From GQ to Rolling Stone, everyone’s been talking about Downtown L.A.’s dynamic food scene. Ever since a handful of innovative chefs opened their doors in DTLA, the city has never been the same. Foodies, tourists, Angelenos and budding culinary superstars have all flocked to Downtown L.A. to take part in the award-winning community.
With coveted restaurants at your doorstep, the hardest part is choosing where to eat your next meal. So we’ve polled the Hope + Flower team to share who they think has earned a brag-worthy menu.
Here are our top five best restaurants in Downtown Los Angeles.
1. Majordomo
Ranked number one on Eater Los Angeles, this spot has been one of the busiest new restaurants since opening their doors just last year. David Chang, famous for his Momofuku empire, has designed a menu that will take your tastebuds for a culinary journey. The menu is designed tapa-style, with shareable plates that will tantalize your palate-- if you're lucky enough to land a reservation.
Noteworthy dishes include the Whole Steamed Rockfish, Crispy Pork Belly, and Macaroni & Chickpea.
2. Broken Spanish
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Chef Ray Garcia draws inspiration from his classic culinary training and his powerful influence of a Latin upbringing. Expect a menu that’s full of bold yet refined flavors. Some of our favorites include the Tamales, Barbacoa, Chiccarron, and Papas.
3. Otium
Located next to The Broad, Otium is perfect for a relaxing Sunday brunch, grabbing lunch before heading to the museum, or having dinner before the theater. This beautifully designed yet casual restaurant takes advantage of that coveted California weather with an open kitchen merging indoor and outdoor spaces. Standout dishes include the Duck Confit Pot Pie, Trecce, and “BBQ” Quail.
4. Bottega Louie
Have a sweet tooth? Look no further than Bottega Louie! One of our favorite places to indulge in the neighborhood, this busy spot in Downtown Los Angeles is a true hybrid. As a restaurant, gourmet market, patisserie and café, its beautiful decor makes it perfect for the ‘gram.
5. Grand Central Market
This iconic food hall will please every picky eater. Packed with vendors, it’s a foodie’s dream destination. Get lost in the endless aisles of local vendors selling artisanal goods, fresh produce, and tasty snacks. Must-try eateries include Wexler’s, Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, and Sticky Rice.
6. Redbird
For many, this restaurant needs no introduction. As a regular on many must-try lists, Redbird is located in a cathedral-turned-restaurant venue Vibiana. The menu is comprised of modern American cuisine. Be sure to order the Barbecue Smoked Tofu, Gemelli, and the Rack of Red Wattle Pork. Wash it all down with delicious hand-crafted cocktails!
7. Bäco Mercat
Whether lunch or dinner, this restaurant is all about the signature flatbread that’s worked into all types of menu items (including their famous sandwiches). The menu is inspired by flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean, North Africa, Southern Europe, and Asia. Standouts include the Caramelized Cauliflower, The O.G. Bäco, and the Carne Picada Coca.
Where are your favorite places to sip, snack, and savor in DTLA? Tag us in your drool-worthy food pics on Instagram at @hopeflowerdtla.