I went to Coachella for the first time and as a rookie, wound up discovering many do’s and don’ts. Even though I got lucky enough…
7 DTLA Restaurants To Impress Your Date (or Client)
It shouldn’t be surprising that there are a handful of charming restaurants in Downtown Los Angles (DTLA). Being the financial heart of the City of Angels, a lot of these restaurants can serve a dual purpose in impressing a date and client. Whether you like good old-fashioned candlelit tables, or something a little trendier, here are the 7 best restaurants to go on a date to in DTLA .
This is my absolute #1 favorite spot in all of DTLA. Positioned slightly out of the epicenter of the city, in the Fashion District, DAMA has unique latin vibe that like a latin lover, will leave you coming back for more. The staff treats you exceptionally well and you can’t say no to the mezcal cocktails here. Make sure to order the snapper and build your own tacos with it. Everything about DAMA is impeccable!
Address: 612 E 11th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
2. Bestia
Probably the most highly recommended restaurant in downtown, collectively speaking. Finding Bestia tucked away to the east of the Financial District core, in the Arts District, you’ll start to wonder if your GPS is sending you to the correct coordinates as you drive towards a slightly rougher part of the city. You’ll take a turn on what seems like an alleyway and see a packed line up of cars outside on any weekend evening. Stepping into Bestia, you’ll feel a magnifying energy. Surely a great way to surprise your date/client! Everything I had here was amazing and I can’t wait to get back. Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the Pork Belly!
Address: 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021
3. Bavel
Sister restaurant to Bestia, Bavel is a chique Middle Eastern eatery draped in beautiful ivy with an open-air setting. This is surely another error-free date spot. Don’t miss out on Bavel’s Duck ‘Nduja Hummus with the DUCK ‘NDUJA HUMMUS hummus, accompanied by Malawach bread.
Address: 500 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
This French soirée is always buzzing with the sound of tinging glasses. As they don’t take reservations, the trick is to show up, put your name down, and hang out at the bar till the table is ready. Probably a better spot to take a date unless your client is chill. They have a section dedicated to desserts and macaroons, so make sure to save some room after dessert.
5. Otium
I’ve taken a few different clients to Otium and they’ve always been impressed with the ambiance, food, and in particular, the cocktails. Otium has a rare collection of Japanese Whiskeys that make for a one helluva fine cocktail. Grab yourself some drinks, order from the menu family style, and enjoy the patio at Otium.
Address: 222 S Hope St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
6. Mrs. Fish
The interior of Mrs. Fish truly speaks for itself. They’ve done an outstanding job to awe you with a nonchalant entrance that turns into a glass-laden grand staircase as you walk down. Upon arriving into this restaurant, you will notice exotic fish tanks hanging from the ceilings above the sushi chefs. As you continue to explore the restaurant, you’ll see that they’ve created a couple of different atmospheres all in this unique setting. And to surely blow your date or friends away you can start–or top off–the evening with cocktails at the Perch Rooftop right above! Pro Tip: Pork Gyoza here is fuego.
Address: 448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
7. 71 above
With 270 degree views of the city, i’d say this restaurant is quite impressive. The setting is formal and the menu is pre-fixed. It’s overall more of a business-like environment, but it totally works for a Friday night kick-back with friends too.
Address: 633 W 5th St 71st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071