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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown LA

Cool dinner spots

You want a dinner spot that feels as current as the rest of your social life.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
SORA Craft Kitchen image 1
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Mediterranean restaurant

Open kitchen reveals live cooking action with a chef's one-man show creating an intimate atmosphere. Space holds just 16 seats, blending minimal modern design with cozy, handcrafted details. Warm, inviting vibe pairs with flavorful Mediterranean dishes, making the experience personal and memorable.

Dinner offers a fine dining experience with dishes crafted by Chef Okay Inak. The atmosphere shifts to a more elevated setting for the evening meal.

The space feels cool and clean with a vibrant atmosphere that stands out in the cuisine scene.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, especially the pekmez chicken."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and charming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

There is plenty of metered parking available near the restaurant.

3

The chef personally prepares all dishes, showcasing unique culinary skills.

02
Bike Shed Moto Co image 1

Motorcycle-themed restaurant combines open air space, British decor, and a central bar to create a laid-back, fun vibe. It hosts a barbershop, tattoo parlor, and retail shops, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Spacious seating with leather sofas and high ceilings adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Dinner service offers top-notch quality with a unique atmosphere. It suits small gatherings and casual meals before events.

A special events hall showcases insanely cool bikes that draw motorcycle enthusiasts. The spot offers a very cool vibe where you can get a buzz cut, tattoo, a meal, and beer all in one place.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the wagyu beef burger."

"It's a really cool spot with an awesome, modern vibe."

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and always on point."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 5-7 PM with great deals.

2

They host special events regularly, so check in frequently for updates.

3

MotoGP watch parties and bike nights are popular events held here.

03
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1

Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

Handrolls stand out as the highlight during dinner. The spot suits date night, girls dinner, and family dinner with a kid-friendly atmosphere.

The space has a cool, relaxed vibe with stylish decor that suits sushi lovers. It delivers a high-quality, satisfying meal in a setting that feels fresh and inviting.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"The dinner spots here are so fresh and delicious."

"The hand rolls here are so cool, with crisp seaweed and fresh fish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

04
Good Clean Fun image 1

Speakeasy-style wine bar offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with heaters and blankets on the patio. Atmosphere blends intimate warmth with groovy DJ music, creating a unique and exclusive vibe. Natural wine selection stands out alongside exceptional Italian-inspired food.

Outdoor patio offers a lovely setting for dinners and events. It suits happy hour and winding down the night. The space accommodates private gatherings like rehearsal dinners.

People are saying

"Ian and the staff provided fantastic service and a welcoming environment for wine."

"It's a cool natural wine bar with a unique selection."

"The staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable about natural wine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The venue hosts monthly wine tastings featuring local winemakers.

3

Parking is available across the street for a small fee.

05
ÜCA image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers stunning city skyline views and a relaxed but lively atmosphere with live music enhancing the vibe. The space features a pool area and a bar with creative agave-based cocktails. Lighting is dim, creating a cozy mood but sometimes making menus hard to read.

Rooftop setting offers a beautiful view for dinner. Atmosphere suits birthday celebrations and group dinners.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing city views from up high."

"The rooftop views are really cool, especially from the heart of DTLA."

"Our server Jolene made our girl's night special and was a delight."

Good to know

1

Jazz night happens every Thursday with live performances starting at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for Thursday jazz nights.

3

Parking is available at the Delphi hotel, which may validate valet parking.

06
Chubby Cattle BBQ | Little Tokyo image 1

Compact space balances spacious seating with a modern Yakiniku vibe and steampunk decor. Atmosphere stays fun and energetic without overwhelming noise or smoke. Self-serve unlimited drinks and ice cream add a unique touch to the lively dining experience.

Dinner here features delicious BBQ with attentive service from staff like Ben and Neil. The atmosphere feels lively and fun, making it a solid choice for celebrations or solo dinners.

Knowledgeable and friendly service stands out, especially from servers like Troy. The atmosphere feels comforting and cool, paired with great food and attentive service.

People are saying

"I loved the melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu quality here."

"The service during dinner was super friendly and attentive."

"The food here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, particularly for dinner.

3

There's a pay-to-park lot right next door for $15.

07
Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a spacious outdoor patio and live music duo that create a chill, classy atmosphere. The space features beautiful decor and a cool vibe with pleasant music, though volume varies. It suits both dates and groups, with fresh sushi and an excellent sake collection.

Delicious food draws people back for dinner multiple nights. It works well as a pre-show or late-night dinner spot downtown.

The spot has a cool vibe that stands out. Wasabi placed between fish and rice without notice feels less cool.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh and flavorful; it's amazing."

"The sushi here is fresh, flavorful, and the best I've ever had."

"The vibe and music here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 PM to 7 PM every day.

2

Late-night happy hour is from 10 PM to 2 AM.

3

They offer a buy 1 get 1 special starting at 5 PM daily.

08
Mrs. Fish image 1
Japanese restaurant

Underground Japanese restaurant with aquarium ceiling creates a relaxed, elegant vibe. Live music and DJs add vibrant energy without overpowering conversation. Unique menu and decor offer a distinct dining experience.

Elegant and inviting atmosphere suits special dinners or nights out. Food is consistently fantastic and the whole dinner service is expertly handled.

Saltwater aquariums cover the ceiling and walls, creating a unique ceiling fish tank experience. The underground space features a great atmosphere with Japanese artwork and a DJ adding to the cool ambiance.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The Dinner Spots here are spectacular, especially the uni pasta."

"The food here is amazing, especially the Miso Cod."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking costs $17.57 before tip, with no street parking available.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted sushi options.

09
L.A. Live image 1
Event venue

Event venue combines vibrant neons with electric energy and a lively vibe. Spaces range from comfortable theaters to an ice skating rink and bowling alley, offering varied entertainment. Atmosphere feels upbeat and socially engaging, with plenty of bars and restaurants adding to the buzz.

Fish dinners stand out as a notable option. Dinner spots include Yard House and Fleming's, with the latter often paired with visits to the Conga Room.

Atmosphere feels very cool with plenty of cool stuff to check out. It works well as a hangout spot for an afternoon.

People are saying

"I had a great movie experience watching movies here."

"I found it a nice place to have dinner spots and watch sports."

"It's a cool place to hang out and walk around."

Good to know

1

Parking can be expensive, with rates reaching $45 for a full day.

2

Cash is needed for discounts at some venues within L.A. Live.

3

L.A. Live hosts various events throughout the year, so check the schedule before visiting.

10
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles image 1

Movie theater offers in-seat food and drink ordering with recliner seats that create a comfortable, chill atmosphere. The vibe is quiet and focused, with no talking or texting during films, enhancing the viewing experience. Vintage decor and curated trailers add a cool, old-school feel to the space.

The theater offers tables at seats so you can eat comfortably while watching movies. Dinner, drinks, and snacks are all available to enjoy during the film.

Vintage vibes create a cool atmosphere here. The super cool dine-in movie experience makes it a relaxing spot to watch films and hang out.

People are saying

"I loved the awesome movie theater experience here."

"I thought the vibe and the staff here were super cool."

"I loved having dinner and drinks while watching a movie."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 8 PM with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke nights are hosted on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Parking validation is available, but costs $6 during the movie.

11
Cole's French Dip image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop with historic 1908 decor and a hidden speakeasy bar behind a secret door. Atmosphere feels old-school and classy, with a dimly lit, vintage pub vibe that buzzes with energy. Free billiards lounge adds to the lively, nostalgic setting.

Half a pork dip sandwich with a side serves as a satisfying late night dinner. This spot fits well into many people's lunch and dinner routines.

An old LA spot with a cool atmosphere features a speakeasy bar hidden behind a switch. The bar offers a laid-back vibe perfect for kicking back for a couple of hours.

People are saying

"I thought the French dip sandwich was the best I ever had."

"This place is cool, with a historic vibe from the 1930s."

"I wish I were closer for one last meal at this dinner spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails for $7, beer and grilled cheese for $8, and well drinks for $10.

2

Reservations are not accepted, and expect long wait times due to popularity.

3

Parking is available for $13 on the block before the restaurant.

12
Sonoritas - DTLA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a shaded outdoor patio and long tables for groups offers a relaxing atmosphere with reggaeton music creating good vibes. The interior feels a bit breezy and mismatched but remains clean and attractive despite nearby construction. Popular for margaritas and flavorful tacos, it closes early and does not accept cash.

Solid dinner options suit date night or casual meals with coworkers. Convenient spot for a meal before events at the Crypto.com Arena.

A cool vibe fills the space, making it a hip spot to watch games. Plenty of options and reasonable prices add to the appeal.

People are saying

"I loved the salmon and shrimp burritos; the Mexican food here is amazing."

"This lunch spot's barbecue burrito is a delicious blend of sweet and spicy."

"The Dinner Spots here have great margaritas and well-balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the alley next to the restaurant.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

13
Baar Baar - LA image 1
Indian restaurant

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.

Dinner here offers an unbelievable and memorable experience with dishes that stand out. It suits small celebrations well, making it a solid choice for special evenings.

An Indian fine dining spot with a vibrant atmosphere and night-on-the-town vibes. Appetizers come with a cool twist, and the cocktail menu features Bollywood-themed names.

People are saying

"The food here was absolutely amazing and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, with visually appealing dishes."

"The vibes here are so cool and buzzing with energy."

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.

14
Perch image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop bar with a breathtaking cityscape view and live music that enhances a relaxed, quiet atmosphere. The space feels crowded, requiring reservations due to limited capacity. Cocktails stand out as a distinctive feature complementing the setting.

Dinner here suits both romantic evenings and friendly catch-ups with a perfect ambience. It works well for group dinners and pairs nicely with drinks downstairs.

Paintings of naked ladies over the bar and cool chandeliers set a unique vibe inside the century-old building. The rooftop offers a view that stands out as beyond cool.

People are saying

"The rooftop view here is amazing, especially at night."

"These dinner spots have unreal skyline views, perfect for a special night out."

"The views of downtown were cool, especially at night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary due to high demand, especially for brunch and dinner.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Live music occurs from 6-10pm, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

15
Settecento DTLA image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio and garden with twinkling lights and live jazz music create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere. Interior features a library-themed decor surrounded by lush greenery. Cocktails and Italian dishes like truffle pizza complement the elegant, relaxed vibe.

Dinner offers lots of variety in a setting that feels both big and intimate. The space suits family dinners, romantic dates, or gatherings with close friends.

Situated next to the historic library, the spot offers a beautiful setting. The ambience features remixes of Italian pop, creating a cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and reasonably priced."

"The outdoor seating offers great drinks and an upscale crowd."

"The decor is cool, with instruments hanging everywhere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 6pm, ending at 5:45pm.

2

Live music is available from Wednesday to Saturday evenings.

3

The restaurant validates parking for $6 for three hours at the Library parking lot.

16
Ristorante Per L’Ora image 1
Italian restaurant

Historic Italian restaurant occupies a beautifully restored former bank with stunning interiors and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Early opening hours attract a business crowd, while the rooftop offers great views and drinks. The space combines artful decor with a sense of hidden charm.

Dinner here suits both meeting friends and business occasions with a fitting environment. Vegan choices are limited, requiring careful selection of sides.

A historic bank vault downstairs adds a unique, cool vibe. The building and ambiance feel super cool and stand out.

People are saying

"I loved the cozy vibe and Italian food here."

"The food here is so good, especially the hamachi and steak."

"The dinner spots here are quiet and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available but can be expensive.

2

Aperitivo hour runs from 5-6 pm with discounted wine.

3

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-6 pm.

17
Zinqué - DTLA image 1
French restaurant

Large space with massive ceilings and stylish indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, euro-urban vibe. Outdoor patio offers great people watching and a relaxed atmosphere. Energy is generally calm but can become hectic during busy times.

Dinner features well-prepared dishes with a trendy vibe and stylish decor. The menu covers drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert with consistent quality.

Design stands out with a cool vibe throughout the space. The bar adds a distinct great atmosphere that complements the overall setting.

People are saying

"The steak and fries are amazing for date spots."

"The food here is awesome, especially the delicious chicken wings and fries."

"The salmon and fries at these dinner spots were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three appetizers for $22, making it a great deal.

2

Reservations are advisable, especially during busy hours.

3

Public parking is available next door for $15 all day.

18
LEVEL 8 image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop venue combines live band, nightclub, and speakeasy with city views and unique architecture. Atmosphere shifts from smooth music to loud bass, creating a vibrant energy. Offers diverse experiences including pool lounging, dining, and dancing all in one space.

Romantic ambiance with an outdoor pool club sets the tone for dinner. Post-dinner options include live music and burlesque performances for a lively night out.

A wrestling match over the bar adds a unique energy. LEVEL 8 offers a multi-room concept with different vibes, including a mesmerizing carousel decoration at the rooftop pool bar.

People are saying

"It's a whole evening of events with different entertainment without moving far."

"The vibe here is really cool and fun."

"The dinner here was amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay a cover charge of around $50 CAD or $40 USD for entry.

2

All bars add a mandatory 18-20% tip to your bill.

3

Drinks at the rooftop bar are notably overpriced, often exceeding $50.

19
Cara Cara image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers beautiful city views with a cool atmosphere enhanced by heated lamps and fire pits. Cocktails stand out as phenomenal, complementing the relaxed yet vibrant vibe. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, adding to the casual, comfortable setting.

Dinner here includes options suitable for a quick meal or a special occasion. After eating, guests can relax in a cozy fire-lit lounge with a city view.

Rooftop patios offer direct skyline views and fire pits that add to the cool vibe. Stylish furniture and a cool backbar create a trendy atmosphere with great food.

People are saying

"The views here are amazing and breathtaking."

"The staff here makes dinner spots feel extra special and welcoming."

"The rooftop views here are so cool and awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:30 pm, so plan accordingly.

3

Valet parking is available for guests.

20
Berenjak image 1
Persian restaurant

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.

Dinner offers a great experience comparable to or better than London dinners. Enjoy a cocktail at the garden bar before the meal for a nice start.

Located in an old warehouse, the spot has a cool atmosphere with cozy indoor and outdoor seating and bars. The ambiance stands out as relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the kebabs."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, fresh Persian kabobs."

"The Persian kabobs here are the best I've ever had."

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.

21
The Delphi Downtown LA image 1

Rooftop bar and pool offer stunning views and a sophisticated jazz atmosphere. Spacious rooms feature unique layouts with large windows and modern interiors. Nighttime noise from nearby parties and street activity creates a lively downtown energy.

Dinner features a very nice terrace and includes a free breakfast with full meals and French press coffee.

Room design shows a cool vintage vibe mixed with a modern feel. Beds stay comfortable throughout the stay.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so accommodating and helpful with my requests."

"The room design and decor have a really cool retro vibe."

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and quick."

Good to know

1

Jazz Night happens every Thursday with live performances starting at 8pm.

2

The hotel transforms into a nightclub on Friday nights after 9pm.

3

Brunch is lively on Saturdays and Sundays, attracting a crowd.

22
Casa Ipanema image 1
Restaurant

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.

Ambience feels fun, warm, and sexy, ideal for a date night with dinner and drinks. Scheduled fire performances add a unique touch during dinner. Food consistently comes out great on weeknights.

A tropical lounge design sets a cool vibe, especially at night. The place features a DJ and fire show that adds to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The DJ made our night feel special and truly above and beyond."

"The food here is really good and tasty."

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.

23
Curry boys (DTLA) image 1
Indian restaurant

Cozy space with authentic Indian street-style decor and bright lighting creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Plenty of seating suits gatherings, while friendly energy makes it feel like home. The vibe stays relaxed and simple, letting the food take center stage.

Food suits both lunch and dinner with solid flavors. Some orders arrive missing an entire dinner item, but the overall meal quality encourages return visits.

The space features a cool use of seating and a relaxed, cool decor inside. The environment is evolving with new menu items to build a more hip vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and always served hot."

"The curry dishes here are flavorful and spiced up the neighborhood."

"The chef's passion for regional Indian food makes for intoxicating dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Curry Boys offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area surrounding the restaurant.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other Indian restaurants nearby.

24
Cafe Fig image 1
Restaurant

Indoor and outdoor dining areas blend cozy and chic atmosphere with upscale yet chill decor. Lounge spaces offer a beautiful setting with cushy sofas and classic French cafe style. Tables sit close together, creating a lively and sometimes loud environment.

Dinner options stay limited with a small menu. The Impossible Burger stands out as a main choice for takeout or room service.

Cool vibe fills the lounge and bar with many places to eat. The atmosphere stays chill and the food matches the great mood.

People are saying

"The Cafe's food was delicious, especially the flavorful fish tacos."

"The vibe here is so cool and chill."

"The dinner spots here have a great, relaxed vibe."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is quite busy in the morning, so there may be a long wait.

2

There was convenient parking in the back of the hotel.

3

The total for 2 juices, 2 lattes, and 1 granola bowl was 76 dollars.

25
District image 1
New American restaurant

Sleek and sophisticated interior with low lighting and intimate seating creates a relaxed yet professional ambiance. Large bar area offers unique drinks featuring personalized photo prints. Atmosphere suits social dinners and weekend outings with a warm, inviting vibe.

Trendy ambiance with LED lighting and attentive service sets a lively mood for dinners. The seabass dinner stands out, making it a solid spot for food and catching up with friends.

Low-lighting and comfortable seating create a modern, cool vibe throughout the space. The bar and overall atmosphere feel relaxed and stylish right in the heart of downtown.

People are saying

"The food's presentation is a visual delight."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and chill."

"It's a stylish spot with a chill vibe, perfect for dinner."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% automatic gratuity added to your bill.

2

Validated parking is available; otherwise, parking is very expensive.

3

Happy hour features limited drink options with a relaxed vibe.

26
Zaya image 1
Restaurant

Large bar area with plenty of seating and small intimate tables creates a cozy setting. Live music and a vibrant Latino bartender add energy, while the atmosphere stays pleasant but stuffy due to poor air circulation. The venue blends elegant decor with a cosmopolitan vibe for a lively night out.

Elevated Italian-inspired dishes create a memorable dinner experience with excellent service. The VIP dinner upstairs offers a special setting that adds value to the evening.

A cool venue with a vibe that stands out in the area. It brings a fresh, unique energy to the scene.

People are saying

"The live music here creates a really polished, downtown vibe."

"The dinner spots here have amazing pizza and spinach artichoke dip."

"The live music here is phenomenal, especially Matthew Grant's soulful performances."

Good to know

1

Salsa and bachata dancing happens every Monday at 8 pm, followed by social dancing.

2

Happy hour runs from Wednesday to Friday, 5-8 pm with discounted drinks.

3

Comedy shows take place every Tuesday night, providing a fun midweek option.

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