Don’t believe the ill-toned rumors: downtown Los Angeles is the place to be. Its urban vibrancy comes thanks to the eye-catching architecture you can’t find anywhere else in the city, not to mention all the new, tried-and-true and widely heralded lineup of restaurants, bars, museums and hotels.
Read on for our guide to check out all the best places in DTLA.
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500 Mateo St 90013/ Website
From chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, the Middle Eastern restaurant highlights their family roots in Israel, Morocco, Turkey and Egypt. Since 2019, they have brought to the Arts District can’t-miss slow-roasted lamb, whole prawns and house-made ice cream.
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2121 E 7th Pl 90021/ Website
Also by husband and wife duo Menashe and Gergis, this restaurant is always packed, so make sure to make a reservation ASAP. In fact, it’s one of the most popular spots in the city, not just downtown, making it a must-visit place for visitors and Angelenos alike. The space taps into a “beast” (the English meaning of the Italian name) aesthetic with hard-edged design elements, while the menu encompasses multi-regional influences. Highlights include the roasted marrow bone, burrata pizza and the squid ink chitarra.
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2132 E 7th Pl/ Website
Rooted in Mexican culture, the contemporary eatery comes to life by way of California’s seasonal produce. Like the cuisine, Damian’s beverage program features artisanal spirits so that the high quality ingredients stand out. Be sure to try the guacamole, duck al pastor, uni tostada and the banana leaf flan.
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555-3 Mateo St 90013/ Website
Straight out of Chicago, the L.A. location is distinctly Southern Californian. While tapping into the original restaurant’s global influence and flavors of Chicago, chef Stephanie Izard’s menu thrives on the state’s seasonal produce. Often name checked for special birthdays or big date nights, menu highlights include goat liver mousse, pork belly, roasted oysters and confit goat belly.
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1124 San Julian St 90015/ Website
The best Italian restaurants have family ties, so look no further than this Arts District eatery inspired by childhood memories of summers in Bologna. You’ll also be treated to fresh handmade pasta by the Bib Gourmand-certified restaurant.
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929 S Broadway St 90015/ Website
The global boutique hotel brand is perfectly positioned in DTLA. Right along Broadway (a stone’s throw for nearby bars and theaters), guests have the opportunity to rooftop drinks, poolside lounging, restful sleeping, vegetable-focused dining and nighttime entertainment all in one place.
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1100 S Broadway 90015/ Website
The Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel imbues a warmth inherent to Southern California’s year-round sunshine. In addition to the 147 rooms, guests can enjoy a library lounge, rooftop pool and two destination restaurants in partnership with James Beard award winners Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne.
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100 S Grand Ave 90012/ Website
Grand Avenue’s newest gem boasts architecture by the legendary Frank Gehry and interior genius of Tara Bernerd. A few minutes’ walk from the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the vibrant, yet elegant hotel includes a private pool deck, a full-service spa and locally inspired dining.
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900 W Olympic Blvd 90015/ Website
On the ground of L.A. Live, The Ritz-Carlton makes for the perfect place to stay for anyone with plans to attend a Lakers game or big concert at Crypto.com Arena (or anything at the convention center). What’s more, the chic hotel also makes for a tranquil getaway from the bustling city with its rooftop pool, unparalleled spa and decadent dining options.
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649 S Olive St 90014/ Website
Also new to the neighborhood, Hotel Per La was inspired by Italy, but promises you’ll experience feelings of home. Each room and suite features Bellino linens, curated original artwork and more.
Desaur DTLA
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220 W 5th St 90013/ Website
Located in the Historic Core, Desaur considers itself the ultimate spa destination and for good reason. Visitors can opt between eight treatment rooms, a sauna, soaking tube, quartz sand and a relaxation room.
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200 N Grand Ave 90012/ Website
Despite being in the heart of downtown, the 12-acre civic park is often one of the most calming areas of the neighborhood (when a big event isn’t going on, of course!). Surrounded by plazas, fountains and green spaces, Grand Park offers year-round programming and a center between The Music Center and City Hall.
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900 W Olympic Blvd 90015/ Website
So good, we mentioned it twice! The Ritz-Carlton’s spa is worth an appointment whether you’re a guest or not. It dominates as the largest downtown spa across 8,000-square feet— which includes nine treatment rooms— and ensures pampering worthy of any A-list star.
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777 S Alameda St 90021/ Website
With more than 35 retailers, restaurants, boutiques and more, peruse Row DTLA for anything from your design needs to the hottest new styles. Shops include Bel Kazan, Coast by Coast, Dylan Lex, Flask & Field, General Store and Mod Ref, among others.
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608 Imperial St 90021/ Website
An offshoot of the original retailer located on Dover Street in London, founders Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons and husband Adrian Joffe have brought the same level of class and cool to DTLA. In addition to CDG, you can find Supreme, Balenciaga, Gucci, Nike, Raf Simons and Simon Rocha, among others.
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300 South Santa Fe Avenue 90013/ Website
For a one-stop place, Wittmore offers clothing, accessories, grooming supplies and gifts from brands with a global perspective. The modern, approachable lifestyle shop aims to be forward-thinking and timeless in style and design.
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416 W 8th St 90014/ Website
L.A. is all about the rooftop bar and downtown has an abundance. Emitting a South Beach vibe right in Southern California, visitors delight in the vintage flourishes and inventive cocktails. Don’t skip on the carne asada fries.
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1100 S Broadway 90015/ Website
Atop the Proper Hotel, the restaurant is elevated by an endless skyline, lush landscaping, chef Suzanne Goin’s seasonal menu and award-winning sommelier Caroline Styne’s excellent lineup of cocktails, beer and wine.
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812 E 3rd St 90013/ Website
A new addition to the DTLA bar scene, La Cha Cha Cha is all about pure tropical enjoyment. The hidden rooftop brings a little bit of Mexico to the Arts District by way of cuisine, tacos and cocktails.
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448 S Hill St/ Website
A longtime favorite of the city, Perch embodies French glam in a distinctly L.A. setting. Enjoy French small plates while sipping handcrafted cocktails and taking in breathtaking city views.
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828 Traction Ave 90013/ Website
For a casual, but fun night out,the Arts District Brewery Co. is the perfect spot for last-minute outings and big-party gatherings. In addition to house draft beers, specialty hot dogs and burgers and arcade games, it’s neighbor to the building known as “The Loft” in New Girl.
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648 S Broadway 90014/ Website
We can’t think of a single bar like Clifton’s in the entirety of Los Angeles. A low-lit, legendary venue, Clifton’s lives up to its self-description as an immersive fantasy playground. Each floor comes to life with a new theme through music and decor. You’ll want to make your way through each one. Just follow the massive tree in the center and you’ll eventually find yourself in the tiki bar.
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818 E 3rd St 90013/ Website
Brining a little bit of NYC understated vibrance to L.A., the speakeasy-like bar offers creative drinks and a New American menu.
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108 W 2nd St 90012/ Website
Once a power plant, The Edison welcomes imbibes to try out crafty absinthe cocktails while enjoying burlesque shows and live music nights.
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907 E 3rd St 90013/ Website
Quintessentially L.A., Manuela’s rustic-chic space presents an exemplary bar program elevated by house-made bitters and tonics, local beers on tap, a carefully curated wine list and an always buzzy crowd.
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221 S Grand Ave 90012/ Website
In addition to its impressive collection of contemporary art from the 1950s to the present, The Broad is a standout as one of Los Angeles’ handful of museums with free admission. Highlights include work from Jean-Michel Basquiat, Mark Bradford, Jasper Johns, Jeff Koons, Barbara Kruger, Yayoi Kusama, Kerry James Marshall, Julie Mehretu, Takashi Murakami, Robert Rauschenberg, Ed Ruscha, Cindy Sherman, Cy Twombly and Andy Warhol.
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135 N Grand Ave 9012/ Website
Since 1968, the LA Opera has presented world-class opera that taps into artistic innovation while still honoring the art form’s historical legacy.
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700 W 7th St 90017/ Website
Located in The Bloc, downtown LA is home to the ultimate theater for movie lovers. Alamo Drafthouse celebrates all films— from indies to blockbusters— as evidenced by themed food and beverages and abundance of memorabilia.
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111 S Grand Ave 90012/ Website
The architecture of this iconic DTLA building is enough to make you want to go inside. But upon experiencing a show, you’ll understand why the Walt Disney Concert Hall is home to the esteemed Los Angele Philharmonic. Designed by Frank Gehry, a visit will present you with the best in classical, contemporary, jazz and world music.
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845 N Alameda St 90012/ Website
Created in 1930, Olvera Street captures Old Los Angeles. The Mexican marketplace is made up of old structures, street vendors, restaurants, cafes and gift shops that could keep you busy for hours munching on tacos, churros and taquitos.
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813 Flower St 90017/ Website
The Lilly Rose hides on the bottom floor of The Wayfarer hotel, but that’s not just what makes it something to look out for. The whimsical, intimate bar also has High Tea & Highballs service from Wednesday through Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m.
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1111 S Figueroa St 90015/ Website
Whether watching the Lakers dominate the court or your favorite pop star put on a show, The Hideaway is the ultimate suite experience— you’ll just need an invitation. Upon joining the waitlist, you’re on the path to witness Crypto.com Arena’s most coveted space. It features a bar, claw machine, catering, a Zoltar fortune teller and custom Gucci wallpaper.
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244 San Pedro St 90012/ Website
More than just an arts and culture center, the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center also offers next-level dining experiences. There’s often the chance to taste the work of rising chefs or you can make a reservation timed to the master chef in residence pop-up.
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317 S Broadway 90013/ Website
Though it’s been a landmark since 1917, it’s easy to cruise past the Grand Central Market if you’re driving in a car (as so many Angelenos do). The 30,000-square-foot food extravaganza is a prime opportunity for a smorgasbord afternoon. Showcasing premier ingredients, chefs and entrepreneurs, highlights include Broad Street Oyster Co., Eggslut, Golden Road and Moon Rabbit, among others.
See also: The Ultimate Guide to Beverly Hills
Photography by: Unsplash/Adam Dillon
