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Guide to Downtown Los Angeles

Desserts and pasta

A meal that treats pasta and dessert with equal importance rather than treating one as an afterthought.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Coffee shop

Coffee shop on a second-floor terrace offers outdoor seating with views of downtown and historic sites. Atmosphere is quiet and refined, featuring an all-black design and modern showroom style. Space attracts young professionals who come to work or study in a calm, casual setting.

Desserts here are not overly sweet. The banana cream tiramisu is very rich and serves more like a dessert drink.

Pasta dishes come with tasty noodles and pair well with salads. Prices stay reasonable while flavors stay solid.

People are saying

"I found the matcha drinks had just the right balance of sweetness."

"The desserts here are perfectly balanced and not too sweet."

"The spicy miso carbonara pasta is a surprisingly great value."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available for 30 minutes with a purchase.

2

Parking costs $3 for the first hour after validation.

3

The cafe is located on the second floor, accessible by elevator.

02
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with black walls and ambient lighting creates an intimate, elegant vibe. A cool cave-like hallway leads to extra seating, adding a unique touch. Music from a DJ keeps energy chill while good acoustics allow easy conversation.

Homemade Thai tea-flavored ice cream offers a unique dessert option. The Peach Mango Beignets stand out, easy to share and similar to a popular peach mango pie. Staff respond quickly with dessert if issues arise.

Fresh pasta made with Italian flour stands out here. The crispy pasta with confit pork hock and spinach garganelli is a signature dish often recommended. Pasta Palabok also features as a notable entrรฉe choice.

People are saying

"The Filipino food here is fresh and creatively elevated."

"This fine dining reimagines Filipino classics with a refined sensibility."

"You have to try the crispy pasta; it's great for sharing."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot across the street.

2

Sampa does not have a liquor license yet; only mocktails are available.

3

Reservations are recommended for the tasting menu.

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.

Complimentary desserts add a thoughtful touch. Mochi cake and matcha sesame dessert offer fresh, flavorful options.

Lobster dashi pasta stands out with rich, savory flavors. The menu also features truffle toro hand roll and lobster pasta, both popular choices.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the lobster pasta; it's incredible."

"The mochi cake dessert here is excellent and flavorful."

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
Camphor image 1
Restaurant

Michelin-starred French restaurant occupies a restored warehouse with high ceilings and all-white decor creating a refined, modern atmosphere. Open kitchen adds lively energy as diners watch chefs at work. Space feels upscale and comfortable, blending style with thoughtful details throughout.

Desserts stand out with their unique flavors and excellent quality. They complement the appetizers well, making the whole meal very good.

Scallop ravioli comes with a velvety butter sauce that is rich and satisfying. The pasta dish stands out for its unique flavor and pairs well with other menu items like the burger.

People are saying

"The Dover sole and sea bream at these dinner spots are phenomenal."

"You have to try the desserts; they're unique and excellent."

"The scallop pasta melts in your mouth, it's divine."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 with a $2.50 convenience charge.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

3

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual is preferred.

05
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.

Desserts include tiramisu, fruit tarts, and carrot soup that elevate the meal. Every bite delivers delightful flavors that stand out.

Homemade pasta stands out with its excellent quality and delicious flavor. It pairs well with the equally notable pizza.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and reasonably priced."

"The lasagna is a big, filling slice."

"I enjoyed the desserts here; they made me want more."

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.

06
The Factory Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Industrial chic space features exposed brick, steel beams, and an open kitchen where fresh pasta is made in view. The atmosphere is cozy yet loud, especially when crowded, with tables placed close together. The vibe suits date nights or business dinners with a lively energy and great music.

Desserts offer distinct tastes and textures, especially from the Saracena and Pane options. They stand out as a highlight of the meal, worth visiting even just for drinks and dessert.

Ribbon pesto pasta stands out with its fresh, al dente texture and harmonious sauce. Open kitchen lets you see pasta made fresh, adding to the experience.

People are saying

"The pesto pasta here is like heaven on earth."

"The industrial vibe here is offset by incredibly polished Northern Italian soul food."

"You have to try the Pane dessert; it's warm bread with ice cream."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Valet parking is available for $14 during dinner hours.

3

Street parking can be very difficult; consider using valet service.

07
Zinquรฉ - 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.

Olive oil cake offers a flavorful finish that is not too sweet or heavy. Chocolate mousse, berry crumble, apple tart, and cookie desserts provide a solid variety of sweet options.

Mushroom pasta stands out with its irresistible flavor that makes you want to lick the plate clean. Lasagna options include a classic version and a green lasagna, both enjoyed by diners.

People are saying

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

"You have to try their chocolate mousse dessert."

"I would eat the pasta dish again; it was the best."

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.

08
Savoca image 1
Italian restaurant

Open-concept design connects dining area with hotel lobby, creating a noisy yet airy atmosphere. Ambiance balances elegant and comfortable, fitting for both casual and special occasions. Freshly made pasta and flavorful dishes stand out amid an upscale but welcoming vibe.

Caramel Budino and Panna Cotta stand out as dessert options. The menu also features Banana Bread and a Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake served during special events.

Freshly made pasta stands out with dishes like short rib pasta and seafood pasta cooked to perfection. The ravioli and spaghetti taste amazing, and the bright, spacious setting adds to the experience.

People are saying

"The pasta here is made fresh and cooked to perfection."

"The pasta here is made fresh and tastes amazing."

"I enjoyed the amazing dessert."

Good to know

1

The breakfast buffet costs $39, which is considered expensive.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a vegan option on the menu.

09
Imperial Night Market image 1

Alleyway setup with old train tracks creates a unique walking path. Lighting is good, supporting a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Food vendors rotate often, offering a wide variety of fresh, high-quality options including standout tacos and sushi.

Desserts come in many forms here, including snacks, candies, and freaky treats. Options suit a wide range of tastes alongside meals and drinks.

Very good pastas come from a spot linked with a seafood place. Both the pastas and seafood get recommended together.

People are saying

"I found a great variety of good food options here."

"You'll find delicious desserts for every taste here."

"I thought the pastas were very good."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $6 as of June 2023.

2

The market is not recommended for families due to explicit content.

3

The market is not accessible for someone in a wheelchair or on crutches.

10
Drago Centro image 1
Italian restaurant

Large restaurant with huge glass wine cube at its center offers a classy yet comfortable atmosphere filled with Italian joie de vivre. Outdoor patio with heaters provides shaded, comfortable seating for mingling. Cocktails stand out as a highlight, especially the espresso martini and Aperol Spritz.

Mango cheesecake often appears as a surprise birthday treat on the house. Servers frequently bring out special birthday desserts to celebrate. Desserts consistently impress alongside salads and cocktails.

Fresh pasta made in-house stands out with dishes like truffle pasta and lobster pasta offering rich, versatile flavors. The pesto spaghetti and penne with arugula pesto also deliver spectacular taste and perfect cooking.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and amazing."

"The fresh pasta here is made in-house and tastes amazing."

"The staff here makes the desserts experience so memorable and fun."

Good to know

1

They validate parking for up to two hours, which is convenient for downtown.

2

Most regular pasta items on the menu range from $25 to $35.

3

There is valet parking available, and the restaurant validates.

11
LALA'S Argentine Grill Downtown Los Angeles image 1

Argentinian restaurant offers cozy and vibrant atmosphere with good music enhancing the experience. Seating is comfortable but tight, limiting privacy due to close tables and loud acoustics. The menu features excellent steaks and fresh sangrias, creating a distinct dining focus.

Flan appears frequently as a dessert option, with mixed impressions on its quality. Other sweets include crepes and lemon cake, which complement the savory dishes well.

Pasta dishes here have a refreshing flavor and avoid heaviness. The Pasta Primavera uses no meat and feels light, while the PENNE CON CALAMAR offers a well-prepared seafood option.

People are saying

"The mashed potatoes here are creamy and fantastic."

"I tried the flan and crepe for dessert; they were good."

"I had the best pasta in my life here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available at a public lot across the street for $10.

3

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

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