pezcantina Archives

Love is in the Air: Circa’s Special Valentine’s Day Guide

Love is in the air, but 2024 is a leap year, so why not take the plunge and try something different this Valentine’s Day! LA’s two most spectacular historic theaters are presenting a Valentine-themed cinema and dance party, and an authentic French cabaret performance, respectively. Die-hard romantics won’t want to miss Matthew Bourne’s scintillating interpretation of Romeo & Juliet at the Ahmanson Theatre. Or try some curated tastings & pairings at LA’s oldest winery. And your favorite DTLA restaurants are pulling out the hearts and flowers for romantic chef-driven dinners à deux, many not far from Circa. No SO? No problem. Raise a glass with the most important people in your life – friends and family. Whatever your relationship goals, you’ll find endless ways to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day.

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo & Juliet Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo & Juliet The Ahmanson Theatre 135 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet gives Shakespeare’s timeless story of forbidden love a scintillating injection of raw passion and youthful vitality. Confined against their will by a society that seeks to divide, our two young lovers must follow their hearts as they risk everything to be together. Directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, collaborating with the New Adventures Artistic team; with Terry Davies’ thrillingly fresh orchestrations of Prokofiev’s dynamic score.

Cabaret Versatile Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Romeo + Juliet Cabaret Performance The Million Dollar Theater 307 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Street Food Cinema presents Romeo + Juliet, Shakespeare’s famous play updated to the hip modern suburb of Verona, while still retaining its original dialogue. Enjoy a live performance by Cabaret Versatile, the only company to represent the culture of authentic French Cabaret in California, in addition to offering traditional showgirls entertainment. Concessions and two full bars with specialty cocktails will be available for purchase in the theater.

Cinespia- The Notebook Valentine’s Party near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Cinespia: The Notebook Valentine’s Party Los Angeles Theatre 615 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Let love lift you sky high with a timeless romance and a heavenly Valentine’s Party at the gorgeous Los Angeles Theatre. Celebrate love with 20th Anniversary of The Notebook, then party away in all the gorgeous, opulent corners of this rare gem of a theatre. Enjoy five floors of magnificent treasures and surprises, including live performances, DJ sets, free photo booth, and full bars offering all the bubbling flourishes you need.

Concerts by Candlelight Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Concerts by Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special The Biltmore 506 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Discover the romantic music of Valentine’s Day at a special performance Romeo and Juliet & More under the gentle glow of candlelight. Tentative program includes Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy, The Swan by Camille Saint-Saëns, and Flower Duet by Delibes, performed by the powerhouse string quartet, Orchid Quartet. Strike a pose and their photographers will print an instant photo for you to take home as a lovely keepsake. Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before.

San Antonio Winery Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

San Antonio Winery 737 Lamar St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

Soak up Los Angeles history as you sip on some of the finest regional wines at the San Antonio Winery 1917 Wine Bar & Bistro. For Valentine’s Day, they are going all out in the name of love, including a Valentine’s Vineyard Voyage: Wine Tasting Flight; Valentine’s Wine Tasting in the private Stefano Cellar which includes a delicious wine and charcuterie tasting and the opportunity for guests to make their own flower bouquet; and a Valentine’s Day four-course wine pairing dinner by Chef Joe Dijamco and sommelier Mike Papalia, featuring some of the Riboli’s family award-winning estate wines.

Redbird restaurant Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Redbird 14 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Neal Fraser’s stunning downtown restaurant, located in the former Vibiana cathedral, will offer a three-course Valentine’s Day tasting menu, with champagne and wine pairings. Choose from decadent appetizers like shigoku oysters with blood orange migonette, smoked venison tartare, and black truffle gnocchi. Mains include rack of Australian lamb with borlotti beans, beef tenderloin, and squid ink raviolo. Cap off your meal with a luscious dessert such as white chocolate and passionfruit gateau or milk chocolate ganache tart.

Camphor restaurant Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Camphor 923 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George’s Michelin-starred French bistro in the Arts District is holding their popular monthly Steak Frites dinner series on Valentine’s Day, featuring Frites, Lobster, and Bubbly. This new-school fine dining spot is regarded as one of LA’s best restaurants, noted for its elegant menu. extensive cocktail selection, relaxed atmosphere, and scrumptious pastries.

Cara Cara restaurant Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Cara Cara Downtown LA Proper Hotel 1100 S Broadway PH, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s breathtaking rooftop restaurant is serving a three-course prix fixe meal for Valentine’s Day. The menu features Torres potato chips + caviar and crème fraîche, roasted + raw fennel salad with blood orange and brabander, wagyu ribeye with patatas panadera, and roasted asparagus señorío de vaca pudding with snap peas and iberico butter. For a decadent finish, try their chocolate “molten” tart with Bailey’s anglaise.

Pez Cantina restaurant Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Looking for a fun alternative to hearts and flowers this Valentine’s Day? Experience the vibrant ambiance of Pez Cantina, an exuberant Mexican seafood restaurant helmed by renowned Chef Bret Thompson. Their culinary expedition seamlessly fuses the exquisite flavors of Mexico with the invigorating freshness of the Pacific Coast, culminating in an unparalleled and indelible dining affair. Savor delectable ceviches, tantalizing tacos, and artfully crafted cocktails. At Pez Cantina, you are invited to embrace the vivid hues and daring flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine, all within a spirited and welcoming setting.

Galentines Day Valentine’s Day celebration near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

February 13 is Galentine’s Day

We’re quick to shower our significant others with gifts and treats on February 14, but the day prior was designed to celebrate other equally important relationships in our lives – our girlfriends! Galentine’s Day was the creation of the beloved fictional deputy director of Parks and Recreation in Pawnee, Indiana, Leslie Knope. So gather your gal pals and celebrate with a special brunch, spa day, or fabulous night out on the town.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Pez Cantina

Photo #2: Center Theatre Group

Photo #3: Cabaret Versatile

Photo #4: Cinespia / Los Angeles Theatre

Photo #5: Feverup

Photo #6: San Antonio Winery

Photo #7: Redbird

Photo #8: Camphor

Photo #9: The Proper Hotel DTLA

Photo #10: Pez Cantina

Photo #11: National Today

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo In DTLA

Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner. Time to round up your crew and head out for some soul satisfying Mexican food, washed done with a frosty Margarita or two, along with a shot of premium tequila or rare mezcal. Not far from Circa, you’ll find El Pueblo de Los Angeles, the birthplace of Los Angeles, which is now a historical monument, home to museums, exhibits, and the world famous Olvera Street marketplace. DTLA is also boasts some of the city’s most iconic and award-winning Mexican restaurants, rooftop oases, and craft cocktail bars, serving everything from traditional cuisine to chef-driven menus. Reservations for Cinco de Mayo are highly recommended.

Circa Cinco de Mayo Party at Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Join the fiesta! Circa residents are invited to our Cinco de Mayo celebration this Thursday at the 8th Floor Lounge. We’ll be serving tacos & margaritas from 5:30PM to 8:30PM.

Olvera Street near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Olvera Street El Pueblo de Los Angeles 125 Paseo de la Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the birthplace of Los Angeles – El Pueblo de Los Angeles. Founded in 1781, El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (the Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels) is now a historical monument, home to free museums, exhibits, and the world famous Olvera Street marketplace.

Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe W-17 Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Established in 1924, Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe is a historic landmark in the heart of the Olvera Street marketplace. This iconic restaurant offers authentic Mexican cuisine and fresh margaritas made with real fruits including strawberry, mango, cucumber and more.

LA Cha Cha Chá near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Cha Cha Chá 812 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The sister location of Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City, LA Cha Cha Chá is located in a chic outdoor rooftop space in the Arts District. The restaurant offers gorgeous views of DTLA and a notable menu by Mexico City-born, LA-raised chef Alejandro Guzman. There are traditional starters like aguachile, ceviche, chicharos de sierra with fresh peas, and crispy potato – a revamped family recipe. Cha Cha Cha also offers a tacos and tostada menu, along with more substantial dishes like grilled fish, charcoal roasted chicken, and pork shoulder confit carnitas.

Las Perlas near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Las Perlas 107 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Las Perlas, the nation’s first mezcal bar, opened in March 2010 in the historic Sante Fe building at Sixth & Main in DTLA. This Oaxacan style cantina exists as a living tribute to Mexico’s native spirit, mezcal, with the finest selection of more than 400 premium agave spirits in the United States. Las Perlas cocktails arrive garnished with everything from wild hibiscus flowers to the Oaxacan delicacy of spicy, roasted chapulinas, while also offering ice cold Mexican cerveza. Get your fill of tacos, taquitos, mulitas, and more – available on the patio daily.

Pez Cantina near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071

Pez Cantina is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with live music, dancing and great food. Pez Cantina is a sustainable Coastal Mexican-style restaurant and bar serving the freshest sea-to-land dishes in an oasis-type atmosphere. The menu focuses on dishes from the many distinct regions of Mexico: from Baja, to Oaxaca, to the Yucatan Peninsula. A fine-tuned selection of bright and eclectic cocktails, California-focused wine list and craft beers, round out the menu.

Mezcalero DTLA near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mezcalero 510 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

The name that says it all! Mezcalero is a small, laid-back joint in the heart of DTLA, presenting a dizzying selection of mezcal. tequila and other agave spirits, along with craft beer and Mexican street food. The down-to-earth staff, lead by mixologist Nathan McCullough, loves sharing and shaking up craft cocktails while generating a welcoming environment for all. Mezcalero offers daily happy hour specials, Taco Tuesdays, and Cocktail To Go. So come on by any day of the week and experience the local love and dedication. Salud!

Bar Amá near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

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

AMÁ is chef Josef Centeno’s homage to the Tex-Mex cooking he grew up on – casual, inventive, delicious dishes inspired by four multi-cultural generations of Tejanos and their love of food. The menu will tingle your tummy with specialities like fideo and borracho beans with cilantro and pork belly, simmering on the stove. The bar offers a great selection of tequilas and mezcals, along with absinthe, whiskey, gin, beer, wine, and more.

El Cholo near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

El Cholo 1037 S. Flower St Los Angeles CA 90015

Since first opening their doors at the original site on Western Avenue in 1923, El Cholo has operated as a family-owned business. Today, this popular restaurant has expanded to seven locations, run by Ron Salisbury, grandson of the founders. Enjoy traditional favorites like blue corn chicken enchiladas, green corn tamales, enchiladas suiza, tortilla soup, burritos, carne asada, and combination plates. They also offer an array of margaritas and specialty tequilas.

Guerilla Tacos near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Guerilla Tacos 2000 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

From a popular food truck, Guerilla Tacos has evolved to a contemporary restaurant and bar specializing in great margaritas and other craft cocktails, along with world-class dishes inspired by the flavors of the city, made with local ingredients and served on a tortilla. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in their dining room or festive outdoor patio.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Mezcalero

Photo #2: Circa LA

Photo #3: Olvera Street

Photo #4: Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe

Photo #5: LA Cha Cha Chá

Photo #6: Las Perlas

Photo #7: Pez Cantina

Photo #8: Mezcalero

Photo #9: Bar Amá

Photo #10: El Cholo

Photo #11: Guerilla Tacos

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Downtown Los Angeles

Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner. Time to round up your crew and head out for some soul satisfying Mexican food, washed done with a frosty Margarita or two, along with a shot of premium tequila or rare mezcal. Not far from Circa, you’ll find El Pueblo de Los Angeles, the birthplace of Los Angeles, which is now a historical monument, home to museums, exhibits, and the world famous Olvera Street marketplace. DTLA is also boasts some of the city’s most iconic and award-winning Mexican restaurants, rooftop oases, and craft cocktail bars, serving everything from traditional cuisine to chef-driven menus. Check website for opening hours, reservations and health & safety guidelines.

Olvera Street El Pueblo de Los Angeles 125 Paseo de la Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the birthplace of Los Angeles – El Pueblo de Los Angelest. Founded in 1781, El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (the Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels) is now a historical monument, home to free museums, exhibits, and the world famous Olvera Street marketplace. Olvera Street is now open for shopping and take-out dining. Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe, a historic landmark, offers authentic Mexican cuisine and fresh margaritas made with real fruits including strawberry, mango, cucumber and more.

Las Perlas 107 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Las Perlas is happy to announce that they will be reopening for patio service on May 3. The nation’s first mezcal bar, Las Perlas was established in 2010 in the historic Sante Fe building the DTLA Arts District. This Oaxacan style cantina exists as a living tribute to Mexico’s native spirit, mezcal, with the finest selection of more than 400 premium agave spirits in the United States. Las Perlas cocktails arrive garnished with everything from wild hibiscus flowers to the Oaxacan delicacy of spicy, roasted chapulinas, while also offering ice cold Mexican cerveza.

Cinco de Mayo with Trejos Tacos Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Join Pez Cantina for an exclusive event with Trejos Tacos on Thursday, May 6th from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. Ticket Includes Three-Course Meal created by Pez Cantina and Trejos Tacos. There’ll be a Taco Eating Contest judged by Danny Trejos, along with live music, prizes and giveaways. Pez Cantina is a sustainable Coastal Mexican-style restaurant and bar serving the freshest sea-to-land dishes in an oasis-type atmosphere. The menu focuses on dishes from the many distinct regions of Mexico, from Baja, to Oaxaca and the Yucatan Peninsula. A fine-tuned selection of bright and eclectic cocktails, California-focused wine list and craft beers, round out the Pez Cantina menu.

Broken Shaker near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Broken Shaker Freehand Hotel 416 W. 8th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014

An oasis in the heart of Downtown LA, Broken Shaker, located on the Freehand Hotel 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. Reservations for pool and Broken Shaker are required.

Guerilla Tacos 2000 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

From a popular food truck, Guerilla Tacos has evolved to a contemporary restaurant and bar specializing in great margaritas and other craft cocktials, along with world-class dishes inspired by the flavors of the city, made with local ingredients and served on a tortilla. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on their festive outdoor paito. All of the proceeds from select items on May 5 will go to Save the Children.

LA Cha Cha Chá near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Cha Cha Chá 812 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The sister location of Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City, LA Cha Cha Chá recently opened in a chic outdoor rooftop space in the Arts District. The restaurant offers gorgeous views of DTLA and a notable menu by Mexico City-born, LA-raised chef Alejandro Guzman. There are traditional starters like aguachile and ceviche, but also chicharos de sierra with fresh peas, serrano aioli, and crispy potato – a revamped family recipe. Cha Cha Cha ioffers a tacos and tostada menu, along with more substantial dishes like grilled fish, charcoal roasted chicken, and a pork shoulder confit carnitas with braised beans and pico de gallo.

Veranda Al Fresco near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Veranda Al Fresco Hotel Figueroa 939 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Chef AJ McCloud is serving an authentic Mexico City-inspired menu, befitting the tropical vibe at Veranda Al Fresco, DTLA’s urban oasis at Hotel Figueroa. Discover a tasty, simple street taco menu paired with an intriguing selection of craft cocktails. Salud y buen provecho!

Mezcalero near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mezcalero 510 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

The name that says it all. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Mezcalero, a small, laid-back joint in the heart of DTLA. These homey digs present a dizzying selection of mezcal. tequila and other agave spirits, along with craft beer and Mexican street food. The down to earth staff, lead by mixologist Nathan McCullough, loves sharing and shaking up our cocktails while generating a welcoming environment for all. Mezcalero offers daily happy hour specials, Open for dine-in, delivery and takeout. Salud!

Bar Ama near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

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

This Tex Mex hot spot will tingle your tummy with specialities like fideo and borracho beans with cilantro and pork belly, simmering on the stove. Chef Josef Centeno created Bar Amá as his interpretation of the food he was nurtured on by the women who raised him, and the menu reflects that comfortable sense of home. The bar offers a great selection of tequilas and mezcals, along with absinthe, whiskey, gin, beer, wine, and more. Open for pickup, delivery and patio dining.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe

Photo #2: Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe

Photo #3: Las Perlas

Photo #4: Pez Cantina

Photo #5: Broken Shaker

Photo #6: Guerilla Tacos

Photo #7: LA Cha Cha Chá

Photo #8: Veranda Al Fresco

Photo #9: Mezcalero

Photo #10: Bar Amá

A Little Romance: Celebrate Valentine’s Day in DTLA

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, outdoor dining is back. And your favorite DTLA restaurants are pulling out all the stops for a little romance this weekend. From Modern American to Italian, French, Brazilian, and Baja cuisine, top eateries are offering chef-driven Valentine’s Day dinners à deux, with gourmet menus and expert wine pairings. If you’re in the mood for a romantic staycation, Hotel Figueroa is offering a sweet package, with complimentary flowers and desserts. Speaking of sweets, Gelateria Uli is offering heart shaped cakes and sweetheart popsicles for pre-order. No SO? No problem. Grab your crew and toast the important people in your life – friends and family. Whatever your relationship goals, you’ll find endless ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day when you live at Circa. Check websites for reservations, pick up, and delivery details.

Redbird Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Redbird Valentine’s Day Weekend 114 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate Valentine’s Day Weekend at Redbird. Chef Neal Fraser and team will be serving a celebratory three-course dinner in their three outdoor dining rooms, with optional wine pairings. Some of our favorite menu items include Winter Citrus & Endive Salad, Diver Scallops, Smoked Tofu with fried rice and mustard greens, and Garden Lemon Custard. Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems – the former rectory building of Vibiana, cathedral-turned-event-venue. Redbird features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city, Los Angeles.

Rossoblu Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Rossoblu City Market South 1124 San Julian St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Although Rossoblu won’t open their spacious patio for outdoor dining until February 18, they are offering a Valentine’s Weekend Dinner for pickup. Menu includes Antipasti, Pasta, Duck Breast, and a choice of sweets. Vegan and allergy-friendly options are available. These individual meals are presented refrigerated with simple heating instructions. Rossoblu is an homage to Chef Steve Samson’s heritage, inspired by childhood memories spent in Bologna and Emilia Romagna. The restaurant features handmade pastas, fresh produce, and an extensive in-house butchery and salumi program. The wine list offers unique Italian and Californian varietals.

Pez Cantina Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Chef Bret Thompson and the Pez team are serving an exclusive Three-Course Valentine’s Day Weekend Menu for dining on their lush outdoor patio. Pez Cantina is a sustainable Coastal Mexican-style restaurant and bar serving the freshest sea-to-land dishes. Inspired by his travels to Loreto, a sleepy fishing town in Baja California, Chef Bret Thompson captures the complexity and spirit of the food he loves. The menu focuses on dishes from the many distinct regions of Mexico – from Baja, to Oaxaca, to the Yucatan Peninsula. A fine-tuned selection of bright and eclectic cocktails, California-focused wine list, and craft beers round out the Pez Cantina menu.

Zinqué Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Le Weekend de St Valentin at Zinqué 939 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

Add some French savoir faire to your Valentine’s Day celebration with the one your love. Le Weekend de St Valentin at Zinqué is offering a three-course menu for $90 per person. Choices include Smoked Salmon Carpaccio, Roasted Lobster Tail, Grilled Hanger Steak, Truffled Mac & Cheese, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Berries with Chantilly, and more. Zinqué is a hip neighborhood restaurant with French-inspired dishes and small plates, along with a craft cocktail menu and uniquely curated wine & beer selection.

Perch LA Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Perch LA 448 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Elevate your Valentine’s Day celebration at Perch LA with a 4 Course Prix Fixe Dinner. Perch is a French-inspired rooftop bistro that offers unobstructed views of Downtown Los Angeles that will make you feel as if you’re floating over the skyline. Executive Chef Gerardo Benitez has created a playful menu inspired by French culinary classics utilizing the freshest of seasonal ingredients. Choices include Chef’s Collection of Fromage & Charcuterie, Ahi Tartare, Butternut Squash Soup, Filet Mignon, Lamb Osso Buco, and White Chocolate Bread Pudding. Vegetarian menu is available as well.

Flouring LA Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Flour + Flower Pop Up Shop Hotel Figueroa 939 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

During the month of February, Flouring LA and Vases to Vases are hosting a pop up shop in the Hotel Figueroa lobby bar, offering freshly made desserts and custom mixed bouquets. Flouring’s Chef Heather Wong has created an 8-piece Valentine’s-inspired sweets box and dessert charcuterie boards. Stephanie Casteneda, also known as Vases to Vases, will offer bouquets and vase arrangements. Chef Wong has been baking for Los Angeles since 2009, using sustainably sourced, organic ingredients from local farmers and vendors. Vases to Vases is a floral design studio founded by Casteneda in 2020, known for creating uniquely artistic pieces.

Hotel Figueroa Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Hotel Figueroa Staycation 939 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Make your Valentine’s Day celebration even sweeter with The Fig’s™ Suite Staycation Package. Book a suite for Valentine’s Day weekend and receive a complimentary Vases to Vases flower arrangement alongside a tasting of Flouring LA desserts. The historic Figueroa Hotel has been a downtown LA icon for nearly a century. Located just steps from the Staples Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center, the Figueroa corridor, home of the hotel, is a resurgent capital of arts, entertainment and culture for forward-thinkers from around the globe.

Gelateria Uli Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Gelateria Uli 541 S Spring St #104 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Nothing says “you make me melt” like these sweet treats from Gelateria Uli. Pre-order your heart shaped cakes and sweetheart popsicles for that special someone this Valentine’s Day. Named Best Ice Cream 2020 by Los Angeles Magazine, Gelateria Uli was founded by Uli Nasibova, who’s originally from Baku, Azerbaijan. Uli opened her gelato shop in 2014 with the goal to make European-style ice cream, which has lower fat and air content than the American variety. Uli personally creates all recipes and sources the best possible ingredients for a taste treat that can’t be beat.

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse Valentine's Day near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

This Valentine’s day, H&H Brazilian Steakhouse is serving a 5-course meal, with live Brazilian Music all day long on their patio. Start with a glass of champagne and a selection of appetizers, then move on to 16 types of meats with side dishes, and finish with a choice of dessert. $100 per person. 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 to the American market. The menu caters to nearly every food preference including gluten-free, naturally organic, vegetarian and vegan offerings.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Pez Cantina

Photo #2: Redbird

Photo #3: Rossoblu

Photo #4: Pez Cantina

Photo #5: Zinqué

Photo #6: Perch LA

Photo #7: Flouring LA

Photo #8: Hotel Figueroa

Photo #9: Gelateria Uli

Photo #10: H&H Brazilian Steakhouse

Discover DTLA’s Craft Tequila & Mezcal Bars

Mezcal is rising in popularity in American bars and tequila lovers are taking note. While the two Mexican spirits are both made from agave, there are key differences between these two beverages. Essentially, all tequilas are mezcals, but not all mezcals are tequilas. Tequila is a type of mezcal, which is defined as any agave-based liquor. However, tequila and mezcal are made from different agaves, produced in different regions, and distilled differently. Vive la difference!

Getting thirsty? Now that we’ve piqued your interest, It’s time to discover DTLA’s craft tequila and mezcal bars!

Las Perlas 107 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Broken Shaker Freehand Hotel 416 W. 8th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014

Rosa Mexicano 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Rosa Mexicano offers a wide array of tequila and mezcals. With close to 100 varieties, you’re certain to find something to quench your thirst. From the signature pomegranate margarita, to your favorite classic cocktail reimagined with mezcal, you’ll enjoy a truly unique experience in every glass. Enjoy your cocktail at the bar, with a selection from the botanas menu (bar snacks), or imbibe in the dining room. Let the cocktail menu be your guide or bring your own spirited inspiration. The bartenders will not disappoint!

Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071

Pez Cantina is a sustainable Coastal Mexican-style restaurant and bar serving the freshest sea-to-land dishes in an oasis-type atmosphere. Inspired by his travels to Loreto, a sleepy fishing town in Baja California, Mexico, and his marriage into a Mexican family, Chef Bret Thompson captures the complexity and spirit of the food he has developed a strong love and passion for. Pez Cantina’s menu focuses on dishes from the many distinct regions of Mexico: from Baja, to Oaxaca, to the Yucatan Peninsula. A fine-tuned selection of bright and eclectic cocktails, California-focused wine list and craft beers, round out the menu.

The Love Song Bar 450 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

This charming, cozy bar offers eclectic decor, vinyl records spinning cool music, friendly bartenders, and solid craft cocktails. Adjacent to the Regent Theatre and next door to Prufrock Pizzeria, you can order pizza from the bar and they’ll bring it right over. Whether you’re catching a show at The Regent or bar-hopping in the area, Love Song Bar is a great spot to stop and chill.

Broken Spanish 1050 S Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Following the evolution of its chef, Ray Garcia, a classically trained chef born and raised in Los Angeles, Broken Spanish offers an amalgamation of new ideas with the powerful influence of his Latin upbringing. Drawing inspiration and flavors from a diverse community, Broken Spanish presents a distinct culinary perspective with an elevated contribution to a bountiful culinary history.The cuisine is expressed in bold yet refined flavors, demonstrating elements of long-established traditions, while finished dishes are showcased with modern appeal. The bar offers an aromatic selection of tequilas, mezcals, and intriguing craft cocktails.

Veranda Hotel Figueroa 939 S Figueroa St #500 Los Angeles, CA 90015

Just in time for summer, Chef Adrian Garcia is serving an authentic Mexican popup menu, befitting the tropical vibe at Veranda, DTLA’s urban oasis at Hotel Figueroa. Cocktelier Dushan Zaric has created an agave program that spotlights some of Mexico’s finest tequila and mezcal distillers and their unique takes on the craft. Mixed with house-made ingredients, such as grapefruit and hibiscus cordials, and mango sangrita, the cocktails complement Chef Garcia’s cuisine. Kick back poolside and toast this season with a fresh fruit margarita or snifter of Tequila. Salud y buen provecho!

Mezcalero 510 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

The name that says it all! Mezcalero is a small, laid-back joint in the heart of DTLA, presenting a dizzying selection of mezcal. tequila and other agave spirits, along with craft beer and Mexican street food. The down to earth staff, lead by mixologist Nathan McCullough, loves sharing and shaking up our cocktails while generating a welcoming environment for all. Mezcalero offers daily happy hour specials, Taco Tuesday parties, and Sunday brunch. So come on by any day of the week and experience the local love and dedication. Salud!

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