Best Californian Restaurants in Historic South-Central

92 restaurants available nearby

1. Spire73

4.6

Exceptional(2242)

Price: Very Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 65 times today

Spire73 in Downtown Los Angeles offers an unparalleled experience in American cuisine, blending exceptional taste with breathtaking views from its lofty perch as the tallest open-air bar in the western hemisphere. Diners rave about the "amazing" food, with standout dishes like the mouth-watering burger and expertly crafted chicken skewers. Reviews highlight not only the quality of the food but also the impeccable service, with patrons often praising the attentive and friendly staff. As one diner enthusiastically noted, Spire73 is "100% worth going," making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the perfect blend of great American flavors and a stunning cityscape.

2. Cara Cara

4.7

Exceptional(1491)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 64 times today

From the golden daylight to the twinkling evening, all are welcome to experience the fresh bounty of Cara Cara. Chef Suzanne Goin’s seasonal menu showcases California’s best produce with her festive and irresistible rooftop fare. The expansive outdoor space features an elevated dining area with endless skyline views surrounded by a lushly landscaped lower lounge. Slip into one of the many cozy seating arrangements or sit by the fire pit and enjoy an innovative cocktail, wine, or beer paired by award-winning sommelier Caroline Styne.

3. Caldo Verde

4.5

Awesome(503)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 11 times today

The grand tradition of downtown dining finds a modern, casual elegance at Caldo Verde. Here, the James Beard Award-winning team of chefs Suzanne Goin and Restaurateur Caroline Styne blend local flavors and boutique wines with the old California influences. The stately setting offers a richly-designed entrance, lobby bar, main room, and private dining. Outdoor seating opens onto the bustle of Broadway, while historic windows bathe the architectural space in natural light. L.A.-based artistry runs throughout, from Morgan Peck ceramics and lighting, to a monolithic Judson Studios stained glasswork.

4. DISTRICT

4.0

Excellent(475)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 7 times today

DISTRICT in Downtown Los Angeles is a must-visit for those craving authentic American cuisine with a Californian twist. The restaurant's commitment to "uncompromising quality" shines through in every dish, from the divine fish tacos to the flavorful roast chicken. Guests consistently rave about the "excellent service" and the inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for both family dining and business lunches. With a design that marries art and craft, DISTRICT promises a dining experience that is both "wholly enticing and utterly original." Whether it's the fresh, hot dishes or the dazzling cocktails, this culinary gem ensures a memorable visit every time.

5. Openaire

4.5

Awesome(2332)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Koreatown

Booked 44 times today

Openaire, nestled in the heart of Koreatown, Los Angeles, offers a truly remarkable American dining experience that celebrates the rich bounty of California. Under the expert guidance of two-Michelin star chef Josiah Citrin, the menu showcases a vibrant interplay of seasonal ingredients and cultural influences unique to LA. The lush greenhouse and tented garden setting create an "absolutely stunning" ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a memorable brunch or dinner. Diners rave about the "incredible food and service," highlighting dishes like the skirt steak and cornflake French toast. Openaire is a sanctuary of flavors in the bustling city, perfect for any occasion.

6. Manuela

4.8

Exceptional(225)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 25 times today

Manuela, located in the vibrant Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, is a true gem for American cuisine aficionados. Under the talented direction of Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, the restaurant offers a seasonal menu that "celebrates fresh, local ingredients" sourced from Southern California's finest farms. Diners rave about the "phenomenal food" that combines creativity with authenticity. Signature dishes, like the burrata and French toast, have garnered a loyal following, with patrons heralding them as "culinary delights." The charming garden setting and exceptional service further enhance the "exquisite dining experience." Manuela is a must-visit for anyone craving quality American cuisine.

7. Kato

4.8

Exceptional(336)

Price: Very Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 11 times today

Kato, nestled in Downtown Los Angeles, is a haven of exquisite Californian cuisine that masterfully intertwines Taiwanese influences with a contemporary flair. Recognized as "arguably the best fine dining restaurant in LA," Kato offers a thoughtfully crafted menu that celebrates the rich tapestry of Asian American nostalgia while embracing seasonal innovation. Diners rave about the "exceptional" service and the "phenomenal" tasting menu that tells a story with each flavorful course. Chef Jon Yao’s culinary artistry elevates Taiwanese and SGV nostalgia to Michelin-worthy heights, making Kato an unforgettable dining experience. It's a culinary journey that beautifully captures the essence of Californian cuisine.

8. Rossoblu

4.6

Exceptional(2134)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 13 times today

Rossoblu stands out as a gem of Contemporary Italian cuisine in Downtown Los Angeles, seamlessly blending the vibrant energy of LA with the rich culinary traditions of Bologna, Italy. The restaurant’s menu, crafted by chef Steve Samson, features authentic, soulful pastas, and house-made salumi that "transport diners straight to Italy." The ambiance of Rossoblu, with its vaulted dining room and open kitchen, provides a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Diners rave about the "award-winning food" and "excellent cocktails," making each visit an unforgettable experience. The outdoor piazza offers a delightful escape from the city bustle, enhancing the overall dining experience.

A photo of Noe Bar at the Omni Los Angeles restaurant

9. Noe Bar at the Omni Los Angeles

4.2

Awesome(1542)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 8 times today

NOE Bar at the Omni Los Angeles is a shining gem in the heart of downtown LA, renowned for its exquisite French American cuisine that seamlessly blends traditional flavors with modern flair. Diners rave about the "excellent food, good service, and nice ambiance," with standout dishes like the crispy salmon and Wagyu burgers that exemplify the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by live piano music, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Guests appreciate the attentive staff, who deliver a warm and welcoming service. NOE is a must-visit culinary destination that captures the essence of French American cuisine.

A photo of Broken Shaker - Los Angeles restaurant

10. Broken Shaker - Los Angeles

4.2

Awesome(455)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 5 times today

An oasis in the heart of Downtown LA, Broken Shaker, located on our rooftop pool deck, offers an eclectic menu of handcrafted cocktails and small bites. A James Beard Award finalist and winner of Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award, Broken Shaker serves up delicious cocktails, infused with homemade elixirs and exotic ingredients, bringing the flavors of the beach to the center of the city. A 4% health service charge is added to all checks to help cover the cost of health care benefits that we offer to our full-time employees. Additionally, an 18% service charge is automatically included in your purchase. Thank you for supporting our staff. If you would like either of these charges removed, please let your server know and the charge will be removed.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sergio
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Came for lunch, ambience was very quiet just a handful of tables taken. Sever was very helpful and answer all our questions about the food. The food was delicious, my favorite dishes were; the shrimp tacos and the lobster rolls. I like that they are small sharable plates that way you can try different plates from the menu. The drinks were really good, good selection of tequila. Definitely planning to come back again maybe for dinner next time.
More info
Cara CaraPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown
•
4.7
H
heather
Los Angeles •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The experience at Openaire this morning was so such a lovely way to spend our first meal of 2025. The staff was very special . So warm , attentive , intentional and present ! We truly felt like guests in someone's home . The food matched the rest of the sweet vibe at Openaire . If we lived closer we would come more often . h and when we left they also greeted us a warm goodbye and showed appreciation for us coming.
More info
OpenairePrice: Expensive• Californian• Koreatown
•
4.5
Y
Yasmin
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Love this idea lace the view is amazing ! The food is amazing also the server was so nice and attentive . Ben saw a proposal it was such a cute place .
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Spire73Price: Very Expensive• Californian• Downtown
•
4.6
D
DougVIP
Los Angeles •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 26, 2024
Unbelievably good. Our new favorite restaurant in LA.
More info
Caldo VerdePrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown
•
4.5
J
JPVIP
Los Angeles •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 25, 2024
By far my favorite restaurant in Los Angeles and it didn’t disappoint once again! My visiting mother from Florida thoroughly enjoyed it and the food, service, and ambience could not have been any better, especially for a Christmas Eve dinner. Great value for the quality!
More info
ManuelaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown
•
4.8

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Historic South-Central

Californian

Best Californian Restaurants in Historic South-Central

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92 restaurants available nearby

1. Spire73

2. Cara Cara

3. Caldo Verde

4. DISTRICT

5. Openaire

6. Manuela

7. Kato

8. Rossoblu

9. Noe Bar at the Omni Los Angeles

10. Broken Shaker - Los Angeles

See what locals rave about

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