Tag: rossoblula

That’s Amore: Savor the Flavor of Italy in DTLA

Did you know that downtown Los Angeles was once the epicenter of a thriving Little Italy? LA’s earliest Italian enclave, dating back to the 19th century, was located near the Los Angeles Plaza, at what is now El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. A great place to learn more about this fascinating history is the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles, located in the historic Italian Hall, which was constructed in 1908 to serve as a gathering place for the Italian community.

Italian American Museum of Los Angeles near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Italian American Museum of Los Angeles 644 N Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Just a short distance from Circa, the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles will be reopening soon to the public. But you don’t have to wait to savor the flavor of Italy. From authentic trattorias to handmade organic pasta cucinas, and chef-driven ristorantes, you’ll find some of the best Italian restaurants in DTLA. Now that’s amore! Check websites for reservations and health guidelines.

Bestia Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Arts District darling Bestia is open and accepting reservations in accordance with LA city guidelines. Owned and operated by husband and wife Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, the menu 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! 

Rossoblu Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Rossoblu is open for dining on their heated outdoor patio. The restaurant tells the story of the two places Chef Steve Samson considers home – Los Angeles and Bologna, Italy. The menu features handmade pastas, fresh produce, and an extensive in-house butchery and salumi program. The wine list offers unique Italian and Californian varietals. At its core, Rossoblu is a true family-owned and operated restaurant, with Steve’s wife Dina helming the operations and long time friend and partner Hans Luttmann leading a team that has become family. 

The Factory Kitchen Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Factory Kitchen 1300 Factory Pl. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Located in the heart of the DTLA Arts District, The Factory Kitchen is a trattoria in a reclaimed factory space serving traditional Italian fare, including delicate house-made pastas, fresh seafood and focaccinas. The Factory Kitchen is open for outdoor dining on their spacious patio. You may also dine indoors with limited seating. Reserve online at Open Table.

BRERA Ristorante Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

BRERA Ristorante 1331 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

A multi-regional Italian Osteria by Chef Angelo Auriana and Matteo Ferdinandi, BRERA Ristorante is a hybrid of an informal osteria with rather formal cooking in an elegant setting. A concept influenced by the artsy-cool BRERA neighborhood in Milan Italy, it displays Chef Angelo’s personal culinary identity that emphasizes on the importance of the highest quality fresh ingredients and the use of cooking techniques that are meant to highlight their true flavors, presented in a minimalistic way. BRERA is open for outdoor dining. Limited seating is now available indoors and must be reserved on OpenTable.

Maddalena Restaurant Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Maddalena Restaurant 737 Lamar St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

Maddalena Restaurant is a popular trattoria-style restaurant located within the San Antonio Winery in downtown Los Angeles. They offer a variety of freshly made Italian entrées that range from fresh pastas, grilled meats, gourmet salads and sandwiches, along with seasonal wine flights from their winery. Enjoy outdoor dining in their patio garden or inside with limited seating.

Maccheroni Republic Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Maccheroni Republic 332 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Maccheroni Republic specializes in handmade fresh organic pasta, crafted daily in-house using organic flour and organic semolina. In addition to a variety of authentic Italian pasta dishes, the restaurant serves an array of fresh appetizers, salads, sweets, and an extensive wine and beer list. No reservations required. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

Drago Centro Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Drago Centro 525 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Drago Centro is one of downtown LA’s premier dining destination for fans of authentic Italian Sicilian cuisine with an innovative edge and impeccable service, Executive Chef Celestino Drago’s menu is delectably approachable and features a signature selection of innovatory Italian dishes including house-made pastas, savory steaks and elegant desserts. Complemented by managing partner Piero Selvaggio’s extraordinary personalized service and unprecedented wine knowledge, this exclusive team brings satisfaction to any palate, while creating an indelible experience showcasing the essence and magic of Drago Centro’s outdoor dining patio.

Colori Kitchen Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Colori Kitchen 429 W 8th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Colori Kitchen is a small neighborhood restaurant located in a petite storefront on 8th Street in the Downtown Historic District, offering country-style dining reminiscent of an authentic Italian trattoria. Chef Luigi Barducci Contessi, along with his wife Paola, serve top quality homemade Italian food at affordable prices, adding to people’s dining experience the warmth, and of course a bit of the drama, that only a real Italian family can offer. Open for dine-in with limited space. Walk ins are welcome.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Rossoblu

Photo #2: Italian American Museum of Los Angeles

Photo #3: Bestia

Photo #4: Rossoblu

Photo #5: The Factory Kitchen

Photo #6: BRERA Ristorante

Photo #7: Maddalena Restaurant

Photo #8: Maccheroni Republic

Photo #9: Drago Centro

Photo #10: Colori Kitchen

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

Enjoy Elegant Outdoor Dining in Downtown Los Angeles

Summer weather beckons with sunny days and starry nights! Your favorite Downtown Los Angeles restaurants near Circa are answering the call, expanding their patio seating, adding street side tables, and even commandeering alleys and parking lots, so you can enjoy elegant outdoor dining. Did you know there’s a new “European Corner” at 6th & Los Angeles Streets? Mignon has teamed up with their neighbors L’APPART restaurant and Cento Pasta Bar to bring you more outdoor seating and more culinary choices!

From luxury hotel rooftops with breathtaking views, to charming garden patios, and lively street side seating, there’s a table waiting for you! Check their websites for hours, reservations and takeout/delivery options.

Mignon outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Mignon 128 E. 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Mignon is teaming up with L’APPART restaurant to bring you more outdoor seating and more culinary choices. You can enjoy alfresco dining in front of either restaurant and receive both menus. They are also collaborating with Cento Pasta Bar, who is back in action across the street at JJ’s. True to its name (mignon roughly translates to “small and cute” in French), Mignon specializes in small production, offering natural wines from all over the globe with an emphasis on the Old World. They also serve seasonal, rustic French cuisine, including a three-course pre-fixe option, small plates, and fine artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The space is also a retail shop, so make sure you grab some bottles for your home cellar.

L'APPART by AIR FOOD outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

L’APPART by AIR FOOD 130 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

L’APPART by AIR FOOD will make you feel that you flew straight to Paris where you’ll enjoy an exclusive French culinary experience. Created by two passionate visionaries, Marc and Thierry, L’APPART by AIR FOOD takes your tastebuds through a miraculous journey from traditional French cuisine to French & World Fusion from Europe, Middle East, Africa, and North America.

Cento Pasta Bar outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Cento Pasta Bar @JJ’s Sandwich Shop 119 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Mignon Wine Bar becomes this handmade pasta bar at lunchtime several days a week. You can buy takeout pastas from Cento, walk across the street to Mignon, purchase a glass or bottle of wine, and enjoy your food al fresco. In 2015, long-time friends Avner Levi and Santos Uy opened Cento Pasta Bar as a lunch residency at Santos’ downtown wine bar, Mignon. Cento is inspired by Avner’s desire to share his experiences with the people around him through cooking. At Cento, Avner is responsible for all facets of the kitchen, including menu design and development, bringing his philosophy of thoughtful, seasonal ingredients to every dish with an element of fun.

Strada Eateria & Bar outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Strada Eateria & Bar 825 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

A new spot in Downtown LA near Staples Center, Strada Eateria & Bar presents world flavors made with local ingredients.. The eclectic menu includes ceviche, lobster ravioli, and an ahi tuna steak burger, along with a full bar. Strada is now offering al fresco dining with sidewalk seating on W. 9th St. Complimentary parking. Reservations are recommended.

Faith & Flower outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Faith & Flower is open for patio dining. 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. 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. Reservations are highly recommended. Takeout and delivery are also available. 

Bestis outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Arts District darling Bestia is now accepting reservations for outdoor dining. Their menu is also available for takeout. Owned and operated by husband and wife Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, the menu 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! 

Redbird outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Redbird is open with three different outdoor dining options! In addition to the Redbird Courtyard, they’ve created two new open air dining rooms: the Redbird Garden and the Lounge on the Vibiana Courtyard. 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. 

Perch outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Perch 448 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Perch Los Angeles 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. Their 15th floor outdoor patios and 16th floor rooftop are now open for outdoor dining. The elevated spaces offer outdoor fireplaces, rooftop fire pits, indoor and outdoor dining experiences, and lounge seating to experience the city skyline views. Perch executive Chef Gerardo Benitez has created a playful menu inspired by French culinary classics utilizing the freshest of seasonal ingredients. Pick up and delivery is also available. 

Broken Shaker outdoor dining near Circa apartments 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.

Rossoblu outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Rossoblu tells the story of the two places Chef Steve Samson considers home – Los Angeles and Bologna, Italy. The restaurant is an homage to Samson’s heritiage, inspired by childhood memories spent in Bologna and its surrounding region, Emilia Romagna. Rossoblu features handmade pastas, fresh produce, and an extensive in-house butchery and salumi program. The wine list offers unique Italian and Californian varietals. At its core, Rossoblu is a true family-owned and operated restaurant, with Steve’s wife Dina helming the operations and long time friend and partner Hans Luttmann leading a team that has become family. Rossoblu is open for al fresco dining, takeout and delivery.

Veranda Al Fresco outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Chef Adrian Garcia is serving up an authentic Mexico City-inspired menu, befitting the tropical vibe at Veranda Al Fresco, DTLA’s urban oasis at Hotel Figueroa. Savor a tasty, simple street taco menu paired with a great selection of cocktails. Veranda Al Fresco is open Wednesday to Sunday 12pm-7pm. Salud y buen provecho!

Manuela outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Manuela is excited to welcome guests back to dine in their spacious outdoor patio. Located in the DTLA Arts District, Manuela unites chef, farmer and artist to create an authentic and original dining experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients sourced from the best farms and producers in Southern California. Serving a wide range of vegetables, grains, fish, and game, Manuela also features an exemplary bar program, which serves classic cocktails using house-made bitters and tonics. Local beers are on tap, while the carefully selected wine list is designed to pair with the smoke and acid at the heart of Manuela’s menu. 

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Rossoblu

Photo #2: Mignon

Photo #3: L’APPART by AIR FOOD

Photo #4: Cento Pasta Bar

Photo #5: Strada Eateria & Bar 

Photo #6: Faith & Flower

Photo #7: Bestia

Photo #8: Reedbird

Photo #9: Perch

Photo #10: Broker Shaker

Photo #11: Rossoblu

Photo #12: Veranda Al Fresco

Photo #13: Manuela