70 seats. In 1980, after it was faced with demolition, former Mayor Richard Riordan purchased the landmark, helping to preserve its legacy for generations to come. On weekends, customers line up around the block for one of the coveted seats and a taste of the worldfamous breakfast plates. There are giant pancakes as big as your head, fluffy French toast, enormous omelets, steak and eggs, hearty mounds of browned potatoes, and steaming cups of bottomless coffee. The dining room is a cacophony of sound and energy, as people pour in and out all day. For lunch and dinner, there are stick-to-your-ribs entrees such as steaks and chops, spaghetti and meatballs, roast beef and hamburgers. Finish off your waistline with a slice of the apple pie or carrot cake. At 877 S. Figueroa St., (213) 972-9279 or pantrycafe.com. Open 24 hours. Cuisine: American
photo courtesy of The Pantry Cafe
The Pantry Cafe
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Birdsong’s Veggietaria
photo courtesy of Wurstküche Restaurant
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Artisanal Food & Coffee
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hether you seek Persian, Japanese, Mexican or Chinese, just about any type of cuisine and dining experience can be had in Downtown. But for those looking for tasty vegetarian, vegan and raw options, the list gets considerably smaller. Luckily, Birdsong’s Veggietaria has solved the dilemma by offering all three in one location. Opened last year, this quaint Fashion District bistro has quickly built a following with its gourmet take on healthy veggie delights. Musician and Grammy winner Edwin Birdsong created the concept for the eponymous restaurant, which serves all manner of superfoods, grains, greens, smoothies and elixirs. Birdsong’s is as interesting as the man himself — the wall is hung with photos of the owner with a host of musical giants ranging from Stevie Wonder to Bob Marley. On any given day customers might strike up a conversation with Birdsong or the gregarious Chef Dionne, both of whom are passionate about the benefits of a vegetarian/raw diet. The eatery offers healthy food that’s accessible, fast and affordable (entrees average $6 and combos are $9). A colorful array of options tempt from the daily buffet menu and salad bar, ranging from veggie burgers to quinoa salad to zucchini “pasta” with marinara. There are the flavor-packed citrus marinated veggie spareribs, garlicky shrimp scampi, and the finger-licking good barbecue drumsticks. Or perhaps the chef will whip up a raw “chicken” spinach wrap with tangy cranberry-tangerine sauce. Add on any of the delectable sides such as black beans, wild rice, mac and cheese, kale chips, veggie stir fry or the addicting sweet potato fries. Finish with a sweet smoothie or special dessert like the banana papaya pudding. According to Birdsong’s Veggietaria, food is nature’s most perfect medicine. If that’s the case, taking your medicine never tasted so good. At 112 W. Ninth St., (213) 622-1900 or veggietaria.com. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free delivery. Cuisine: Vegan/Vegetarian $
photo courtesy of Birdsong’s Veggietaria
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Wurstküche Restaurant 1820 industrial st. los angeles, ca 90019
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ead to Third and Traction, look for the brick façade with red striped doors and you’ve found Wurstküche, the Arts District’s favorite purveyor of exotic grilled sausage sandwiches. If the steady lines, packed communal tables and bier-quaffing customers are any indication, this is the place go for good sausages and drink. Follow your nose to the counter where you order from the four basic food groups — beer, sausage, fries and dipping sauce. Pull up a bench at one of the long tables covered in butcher paper and sip from one of 35-plus varieties of beer (German, Belgian, American) or gourmet sodas. Meanwhile, check out the minimalist beauty of the industrial space — wood, concrete, brick and an austere display case of raw sausage links. If you’re smart, you’ll order a larger cone of the double-dipped Belgian fries with two homemade dipping sauces, among them the chipotle aioli, curry ketchup, Thai peanut, sundried tomato, and blue cheese walnut and bacon. They pair beautifully with beer, and of course, are a noble side for the main attraction. There are 10 gourmet sausages (Filipino, sundried tomato, mango jalapeño), five exotics (rattlesnake, rabbit, alligator), three classics (bratwurst, bockwurst, hot Italian) and three vegetarian. Each are served on a freshly baked roll with a choice of toppings — caramelized onions, sauerkraut, sweet peppers and spicy peppers. Smear on one of the excellent mustards, and you’ve reached sausage nirvana. At 800 E. Third St. in Downtown, and 626 Lincoln Blvd. in Venice Beach, (213) 687-4444 or wurstkuche.com. Open daily 11 a.m.-midnight. Cuisine: German/Belgian/Gastropub $
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Sandwich Smith
Fickle
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ust across from the Japanese American Museum, Fickle occupies the southwest corner of First Street and Central Avenue. This exciting newcomer is adding to the dynamic Little Tokyo dining scene with its farm-to-table seasonal menu that highlights the best and freshest ingredients available. Fourth generation restaurateur and Executive Chef James Ta has created a unique concept that features two venues in one: During the day, the space operates as The Sandwich Smith, serving gourmet sandwiches and salads to droves of hungry locals; at night, Fickle takes over as a sophisticated sit-down spot for dinner. The vibe is welcoming and casual, with a loft-like interior that boasts concrete floors and exposed ceilings. Fickle is all about the details, starting with the honey-rosemary popcorn that greets you at the table. It’s ample food for thought as you peruse the inventive menu. Starters set the tone, with options such as the delicate sweet breads in Madeira sauce or the roasted bone marrow topped with a zingy citrus-basil gremolata. The grilled spotted prawns in spicy Jerk butter are packed with flavor, as are the blue mussels with oxtail in kimchee broth. Chef Ta’s creativity shines through even more with the entrees. There is the fried chicken with wild thyme honey and a side of garlic mashed potatoes, or the molasses pork belly with charred Savoy cabbage and pumpkin puree. The delectable list goes on, from the pan-roasted skate and grilled rack of lamb to the scallops with arugula pesto, and a rib eye steak with crispy smoked blue cheese. Rest assured, when it comes to excellent food and service, Fickle is anything but. At 362 E. First St., (213) 628-1888 or ficklela.com. Open Sun.-Thurs. 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Cuisine: Farm to Table
photo courtesy of Fickle
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Sandwich Smith
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he customer becomes the chef, or in this case, The Sandwich Smith, at this new Little Tokyo eatery. The busy corner locale houses two restaurants in one — by day it’s a build-your-own sandwich and salad concept, by night a gourmet sit-down venue serving an exquisite farm-fresh menu (see Fickle on this page). The warm, loft-like space features concrete floors and exposed ducts, with cheerful light streaming into the windows facing Central Avenue. Visitors grab a mini clipboard and begin the process of creating their meal. There are six steps to culinary Nirvana: Choose a combo (sandwich or salad), then the bread or salad base, followed by a protein, dressing or sauce, toppings and finally, cheese. It may seem daunting at first, but rest assured, the final outcome is well worth the effort. You’ll quickly notice that the ingredients are anything but pedestrian at The Sandwich Smith. The fresh baked bread options include country white, honey wheat, walnut cranberry, French roll, vegan, and a doughnut bun (sans the sweetness, of course). If you opt for a salad, check the box for a coleslaw blend or mixed lettuce. Move on to the protein, which features a host of foodie faves. There’s the Dr. Pepper pulled pork, the crispy buttermilk fried chicken, tender lamb shoulder, Angus beef, shrimp salad, egg salad, or seasonal vegetables (for non meat eaters). Get creative with your sauce or dressing, too, with garlic herb mayo, chimichurri, habanero lime aioli, house barbecue sauce, mint and cumin yogurt,
vegan mayo or sundried tomato vinaigrette. There are more than a dozen toppings (choose three for sandwiches and four for salads) including pico de gallo, bacon coleslaw, pickled red onion, dill pickle chips and wild arugula. Fancier add-ons tempt too, from the grilled onions to the oven-dried cherry tomatoes to the roasted chilies. Now it’s time to get cheesy, with gruyere, Maytag, Pepper Jack, herbed goat, cheddar or vegan. Once the boxes are checked, hand your clipboard to the sandwich chef and wait for your creation to come to life. The beauty about this sandwich/salad restaurant is that the options are limitless, and each meal allows you to experiment with both new and familiar flavors. The kids aren’t left out either — there’s a grilled cheese combo on your choice of bread that comes with a side of chips or half a salad, and a freshly baked cookie. They even have special sweet treats, like the chocolate chip cookies with a touch of sea salt or the freshly made donuts — try the Thai tea version garnished with crispy rice cereal on top. When you’ve finished your lunch at The Sandwich Smith, come back for dinner at Fickle. It’s a winning combination, in one location. At 362 E. First St., (213) 628-1888 or thesandwichsmith.com. Open daily 11 a.m.4:30 p.m. Cuisine: Sandwiches/Salads $$
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
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pbeat music playing in the background, cocktails from martinis to Manhattans, generous portions of USDA prime-aged beef and succulent seafood, classic steakhouse sides, tables dressed in crisp linens — all of these contribute to the lively atmosphere of a legendary steakhouse. While Morton’s The Steakhouse has been called “the best steak… anywhere,” and USDA primeaged beef is perhaps its chief claim to fame, there’s much more to savor. From the world-class wine and the thriving cocktail culture that fuels a buzzing bar scene every night, to the elegant, sophisticated dining rooms that welcome diners for business, pleasure and special events, Morton’s has kept “the buzz” alive at bars, booths and Morton’s private dining rooms in 70 locations worldwide for more than three decades. Perhaps best of all, the Morton’s that diners love on the West Coast is nearly identical, from the menu to the ambiance, to the Morton’s found on the East Coast — or in Singapore, San Juan and Honolulu. It’s a consistent and passionate approach that keeps prime-aged beef enthusiasts around the globe happily coming back for more. When the first Morton’s opened its doors on a snowy night in Chicago, pals and partners Klaus Fritsch and Arnie Morton had one goal in mind: to be the best steakhouse in Chicago. They ended up with “the best steak (and steakhouse)… anywhere.” In addition, Morton’s offers private parties, private rooms, happy hour, seasonal specials, wine dinners and is handicap accessible. At 735 S. Figueroa St., in the FIGat7th Plaza. Call (213) 553-4566 or visit mortons.com. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner: Mon.-Fri. 2:30-10 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 5-10 p.m.; and happy hour with specially priced Bar Bites and drinks seven days a week 4:30-6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.- closing. Cuisine: Steakhouse $$$
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KISS Pizza & Deli FREE DELIVERY On orders over $10
Open 7 Days, 11am to 9pm
PIZZA, PASTA, HOT & COLD SUBS, BURGERS, BURRITOS, FAJITAS, QUESADILLAS, SALADS & APPETIZERS
KISS MEAL DEAL 1 Large 2 Topping Pizza 1 order of Bread Sticks & 2 Ltr. Soda
photo courtesy of Morton’s The Steakhouse
$17
05 +Tax
213-629-5033/5034/5035 609 1/2 S Broadway, L.A. KissPizzaDeli.com
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Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine
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oy’s has become one of Downtown’s go-to restaurants for business lunches, romantic dinners and an upscale yet affordable happy hour. This year, the national chain of Hawaiian fusion eateries is celebrating 25 years in business, and the dining experience has never been better. Located at the corner of Eighth and Figueroa streets, the classy space is both warm and inviting, much like the Hawaiian people themselves. Guests are always greeted in aloha fashion and service is truly some of the best you’ll find in the city. The lively bar is the place to be during the popular Aloha Hour, which features $6 drinks and appetizers such as the beef short rib tacos, wagyu beef sliders and the tempuracrusted spicy ahi roll. The signature cocktails are unbeatable: Roy’s Island Mai Tai is a wicked 1940s classic that’ll get you in a tropical mood, while the Original Hawaiian Martini features Maui pineapples drenched in vodka and coconut rum. Roy’s also offers a diverse list of wines by the glass and bottle. For lunch, the restaurant offers an excellent three-course prix-fixe menu with a choice of appetizer, entree and dessert, or two bento boxes perfect for a quick midday meal. The signature Wagyu burger with smoked gouda is also a favorite choice. In the evening, entrees tempt with items such as the Hawaiian-style misoyaki black cod with sizzling soy vinaigrette, macadamia nutcrusted mahi mahi in lobster butter sauce and the Hawaiian hearts of palm shrimp Caesar salad. Diners can also sit at the counter and order from the exceptional sushi and sashimi offerings. At 800 S. Figueroa St., (213) 488-4994 or roysrestaurant.com. Open Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sat. 4:30-10:30 p.m., Sun. 4:30- 9 p.m. Happy hour 4:30-6:30 p.m. daily. Cuisine: Hawaiian fusion $$
$$$ photo courtesy of Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine
Morton’s The Steakhouse
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Cabbage Patch
Cabbage Patch
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he Financial District boasts the third — and largest — outpost for the popular Cabbage Patch chain of eateries, which already draws crowds in Playa Vista and Beverly Hills with its farm-to-table menu. The lofty Sixth Street space is modern and airy, buzzing with lunchtime activity during the day and hitting a more relaxed note at dinner. The cuisine is fast, healthy, fresh and inventive. Chef and founder Samir Mohajer has worked at several highly regarded venues such as Axe, Little Door and Rustic Canyon Wine Bar. The idea behind the restaurant is to provide high quality, affordable home cooking centered around seasonal and allnatural products. Most of the meat, for example, hails from the lauded Niman Ranch, which raises its animals humanely without hormones or antibiotics. Likewise the poultry is all natural and the salmon is sustainably raised. Even part of the beer and wine selection comes from local purveyors. It’s a philosophy that pays off on the plate. Salads are fresh and creative, and come with a choice of six proteins. There’s a chopped version with oregano and red wine vinaigrette, the roasted baby beet with fennel, mint and goat cheese, or the albacore tuna with capers, chickpeas and tart lemon-cayenne dressing, among others. Pair it with one of the vegan-friendly purees or the seriously good lentil soup peppered with sweet Italian sausage. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on the mezzanine or sunny sidewalk patio while sipping a refreshing mint iced tea or freshly squeezed lemonade. A selection of gourmet sandwiches switch up the usual lunch rut. The grilled cheese is perfection with sheep’s milk cheese melted between two flavorful brioche slices and served with a side of tomato jam. The beefy cheeseburger is a popular option too, topped with applewood-smoked bacon, Tillamook cheddar and arugula on a brioche bun. There is also a healthy Asian-inspired brown rice bowl topped with vegetables, fresh herbs, sesame-lime dressing
and a choice of pan-seared tofu, roasted chicken, salmon or grass-fed hanger steak. Standout plates feature the house-made falafel with grilled flatbread, the tender beef gyro or the chicken kabob with yogurt sauce. For heartier fare, there’s the quarter or half rotisserie chicken served a la carte or with a choice of sides — try the yam wedges, which are reason enough to make a trip to this eatery. Roasted to perfection, the flavorpacked tubers are served with a zingy harissa ketchup and cilantro. After work, unwind with a glass of wine or a beer upstairs on the casual and comfortable mezzanine while you nosh on a tasty pizzette — the Greek version is a particularly good one with a sprinkling of feta, tomatoes, cucumbers and arugula. It feels like happy hour without the fuss. Cabbage Patch L.A. checks off just about every category on your dining list — fast, friendly service, farm fresh food that’s good and good for you, and affordable prices that won’t break the bank. At 520 W. Sixth St., (213) 489-4489 or cabbagepatchla.com. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free delivery. Cuisine: New American $$
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Amante Pizza & Pasta
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his Washington-based chain of pizzerias has set up its first California outpost in Downtown L.A., bringing its popular gourmet pies to the area’s hungry masses. Located inside the Fashion District’s California Market Center, Amante Pizza & Pasta gives locals their fix until 4 a.m. — including gluten-free and vegetarian meals. Whether you dine in, take out or place an order for delivery, Amante’s menu of in-house specialties will dazzle. To start, the famed pizzas are made from the family’s secret recipe dough and smothered in their slow-simmered sauce. Pies are available in 10, 12, 15 and 18 inches, with 16 meaty and 14 veggie-friendly options. For carnivores, there’s the Amante Special with prosciutto, fresh basil and shredded pepperoni, a chicken pesto with mushrooms and goat cheese, the exotic Thai with spicy peanut sauce, or the Spartacus with Greek olives, feta and gyro meat. Vegetarian creations are equally tasty, like Seattle’s Favorite with artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, pesto and mozzarella, or the Gorgonzola Guru with capers, walnuts and caramelized onions. Amante’s has more than two dozen pasta options too, and each comes with two pieces of fragrant garlic bread and soup or salad. Take your pick from the fettuccini Alfredo and puttanesca to the rosemary chicken ravioli and salmon linguini. Don’t forget the selection of hearty calzones, subs and grinders, or the hearty salads with options like the chef salad (loaded with salami, bacon, pepperoni, feta, artichoke hearts and peppers). At 155 E. Olympic Blvd., (213) 488-4999 or amantepizzaandpasta.com. Open weekdays 10-4 a.m., weekends 11-4 a.m. Three-mile delivery radius. Cuisine: Italian/Pizza $
photo courtesy of Amante Pizza & Pasta
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the finest euro-asian cuisine in the heart of downtown los angeles • beautiful garden patio • exquisite dining • • sushi bar • private events • join us for our innovative upcoming events including cherry blossom festival, sake festival, japanese beer garden & crustacean fair.
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Perch
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ifteen floors above Pershing Square, you’ll find L.A.’s hottest restaurant and bar. Billed as an “elevated resting place,” Perch offers unparalleled views of Downtown via its jawdropping French-inspired rooftop. With a fizzy Kir in one hand and a plate of moules in the other, it is easy to be swept away by this fantasy in the sky. Perch is a gorgeous Art Deco creation, a stylishly casual destination that fills a much-needed niche for good food, stellar ambiance and no pretense. In fact, Downtown’s often fragmented worlds comfortably collide here — local loft dwellers, Bunker Hill professionals, and visitors who come for the nightlife. Guests ride the elevator first to the 13th floor and then on to another elevator where they can stop at the 15th floor restaurant and bar or the 16th floor rooftop bar. The latter is the perfect urban oasis for an event, with 360-degree views of the city, two outdoor fireplaces, and several firepits with lounge and table seating. On any given night diners are treated to cabaret, jazz, indie bands or a DJ. Chef Justin Albertson has devised a Frenchinspired menu with a playful twist that includes entrees like the “Little Bunny Frou Frou” homemade pappardelle pasta served with rabbit ragout or the fennel-crusted tuna Niçoise salad served with a poached egg and black olive tapenade. The wine and beer list is extensive and well selected, while the crafted cocktails are reason enough to make a trip to this vintage throwback overlooking the dazzling L.A. skyline. At 448 S. Hill St., (213) 802-1770 or perchla.com. Open Mon.-Wed. 4 p.m.-1 a.m., Thurs.-Fri. 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Sat. 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Sunday brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Weekday happy hour 4-6 p.m. Cuisine: French Bistro
Gourmet LA Bakery
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vot
ORS’ CHOICE
e best of.com
LUNCH & DINNER Our sandwiches are made while you wait and every selected ingredient is the freshest possible including our award winning croissants and telera bread. BREAD & PASTRIES Our bread is traditional Mexican, but we have made our selection as diverse as this city. CAKES For all occasions. Just tell us your needs and ideas and we will turn it into a delicious reality. DRINKS All natural & fresh traditional Mexican coolers. ICE CREAM COFFEE & TEA
photo courtesy of Perch
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213.623.4244 • 548 S. Broadway Ave. LA, CA 90013 6:30am - 8pm, M. - Sat. • 7am -7pm, Sun. • GourmetLABakery.com On Broadway between 5th and 6th streets.
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
photos courtesy of Bonaventure Brewing Co.
Bonaventure Brewing Co.
Hungry?
Join Our Club T
here are a few places in Downtown that truly capture the magic of the city skyline. With its stunning fourth floor patio perch amidst the heart of the Financial District, the Bonaventure Brewing Co. does just that. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that you can get some of the tastiest food and hand-crafted ales in Downtown. Located in the historic Westin Bonaventure Hotel, this independent brewery has become a hidden oasis for lunch goers, hotel guests, business events and happy hour revelers. The space is warm and inviting, with handsome wood paneling and a square bar. Outside, the patio welcomes with cozy lounge chairs and couches ideal for sipping a pint on a summer evening or cozying up with a cocktail under the heat lamps in cooler weather. Brewmaster David Blackwell produces a trio of award-winning ales that has won over many connoisseurs: the BBC pale ale has a light amber color and mild malty background; the Marathon is a crisp, golden ale reminiscent of fine central European pilsners; and the strawberry blonde is a light brew with a strawberry aroma. The taster set allows you to sample from five different brews in five-ounce tasting glasses. The Bonaventure Brewing Co. has created a menu of American favorites with an international twist, perfect for pairing with beer and cocktails. Popular starters include the Brewery wings with blue cheese, sweet potato fries dipped in honey mustard and the Hawaiian-style poke served with wonton chips. As with any good brewery, burgers are a mainstay with favorites such as the Black Angus with blue cheese and chipotle aioli, the American Kobe version with portobello mushrooms and gruyere, or the prime rib French dip served with horseradish cheese and bacon. House favorites draw the regulars for plates of beer battered fish and chips with jalapeño slaw,
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the macadamia nut mahi mahi with passion fruit salsa, the 10-ounce chimichurri steak or the Prime flat iron steak with garlic mashed potatoes. There are three tasty pasta dishes as well, including the vegetarian angel hair with artichoke hearts, roasted peppers and goat cheese, the Cajun fettuccini with shrimp and andouille sausage, and the chicken penne in a soy cream sauce. Food is served every day until midnight, making the Bonaventure your go-to spot for dinner and late-night revelry. After your meal, don’t forget to pick up a dessert menu — you won’t want to miss the spectacular mud pie (coffee ice cream on a cookie crust with whipped cream), the decadent house-made New York cheesecake with raspberry sauce or the sky-high four-layer chocolate cake. The Bonaventure Brewing Co. also hosts parties and business events, with a convenient menu of platters and hors d’oeuvres that’ll impress your guests. The friendly staff can help with every detail, making your function seamless and stress-free. That means more time to enjoy a pint of ale amid the Downtown skyline. At 404 S. Figueroa St., (213) 236-0802 or bonaventurebrewing.com. Open daily 11 a.m.1 a.m. Cuisine: American/Brewing $$
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1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90026 • 213.481.1448
1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90026 • 213.481.1448
1264 W. 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90026, • 213.481.1448
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2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Honda Ya Little Tokyo
E-SEA FRESH THAI FOOD Authentic Thai dishes made from the freshest ingredients.
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hile there may be a handful of izakayas in Little Tokyo serving up the tasty Japanese pub snacks known as yakitori, Honda Ya has carved out a devoted niche of followers who hail this cozy version as the best in town. One bite of the bacon-wrapped asparagus, delectable miso black cod or charcoal grilled pork belly and you’ll quickly taste why. The philosophy behind an izakaya is simple: tasty, affordable and abundant small plates that are meant to be enjoyed with several friends and, well, several pints. Whether you opt for one of the chilled mugs of beer or a bottle of sake, Honda Ya is the perfect place to enjoy lunch, dinner or even a late-night snack (they’re open until 1 a.m.). You’ll spot this eatery on the upper floor of a shopping mall, a unique location that hasn’t deterred the crowds that seem to gather just about every day of the week. Diners can sit on the floor at one of the low tables in the tatami room, pull up a seat at the lively communal table or grab a booth along the wall. In addition to the skewered delights, Honda Ya offers all manner of culinary temptations ranging from flavorful ramen to skillfully prepared sushi rolls to decadent crab and cheese croquettes. Service is always friendly, prices are reasonable, and the food is some of the best you’ll find in Little Tokyo. Honda Ya also has a location in the City of Industry at 17200 Railroad St., (626) 964-6777. At 333 S. Alameda St. #314, (213) 625-1184 or izakayahondaya.com. Open daily 5:30 p.m.1 a.m. Validated lot parking. Cuisine: Japanese
Stir Fry Noodle ~ Noodle Soup ~ Soup ~ Rice ~ Curry w/ Jasmine Rice Thai Desserts ~ Traditional & Thai Beverages
photo by Gary Leonard
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1100 North Main Street, Suite E Los Angeles, CA 90012
Dine In or Take Out ~ 323.276.5835 Free Private Parking. Hours: Tues - Sun 9am to 5pm, Closed Monday Find us on Facebook and Yelp! DOWNTOWNLADINING.COM 57
photos by Brian Allison
2013 RESTAURANT GUIDE
Oomasa
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he antithesis of many of the city’s noisy, crowded Japanese establishments, this unpretentious eatery in Little Tokyo serves up some of the best and most affordable sushi in town. Oomasa opened in 1972 before the sushi craze of the 1980s, and has developed a loyal following of locals, as well as fans that drive in. At the age of 24, founder Masaharu Motoyama emigrated from Hokkaido in Northern Japan, bringing with him the artful skill of sushi making. His search for the American dream landed him in Little Tokyo, where he built the largest sushi bar in Southern California with 40 seats. He trained his sushi chefs the traditional Japanese way, making vegetable floral art pieces
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while interacting with the curious sushi bar customers. Motoyama and his experienced, skilled chefs continue his tradition of classic preparation and commitment to the highest quality of fish that sets this family-owned restaurant apart. Behind the impressive sushi bar, chefs create a tempting selection of sushi, sashimi and rolls. Its approach is elegant: While most sushi bars have incorporated fusion cuisine and wildly inventive specialty rolls, Oomasa has perfected the Japanese culinary art of beautifully cut and presented fish — gorgeous pieces of deep red tuna, fresh sea urchin, seared albacore, spicy tuna and scallop rolls, and marbled salmon lure connoisseurs to the counter. For lunch, try the numbered specials — compartmentalized trays with fish, tempura, meat and salads. It’s an enormous amount of food for around $10. If you crave sushi, the rainbow-colored chi-
rashi special includes 10 slices of fresh seafood stacked atop seasoned rice. But the menu doesn’t stop at sushi. There are udon noodles with a poached egg dropped in a giant bowl, or favorites like the golden and tender pork cutlet, flavorful chicken or beef teriyaki, and crispy tempura combination plate. In the evening, there’s delectable broiled salmon, una-ju (eel over rice) and colorful sashimi plates. All specials come with a bowl of miso soup, steamed rice, Japanese pickles and a serving of delicious ice cream. Oomasa has earned a reputation for quality ingredients and top-notch service. It’s a tasty tradition that diners can’t seem to get enough of. At 100 Japanese Village Plaza, (213) 623-9048. Open Mon. and Wed.-Sun. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Cuisine: Sushi/Japanese $$
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BAR AMA
464 South Main Street portofinodtla.com
WINE BAR
124 W 4th Street Opening 2013
213.239.9019
118 West 4th Street bar-ama.com
213.687.8002