It’s been three years since the restaurant industry gathered in downtown Los Angeles for the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo. The dining scene may look a little different this year. Thankfully, the LA Convention Center’s location conveniently allows access to a variety of restaurants and walkable dining options for exposition-goers. From a refined dining experience to a casual atmosphere, there is plenty to choose from in DTLA. Here are some of our favorite restaurants within walking distance of the LA Convention Center.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Fleming’s is the epitome of a classic fine dining steakhouse. Boasting locations all over the greater Los Angeles area, Fleming’s prides itself in serving only the best steak cuts in a classic, white tablecloth environment. Perfect for special gatherings, Fleming’s offers a range of shareable and memorable items, including classics like the chilled seafood tower and a prime 35-ounce tomahawk steak.
King Taco
King Taco got its start by converting an ice cream truck into the first U.S. taco truck in 1974. Since then, King Taco has opened 22 locations and has been serving authentic Mexican food to hordes of hungry patrons. Today, King Taco remains one of the premier destinations for inexpensive tacos, burritos and more around the Greater Los Angeles area and has been recognized by prominent food critics. Guests often choose King Taco over its competitors because they serve authentic regional Mexican cuisine like lengua and chicharon while offering more Americanized options like the beloved nachos.
Levy Restaurants
Guests craving a sports favorite won’t be steered wrong at one of the Levy Restaurants’ dining options inside the newly renamed Crypto.com Arena. Levy Restaurants offers a wide variety of food options, ranging from classic hot dogs to full-service catering inside of the arena’s many suites. Guest favorites include the memorable “skyscraper dog.”
Mastro’s Ocean Club
Mastro’s is well known as an upscale restaurant serving the finest cuts of steak and seafood. This highly acclaimed establishment is believed to be one of the “top 10 steakhouses in the U.S.” by Gayot Publications. Mastro’s Ocean Club opened in June and is a seafood-oriented version of the popular steakhouse. Like other Mastro’s locations, it’ll provide live music in the Piano Lounge, raw bar selections and prime-grade steaks.
Panini Kabob Grill
Panini Kabob Grill has earned a reputation as a fast, affordable, and healthy casual Mediterranean option within walking distance of the Los Angeles Convention Center. Panini Kabob Grill offers mouthwatering kabobs like koobideh, charbroiled chicken, and more, all at a less expensive price than comparable eateries. Guests rave about the fresh ingredients and intimate, wood-paneled dining room.
El Cholo
El Cholo’s claim to fame is as LA’s “very first” Mexican restaurant opening in 1923. Spanning six generations, Angelenos have devoured El Cholo’s classic Mexican food across Southern California. Guests particularly rave about the restaurant’s connection to history – each dish on the menu is labeled with the date it was created. Don’t miss out on the green corn tamales from 1923 and the huge selection of margaritas!
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
Legendary chef Wolfgang Puck’s namesake bar and grill inside LA Live showcases a modern yet approachable take on fine dining. The restaurant offers classic comfort food, but with chef Puck’s signature take. As should be expected from any of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurants, the pizzas, pastas, salads and more are all intricate and handmade. But Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill manages to still be accessible to the masses.
Woodspoon
Woodspoon is a self-described “rustic Brazilian kitchen” that takes inspiration from the multitude of African, Indian and European influences that permeate authentic Brazilian cuisine. Woodspoon offers guests in downtown Los Angeles a unique opportunity to sample authentic Brazilian cuisines like moqueca and frango com quiabo. But Woodspoon also offers more familiar dishes like yucca fries and Brazilian pot pie.
Yard House
Yard House has quickly become one of downtown Los Angeles’ premier luxury sports bars. With over 100 draft beers and globally inspired takes on American classics, Yard House is the perfect spot to catch a game or enjoy an evening out with friends. The massive menu offers everything from tacos to steaks and burgers. Whatever guests order, they all agree that Yard House’s penchant for hospitality gives it a unique and special ambiance.
For a quick grab-and-go meal, consider these reliable quick-service options that are within walking distance of the convention center:
Baskin-Robbins
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Jack In the Box
Panda Express
Starbucks (six locations nearby)
