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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Historic South-Central

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53 restaurants available nearby

A photo of 71Above restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5977)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 76 times today
Offering elevated modern American cuisine by Chef Javier Lopez, 71Above boasts breathtaking ocean views from Malibu to Laguna Hills, along with spectacular views of Los Angeles and the surrounding mountain ranges. 71Above is a Michelin level experience featuring the finest ingredients, world-class wine list and craft cocktails. The Restaurant and Skylounge have a Smart Casual dress code. Jackets are not required however, no hats, athletic wear, shorts or flip-flops are allowed. Reservations are held for 15 minutes.71Above features a 3 course Prix-Fixe menu for dinner only. We kindly ask all dining room guests to participate in the coursed menu. Please be aware, any seating requests are noted, but not guaranteed. WINDOW TABLES ARE NOT GUARANTEED. 18% service charge is added to all checks. Valet is available at 633 W. 5th Street or Self parking is available under the building at 633 W. Hope Place. $18 for 3 hours.
A photo of Girl & the Goat L.A. restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4141)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 93 times today
Girl & the Goat L.A. is a culinary gem in Downtown Los Angeles that masterfully showcases the art of Tapas and Small Plates. Helmed by the talented Chef Stephanie Izard, this vibrant eatery offers a tantalizing array of dishes that celebrate bold flavors and fresh, local ingredients. Diners rave about the "amazingly flavorful variety of shared plates," with favorites like the goat curry and the goat liver and crumpets. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and innovation ensures every dish is a delightful surprise. With impeccable service and a lively ambiance, Girl & the Goat promises an unforgettable dining experience for all.
A photo of Redbird - Los Angeles restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3122)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 30 times today
Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles stands out as a beacon of authentic and high-quality American cuisine. Nestled within a historic rectory building, this remarkable venue combines history with culinary excellence. Chef Neal Fraser's Modern American menu is "incredible and never-disappointing," offering dishes that are both exquisitely crafted and flavorful. Diners rave about the "wonderfully curated dishes" and the "exceptional" food, ensuring that every visit is memorable. The ambiance, described as "warm, inviting, generous hospitality," enhances the dining experience, making Redbird a top choice for both special occasions and casual indulgence. With impeccable service and a stunning setting, Redbird truly epitomizes the best of American dining.
A photo of Here's Looking At You restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(937)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Koreatown
Booked 15 times today
Here's Looking At You, nestled in the vibrant Koreatown of Los Angeles, serves as a beacon of Global, International cuisine, renowned for its "creativity and genre-defying" dishes. Praised as one of Food & Wine Magazine's "Restaurant of the Year," this gem invites diners to indulge in a culinary journey where every dish is "executed 10/10." The fusion of flavors is a true testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity, with standout dishes like the "delicious Gem Salad and Bronzino" receiving rave reviews. With an "exceptional bar" and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Here's Looking At You is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary dining experience.
A photo of Rooftop at Wayfarer Hotel DTLA restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1830)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 7 times today
Rooftop at Wayfarer Hotel DTLA embodies the best of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of taste and style amidst the stunning skyline of downtown Los Angeles. Diners rave about the "delicious food" and "perfectly mixed drinks," with dishes that range from creative appetizers like ceviche to mouthwatering mains such as branzino fish and chips. The restaurant's ambiance is lauded as a "beautiful oasis" with "amazing views," making it an ideal spot for brunch or a romantic dinner under the stars. Guests consistently praise the "outstanding service" and "great vibes," ensuring a memorable dining experience that truly stands out.
A photo of Openaire restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2350)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Koreatown
Booked 21 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.
A photo of The Biltmore Los Angeles restaurant
4.0
Excellent(128)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 3 times today
At The Biltmore Los Angeles, Afternoon Tea is an enchanting experience that transports you back to the elegance of 1920s Los Angeles. Guests rave about their "utterly charming" high tea service, where every detail, from the opulent decor to the "spectacular china," is meticulously curated. The Biltmore's tea offerings, including a special blend created for their 100th anniversary, delight the palate alongside a selection of delicious sweets and sandwiches. The attentive staff, led by the exceptional Mady Romero, ensures that each guest feels like royalty. With live violin music enhancing the ambiance, Afternoon Tea at The Biltmore is a "phenomenal way to celebrate" any occasion.
A photo of Noe Bar at the Omni Los Angeles restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1545)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 7 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 Traxx restaurant
4.3
Awesome(14)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 2 times today
Traxx Restaurant and Traxx Bar are located inside beautiful, historic Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. We are a semi-fine dining restaurant with a casual attitude and relaxed atmosphere. Our restaurant serves scratch made American Bistro dishes using local a local bakery and local ingredients. We offer seating on our concourse (located in front of the restaurant inside Union Station), the Dining Room, and on our outside Patio in the courtyard. We also serve Traxx Bar, located across the concourse inside Union Station at the main entrance. Traxx Bar hours are M-F 11:30-10pm with kitchen hours until 8pm and Sat & Sun 12-10pm with kitchen hours until 7pm.
A photo of Hill Street Bar & Restaurant restaurant
4.5
Awesome(142)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 3 times today
Set in the Historical Core of Downtown Los Angeles, Hill Street Bar and Restaurant offers modern American cuisine with a dash of left-of-Little-Tokyo. The Urli Bird Coffee Counter opens at 7:30 am, providing house-roasted beans and a selection of pastries, while regular restaurant service begins at 11:30. A popular lunch and early dinner destination, we are close to city court houses, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the Ahmanson, and the Broad and Contemporary Art museums. Prefer a cocktail? Our bar is carefully curated, fully stocked, and always friendly!We readily accept inquiries for private events and gatherings, and off-site catering needs. Our goal at 2nd and Hill is to be your one-stop-shop!
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Dan
    Los Angeles •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Ridiculously inventive yet also very familiar food. The technique is astonishing. Highly recommended.
    More info
    Girl & the Goat L.A.Price: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • Megan
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The service was exceptional. Everyone was so nice and the food was really delicious! The only reason for knocking off 1 star was because both dishes that I had ordered were a little spicy. It was spice that I could handle but I wasn’t expecting it so I wished that the waiter made that known so I could have picked a different item. Overall the duck confit and short rib has were still really good and would order again.
    More info
    Redbird - Los AngelesPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • Queena
    Los Angeles •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Overall great experience. It was a bit confusing that day to find valet since they changed it that day due to construction. So we ended up parking in the self parking which was $18. You go through two elevators to reach the restaurant which is on the 71st floor. We had a reservation so we were seated promptly. Jordan gave us some knowledge about wines and some interesting info about older ones. While we were waiting, they gave us a complimentary dish to taste. It was a three course prix fixed menu to choose from. First course, I got the Crudo, but I think two pieces of my fish dish went a little sour/fishy cause it tasted off. However the rest of the pieces was delicious. The ribeye was delicious. And dessert did feel like another whole meal. Our server moved us to window once a table was empty during dessert for the birthday boy. Shout out to Jasmin. Overall on the pricey side since we got a bottle, but loved the views, atmosphere, and food.
    More info
    71AbovePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • Yadira
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    It was such an amazing experience. My husband and I come every Valentine’s Day and we enjoyed it food and service was amazing
    More info
    Rooftop at Wayfarer Hotel DTLAPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown
    4.3
  • Terence
    Los Angeles •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Here’s looking at you is my favorite restaurant in Los Angeles
    More info
    Here's Looking At YouPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Koreatown
    4.8
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