The vibrant cultural center of Los Angeles, often simply called DTLA, is the heart of the City of Angels. If you seek adventure, love fine architecture, and enjoy unforgettable food, then this is the place for you. It’s a rapidly growing neighborhood with an incredible variety of housing projects – historic renovations, luxurious high-rises, and conversions of apartments into condos – offering residents the kind of intimate, distinctive spaces that many look for in a city like L.A.
And what’s not to love about the bars and restaurants, the young creative chefs, and the seasoned masters (and the lines to get in)? This is the promised land for food enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs (and cocktails, don’t forget the cocktails). In this guide, we’ll lead you to our favorite spots for culinary adventures as well as places that simply get the classics right. Choose wisely – it’s called the Californian time jump for a reason.
The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Downtown LA
Restaurants
Bestia
Bestia is a popular Italian restaurant in the Arts District, known for its homemade pasta and creative meat dishes. The rustic charm of the restaurant, combined with the exquisite cuisine of Chef Ori Menashe, makes it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Grand Central Market
For over 100 years, the Grand Central Market has offered a variety of stalls serving everything from Mexican tacos to Asian noodle dishes. Highlights include Eggslut for its delicious breakfast sandwiches and Wexler’s Deli for classic Jewish delicacies.
Bottega Louie
This elegant establishment serves a mix of Italian and French cuisine. In addition to their delicious pizzas and pastas, the colorful macarons are a highlight not to be missed.
Bars and Cafés
The Rooftop at The Standard
This rooftop bar not only offers a fantastic view of the Los Angeles skyline but also refreshing cocktails and tasty snacks. It is especially popular for its regular pool parties.
Perch
Perch is a chic rooftop bar and restaurant with breathtaking views of the city. The French-inspired dishes and creative cocktails make it the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Blue Bottle Coffee
For coffee lovers, Blue Bottle Coffee is a paradise. This trendy café in the Arts District is known for its top-notch coffee specialties and minimalist design. It’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the creative atmosphere of DTLA.
Top Attractions in Downtown Los Angeles
Walt Disney Concert Hall
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece that every visitor must see. In addition to its impressive exterior, the interior boasts world-class acoustics. Regular tours offer interesting insights into the building’s history and architecture.
The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum housing over 2,000 artworks by artists like Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Yayoi Kusama. Admission is free, but prior reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.
OUE Skyspace LA
For a breathtaking view of Los Angeles, visit OUE Skyspace LA. The observation deck on the 70th floor of the US Bank Tower offers a 360-degree view of the city. The Skyslide, a glass slide along the outside of the building, is particularly thrilling.
Los Angeles Central Library
The Los Angeles Central Library is not only a paradise for book lovers but also an architectural gem. The building combines various architectural styles and regularly hosts interesting exhibitions and events.
Little Tokyo
The cultural center of the Japanese community in Los Angeles is Little Tokyo. Here, you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, visit traditional tea houses, and learn more about the history of Japanese immigrants at the Japanese American National Museum.
Practical Tips for Your Visit to Downtown Los Angeles
Public Transportation
Downtown LA is well-connected to the public transportation system. The Metro Purple and Red Lines, as well as numerous bus lines, make it easy to get around. Get a TAP card for convenient travel on public transit.
Safety
As with any large city, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuable items openly when exploring DTLA. It might be a good idea to avoid isolated areas after dark. However, the main tourist attractions and busy streets are generally safe.
Parking
Parking in Downtown Los Angeles can be expensive and challenging. If possible, use public transportation or Park-and-Ride options. Many restaurants and attractions also offer valet parking services.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Downtown Los Angeles is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild. The summer months can be very hot, while it occasionally rains in the winter.
Events
Downtown Los Angeles is known for its numerous events and festivals. Check ahead for local events like the DTLA Film Festival, LA Food Fest, or the Nisei Week Japanese Festival to make your visit even more exciting.
