Naturally, a city as all-encompassing as Los Angeles would have a dedicated Arts District. Situated on the eastern edge of Downtown L.A., this cultural hot spot is buzzing with creative energy, from unique galleries showcasing a wide range of artistic works to trendy coffee shops, stores selling one-of-a-kind finds and inventive restaurants—many of which are on the Michelin Guide. Here, Angeleno details where to head in one of L.A.’s most expressive hubs.
Relax poolside above the DTLA skyline at Soho Warehouse; PHOTO COURTESY OF SOHO WAREHOUSE
Located within the 50-year-old Engine Company 17 firehouse, this Gry Space-designed property serves as a sanctuary for peaceful rest and relaxation. From minimalistic interiors to cutting-edge amenities, including an on-site Japanese-American bistro, Kodō hotel offers a unique retreat for Angelenos and out-of-towners alike.
Check out the outdoor art mural commissioned by Obey Giant before checking in to Soho Warehouse; PHOTO COURTESY OF SOHO WAREHOUSE
Members of Soho Houses across the world are familiar with the chic escape the company prides itself on. Located in a 1916-built recording studio, Soho Warehouse features 48 rooms across seven floors, plus a gym, garden and a rooftop pool—open to the public for booking.
Kelly Wearstler added her designer touch to the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel’s interiors; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
With restaurants in partnership with Caroline Styne and Suzanne Goin, such as the Cali-Mediterranean Caldo Verde and rooftop bar Cara Cara, this DTLA property encapsulates the heart of Los Angeles in every thoughtful detail. Even the interiors are a product of Kelly Wearstler’s creative expertise.
Right in the center of the action is The Hoxton, a hip getaway just a 10-minute drive from the Arts District. Enjoy the delicious ongrounds dining options, like chef Stephanie Izard’s Cabra, serving Peruvian small plates, or chef Pandel’s comfort food-inspired Moonlark’s Dinette.
Over a decade after opening, Bestia still garners accolades for its incredible Italian cuisine, including the famous Cavatelli alla Norcina, rich roasted bone marrow and decadent squid ink spaghetti.
Whether you’re familiar with Middle Eastern food or not, Bavel is sure to impress with the freshest flavors and dishes, from oyster mushroom kebabs to slow-roasted lamb neck shawarma.
Indulge in a whole Lumina lamb rack topped with green amba rub and garlic yogurt at Bavel; PHOTO BY BRIGITTE NEMAN
At Kato, the menu offers just one option: a multi-course tasting experience. Expect a diverse selection of Taiwanese-inspired dishes featuring everything from short rib and smoked hamachi to indulgent A5 wagyu.
Take a quick trip to the City of Love at this French eatery. Helmed by chef Max Boonthanakit, the Michelin-starred establishment deliciously executes each dish, from French onion soup to steak au poivre—and an absolutely stellar burger and fries.
Where California produce meets Mexican cooking traditions, Damian’s inventive menu is not to miss—with Caesar tostadas, duck carnitas and banana foster tamales as just a few of founder Enrique Olvera’s inventive offerings.
It’s not every day you’ll find French-Japanese fusion. At Camélia, discover intercontinental delicacies such as half-shell ponzu oysters, a Croque Madame made with ham katsu and the finest wine and sake.
Focusing on modern Korean cuisine, Baroo welcomes guests for a tasting menu that journeys through the region’s exciting flavors. The meal will span Hokkaido scallops, lobster Tuigim, soy-braised wild black cod and many more unique dishes.
This DTLA staple is a must-try for Mexico City flavors in L.A. Fresh bowls of guacamole, tender carnitas, spicy margaritas and ice-cold cerveza are sure to get the fiesta started.
Chef Stephanie Izard’s farm-to-table restaurant is a locally-loved spot from brunch to dinner. Order the sticky glazed pork shank plated with hot mustard and naan, and thank us later.
Grab a brown sugar and cinnamon latte, or settle in for a selection of sustainably sourced dishes at Manuela. Since you’re in the Arts District, it only makes sense that the restaurant is decorated with specially commissioned works.
Rooted in sustainable practices and a laidback Santa Cruz lifestyle, Verve has popped up around the state, roasting ethical and equally delicious coffees and teas.
Open daily till 5 p.m. and 4 p.m. on weekends, get your caffeine fix well past morning hours at Eightfold. We highly recommend the Oj Creamsicle, crafted with orange and honey-infused cold brew.
Founded in Istanbul in 2015, this coffee shop thought outside the box, bringing curated roasts right to the Arts District. You can even subscribe to get premium blends delivered to your door.
San Ma Ru means “mountaintop,” where Maru sources its coffee beans. You can taste the superb quality in their drip coffees and iconic cream-top cold brews and lattes.
Find just about anything inside this all-encompassing center, where you can shop stores from Shades of Grey to Scent Bar DTLA, grab a slice at Pizzeria Bianco and hit a workout at the Athletic Club all in one location.
Located in some of the world’s most renowned cities, the multi-brand retailer shines in the Arts District with exclusive streetwear pieces from Commes Des Garçons to Stüssy.
Artist & Craftsman Supply Downtown LA
At this one-stop shop, discover all things art supplies and watch your visions come to life. You’ll find everything you need, from acrylic paints to clay, beads and block prints.
Shop design books and non-fiction favorites at the family-owned and managed Hennessy + Ingalls, where art and architecture intersect.
Whether indulging in an artisan latte from the Berlin-established Concierge Coffee or browsing trending brands at Alchemy Works, the all-new Signal Shops has quickly become a drawing point to this pocket of Los Angeles.
As one of the most recognized galleries in the county, Hauser & Wirth curates unforgettable exhibitions and events inside a reimagined former flour mill.
Discover new and notable exhibits at Hauser & Wirth in the Arts District; PHOTO BY ELON SCHOENHOLZ
This Hong Kong-founded gallery made its way to Los Angeles, making a splash with works by both emerging and established artists while offering them worldwide exposure.
Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles
Occupying 12,700 square feet of space, ICA LA invites artists to imagine and create new artistic ideas and display exhibitions, encouraging discovery for all.
Art Share L.A. provides a creative, live-work space for artists to hone in on their craft; PHOTO BY MIKAEL BRANDRUP
Supporting artists from step one, Art Share L.A. offers a place for creators to live, work on their latest projects and let their voices be heard through exhibitions that are open to the public.
Founded by artist Paul McCarthy with his daughter, Mara McCarthy, who now runs the space with Robert Zin Stark, developed a place where art history wouldn’t be forgotten, and new artists would have an opportunity to be seen at this remarkable gallery in the heart of the Arts District.
Photography by: Courtesy of Soho Warehouse
