Discover Hidden Gems: Downtown LA Local Recommendations
Food Baby
Used jetlag to our advantage today to line up before the opening of FONDRY, easily one of the best bakeries in LA, including some of the very best croissants. 👶🏽🥐 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽 They proudly introduce two new offerings: - Brown Butter Financier 🧈 - The Hazelnut 🌰 Enjoy 😋
Secret Los Angeles
Fulfill your cravings at Grand Central Market! Nothing beats soaking up the city vibes like going out to eat, right? While Los Angeles offers dining options for every taste, from Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks, you don’t need to explore the whole city to find them. At Grand Central Market, you’ll find countless affordable choices, from seafood to tacos. Almost every one of the more than 35 vendors has menu items priced below $15, making it one of the best cheap activities in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the place can be packed, so it’s best to go early and be patient.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Enchant LA! Sometimes pretty places aren’t equally tasty but I would say this place has both down. I got to dress and have some sweet quality time over good korean flavors (kim chi pasta & bulgogi quesadillas were really good!) 🌸Garden Style Brunch&Bar🌸 ☕Modern Asian Fusion🥂Wine🍸Cocktail Kept things light w a citrus shrimp salad but then indulged in other great menu items. We went for lunch but it’s good for dinner dates tooooo 🤓
Los Angeles4 everybody
The nations largest hawker stall = Smorgasburg LA! I like to come here bc it’s always summer vibes and you get all of LA’s most viral food trucks in one place. Gives a major platform to small businesses and gives me a unique experience every time. I come for food, beverages, local artistry and sun. Bring water and hats for sun protection bc it’s a large parking lot and all the asphalt makes it hot there ☀️ 🧢 🧴 💦
Secret Los Angeles
Leo’s Tacos Truck Late night food truck tacos are practically in their own culinary category in L.A., and Leo’s makes some of the best of the best. What started as a humble taco truck on Brea and Venice Boulevards has turned into a local chain with eleven locations, most of which are open until 2 or 3am on weekends. By far the most popular order is the tacos al pastor, but you’ll find a great selection of Mexican street food including quesadillas, sopes, and tortas. Hours: 6pm-2:30am Friday-Saturday, 6pm-1:30am Sunday-Thursday
Secret Los Angeles
Roscoe’s Hollywood Harlem native Herb Hudson opened this Hollywood staple in 1975, and their tasty soul food has been enjoyed by generations of Angelenos and celebrities including Shaquille O’Neil, Stevie Wonder, and Barack Obama. The menu goes beyond the staple chicken and waffles to include classics like corn bread, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy. The Hollywood location is open until 4am on weekend nights, but you’ll find a handful of other Roscoe’s outposts in L.A. that are serving food until midnight.
Secret Los Angeles
Grab a sweet or savory slice at Quarter Sheets Quarter Sheets in Echo Park serves up unique savory and sweet slices. Chefs Hannah Ziskin and Aaron Lindell create a menu that feels like an elevated, adult version of a fun kids’ birthday party. Their pizza and cake offerings have earned them “Best Restaurant” rankings from the New York Times and Los Angeles Times in 2023, plus a spot in the California Michelin Guide. Try their creative pizzas with toppings like Funyuns or shrimp cocktail, and don’t miss Ziskin’s gourmet slab cakes. Staff favorites include their Bar Pie and Vodka Pesto. And yes, expect a line when you get there!
See also
Discover Mid-Wilshire's Top Dining Experiences: Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Spots Near LA
Gluten Free Girls LA
Kitchen Mouse - the small bakery around the corner from the main restaurant has TONS of gluten free sweets, pastries, bagels and to go food (gf lentil shepards pie and gf lasagna etc). They offer vegan options like just egg or regular egg as it’s a vegetarian restaurant. In the past, I have tried the gluten-free bagels (amazing), gluten-free coffee cake and cookies (also amazing). Today I got the French berry pastry -the vanilla custard was AMAZING. The crust was a great texture but was more like a sugar cookie formed as a tart than a butter tart. I would definitely recommend trying it if you like custard and sugar cookies.
The Restaurant Guide
Donna’s LA: Upgraded Italian American classics in a fun, flower-bombed room in Echo Park. Donna’s is inspired by an east coast, red sauce joint. The menu is made up of those Italian-American classics that you expect, but done really well with California ingredients. Here at Donna’s we’re loud and lively, with warm and familiar service. We’ll remind you what comfort feels like. And you’ll have the best night out (since the last time you were here).
DTLA Insider
🍔 What do you get when Fine dining x Fast Food in a no frills diner style environment in Downtown L.A? Rita's deluxe is one of the hands down best burgers your taste buds will ever experience! “Rita’s deluxe burger..tastes like an animal style double double got jacked doing crossfit and put on bacon and chopped cherry peppers as accessories”. And always fried in beef tallow, always crispy and always delicious 🤤
DTLA Insider
🔥 Some of the best damn Tacos in L.A! MidEast Tacos is what you get when you cross Middle Eastern x Mexican food. 1. Papas 2. Steak Burrito 3. Falafel Taco 4. Shrimp Taco 5. Chicken Quesadilla They don’t call it ‘The Home of The Falafel Taco’ for no reason 👊🏽
DTLA Insider
🔥 Stumbled upon a little hidden gem of a 🇲🇽 restaurant today and am still 🤯…. Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez🌶🔥 • Tortas Ahogadas, Carne En Su Jugo + more • Michelin Bib Gourmand • 5 STARS 🌟 on Yelp Come and try our delicious Molcajete and pair with our tasty Michelada 🍹with your choice of beer 🍺. 🍴 Have You??
citygirlvibes
Lovely coffee shop Café Telegrama ☕️ • Amazing coffee • Valet Parking • Indoor/Outdoor Seating • Delicious Pastries and Food • The only cons: no wifi
DTLA Insider
🍳 Breafast is served 🔥 Eggslut Los Angeles is the BEST and the ONLY way to start the day ☀️🍳 STEAK & EGGS 🍳🥩 and much more
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in Mid-Wilshire LA: Local Discussions, Events, and Anonymous Networking on Kikihub
DTLA Insider
🍷 A magical little space you must experience known as Bar Mateo in LA 🤍
DTLA Insider
☕️ The newest addition to the Downtown Coffee scene has arrived at the gorgeous Concierge Coffee in the Arts District and this is one you don’t want to miss 🤌🏽
The Restaurant Guide
JOSÉ ANDRÉS' RETURNS TO LOS ANGELES The Bazaar: a vibrant mix of sophisticated cuisine! José Andrés’ is excited to announce its return to Los Angeles with the opening of brand new restaurants in Downtown Los Angeles at The Grand LA and Conrad Los Angeles. Designed by the legendary Frank Gehry, architect of Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Grand LA represents the completion of his vision for Downtown Los Angeles. The new 305-room Conrad Los Angeles, the contemporary luxury brand’s debut in California, will be home to two original concepts from ThinkFoodGroup. Located on the 10th floor arrival lobby and with sweeping views of downtown LA, a new open-air, rooftop dining destination will offer a Latin- and Asian-inspired menu, as well as a dedicated pool-side menu designed for light and leisurely snacking and sharing. A second original concept restaurant, also located on the 10th floor, will be dedicated to classic Spanish flavors and dishes that come alive from morning to night with California’s vibrant, farm-fresh ingredients.
DTLA Insider
🇮🇹 Donna’s 🍝 East coast style Italian lands in L.A in one of the 🔥 must try restaurants in the city.
California Wayfaring
Attention all Music & Foodie Lovers! Grand Central Market and Beat Swap Meet team up for a dream collab bringing music and good vibes to Broadway! Grand Central Market Record Fair July 13, 2024 Save this famous place for your next trip to Los Angeles. Grand Central Market is a must on any trip to DTLA, and the food is amazing. I highly recommend the oysters, but you can’t go wrong.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Summer skewers and barbecue that West LA has never seen before 😮 Kreung kitchen Cambodian style!! Ok, we love eating khmer food in long beach but now on the westside and bold young chef has brought his heritage out and is popping up around the westside all summer long. Cambodian food is vibrant and strong in flavors, then when you add it to bbq and in the summer?
Secret Los Angeles
Celebrate National Hot Dog Month at one of old-school hot dog spots Pink’s has been a Hollywood legend since 1939. You can choose from popular favorites like the Lord of the Rings Dog topped with BBQ sauce and onion rings or the Martha Stewart Dog topped with sauteed onions, mushrooms, nacho cheese, bacon, but Pink’s Famous Chili Dog with mustard, chili, onions is still an iconic classic for a reason. Plus, it was a favorite spot of Anthony Bourdain. You can’t get a better recommendation! July is National Hot Dog Month. From cookouts to Independence Day celebrations to National Hot Dog Day on July 17th, we’ve got all the reasons to grab a delicious hot dog this month.
See alsoExplore Networking Opportunities in Mid-Wilshire, LA | Local Events & Trending Community Gatherings
Los Angeles4 everybody
📍 AMBOY FAR EAST CENTER, DTLA It’s the chef that created Egg Slut, the Filipino American egg sandwich connoisseur. His small shop in chinatown makes these specialty burgers and they’re insane! For a special event, i also found his longanesa hot dog on the menu and sisig fries with calamansi! 🍊🍟 Beers was so special too. Paired so well with the meal. You can find this across from Amboy at La Sita and other stores and restaurants around LA. Two Filipino LA brothers brought this over from the Philippines and all the flavors are so good. I’m not usually a beer drinker but the Ube Lager was so unique! (They also have Honey and a Mango flavor). Check them out for a taste of LA Filipino American innovation! 📍 AMBOY
Gareth
Sun’s out, drinks up, and vibes en el rooftop🌞 LA Cha Cha Chá restaurant's rooftop is your go-to spot for delicious cocktails, great music, and the perfect summer vibe. 🌇🍸El verano esta aquí! Aquí nos vemos 👋
Secret Los Angeles
Explore Los Angeles' outdoors without spending a dime this season! The Exposition Park Rose Garden is one of the most beloved gems in Los Angeles. It's home to over 20,000 flowers! Located adjacent to the Natural History Museum, this lush garden features thousands of rose bushes in various colors and varieties, making it a photographer’s paradise and an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or picnic. The garden is free to enter and open to the public daily, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life.
Hellocalifornia
Going vegan isn't so hard these days, with great restaurants like Señoreata serving modern Cuban food 🍲🌱
Discover Hidden Gems in Downtown Los Angeles Through Local Recommendations
Looking to uncover the best-kept secrets of Downtown Los Angeles? Kikihub is your ultimate guide to gaining local insights and real opinions from the community. Whether you're new in town or a long-time resident, these local recommendations will help you explore some of the most unique spots in the area. From food and art to nightlife and cultural landmarks, downtown LA has something for everyone.
Exclusive Food Spots You Must Try
When it comes to food, Downtown LA offers an eclectic mix of dining options that suit every palate. A local favorite is Grand Central Market, an indoor food emporium that has been around since 1917. Here, you can try everything from authentic Mexican street tacos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas to the mouth-watering egg sandwiches at Eggslut.
For those in search of hidden culinary gems, head over to Bäco Mercat. This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers innovative dishes you won't find anywhere else. Try the signature "Bäco," a flatbread sandwich filled with meats, fish, or vegetables. Another secret hotspot is Majordomo, where Chef David Chang serves up modern American cuisine with Asian influences. Don’t miss their signature smoked meat platter, a true feast for the senses.
Navigating the Nightlife Scene
Downtown LA's nightlife is both vibrant and diverse, making it a perfect place to explore unique bars and lounges. One highly recommended spot is Seven Grand, renowned for its extensive whiskey collection and vintage ambiance. If you’re a fan of rooftop bars, Perch is a must-visit. Offering panoramic views of the city, this French-inspired rooftop bistro is ideal for a relaxing evening under the stars.
For those looking for something a bit more underground, try The Varnish. Located behind a hidden door in the back of Cole's French Dip, this speakeasy offers classic cocktails in a cozy, dimly lit setting. Another local secret is Cliftons Republic, a massive multi-floor bar featuring different themes on each level, including a tiki bar and a cabin-themed room.
Art and Culture Hotspots
Downtown Los Angeles is a treasure trove of art and culture. A must-visit is the Broad, a contemporary art museum that houses works by Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and many more influential artists. For street art enthusiasts, the Arts District is your go-to. This neighborhood is packed with vibrant murals and art installations. Don’t miss out on Hauser & Wirth, an art gallery that also features a courtyard and a farm-to-table restaurant, Manuela.
If live performances are more your scene, the historic Orpheum Theatre hosts a variety of shows ranging from concerts to Broadway musicals. For a more indie experience, check out The Regent Theater, a recently revived venue that hosts live music, film screenings, and special events.
Unique Shopping Experiences
Shopping in Downtown LA is a unique adventure, offering everything from high-end boutiques to quirky thrift stores. The Last Bookstore is a local staple, offering over 250,000 new and used books, plus records and art installations. Explore the labyrinthine second floor, which is filled with themed nooks and crannies.
For fashion enthusiasts, the Fashion District is an unmissable destination. Spanning 100 blocks, it includes the famous Santee Alley, where you can find everything from bargain clothing to accessories. Don’t forget to visit ROW DTLA, a retail space that combines historic buildings with modern shops, creating a unique shopping atmosphere. Here you'll find niche brands and artisan goods that are good enough for even the most discerning shopper.
Historical Landmarks and Exploration
Downtown LA is steeped in history, offering numerous landmarks worth exploring. One such site is Olvera Street, the birthplace of Los Angeles. Immerse yourself in Mexican culture by strolling through its market stalls, where you can find traditional crafts, clothing, and food. The Bradbury Building is another architectural marvel, showcasing an exquisite ironwork interior and open cage elevators. It’s been featured in numerous films, including the sci-fi classic "Blade Runner."
For a deeper dive into LA's history, visit Union Station, a stunning example of Mission Revival architecture. This iconic train station serves as a major transportation hub and a picturesque location for photo ops. Don't forget to check out the Los Angeles Public Library, a Beaux-Arts building that features a magnificent rotunda and mural-covered ceilings. The library is a perfect blend of history and modernity, offering something for architecture buffs and bibliophiles alike.
With this treasure trove of local recommendations and insights, Downtown Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Utilize Kikihub to chat with locals, get real opinions, and unlock the secrets that make this area truly special.
