It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And there are so many marvelous ways to celebrate the holidays in LA, many not far from Circa. Put some sparkle in your season with holiday light shows at Descanso Gardens and LA Arboretum. Ice skating enthusiasts can show off their glides and spins at LA Kings Holiday Ice and Pershing Square outdoor rinks. Or take in a holiday performance at Walt Disney Concert Hall. And if you’re looking for some gift giving inspiration, Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc is presenting one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive experiences. Check websites for health & safety protocols. 

Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles, featuring a one-mile walk through unique lighting experiences in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens. This iconic show runs until January 8, 2023. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Lightscape at LA Arboretum holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Lightscape LA Aboretum 301 North Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Lightscape is an internationally acclaimed extravaganza of light, art and music that transforms the Arboretum into an illuminated night experience! Wander along stunning new installations on an expanded trail that includes the magnificent Winter Cathedral. Due to high demand, they highly recommend you purchase tickets in advance to ensure your entry.

LA Zoo Lights holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027

L.A.’s brightest winter tradition has been reimagined for the 2022/2023 season! Explore an immersive landscape filled with spectacular lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, towering trees, and more, for a wildlife-centered experience that’s as inspiring as it is breathtaking. Nature is something we all share, and this celebration of nature’s wonders is meant for all to enjoy.

LA Kings Holiday Ice holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate Like A King! The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to L.A. LIVE on Xbox Plaza right out front of Crypto.com Arena. Skate your way into the holiday season and enjoy the rink until January 8, 2023. Bring your friends, family, date or enjoy the ice before and after a sports game or concert.

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square 532 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The hottest place to chill during the holidays, Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square is back for a season of outdoor ice skating in the heart of downtown LA. Plan a night out with your friends and get on the ice. Open daily through January 8, 2023.

Deck the Hall Holiday Concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hall holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Deck the Hall Holiday Concerts Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

A treasured L.A. tradition, Deck the Hall offers outstanding holiday programming for a wide variety of tastes at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Make sure to arrive early for drinks and merriment in the fun-filled Winter Wonderland. The program includes The Nutcracker with Dudamel: Tchaikovsky & Ellington, Home Alone in Concert, A Chanticleer Christmas, and more. Snowshoes not required!

The Nutcracker Suite ballet performance holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Nutcracker Suite Two California Plaza 350 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

American Contemporary Ballet presents an immersive experience for all five senses, of the Tchaikovsky classic that delights children and adults alike. American Contemporary Ballet was founded by choreographer Lincoln Jones and dancer Theresa Farrell to produce original contemporary classical ballets. The company performs over 60 shows each season, spanning a repertory which includes works by George Balanchine, Fred Astaire, Lincoln Jones, and reconstructions of seminal ballet works.

Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc holidays near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience a magical holiday show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience. Get in some holiday shopping, then grab a bite and beverage at the eclectic line-up of restaurant offerings. 

Holidays at ROW DTLA near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holidays at ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

That winter wonderland you’ve been looking for is right here at ROW. Enjoy festive holiday decor, holiday markets, cozy winter workshops and expertly curated gift guides by some of LA’s best creatives. For Christmas movies, music, cookies, and cocktails, you’ll find everything you need to sleigh this holiday. Did we mention they will also be offering free gift wrapping? It’s true.


Holiday Wonderland at Grand Central Market near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holiday Wonderland at Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Celebrate a month of holiday spirit at Grand Central Market. There’s lots to see and enjoy with food, friends, family and fun from special appearances with Santa to Instagrammable photo moments, holiday workshops, live music and more.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Descanso Gardens

Photo #2: Descanso Gardens

Photo #3: LA Arboretum

Photo #4: LA Zoo

Photo #5: LA Kings / L.A. Live

Photo #6: Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square

Photo #7: LA Phil

Photo #8: American Contemporary Ballet

Photo #9: The Bloc

Photo #10: ROW DTLA

Photo #11: Grand Central Market

Let’s Do Lunch: DTLA’s Delis, Diners & Cool Cafes

Whether you’re back in the office, working from home, or just want to get away from the daily grind, a tasty midday meal is perfect way to perk up your routine. DTLA is home to some of the best new restaurants around, and most are open for lunch. From delicious delis and diners to eclectic eateries and cool cafes, you’ll find endless options, many not far from Circa. So don’t just sit there eating at your desk – let’s do lunch!

Angry Egret Dinette lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Angry Egret Dinette 970 N Broadway Suite 114 Los Angeles, CA 90012

Angry Egret Dinette is a brand new concept serving genre-bending LA street food with selected local ingredients, prepared with love by Chef Wes Avila, the former chef and brain behind Guerilla Tacos. The restaurant specializes in Mexican sandwiches (tortas), served on a white, fluffy bun and stuffed with everything you can imagine, from shrimp to pork, duck eggs and even shaved black truffles. Grab a seat on their colorful outdoor patio and dive in.

Yess Aquatic lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Yess Aquatic 2001 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

This chill food truck with outdoor seats in the Arts District serves experimental Japanese seafood, ranging from king salmon confit sandwiches to fried fish curry. Chef Junya Yamasaki and Team Yess focus on carefully sourced SoCal fish. In fact, Chef has now trained as a free-diver and spends as much time in the sea as on land. Natural wine and sake visionary Yukiyasu Kaneko has created a short revolving menu of titillating tonics available by the bottle, focusing on healthy and refreshing original drinks using local fruits and vegetables.

Eastside Market Italian Deli lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Eastside Market Italian Deli 1013 Alpine St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Eastside Market Italian Deli is one of the last remaining true Italian delis in the Downtown Los Angeles area and surroundings. Opened in 1929, Eastside Market is considered a landmark and listed as a “must see” place to visit in Southern California. Today, the establishment is a valued family-owned business and has received several awards for the incomparable deliciousness of their signature hot and cold sandwiches.

Pizzanista lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Pizzanista! 2019 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Founded in October 2010 by legendary professional skateboarder Salman Agah, Pizzanista! blends the historic flavor and thin-crust style of New York pizza with California’s abundance of fresh produce and small-batch ingredients. Family-owned and operated, Pizzanista! features traditional hand-tossed pizza dough made fresh daily using 200-year old sourdough cultures from Naples, hand-milled marinara sauce made from California tomatoes, innovative pizza toppings, and farm-fresh salads.

Dune Downtown lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Dune Downtown 199 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

In 2015, Dune opened its first location in the Atwater Village neighborhood of Los Angeles with the vision to pay homage to the food they love, using the freshest, cleanest, and most local ingredients possible. Their downtown LA restaurant continues the mission to add the voice of beautiful and diverse cultures and to create their own unique version of the street food of the Levant and the Eastern Mediterranean. Choose from sandwiches, falafel, hummus & meze plates, fresh salads, sweets and more.

Sari Sari Store lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Sari Sari Store Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Sari Sari Store is a Filipino concept from James Beard-nominated Chef Margarita Manzke, alongside partner and husband Chef Walter Manzke. In Filipino, “sari sari” translates into “whatever” and is used to describe commonplace stores that sell everything from candy to BBQ skewers. This contemporary take on casual Filipino dining is based around savory rice bowls or “silog,” that pull from Chef Margarita’s Pinoy heritage. Make sure to also try their highly praised sweets, Buko Pie and Halo Halo.

DTLA Ramen lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Ramen 952 S Broadway Los Angeles CA 90015

DTLA Ramen offers Japanese ramen with a modern California spin. You have a choice of broth for your ramen, including pork, chicken, vegetarian, soy milk, and no broth at all, with a selection of add ons, such as ground spicy chicken, spicy miso paste, injected egg or hard boiled egg, and chashu belly. In true DTLA spirit, the restaurant offers interesting craft beers, with an emphasis on Japanese brews. They also serve mochi ice cream in six delicious flavors.

Pearl River Deli lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Pearl River Deli 727 N Broadway #130 Los Angeles, CA 90012

Located in Chinatown’s Far East Plaza, Pearl River Deli serves Cantonese comfort classics, modernized and made accessible. Preserving, appreciating, and evolving traditional cuisine, you’ll find everything from Hong Kong-style duck served over soup noodles to Hainan chicken, BBQ pork, noodle and rice dishes, steamed vegetables and strawberry shave ice.

Little Jewel of New Orleans lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Little Jewel of New Orleans 207 Ord St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Named Best Po’ Boy by LA Weekly and Best Cajun Restaurant by LA Downtown News, The Little Jewel of New Orleans Grocery and Deli is a DTLA-based Southern market and delicatessen, which draws its influence from the rich and varied culinary traditions of the City of New Orleans. Catering to an eclectic clientele, the market strives to make available many of the popular as well as “harder to find” items from Louisiana (and the South in general), while offering everyday convenience items to the public at large.

Holy Basil lunch near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Holy Basil 718 South Los Angeles St. Unit A Los Angeles, CA 90014

Operating out of a tiny takeout window inside a Downtown food court, Holy Basil specializes in authentic Bangkok street food. Named one of the Best New Restaurants in Los Angeles by The Infatuation’s 2020 LA Hit List, Holy Basil offers many of the usual Thai menu items, such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Soup, along with more adventurous dishes, all served with a flavor twist that is at once herbaceous, pungent, and unabashedly spicy.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: DTLA Ramen

Photo #2: Angry Egret Dinette

Photo #3: Yess Aquatic

Photo #4: Eastside Market Italian Deli

Photo #5: Pizzanista

Photo #6: Dune Downtown

Photo #7: Sari Sari Store

Photo #8: DTLA Ramen

Photo #9: Pearl River Deli

Photo #10: Little Jewel of New Orleans

Photo #11: Holy Basil

The Heat is On: Sample Sizzling Barbecue in DTLA

Labor Day is right around the corner and the heat is one! And what better way to celebrate than the tantalizing taste of barbecue sizzling on the grill. Whether you like your chow Texas-style, classic American, or served with a twist, we’ve smoked out some of DTLA’s best BBQ joints, many just a short distance from Circa. Feel like playing grill master at home? Circa offers exceptional outdoor amenities including deluxe barbecue grills, open air fireplaces, and congenial spots to gather and entertain.

Circa outdoor grill at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Top quality barbecue grills and intimate open air dining spaces are among Circa’s most popular outdoor amenities.

Belcampo Meat Co barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Belcampo Meat Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Part country cafe and part full-service butcher shop, Belcampo Meat presents organic, grass-fed meats that have been raised on their own 10,000 acre ranch near Mount Shasta, and custom-butchered in house. Stock up on choice cuts for your next BBQ and grab some sides to go, including bowls, salads, and fries.

Moos Craft Barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Moo’s Craft Barbecue 2118 N Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90031

Recognized by Food & Wine’s Best Barbecue 2020 and acclaimed by LA Times and Eater LA, Moo’s Craft Barbecue started as an underground BBQ pop up in a small East Los Angeles backyard in 2017. Inspired by Texas Barbecue, Moo’s uses old school techniques to produce delicious, melt in your mouth smoked meats with a Cali Mex twist. Moo’s recently opened a new restaurant location in Lincoln Heights and they will also be popping up at Smorgasburg LA starting August 29.

Horse Thief Barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Horse Thief BBQ Grand Central Market 324 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Named named one of the best BBQ restaurants in Los Angeles by Eater LA, Horse Thief BBQ was founded by two native Texans, Wade McElroy and Russell Malixi, to showcase the classic smoked meats of Central Texas. Signature dishes include pork spare ribs, beef brisket, pulled pork, and turkey breast butter brined, as well as ingredient-driven gourmet sides and desserts such as fennel-apple slaw, vegan heirloom beans, and banana pudding.

Spring Street Smokehouse barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Spring Street Smokehouse BBQ 640 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Spring Street Smokehouse is an American BBQ joint offering classic barbecue meats, hickory-smoked from four to 12 hours. The meat is wonderfully dense and smoky and includes all the favorites you’d expect: beef and pork ribs, Texas hot links, brisket and pulled pork. The down-home sides of mac & cheese, beans and cornbread round out a truly authentic BBQ experience. Spring Street also features some surprises, such as chicken stuffed with peppers, onions, and cheese, then wrapped with bacon and pit-smoked. Fresh made desserts include Bourbon bread pudding and Peach cobbler to complete your meal.

LA Brisket barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Brisket 736 N Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90012

A popular destination originating in Artesia, California, L.A. Brisket specializes in hand crafted sandwiches loaded with all-natural meat sold by the pound, with house BBQ sauce and bread. The menu offers brisket, chicken, pulled pork, pork ribs, and BBQ Bowls served with LA slaw, salsa verde, garlic, and jasmine rice. Sides include elote (grilled Mexican corn), French fries, truffle fries, and sweet potato fries. Order online for pick up or delivery.

TBLA Catering & Cafe barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

TBLA Catering & Cafe 765 Santee St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

A cozy spot in the DTLA Fashion District, TBLA Catering & Cafe specializes in American comfort food. Try their signature Memphis Style BBQ baby back ribs served half and full rack or their BBQ pulled port sandwich. Sides include a choice of mac n cheese. sweet potato fries, potato salad, and onion rings. TBLA also offers salads, bowls, burgers, sandwiches, and pastas.

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse 518 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse is a new take on Brazilian food, brimming with healthful recipes. The restaurant was founded by Henrique Huyer with the mission of bringing authentic, traditional Brazilian barbecue from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. to the American market. H&H is committed to working with only the best suppliers, serving top-quality organic, grass-fed meat and local produce that you can enjoy with a unique wine from South America. The menu caters to nearly every food preference with a variety of beef, lamb, pork and chicken dishes. The extensive salad bar presents gluten-free, naturally organic, vegetarian and vegan offerings as well.

Bo Daddy's BBQ barbecue near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Bo Daddy’s BBQ 1415 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Bo Daddy’s BBQ specializes in a tantalizing selection of smoked meats including ribs, pulled pork & chicken, beef tri-tip, brisket, and links. Choose from sides such as mac & cheese, mango coleslaw, collard greens, baked beans, potato salad, and mac & tuna salad. Top off your meal with peach cobbler, key lime pie or a decadent banana pudding. Open for takeout and delivery.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Horse Thief Barbecue

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Belcampo Meat Co.

Photo #4: Moo’s Craft Barbecue

Photo #5: Horse Thief Barbecue

Photo #6: Spring Street Smokehouse

Photo #7: L.A. Brisket

Photo #8: TBLA Catering & Cafe

Photo #9:  H&H Brazilian

Photo #10: Bo Daddy’s BBQ

Discover DTLA’s Eclectic Asian Culinary Scene

Ever since the 19th century, Asian cuisine has played a vibrant role in the LA culinary scene. The unique ingredients, sophisticated kitchen tools, and flavorful preparation methods have inspired generations of chefs and expanded the palates of food lovers across the region. Not far from Circa, you’ll find traditional Asian neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little Tokyo, Historic Filipinotown, Thai Town, Koreatown, and the San Gabriel Valley, brimming with options from elegant eateries to casual street fare. Grand Central Market is home to a number of tempting spots, including Thai, Filipino, Japanese, and Chinese-American dishes. We’ve rounded up some of our DTLA favorites. Check websites for dine-in, takeout and delivery details.

Sticky Rice Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sticky Rice DTLA Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Serving authentic and original Thai street food in LA since 2013, Sticky Rice is a popular destination for “Thai Comfort Food,” dedicated to serving only the best organic, free-range, and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features rice plates, pan fried noodles, Tiger Steak, Hainan Chicken, soups and more.

Holy Basil Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holy Basil718 South Los Angeles St. Unit A Los Angeles, CA 90014

Operating out of a tiny takeout window inside a Downtown food court, Holy Basil specializes in authentic Bangkok street food. Named one of the Best New Restaurants in Los Angeles by The Infatuation’s 2020 LA Hit List, Holy Basil offers many of the usual Thai menu items, such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Soup, along with more adventurous dishes, all served with a flavor twist that is at once herbaceous, pungent, and unabashedly spicy.

Sesame LA Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sesame LA 936 N. Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Sesame LA is a new mini-mart in Chinatown specializing in Asian pastry staples, as well as small batch and local goods from Pan-Asian makers. Sesame offers fresh produce sourced from local farms, along with prepared foods made by owner Linda Sivrican’s mother. The store also carries snacks, such as candied kumquats, and an array of kitchen utensils.

Hayato Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Hayato ROW DTLA 1320 E 7th St. #126 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Hayato is a Japanese restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine, known as “Washoku.” The restaurant is now open and serving made to order Bento Boxes. Bento in Japan can range from something as simple as white rice with a single umeboshi (pickled fruit) in the center, to extravagant special occasion meals. A typical bento is similar to a teishoku, a type of Japanese meal where all of the dishes in the course are served together as a set. Because Hayato is a kaiseki restaurant specializing in elaborate multi-course meals, their bento reflects a sense of sophistication, both in presentation and ingredients.

Au Lac DTLA Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Au Lac DTLA 710 West 1st St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Au Lac serves flavorful plant-based and vegan creations with Vietnamese roots and fusion flavors. The founder, Mai, sought a holistic approach of treating her difficult health conditions and found that a plant-based diet was key. After a remarkable recovery, she was inspired to combine her love for cooking and helping others by sharing the benefits of a plant-based diet with her delicious, gourmet cuisine. The restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese dishes, from elaborate noodle soups to sautées, grilled dishes and specialty sauces, using only plant-based and health-conscious ingredients. 

Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill 1753 S. Hill St. #2 Los Angeles, CA 90015

Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill offers a large selection of its namesake pho bowls, all served with a side of beansprouts, jalapeno, cilantro, and limes. Basil is available upon request. You’ll also find oodles of noodles, dumplings, fried wontons, rice plates, salads, and more.

Shiku Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Shiku Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Shiku is a mom-and-pop Korean restaurant serving homestyle Korean food inspired by the doshirak (lunchboxes) that their mothers would make. Shiku literally means the people you share food with. Shiku is your family, not just the one you were born into but also the family you choose. Open for dine-in. Curbside pickup and delivery are also available.

Sari Sari Store Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sari Sari Store Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Sari Sari Store is a Filipino concept from James Beard-nominated Chef Margarita Manzke, alongside partner and husband Chef Walter Manzke. In Filipino, “sari sari” translates into “whatever” and is used to describe commonplace stores that sell everything from candy to BBQ skewers. This contemporary take on casual Filipino dining is based around savory rice bowls or “silog,” that pull from Chef Margarita’s Pinoy heritage. Make sure to also try their highly praised sweets, Buko Pie and Halo Halo.

Moon Rabbit Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Moon Rabbit Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Moon Rabbit is an Asian tea and sandwich shop inspired by the great San Gabriel Valley. Specializing in traditional boba teas, bánh mì and katsu sandwiches, Moon Rabbit is brought to you by the beloved Sticky Rice founder, David Tewsart, and team.

China Cafe Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

China Cafe Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A recognized legacy among vendors, China Cafe opened in 1959 with the same menu and neon signs that have floated over the 22-seat counter since it opened. Now run by Susie and Rinco Cheung, the eatery maintains essentially the same menu now as it always has — a mix of Chinese-American favorites like chow mein and chop suey, plus noodles, fried rice, and the ubiquitous egg foo yeung.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Au Lac DTLA

Photo #2: Sticky Rice DTLA

Photo #3: Holy Basil 

Photo #4: Sesame LA

Photo #5: Hayato

Photo #6: Au Lac DTLA

Photo #7: Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill 

Photo #8: Shiku 

Photo #9: Sari Sari Store

Photo #10: Moon Rabbit

Photo #11: China Cafe

Freshen Up: Where to Shop for Produce in DTLA

Now that the weather is getting warmer, we’re starting to eat different, swapping out wintry comfort foods for lighter, fresher fare. You’ll find a bounty of culinary inspiration nearby Circa, at local farmers markets and shops specializing in delicious produce and artisanal food items. The Southland Farmers’ Market Association is a great resource for discovering what fruits and vegetables are in season in the coming months. Toss yourself a fruit salad dressed with locally-produced honey. Roast up a pan of mixed vegetables, brushed with an excellent olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. Or experiment with steamed mixed greens, spiked with zesty condiments, garlic, and scallions. From Grand Central Market to specialty grocery stores and open air markets, you’ll get a fresh outlook when you shop for produce in DTLA. Check websites for opening hours and health guidelines.

GROW The Produce Shop near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

GROW The Produce Shop 300 S Santa Fe, Ste. C Los Angeles, CA 90013

Billing itself the “Biggest little market in the Arts District,” family-owned GROW specializes in food that is as local, organic and sustainable as possible. In addition to farm fresh fruits and vegetables, they recently partnered with The Bread Lounge to offer deli sandwiches. You’ll also find GROW salads, side dishes, cold pressed juice, soups, and more. Shop in-store or order online for home delivery HERE

The Wall Farmers Market produce near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Wall Farmers Market 766 Wall St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Located in the Los Angeles Flower District, The Wall Farmers Market provides a chef-centric selection of high quality, certified farm fresh produce that benefits and supports California small and mid-sized farms. The Wall Farmers Market helps build the health and overall quality of the community in which we work, live and play in DTLA. Open Saturdays 9am-2pm. Parking structures are located on Maple Street and San Julian Avenue.

7th St Produce Market near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

7th Street Produce Market ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Gather inspiration and fresh ingredients at the 7th Street Produce Market, a five-acre open air market located at ROW DTLA. 7th Street Produce Market is an evolution of the historic LA Terminal Market, celebrating the community of workers that has fueled the city’s vibrant food culture for over 100 years. The market continues to be a major hub for produce distribution across the region. Open to the public Monday – Saturday.

Torres Produce near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Torres Produce Grand Central Market Stall D-7 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A downtown landmark since 1917, Grand Central Market, brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA. If you’re shopping for fresh produce, be sure to visit Torres Produce, a produce stand offering a fresh selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Valeria's Groceries near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Valeria’s Grand Central Market Stall D-6 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Kick your cooking up a notch with some zesty ingredients. Valeria’s specializes in Latin dry goods, offering an extensive selection of dried chilies, spices, and beans, as well as fresh moles, New Mexico pine nuts, dried bacalao, and canned specialties.

Historic Core Farmers Market groceries near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Historic Core Certified Farmers Market 209 W 5th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The Historic Core Farmers Market reflects the incredibly diverse community in the Historic Core. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you’ll find local honey, farm fresh eggs (free range and sprout-fed); breakfast and brunch items; sweet pastries and empanadas; Mediterranean dips and spreads; flowers; dog food and pooch products. Along with fresh local groceries, there’s a selection of prepared food and drinks including fresh juices and lemonade, coffee, tacos, breakfast burritos, pupusas, and much more. Open every Sunday 9am-3pm.

Whole Foods Market produce near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Whole Foods Market 788 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Located beneath the Eighth & Grand residences, this expansive 41,000 square foot Whole Food Market is designed to meet the needs of local residents, professionals and businesses. In addition to fresh produce, groceries, staples, and prepared foods, Whole Foods stocks over 1,000 hand-picked wines. On-site eateries include Downtown LA Juice Bar, Downtown LA Sandwich, Downtown Pizzeria, Downtown Smokehouse, Taqueria, and WFM Coffee Bar. Check online for takeout details. Grocery delivery is available on Amazon Prime.  

Photo credits:

Photo #1: GROW The Produce Shop

Photo #2: GROW The Produce Shop

Photo #3: The Wall Farmers Market

Photo #4: 7th Street Produce Market

Photo #5: Torres Produce

Photo #6: Valeria’s

Photo #7: Historic Core BID 

Photo #8: Whole Foods Market

Celebrate The Season With a Holiday Feast To Go

There’s no place like home for the holidays. And your favorite DTLA restaurants near Circa are offering a moveable feast of dining options to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. To set the mood, dress up your table with a luscious cheese platter or colorful grazing board. Discover desserts aplenty at Hotel Figueroa’s Flouring LA Holiday Dessert Pop-Up. And don’t forget the tamales – La Mascota has been serving up this traditional holiday staple for over 65 years. Many menus offer vegan and gluten-free options as well. This is a great opportunity to support local businesses, so get ready to celebrate the season with a holiday feast to go. Check websites for pick up and delivery details.

Redbird holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Redbird Holiday Tasting Menu 114 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Redbird is offering a Holiday Tasting Menu for Christmas, New Year’s, and other seasonal celebrations, available for pickup and delivery. The 7 course heat & serve menu includes: ginger pumpkin soup, truffle cavatelli, turkey roulade, New York strip bordelaise, cider glazed Brussels sprouts, pommes aligot, and sticky toffee pudding. Many items are vegan and/or gluten free. Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems – the former rectory building of Vibiana, cathedral-turned-event-venue. Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser feature Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles.

Faith & Flower holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Faith & Flower 705 W 9th St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Faith & Flower is offering a festive dinner menu and drinks for pick up and delivery. Inspired by a global influence of flavors and techniques, complemented by the use of a wood-fired oven and pristine raw bar, the menu redefines Californian rustic cuisine. Located in the Watermarke Tower in DTLA’s South Park district, the name Faith & Flower pays homage to the two major Renaissance periods  – the 1920s and modern day – that have fundamentally shaped the Downtown Los Angeles community. “Flower” refers to the street on which the restaurant lies today, and “Faith” for the street’s alleged name during the early 1920s. 

Bestia holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Bestia 2121 E 7th Pl. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Arts District darling Bestia presents a family-style takeout menu every week from Wednesday – Sunday. The menu changes every week, so visit their website for more details. Owned and operated by husband and wife Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, Bestia features a generous selection of authentic Italian stalwarts such as antipasti, pizzas, pasta, secondi (fish, lamb, steak), finished off with dolci (mascarpone rice pudding, crème fraîche panna cotta, and bar au chocolat bittersweet chocolate budino tart). Buon appetito!

Morton's The Steakhouse holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Morton’s The Steakhouse 735 South Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Savor the holidays with a 3-course menu featuring Chateaubriand and Morton’s full a la carte menu. Morton’s The Steakhouse is located just four blocks from the Staples Center and LA Live, the home of Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Sparks Basketball, Los Angeles Kings Hockey and the Nokia Theater. Offering take-out and delivery daily from 4 – 9pm.

Cafe Gratitude holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Cafe Gratitude 300 S Santa Fe Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

If you’re looking for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives, Cafe Gratitude has delicious sides, pies and even a Christmas Cookie Kit on pre-order for your holiday feast. All holiday sides are 100% plant based and organic, made in-house in their downtown LA location. Pies include Raw Mocha Cheesecake, Tuscan Apple Cake (baked), and Maple Spice Coffee Cake. The Christmas Cookie Kit includes 9 pre-baked gluten free ginger bread cookies and three home-made natural frostings. All ingredients are organic without any food coloring or dyes, ready to decorate at home. 

DTLA Cheese holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Cheese Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway #45 Los Angeles, CA 90013

DTLA Cheese has cheese boards and holiday gift boxes available to order. Cheese boards come in three sizes serving 1 -12 people. All boards include five items (choose between 5cheeses, 4 cheese/1meat, or 3 cheese/2meat), along with a delicious array of olives, cornichons, marcona almonds, membrillo, honeycomb, and dried fruit. Gift boxes are made to order and come in three sizes. DTLA Cheese is Downtown’s first full-service cheesemonger, specializing in domestic and imported cheese plates, griddle sandwiches and seasonal salads.

Urban Radish holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Urban Radish 661 Imperial St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Set off your holiday table with a colorful grazing board from Urban Radish. Each hand-crafted platter is a veritable work of art, with cheese, charcuterie, fresh fruit, and crudité, all curated on a wooden board. Urban Radish is a family-owned full service market, carrying everything from fresh produce to dairy, eggs, cereal, hand-cut meats, wine & beer, and staples. Supporting local farms is at the heart of Urban Radish’s commitment to the community and they pride themselves on cutting out the middle man to procure their produce directly from the growers, wherever possible. Available for both pick-up and delivery.

Flouring LA holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Flouring LA Holiday Dessert Pop-Up Hotel Figueroa 939 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, California 90015

During the month of December, Flouring LA will be hosting a pop-up shop inside Hotel Figueroa where guests and locals will be able to pick-up their pre-purchased signature Holiday boxes. The eight-piece holiday box comes with gingerbread cake bars, peppermint meringue topped brownies, cinna-sugar donuts, and Belgian sea salt chocolate chip cookies. Chef Heather Wong has been baking for Los Angeles since 2009. Flouring LA is her newest passion project, focusing on Southern California inspired taste and aesthetic, using sustainably sourced, organic ingredients from local farmers and vendors. Pre-orders can be placed by emailing flouringla@gmail.com or call 877-724-1973

La Mascota Bakery holiday dining to go near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

La Mascota Bakery 2715 Whittier Blvd. Boyle Heights, CA 90023

It’s tamale time! For over 65 years, La Mascota Bakery in Boyle Heights has proudly supplied the community with pan dulce and other sweet treats, coffee, menudo, and of course, their legendary tamales. From pork to a newly created plant-based option, this bakery provides 13 different flavors to satisfy everyone in your holiday pod. Pre-order online for pick up and delivery.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Cafe Gratitude

Photo #2: Redbird

Photo #3: Faith & Flower

Photo #4: Bestia

Photo #5: Morton’s The Steakhouse

Photo #6: Cafe Gratitude

Photo #7: DTLA Cheese

Photo #8: Urban Radish

Photo #9: Flouring LA

Photo #10: La Mascota Bakery

Get Inspired For Holiday Shopping in DTLA

Looking for some inspiration for your holiday shopping? This season, think local. All around Circa, downtown Los Angeles is brimming with a sleigh full of options to play Santa, and help support independent shops, entrepreneurs and artisans as well. From family to foodies, pet lovers to plant parents, culture connoisseurs, and even your most eccentric friends, we’ve compiled a unique and eclectic guide to inspire your holiday shopping in DTLA.

Grand Central Market Bazaar holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Central Market Bazaar 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

See the latest and greatest from the very best independent merchants, artisans, and makers in LA. The Grand Central Market Bazaar takes place Thursday through Sunday beginning at 11 AM every day. Grand Central Market will be closing early at 7pm for Christmas Eve on December 24 and will be closed for Christmas on December 25.

Poketo holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Poketo ROW DTLA777 S. Alameda St. B1 Suite 174 Los Angeles, CA 90021

No time like the present to buy gifts for everyone on your list. Poketo makes it easy to find everything you need with their holiday gift guides. Since its foundation in 2003 by husband-and-wife team Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung, Poketo has grown from a small startup into a creative hub and online destination for design-driven goods infused with aesthetic intentionality. Collections include everything from furniture & lighting to apothecary, tabletop, books & prints, and apparel.

The Last Bookstore holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Last Book Store 453 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

A true DTLA treasure, The Last Bookstore is California’s largest used and new book and record store, housed in a stunning 22,000 square-foot space in the Spring Arts Tower. According to owner Josh Spencer, the name was chosen with irony, but seems more appropriate with each passing day, as physical bookstores die out like dinosaurs from the meteoric impact of Amazon and e-books. In addition to over 250,000 new and used books on two floors, including the Arts & Rare Book Annex, you’ll also find tens of thousands of vinyl records and graphic novels. 

Healthy Spot holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Healthy Spot 1000 S Grand Avenue Suite A Los Angeles, CA 90015

Give your furry friends something to bark about this holiday season. Healthy Spot is a pet care retail company that offers pet owners a full range of nutritional foods and eco-friendly products, along with award-winning, personalized grooming, daycare and training services. Founded in 2008 by Andrew Kim and Mark Boonnark, the company prides itself on assuring that every stocked product contains premium-quality ingredients and is procured and manufactured safely and ethically. 

Rolling Greens Nursery holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Rolling Greens Nursery 1005 Mateo St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

For the plant parents on your list, Rolling Greens Nursery is Los Angeles’ premier home and garden retailer with an extensive assortment of faux and live plants, containers, and unique home accessories. Rolling Greens also carries handmade holiday decor made by LA artisans. Shop in-store for decor items, plants, gifts, and fresh holiday greens or online for local delivery or pickup.

Flask & Field holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Flask & Field Row DTLA 767 S Alameda St. Ste 180 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Flask & Field is a modern destination for the discovery of wine, spirits, art and design, offering a selection of quality goods for house, home and adventure. The eclectic establishment was founded by entertainment attorney Miriam Yoo, who created Flask & Field out of her lifelong passion for wine, hospitality and design. Flask & Field is offering speciality gifts sets, including hard-to-find, small-batch indie products with interesting stories and beautiful labels. Gift sets are made to order, using eco-friendly materials and custom packaging.

August Uncommon Tea holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

August Uncommon Tea 

August is a small, family-run company based in Los Angeles, committed to making better tea, and to making things better in our world. August is designed to please all five senses, with wild and intense flavors inspired by cocktails, pastry, perfume, and modern cuisine. One of the only companies in the US to focus on super-premium blended flavored teas, whenever you drink August, you’ll always drink something unique. Alongside tasting notes, you’ll find mood notes inspired by art, music, cinema and natural landscapes. August also offers unique teaware.

These Days holiday shopping near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

These Days 118 Winston St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Another DTLA treasure, These Days is a gallery, store, and publisher located in the Historic Core. Owned and operated by Stephen and Jodi Zeigler, Los Angeles natives and longtime residents of Downtown, These Days focuses on a diverse range of work including painting, photography, drawings, and fiber art. The store also features new and out-of-print photography books, zines, art and design objects.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Rolling Greens Nursery

Photo #2: Grand Central Market Bazaar

Photo #3: Poketo 

Photo #4: The Last Book Store

Photo #5: Healthy Spot

Photo #6: Rolling Greens Nursery

Photo #7: Flask & Field

Photo #8: August Uncommon Tea

Photo #9: These Days

Celebrate Your Thanksgiving Feast in DTLA

Thanksgiving is upon us. Still making plans? If cooking is not on your radar, your favorite DTLA restaurants near Circa are dishing up some fabulous fare to share, from elegant outdoor dining to Thanksgiving Feasts To Go. You’ll find a cornucopia of choices, from traditional homestyle meals to creative menus with a twist. Some restaurants are offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Check their websites for details. If you decide to prepare Thanksgiving dinner at home, we found some great tips from Butterball to put a little swagger in your stuffing. Ready to give back? Consider making a donation to a local charity and spread your gratitude this season.

Grand Central Market Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Central Market Thanksgiving To Go 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Grand Central Market vendors have teamed up to provide everything you need need for an unforgettable Thanksgiving dinner, perfectly packaged and ready to go. Belcampo is selling 8-pound turkeys and Horse Thief BBQ is making sides like sweet potato casserole and potato salad. DTLA Cheese is offering three wedges of cheese with jam and a box of crackers for four; Lucky Bird is making mashed potatoes, biscuit stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy and tamales; and Nicole Rucker is baking double crust apple pies. You can order all the items a la carte or as a package for four. Order by November 20 for pick up November 25 HERE

Wexler's Deli Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Wexler’s Deli Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Another option from Grand Central Market is the Thanksgiving Takeout Pack from Wexler’s Deli. This feast contains a full meal for four to six, featuring a smoked turkey and assorted fixings. And don’t worry about having turkey leftovers. Your order includes artisan rye bread, homemade Russian dressing, sauerkraut, mustard and Swiss cheese so you can make the most delicious turkey Rueben sandwiches for days to come (recipe included). Thanksgiving menu HERE

Redbird Restaurant Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Redbird Thanksgiving To Go 114 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Redbird is offering a heat & serve holiday feast from Chef Neal for pickup or delivery on Thanksgiving Eve for you to enjoy on Thanksgiving Day. Dinner for four ($68 per person) features pumpkin quince soup, sage-rubbed turkey roulade, stuffing, and Parker House rolls. You can also order add-ons such as prime rib roast, pecan pie, apple pie, wine, and cocktails. Order HERE

Manuela Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Manuela 907 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Manuela is open Thanksgiving for dine-in on their outside patio and terrace as well as take-out. For those dining in, Chef Kris Tominaga is serving a Southern-influenced family-style feast for $68 per person. Reservations are available between 2:30pm – 8pm. See menu HERE For curbside pick-up, orders must be placed through Tock by Tuesday, November 24. More details HERE Located in the Arts District of Los Angeles, Manuela unites chef, farmer and artist to create an authentic and original dining experience, celebrating seasonal ingredients sourced from the best farms and producers in Southern California.

Bar Ama Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Bar Amá 118 W 4th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

This year, Chef Josef Centeno is putting a Tex-Mex spin on his Thanksgiving dinner menu with Tex-Mex turkey roulade, house made stuffing with hoja santa, Ruby grapefruit cranberry sauce, cornbread johnnycakes, and more sides. Dinner is $75 per person with a four-person minimum. For an additional $30, you can get a pumpkin pie with Ibarra chocolate graham cracker crumble crust. Order by Nov. 22 for pickup on Nov. 25. Details HERE

Orsa & Winston Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Orsa & Winston 122 W 4th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Named LA Times 2020 Restaurant of the Year, Orsa & Wineston’s Chef Josef Centeno is offering a Japanese and Italian inspired set menu for two ($137.50 per person), for four or for eight ($100 per person). Your feast includes involtini of duck, sage and chestnut stuffing, and apple-kumquat crostata. Order by Nov. 22 for pickup on Nov. 25. View menu and place your order HERE

Moos Craft Barbecue Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Moo’s Craft Barbecue 672 S Santa Fe Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Acclaimed by LA Times and Eater LA as perhaps the best underground barbecue cooking in Los Angeles, Moo’s Craft Barbecue is happy to do the cooking for you this Thanksgiving. Their online store is live and ready to take your preorders. Contactless curbside pickup will be available on Thanksgiving Day from their commissary kitchen in DTLA. All meats are smoked and fresh. Choose from two different size options for the sides and whether you’d like your sides chilled and ready for the oven (instructions included), or baked and ready to serve when you get home. Moos also offers scratch made desserts. Order online HERE

Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse 330 S Hope St. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse is open on Thanksgiving for dine-in or takeout. Holiday specials include Diestel Farms organic turkey, JBS potato puree, stuffing, candied yams, pickled cranberry compote, and turkey gravy, along with other seasonal dishes. And of course, you can always have a steak! Make sure you order their delicious pumpkin pie with Chantilly crème and candied pumpkin seeds. Menu and ordering information HERE

Cafe Gratitude Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Cafe Gratitude 300 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

If you’re looking for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives for your Thanksgiving feast, Cafe Gratitude is offering delicious selections from butternut squash and lentil loaf to vegan pumpkin pie. All holiday sides and pies are 100% plant based and organic, made in house in their downtown LA location. Order HERE

Butterball Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Butterball Amazon Alexa Skill

Ready to talk turkey? Ask Alexa. With the Butterball Skill for Amazon Alexa, Butterball Turkey Talk-Line experts will help you host like a boss with turkey preparation how-tos, tips, and recipe inspiration. Butterball Turkey Talk-Line experts are poultry pros that have been giving sage advice for years, and they’re here to help you put a little swagger in your stuffing! No Alexa, no problem. Butterball Turkey Talk-Line expert Karen has teamed up with a lifestyle influencer Rosalynn Daniels. Together, they’ll share all kinds of juicy tips to make your Thanksgiving all kinds of good. More info HERE

Los Angeles Mission Thanksgiving near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Mission 303 E 5th Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

The Los Angeles Mission’s annual Thanksgiving celebration serves over 3,000 pounds of turkey, 700 pounds of mashed potatoes, 800 pounds of green beans and 600 pies to their neighbors experiencing homelessness. They also give out over 1,400 blankets and over 1,200 tarps in preparation for the colder winter months. Now that we’ve seen an increase in homelessness across Los Angeles, the Mission is expecting more people to attend their Thanksgiving event than ever before. If you can’t volunteer this Thanksgiving, you can still help by making a donation.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Butterball

Photo #2: Grand Central Market

Photo #3: Wexler’s Deli 

Photo #4: Redbird

Photo #5: Manuela

Photo #6: Bar Amá

Photo #7: Orsa & Winston

Photo #8: Moo’s Craft Barbecue

Photo #9: Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse

Photo #10: Cafe Gratitude

Photo #11: Butterball

Photo #12: Los Angeles Mission

Find Your Sweet Spot: DTLA Bakeries & Dessert Shops

With the holidays right around the corner, it’s time to start stocking up on sweet treats. Some of your fave downtown LA bakeries and dessert shops near Circa are already rolling out their festive fare, and taking orders for their most coveted items like pumpkin pies, apple crumble, fruit tarts, and specialty cookies. Whether you’re planning an elegant dessert menu or just want a comfortable cafe to savor a pastry and coffee, we’ve got you covered. From European-inspired patisseries to classic American donut shops – you’ll find your sweet spot in DTLA. Check websites for hours, online ordering, takeout and delivery details.

La Tropézienne Bakery near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

La Tropézienne Bakery 757 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Born and classically trained in France, La Tropézienne Bakery’s founders bring French savoir-faire to DTLA with the traditional taste of classic viennoiseries and pastries. Named after the famous dessert, La Tropézienne, their traditional baked goods are available all day long, including croissants, brioche, pain au chocolat, and original creations such as tasty macarons and a delicious almond and pistachio croissant. 

Sprinkles Downtown Los Angeles bakery near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Sprinkles Downtown Los Angeles 735 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Amidst skyscrapers in Los Angeles’ historic South Park neighborhood, Sprinkles bakes cupcakes for tourists, residents and office workers alike in this downtown dining destination. Sprinkles offers a variety of sweets perfect for any occasion, including cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and ice cream. Handcrafted from artisan ingredients, Sprinkles bakes fresh daily and throughout the day. Sprinkles Downtown Los Angeles also offers pickup and delivery.

The Donut Man Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway A-1 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Jim and Miyoko Nakano opened The Donut Man in 1972 on Historic Route 66 in Glendora, California. Now after 48 years of serving the best donuts around, the couple recently opened their newest location at Grand Central Market. Known for its iconic fresh fruit donuts, especially the Fresh Strawberry Donut, The Donut Man has been featured on national media including the Today show and Food Network’s The Best thing I Ever Ate. The same process, ingredients, and standards that made this small town donut shop so popular continues to this day – every donut is cut, shaped, fried, and frosted in front of the customer. 

Fat & Flour bakery near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Fat & Flour Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway A-1 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Fat & Flour is a new pie and cookie shop from Los Angeles chef and author Nicole Rucker. Rucker is known internationally for her rustic desserts and has won several awards for her homespun pies, including the 2012 National Pie Championship, KCRW Good Food Pie contest, and a Star Chef award for baking. Her first cookbook, Dappled: Baking Recipes for Fruit Lovers, wss recently nominated for a James Beard Award for baking. Choose from scrumptious delights such as Almond Frangipane, Caramel Pumpkin Slice, Apple Crumble and Chocolate Chess Pie. Order online for same day pick up Wednesday thru Saturday 11am – 5 pm. Pick up location is on Hill St.

Big Sugar Bakeshop near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Big Sugar Bake Shop 612 South Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Big Sugar Bakeshop was founded in 2006 with the desire to be a friendly neighborhood bakery specializing in American-style baked goods and custom cakes. They continue that tradition today, baking everything from scratch using the finest ingredients, such as cage-free eggs, humanely-produced dairy from a local provider, and imported chocolate from Belgium and France. They offer vegan and gluten-free options as well. Looking for a treat with a personal touch? Big Sugar Bakeshop can print and place an edible image on cakes, cookies, and cake pops. You supply a hi res JPEG photo and they do their magic.

Pitchoun Bakery & Café near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Pitchoun Bakery & Café 545 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Pitchoun is a family owned French bakery, pastry store and bistro, offering fresh artisan breads and home-made pastries and cakes, along with an array of healthy salads, sandwiches, hot dishes, soups, and more. Using traditional French family recipes, everything is home-made daily from scratch, using house-made starter levain and organic or local ingredients. The flavors are crisp, authentic, and clean, and all products aim for pure simplicity and high quality.

Cafe Dulce bakery near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Cafe Dulce ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda Street Unit 150 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Cafe Dulce has expanded to ROW, serving the finest specialty coffees & teas, along with fresh baked goods delivered daily from their original kitchen in Little Tokyo. This local favorite is widely known for its signature hand-crafted beverages including the Vietnamese iced coffee, single origin pourovers, blueberry matcha lattes, and green tea donuts. Stop by to enjoy a little break in your morning or afternoon.

Paris Baguette bakery near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Paris Baguette 902 S Los Angeles St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Paris Baguette is an international, premium bakery-café specializing in a yummy assortment of breads, pastries and cakes baked daily. Their mission is to bring happiness to everyone by adapting to people’s ever-expanding palates with decadent, unique and sophisticated baked goods. They serve a variety of treats ranging from coffee, tea, smoothies, and frappes, to appetizing snacks, delicious cakes for all occasions, and chef-inspired sandwiches and salads.

Hygge Bakery & Cafe near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Hygge Bakery & Cafe 1106 S Hope St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Hygge Bakery & Cafe opened their doors to give the bustling city of Los Angeles something it was missing – hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”). Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word for an attitude of coziness, wellness and contentment. Hygge Bakery & Cafe  takes a nod to this mood with fresh pastries, cakes, coffee, and comfort. Available for takeout and delivery. 

Bread Lounge Bakery near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Bread Lounge Bakery 700 S Santa Fe Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Since 2010, Bread Lounge has brought the art of baking to the Arts District in downtown Los Angeles. Handcrafted and baked fresh daily, they pride themselves on using only all natural ingredients: water, flour, natural yeast and salt. This European-stye bakery & cafe serves traditional European baked goods along with the flavors of Mediterranean food. Order online for pick up and delivery from their website HERE

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Cafe Dulce

Photo #2: La Tropézienne Bakery 

Photo #3: Sprinkles Downtown Los Angeles

Photo #4: The Donut Man

Photo #5: Fat & Flour

Photo #6: Big Sugar Bake Shop

Photo #7: Pitchoun Bakery & Café

Photo #8: Cafe Dulce

Photo #9: Paris Baguette

Photo #10: Hygge Bakery & Cafe

Photo #11: Bread Lounge Bakery

Let’s Get Fresh: Shop for Produce in DTLA

Looking for some culinary inspiration? Let’s get fresh with produce. Stone fruits are in full swing, along with luscious greens, tasty veggies, colorful berries, and more! Toss yourself a fruit salad dressed with locally-produced honey. Try your hand at making a soul-satisfying ratatouille, accompanied by a fresh baguette or pane rustica. Or roast up a pan of mixed vegetables, brushed with an excellent olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. Did you know August 2 – 8 is National Farmers Market Week? Shopping at your local farmers market is a great way to support small growers and artisans, and bring some farm-to-table goodness into your home. Feeling inspired? From Grand Central Market to specialty grocery stores and open air markets, you’ll find endless possibilities when you shop for produce in DTLA! Check websites for pickup, delivery, in-store, and patio dining options.

Urban Radish 661 Imperial St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Urban Radish is a family-owned full service market carrying everything from fresh produce to dairy, eggs, cereal, hand-cut meats, wine & beer, and staples. Supporting local farms is at the heart of Urban Radish’s commitment to the community. They pride themselves on cutting out the middle man and procuring their produce directly from the growers, wherever possible. This cutely-monikered establishment is also an eatery, founded on a reverence for raw ingredients, using the same ultra-fresh, organic and carefully curated ingredients they sell in their store. The grocery store is open daily from 9am-7pm. You can also order online for pickup and delivery.

Tender Greens 505 W 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Tender Greens offers a variety of fresh produce boxes such as the Farm Fresh Box (butter lettuce, romaine hearts, arugula, carrots, beets, and red butter lettuce); Seasonal Fruit Box (fuji apples, navel oranges, strawberries, blackberries, pineapple, lemon, banana, grapes, ginger, turmeric); and Seasonal Veggie Box (carrots, vine ripe tomatoes, white corn, button mushrooms, broccolini, eggplant, green & yellow zucchini, baby sweet peppers, yellow onion). You can also Build Your Own grocery box. Pick the exact food items you want, choosing from an array of goods including fresh produce, dairy, high-quality proteins, go-with-everything grains, artisan breads, and even wine. Order online or download the Tender Greens app. Tender Greens is also open for patio dining.

Torres Produce Grand Central Market Stall D-7 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A downtown landmark since 1917, Grand Central Market, brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA. If you’re shopping for fresh produce, be sure to visit Torres Produce, a produce stand offering a fresh selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables.

7th Street Produce Market ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Gather inspiration and fresh ingredients at the 7th Street Produce Market, a five-acre open air market located at ROW DTLA. 7th Street Produce Market is an evolution of the historic LA Terminal Market, celebrating the community of workers that has fueled the city’s vibrant food culture for over 100 years. The market continues to be a major hub for produce distribution across the region. Open Monday – Saturday.

The Wall Farmers Market 766 Wall St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Located in the Los Angeles Flower District, The Wall Farmers Market provides a chef-centric selection of high quality, certified farm fresh produce that benefits and supports California small and mid-sized farms. The Wall Farmers Market helps build the health and overall quality of the community in which we work, live and play in DTLA. Open Saturdays 9am – 2pm. Parking structures are located on Maple Street and San Julian Avenue.

Historic Downtown Farmers Market 209 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

The Historic Core Farmers Market reflects the incredibly diverse community in the Historic Core. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you’ll find local honey, farm-fresh eggs (free range and sprout-fed); breakfast and brunch items; sweet pastries and empanadas; Mediterranean dips and spreads; flowers and floral arrangements; natural homemade skincare products; and dog food and pooch products. Along with fresh local groceries, there’s a selection of prepared food and drinks including fresh juices and lemonade, coffee, tacos, breakfast burritos, pupusas, and much more. The Historic Core Farmers Market is held every Sunday from 9am – 2pm.

Whole Foods Market 788 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Located beneath the Eighth & Grand residences, this expansive 41,000 square foot Whole Food Market is designed to meet the needs of local residents, professionals and businesses. In addition to fresh produce, groceries, staples, and prepared foods, Whole Foods stocks over 1,000 hand-picked wines. On-site eateries include Downtown LA Juice Bar, Downtown LA Sandwich, Downtown Pizzeria, Downtown Smokehouse, Taqueria, and WFM Coffee Bar. Check online for takeout details. Grocery delivery is available on Amazon Prime.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Urban Radish

Photo #2: Urban Radish

Photo #3: Tender Greens

Photo #4: Torres Produce

Photo #5: 7th Street Produce Market

Photo #6: The Wall Farmers Market

Photo #7: Historic Core BID 

Photo #8 -Whole Foods Market