Downtown Los Angeles boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, offering a plethora of options for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. This guide explores 32 of the best lunch restaurants in the area, categorized for your convenience. Whether you're craving gourmet burgers, authentic tacos, or international cuisine, Downtown LA has something to satisfy every palate. Finding the perfect lunch spot in Downtown LA just got easier!
Quick & Casual Bites: Downtown LA Lunch on the Go
These restaurants are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch break without sacrificing quality.
Fast Casual Favorites:
- Grand Central Market: This historic landmark offers a dizzying array of food stalls, from tacos and pupusas to oysters and ramen. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for a diverse group.
- Wurstküche: Famous for its creative and high-quality sausages, Wurstküche provides a unique and delicious fast-casual option. Their German-inspired menu is perfect for a casual lunch.
- Leo's Tacos Truck: A Los Angeles institution, Leo's is known for its incredibly flavorful al pastor tacos. Expect a line, but it moves quickly, and the tacos are worth the wait.
- Tacos Tu Madre: Another excellent taco option, Tacos Tu Madre offers a more upscale, yet still casual, taco experience with creative fillings and unique toppings.
- Ramen Hood: This popular spot serves up delicious and authentic ramen in a casual setting. Their rich broths and perfectly cooked noodles are a lunchtime staple.
Salads & Sandwiches:
- Mendocino Farms: Known for its high-quality ingredients and creative sandwich and salad combinations, Mendocino Farms provides a healthy and delicious lunch option.
- Pressed Juicery: While primarily known for their juices, Pressed Juicery offers a selection of healthy and satisfying salads and sandwiches perfect for a light lunch.
- Sweetfin: This poke bowl spot is a favorite amongst health-conscious eaters. They offer customizable bowls with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces.
Upscale Lunch Spots in Downtown LA
For a more refined lunchtime experience, these restaurants offer a higher level of service and cuisine.
Fine Dining Options:
- WP24 by Wolfgang Puck: Located atop The Ritz-Carlton, WP24 offers breathtaking city views along with exquisite Chinese-American cuisine. This is a great spot for a special business lunch.
- Otium: This award-winning restaurant features a sophisticated menu and an elegant ambiance. It’s an excellent choice for a celebratory or important lunch.
- The Edison: Located in a beautifully restored power plant, The Edison offers a unique atmosphere and a menu of eclectic American cuisine.
Mid-Range Upscale:
- Cole's French Dip: A Los Angeles classic, Cole's is known for its legendary French dip sandwiches. This is a quintessential LA lunch experience.
- The Perch: Located on the rooftop of a historic building, The Perch provides stunning views and a menu of modern American cuisine. It's perfect for a stylish lunch with friends.
- Broken Shaker: This award-winning cocktail bar also offers a delicious lunch menu of globally-inspired dishes.
International Flavors: A World of Lunch in Downtown LA
Downtown LA’s diverse population is reflected in its incredible international cuisine options.
Asian Cuisine:
- Din Tai Fung: Famous for its soup dumplings (xiaolongbao), Din Tai Fung is a must-visit for fans of authentic Shanghainese cuisine.
- Bestia: This acclaimed Italian restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and a delicious menu of pasta dishes and pizzas.
- Little Sister: This Vietnamese restaurant serves up delicious and authentic dishes in a stylish setting.
Other International Options:
- Gracias Madre: A popular vegan Mexican restaurant offering delicious and inventive dishes.
- Guerrilla Tacos: This innovative taco truck offers unique and flavorful tacos with creative fillings and fresh ingredients.
- Republique: This French restaurant offers a refined and elegant dining experience with a menu of classic French dishes.
Diverse & Unique Lunch Experiences:
These options offer something a little different, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
- Bottega Louie: Known for its beautiful Italian pastries and its vibrant atmosphere, Bottega Louie is a fantastic spot for lunch and dessert.
- Angel City Brewery: Enjoy lunch alongside a selection of craft beers at this local brewery.
- The Original Farmers Market: Browse a variety of food stalls offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet sandwiches.
- Smorgasburg LA: (Check for seasonal availability) This popular outdoor food market offers a wide variety of culinary delights from different vendors.
Cafés & Coffee Shops:
For a more relaxed lunch, these cafes offer a comfortable atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
- Urth Caffé: A popular organic coffee shop with multiple locations, offering a variety of healthy lunch options.
- Blue Bottle Coffee: A highly-rated coffee shop with a minimalist aesthetic and delicious coffee and pastries.
- Alfred Coffee: Known for its trendy atmosphere and Instagrammable drinks, Alfred Coffee also offers a selection of light lunch items.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:
These restaurants are less widely known but offer excellent food and a unique dining experience. (Specific recommendations require further research based on current trends and reviews).
28-32. (Space for 5 additional local favorites - research and update with specific names and descriptions)
Finding Your Perfect Downtown LA Lunch Spot:
This guide offers a diverse range of options for your next Downtown LA lunch. Remember to check restaurant websites or review sites for hours, menus, and special offers before your visit. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
