You’re Going to Want to Save These Suggestions
Written By: Charlotte Farrell
Photographed By: Ryan Hensley Where to Eat in the Arts District
Model: Michel Phiphak, @foodwithmichel Where to Eat in the Arts District
On the east edge of LA, the Arts District is the bright and shiny new star of the city. The urban district is sprinkled with a hefty dose of edgy flair, and has always been home to street artists, eclectic murals and galleries, but now reps an undeniably poppin’ foodie scene. Michel Phiphak of @foodwithmichel roamed the streets of this historical pocket of the City of Angels to discover the best of the best that this part of town can dish out to eager diners.
Nutritious and Delicious
The atmosphere at Cafe Gratitude is light, airy, and full of calm and welcoming vibes. Coincidentally, that is exactly how you will feel after you eat basically anything off of their organic, plant-based menu. Grab your foodie friends and get a bunch of nibbles like the I AM SHARING Nachos with black beans, cashew nacho cheese, avocado, spicy pepitas and more. Or, go big or go home on your own—we won’t judge! The I AM EVOLVED Bibimbap Bowl—think crispy brown rice, kimchi, oyster mushroom bulgogi, daikon, chickpea frittata, the list goes on—is one of our faves. Add on a side of coconut bacon to blow your mind, and sip on an herbal tonic or a seasonal libation to round out your glorious feast.
Cafe Gratitude
300 S Santa Fe Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213.929.5580
Best of the Best
If you can get a reservation ahead of time, this is one spot you cannot pass up. And it’s worth the wait. Bestia is always at the top of the list when it comes to the best restaurants in LA. The industrial decor is on point and the food keeps tables and bellies full with their exquisite take on rustic Italian fare, Arts District-style.
Bestia
2121 E 7th Pl
Los Angeles, CA 90021
213.514.5724
For Better or For Wurst
Bratwurst, vegetarian Mexican chipotle, rattlesnake and rabbit. Well, that escalated quickly. The menu offers something for the German-cuisine lovers, whether they’re traditionalists or a tad more adventurous. Each creation is served on a freshly baked roll, with the intention of taking you to another level of Deutsche-dining.
Wurstküche
800 E 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213.687.4444
The Real Deal
Nestled inside Hauser & Wirth, Manuela is a bright gem just waiting to be discovered. They pride themselves on their artisanal techniques blended with fresh takes on dishes using seasonal ingredients. The relationship between the kitchen, the farmer and the artist is close-knit, allowing for a one-of-a-kind experience that your appetite will thank you for upon completion.
Manuela
907 E 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
323.849.0480
Give Me the Grub
We know the name is missing some vowels, but the menu isn’t missing any flavor. The pop-up is a foodie haven, beckoning those with eager palates to let go of their expectations and be taken on a journey. The menu is constantly changing, but the quality is unwavering. With highlights like the Mediterranean Potatoes and the Habanero Scramble, don’t hate us for posting a bunch of Insta-stories and sharing every angle of the plate’s glory.
Ktchn Dtla
428 S Hewitt St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213.400.8216
Domo Arigato, Mr. Robatayaki
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This new-kid-on-the-block is serving up robatayaki Japanese fare that swerves in the direction of the unconventional, urban attitude characteristic of the Arts District. The low-key atmosphere is inviting to those who are unfamiliar with this style of cuisine, as well as being a welcomed oasis for fans of the charcoal-centric form of cooking. The restaurant offers a communal vibe, enhanced with an outdoor patio complete with a living wall to admire while you sip on sake.
Inko Nito
225-227 S Garey St
Los Angeles, CA 90012
310.999.0476
That’s Amore
Inspired by the trattorias of Northern Italy, Officine BRERA’s core is built on memories of growing up amongst family and friends. Each plate is a contemporary take on the classics, allowing the chef to retain the heart of traditional Italian recipes while instilling modern influences with locally-sourced ingredients. We’re drooling over the Osso Bucco!
Officine BRERA
1331 E 6th St
Los Angeles, CA 90021
213.553.8006
Middle Eastern Flair
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The brains behind Bestia are here to send your taste buds on a journey once again, this time with the flavors of their family heritages taking center stage. Their roots run deep in Morocco, Israel, Turkey and Egypt, and the menu reflects their lineage in a unique way that has Angelinos lining up around the block in order to get a taste. Try the traditional spreads like hummus and baba ghanoush as starters, but don’t fill up too early! The apps are worth ordering and sharing with a group, and the rest of the menu is simply something you will have to build up your appetite for during the day, as you’ll be tempted to try one of everything at dinner!
Bavel
500 Mateo St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213.232.4966
3 of the Best Food Photography Apps
-VSCO
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Sip, Don’t Trip: Some of our favorite drinks at Manuela include the Pomegranate Sour and the Bitter Flower.
That’s Amore: Bestia is a real work of love. The owners are married, with the wife as head pastry chef and husband as the head chef.
What the Cluck? You will find actual chickens hanging out at Manuela in their farm area, plus a garden and some amazing artwork.
Native Knowledge: Downtown Taco Co will come to you for corporate events, birthday parties and even those awkward family reunions.
Michel Phiphak | @foodwithmichel