Central Downtown La Restaurants

Family owned since 1948, Yamashiro is one Los Angeles landmark that continues to be both relevant and even cutting edge, while remaining true to its rich heritage. This restaurant and event venue not only serves up some of the most breathtaking views in the city, but it also draws in the crowds with its Asian inspired menu – dishes like the aromatic Truffle Hamachi and the decadent Wagyu Steak on a Himalayan Salt Plate prove that there is nothing conventional about their classic specialties. Yamashiro also boasts a Koi pond, which is surrounded by manicured gardens that also serve as … Learn More »

Sai Sai’s menu is an exercise in culinary play. Tucked inside the Millenium Biltmore Hotel, this sophisticated restaurant stands out with its adventurous gastronomic creations, Zen-inspired décor, and eager staff. Chef David Bartnes has crafted a daring Asian fusion menu, seamlessly blending distinctive regional cuisines into a global pastiche that is both strikingly original and evocatively familiar. Exotic experiments like Kobe Short Ribs with Potato Gnocchi or the pairing of maguro sashimi with caramelized pear are surprising and satisfying. With noteworthy lunchtime bento boxes, prix fixe menus for theater goers, and in house infused sakes, Sai Sai supplies a variety … Learn More »

Patina in Downtown Los Angeles holds the philosophy that a selection of fresh, quality ingredients is the most important factor to a good dish. This guides the kitchen staff in practice, as they creatively and skillfully fuse quality ingredients with exceptional technique and stunning presentation. The result is dishes such as Herb Steamed Wild Bass with yellow “brandywine” heirloom tomato broth, sauce vierge, braised scallions, and tomato fondue, and Scottish Pheasant with Savoy cabbage timbale, rustic bread dumplings and juniper berry reduction. The dining experience is peppered with details that make for a truly elegant meal, from the caviar and … Learn More »

Ammo's newly redesigned interior offers a sleek, dramatic stage on which Owner and Executive Chef Amy Sweeney’s culinary performance unfolds. Turning to the seasons for inspiration, Sweeney’s menu is constantly changing, weaving vibrant, seasonal produce into delectable dishes. During early summer you might find Baby Artichoke pizza with fontina, teardrop tomatoes, baby red onion, and mint; or wood-oven braised Wild Bass with baby artichokes and peewee potatoes. Regardless of the season, the menu showcases stunning creativity and equally stunning quality, accompanied by an eclectic wine list that promises to accompany even the most unique of creations. Learn More »

Dining on the patio of Café Pinot gives guests a grand view of the urban skyline and the lush romantic Central Library garden located in Downtown LA. Enjoy warm afternoons and summer nights out on the terrace, while eating Café Pinot’s French-California cuisine. This restaurant is perfect for dining before an event at the Staples Center or the Music Center because of its close location. A delicious Café Pinot dish to try is the Three Mustard- Crusted Farm-Raised Rotisserie Chicken with crispy Pinot fries. If guests decide to have lunch at Café Pinot, then get the Pan-Seared Prime Hanger Steak … Learn More »

Adelmo Zarif’s restaurant has occupied a dazzling Art Deco space in downtown’s historic core since moving from West Hollywood in May 1997. Cicada fills the bottom two stories of the Oviatt Building, featuring towering mahogany pillars, plenty of gold, and pristine white tablecloths. Cicada is a fine-dining establishment that’s especially popular for birthdays, weddings and the occasional marriage proposal. Tokyo native Suzay Cha prepares northern Italian cuisine with Asian accents. The menu changes twice a year, but typically includes Ahi Tuna Tartar with Avocado, Piquillo Peppers and Wasabi Caviar and Pappardelle with Filet Mignon Bolognese Sauce. Learn More »

Deep in the heart of Hollywood, four-year old Cinespace is a unique venue that features traditional favorites in a modern atmosphere. Customers can choose to sit in the futuristic-feeling lounge, the open-air patio or the dark and moody screening room. The latter option features a free, intimate film-viewing experience. Executive Chef Stephen Rea’s movie-themed menu is a combination of modern takes on both American and Californian staples. Specialty cocktails are served at the full bar, and a DJ performs live nightly. Learn More »

Sandwiched between a temple and a clothing store on West 3rd Street, A.O.C. Wine Bar doesn't look like much from the outside. Inside, however, there is a great deal to dazzle the wine and food lovers of Los Angeles. Born of the collaboration between Chef Suzanne Goin and Sommelier Caroline Styne, both of Lucques fame, A.O.C. offers a unique dining experience. With the aid of the distinctive cruvinet wine storage system, Styne can offer over fifty wines by the glass, half glass, and carafe. Diners can sample from this list while trying some of Goin's small plates, which vary from … Learn More »

Lucky Strike fuses Hollywood chic with celebrity bowling and fun comfort food. This hip bowling alley is the epicenter of nouveau cool. Master Chef Bill Starbuck presents an array of upscale American classics that perfectly complement the venue’s unique Los Angeles experience. Lucky Strike Lanes and Lounge offers a creative experience that echoes Los Angeles’ hip, high energy, and fast paced vibe. Whether knocking down pins or knocking back great food and drink, this Hollywood hotspot is sure to provide an entertaining time for all in attendance. Learn More »

M-Grill offers an elegant and sensual Brazilian steakhouse experience, with each meal offering an endless array of skewered meats, savory sides, and a salad bar. The Churrasco, or meat selection, includes beef short ribs, brazilian sausage, chicken thighs, bacon wrapped filet mignon, pork ribs and more, all grilled to perfection. Brazilian sides include rich black bean stew, fried yucca, and collard greens. A unique open grill allows diners to watch as chefs prepare skewer after skewer of exotic and savory meats. Learn More »

Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ Theatre District, Noe has established itself as an elegant oasis in the midst of the city’s hustle and bustle since opening in July 2003. Executive Chef Rebert Gadsby's acclaimed "Progressive American" cuisine marries a gentle Japanese aesthetic with French-inspired dramatic artistry. This new age bistro offers a fresh and frequently changing menu that has earned the restaurant many accolades. Impressing diners and critics alike, this gourmet eatery is intricate in the detail of its décor and food.They even have an extensive wine list and unique cocktails. Enjoy a sophisticated, satisfying, and beautifully … Learn More »

The landmark Union Station, located on the eastern edge of downtown Los Angeles, is an impressive sight. The structure fuses the Spanish colonial, Art Deco and streamline Modern Architecture that represent California's heritage and future ambitions. Traxx is where the romance of the past and the spirit of the future seamlessly merge. Since 1997, Traxx has brought fine dining back to historic Union Station while acting as major player in Los Angeles' downtown renaissance. Its presence, along with the Staples center and the revitalized shopping and cultural venues, adds extra vitality to the cityscape. Even with modern Los Angeles blossoming … Learn More »

This New York-style bistro has become a popular hangout for locals and late-night diners. The massive dining room features high ceilings and a gorgeous art-deco bar, which gives a festive atmosphere. The classic American fare gets a modern twist with such dishes as Mac & Cheese with white cheddar, asiago, and goat cheese, and the Flat Iron Steak with Bleu Cheese Fries. Regulars also return for the attentive staffs’ service, as well as the delicious food. The restaurant is open until 2am so swing by after a night out to people watch on the outdoor patio and grab some satisfying … Learn More »

Focusing on fresh, quality ingredients, Water Grill offers some of the most exquisite seafood in Southern California. The secret is in the quality, as well as in Executive Chef Davide LeFevre’s respectful preparations that allow natural flavors to shine. Warm décor, cozy booths, and colorful art ensure ultimate comfort, while temptations like Dungeness and Blue Crab Cake with lime-yogurt cucumber sauce and herbed cous cous and Butter Poached Maine Lobster with morel mushrooms, haricot verts and crispy shallots offer decadent indulgence. Learn More »

Blair's in Silver Lake is just the sort of wine bar and restaurant that you would expect to find on a Manhattan street corner. Fortunately, you only have to travel to Silver Lake to find upscale comfort food paired with an excellent beer and wine menu in a cozy candlelit atmosphere. The crowd is a mix of neighborhood regulars, Hollywood starlets looking for somewhere low key and off the beaten path, and hip Silver Lakers meeting up for a drink and snacks at the bar before a night out. Learn More »

Tucked in a remodeled 1924 Craftsman-style firehouse in the peaceful community of Silver Lake, the Edendale offers exquisite cuisine in a comfortable, unassuming setting. Accented with fresh flower arrangements, cozy armchairs, antique sconces and walls of old black and white photos, the setting has the potential to make single diners and large groups alike feel like they are home. As is only fitting in this comforting setting, Executive Chef Paul Downer offers an amazing array of comforting dishes including Ahi Tartare, a Fried Green Tomato Salad, and the signature Edendale Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese with chili garlic bread crumbs … Learn More »

Vermont Restaurant and Bar is a hip Los Feliz hangout offering a stunning atmosphere and serious dining. The dining room's vaulted ceilings, soaring columns, and a huge picture windows fill with beautiful and trendy patrons hungry for stylish New American cuisine. Late night, after such delights as poached salmon and roasted free range chicken, crowds flock to the sleek bar for signature drinks like the sweet-but-lethal Edelweiss martini. Learn More »

Old world Tuscan dishes are the specialty at Ago Restaurant located on Melrose Avenue and Clinton Street in the heart of West Hollywood. Guests can be reassured that they will dine on great Italian food at a restaurant that is co-owned by the Godfather himself, Robert Di Nero. The Chef and co-owner, Agostino Sciandri, grew up in the lush countryside of Tuscany where he learned to perfect his Northern Italian culinary style. At Ago, guests can experience the full progression of an Italian dinner, starting with an Antipasti of Buffalo Mozzarella Caprese, or the Polipo e Patate, grilled octopus in … Learn More »

Exposed wood beams and a fireplace make for a romantic setting at this lovely newcomer at the northern edge of the La Brea Restaurant Row, where the beautiful people flock for fabulous Italian fare including “perfect fritto misto” and amazing pastas washed down by a good selection of wines; the lovely patio, hospitable service, and great value are other reasons it’s always crowded. Learn More »