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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown LA

Authentic bars

Made for those who want a genuine, unpretentious environment where the drinks are as honest as the surroundings.

Based on 604 Opinions
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01
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Minimalist Japanese design combines with modern architecture and authentic outfits to create an elegant, cozy space. Calm, serene atmosphere contrasts with busy downtown streets, enhanced by high ceilings and calming music. Occasional robot service adds a unique touch to an otherwise traditional dining experience.

Extremely particular about its dashi broth, this place serves authentic Japanese sukiyaki and shabu dishes. It offers authentic vegan options in a traditional atmosphere, delivering a genuine Japanese dining experience.

Extensive sake list includes sparkling options. Bar offers reasonable drink prices and a great bar food menu with excellent customer service.

People are saying

"I had an authentic Japanese meal that made me feel like I was in Japan."

"The bar's customer service is amazing and the prices are reasonable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

3

The cheapest set menu starts at $87 per person.

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Large space with beautiful decor and a tropical vibe creates an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. Phenomenal DJs and a fire dancer keep energy lively with top-notch house music and captivating performances. Guests enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant setting that blends dining with entertainment seamlessly.

Dishes burst with authentic Brazilian flavors and come cooked to perfection. The shrimp casserole offers a nostalgic, genuine taste that stands out.

Atmosphere stands out with a tropical lounge design that creates a cool vibe at night. The bar area fits well within the beautiful restaurant setting, making it a chill spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The staff here are so kind and welcoming, it feels authentic."

"The bar staff here are so attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

Fire dance performances start at 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for weekend events.

3

The fire dance show lasts about 15 minutes and is a highlight of the evening.

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Restaurant features a warm and inviting ambiance with a cute tree centerpiece and live DJ music enhancing the atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a fabulous patio that complements the overall vibe. The bar offers creative and well-balanced drinks that add to the experience.

Dishes feature authentic Latin flavors that recall traditional home cooking. Meals come with careful preparation and rich, genuine taste.

Great Peruvian-inspired drinks stand out at the bar. The setup is welcoming and offers a nice atmosphere for enjoying cocktails.

People are saying

"I enjoyed a well-made Old Fashioned at the bar."

"The authentic dishes here are so flavorful, they remind me of grandma's cooking."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 9 pm on Fridays with half-price on the second drink.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

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Modern Indian restaurant with stylish decor and a Gatsby-inspired bar creates an elegant atmosphere. Bollywood-inspired DJ music adds lively energy and encourages dancing. The space feels open and vibrant, attracting groups for social dining and celebrations.

Dishes serve authentic flavors with a modern twist, like the Jackfruit Cutlet. Decor blends contemporary Indian flair with stylish, modern elements.

Bar features a Gatsby-style look with beautiful decor and a rich ambience.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Indian with a flavorful, modern twist."

"The drinks here are outstanding and popular."

Good to know

1

Brunch on Sundays features live music, with dancing starting around 1:30pm.

2

A special prix fixe menu is available during brunch and special events.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure accommodation.

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Stylish interior blends modern elegance with rich Indian heritage in a spacious, intimate setting. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, balancing upscale vibes with family-friendly comfort. Unique Indian fusion menu complements the thoughtful, well-lit décor.

Bold flavors and authentic Indian spices define the dishes here. The food combines a fresh approach with authentic flavor palette and creative presentation in a modern, upscale setting.

Q at the bar offers terrific recommendations and the spot serves killer cocktails. Service can be slow since one server handles multiple tables and makes drinks at the same time.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and prepared to perfection."

"Their Indian dishes got a makeover in the best way possible."

Good to know

1

There is 90-minute parking available in the complex.

2

Parking validation is available up to $35 in a nearby parking garage.

3

The average wait time for food is 30 to 45 minutes.

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Small yakitori spot with an open kitchen showcases charcoal-grilled chicken skewers and a relaxed Japanese vibe. Counter seating offers a close view of chefs grilling, creating an intimate dining experience. The place fills quickly, so reservations are essential to avoid waiting.

Yakitori stands out with its authentic, tender, and juicy qualities. The menu offers unique, traditional Japanese flavors that have been consistent over time.

Sitting at the bar offers a front-row view of chefs working the grill. Ordering a beer and sampling various skewers highlights the yakitori bar experience.

People are saying

"I found the yakitori here to be authentic, tender, and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a MUST here unless you don't mind waiting.

2

Torigoya is walk-in only.

3

Street parking is available and safe, and I have been lucky to find an open metered spot.

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Large space with high ceilings and an industrial look creates an inviting atmosphere. Ambient music keeps the mood cozy and quiet early, while the bar adds an adult feel without excluding families. Decor includes a large mural honoring the founders, blending old-school charm with modern design.

Dishes feature authentic Japanese flavors with juicy karaage and flavorful ramen. Menu offers home-cooked style meals that taste fresh and traditional.

Attentive bar staff tailor each drink and make personalized suggestions while chatting. The bar stays fully stocked and draws a steady crowd of regulars on most nights.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be so authentic and flavorful."

"The bar staff is so attentive, tailoring each drink to your preference."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm with food and drink specials.

2

The restaurant stays open until 1 am for late-night diners.

3

Outside seating is available, but may require a longer wait.

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Small sushi bar seats about 18 people with intimate counter seating and two small tables for groups. Atmosphere feels serene and traditional Japanese, evoking a sense of being in Tokyo or Osaka. Sushi chefs prepare food openly, creating an authentic and engaging experience with top-tier sushi quality.

Authentic Japanese atmosphere sets the tone with fresh, high quality sushi and sashimi. The service and food deliver a real Japanese dining experience similar to what you'd find in Japan.

People are saying

"I experienced an authentic sushi meal, just like in Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has very limited seating, so arrive early.

3

Parking is free with validation from the restaurant.

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Steakhouse offers Brazilian churrasco style with meat served directly at tables and a phenomenal salad bar. Spacious venue includes multiple dining rooms, fireplaces, and an outdoor patio, creating a warm, stylish atmosphere with lively music that encourages dancing.

Churrasco features authentic Brazilian flavors with a wide selection of fresh options and classic sides. The food offers high quality and stays true to traditional Brazilian cuisine.

Cocktails include impeccable caipirinhas and a well-stocked bar. Bar staff provide friendly, attentive service alongside the main servers.

People are saying

"The salad bar had the most options I've ever seen."

"The service here is so warm, attentive, and professional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available 7 days a week at the bar.

2

The happy hour offers all-you-can-drink cocktails for $29.

3

An automatic 18% tip charge is added to all bills.

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Industrial-Japanese design combines with bright yellow noren curtains and a railroad-style layout featuring communal tables and booths. Atmosphere stays warm and cozy with good music playing, creating a quietly confident vibe. Seating includes high bar stools and booths, making it feel like a casual spot focused on gyoza.

Offers authentic Japanese comfort food with a focus on delicious gyoza. Feels like a reliable spot for genuine flavors.

People are saying

"The authentic gyoza here are delicious, especially the pan-fried ones."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 PM to 7 PM on weekdays with great deals on gyoza.

2

Parking can be challenging, but public parking is usually available nearby.

3

Dine-in service is now allowed, providing a comfortable atmosphere.

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Spacious interior with classy decor and Asian-inspired cocktails creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Music complements the vibe while seating allows guests to linger without pressure. Large portions and affordable prices add to the overall experience.

Food shows a perfect balance of modern techniques and authentic flavors. Every dish and drink feels fresh and delicious.

Fully stocked bar offers a variety of cocktails. Happy Hour features 50% off drinks at the Downtown spot.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are delicate, bite-sized treats, a dim sum staple."

"I loved their authentic dim sum dumplings and buns."

Good to know

1

Northern Cafe has a special dim sum menu available all day on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers 50% off beer prices during weekdays.

3

The restaurant is located just a 2-minute walk from the nearest metro station.

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Modern, elegant Persian restaurant with chic décor and an open kitchen showcasing grills. Lively, energetic Persian music fills the space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor courtyard offers a hidden urban retreat with a relaxed vibe.

Cocktails here set a new standard with exceptional mixology and excellent service from the bar team. The bar offers a cool atmosphere with cozy indoor and outdoor seating, making it easy to enjoy a drink before dinner.

People are saying

"The bar service here is exceptional, truly crafted with artistry."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinner service.

2

A stick of kobedah costs $36, and a cup of rice is $10.

3

Valet parking is required, even if street parking is available nearby.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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