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Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in Downtown

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101 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Perch LA restaurant
1. Perch LA
4.6
Exceptional(11923)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Downtown
Booked 174 times today
Check-in is at the 15th Floor Host Stand*Outdoor seating is not guaranteed. *Large Party Tables 7 to 12 Guests are Inside Only Tables*All walk-ins after 10:45pm must be 21+ with valid ID.*Table reservations are limited to 90 minutes for parties of 2*Our dress code is Upscale Casual preferred.Proper attire is required. Presentable shirts, jeans or shorts are acceptable.The restaurant charges a 20% auto-gratuity on all food and beverage items for parties and groups of 7 or larger. The full amount of the gratuity is distributed to employees in the chain of service to the guests.
A photo of Water Grill – Los Angeles restaurant
2. Water Grill – Los Angeles
4.8
Exceptional(5416)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 53 times today
Water Grill in Downtown LA has been a neighborhood gem since 1989. Reviews rave about its 'elegance,' 'excellent food,' and 'impeccable service.' As one reviewer put it, it's 'one of the hidden gems in downtown LA' with 'amazing foods' and 'great service.' It's not just the food that's top-notch, but also the atmosphere, making it a great spot for both business meetings and after-work gatherings.
A photo of Bestia restaurant
3. Bestia
4.8
Exceptional(8390)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 179 times today
A multi-regional Italian restaurant in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles.
A photo of Bavel restaurant
4. Bavel
4.8
Exceptional(5056)
Price: Expensive
• Middle Eastern • Downtown
Booked 137 times today
A Middle Eastern restaurant in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles.
A photo of Saffy's restaurant
5. Saffy's
4.8
Exceptional(1257)
Price: Expensive
• Middle Eastern • East Hollywood
Booked 82 times today
Saffy's is a true neighborhood gem, praised by locals for its exceptional Middle Eastern cuisine. As one reviewer said, 'Nobody cooks middle eastern food like my partner’s mom, except maybe for Saffy’s.' The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with a family-style dining experience that fosters sharing and socializing. The staff is polite, knowledgeable and attentive, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The food is consistently described as 'outstanding', 'delicious', and 'spectacular'. Whether you're looking for a casual night out with friends or a special occasion, Saffy's is a must-visit.
A photo of Here's Looking At You restaurant
6. Here's Looking At You
4.7
Exceptional(943)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Koreatown
Booked 28 times today
We are an eclectic Los Angeles restaurant, located in Koreatown, heralded for its creativity and genre-defying cuisine. Their first restaurant together, owners Lien Ta and Chef Jonathan Whitener opened Here's Looking At You in 2016. Named a "Restaurant of the Year" by Food & Wine Magazine and one of Eater National's "38 Most Essential Restaurants," HLAY was also the subject of author Patric Kuh's "Becoming a Restaurateur." After four magical years as a small independent restaurant, COVID-19 would force its forever closure. But 17 months later, fate would have it that the community would come together to help resurrect this very special restaurant. Thanks to you, Here's Looking At You is back.In 2022, it was included in NY Times list "50 Best Restaurants in America." In 2024, it was ranked #15 in LA Times list "101 Best Restaurants in LA."
A photo of Omakase by Osen restaurant
7. Omakase by Osen
4.8
Exceptional(279)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Silver Lake
Booked 2 times today
Omakase by Osen opened as of October 10th 2022.Instagram: @omakasebyosenSister location instagram: @osen_izakayaomakasebyosen.comBusiness hours:Sunday - Monday 5pm to 10pm (Last Call for Omakase: 9PM) Large party reservation note: Parties of over 5+ please contact our restaurant directly to book your reservation. (323) 426-9455Allergy & Accommodation: Please note any allergies in the reservation comments. Unfortunately, due to the nature of our Japanese cuisine, we cannot accommodate celiac disease. Thank you for your understanding.
A photo of Marco Polo at Silver Lake Pool & Inn restaurant
8. Marco Polo at Silver Lake Pool & Inn
4.5
Awesome(403)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Silver Lake
Booked 10 times today
Set within Silver Lake Pool & Inn, Marco Polo Trattoria and Bar offers a seasonal menu that celebrates the vibrant, heritage-driven dishes you'll find in Milan with bountiful, local California ingredients. We welcome you to join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends for an inviting al fresco dining experience. Locals and hotel guests can mingle on our dog-friendly patio. Valet parking available for your convenience. Salut!
A photo of Civico 2064 restaurant
9. Civico 2064
4.5
Awesome(139)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Los Feliz
Booked 17 times today
Second location from brothers Dario and Pietro Gallo. After the great San Diego success Civico opens in Los Feliz bringing a new generation of Italian cuisine – fresh, light and authentic. By using proper cooking techniques, our flavors are natural and pure. Our menu is a homage to our southern Italian roots and reflects what’s being served in Italy today. You can also find an extensive vegan menu that incorporates many of the best Italian dishes. Try us out and see for yourself why we were voted as one of the top 50 vegan restaurants in the U.S!We believe in sustainability, both in our food and in the design of our restaurant. While our menu focuses on locally grown and seasonal ingredients, our bar and dining areas were created using reclaimed, natural materials. Nothing goes to waste at Civico 2064. Stop in for dinner, and experience some of the best Italian cuisine you have ever tasted.
A photo of Kombu Sushi & Sake - Arts District restaurant
10. Kombu Sushi & Sake - Arts District
4.8
Exceptional(72)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Little Tokyo
Family owned and located in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, Kombu Sushi provides guests with the familiar flavors of Japan in a contemporary yet relaxed atmosphere. We invite you, your friends, your dogs and family to dine with us. Pet menu available.

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Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Downtown

Discover the charm of Downtown, Downtown / South, and East LA's dining scene, where each restaurant shines as a true neighborhood gem. These eateries offer a unique blend of ambiance and quality cuisine that captures the essence of Los Angeles' vibrant culinary culture. Whether you are craving French-inspired dishes, seasonal American fare, or exquisite steaks and seafood, the selection in these areas promises an exceptional dining experience. The restaurants are celebrated for their cozy and elegant settings, making them perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. Guests consistently praise the attentive service and delightful meals, ensuring a memorable visit every time. Explore these hidden treasures for a taste of local flavor and hospitality in the heart of Los Angeles. Experience dining where both the atmosphere and the menu are crafted to impress, making each visit a remarkable one.

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