From the driving, to the parking, to the not knowing where to drive or park, dinner in L.A. is harder than it should be. That’s why we created Dinner Plan — your itinerary to a damn good time. This week, we’re going vertical amongst the skyscrapers in downtown LA for a twist on the classic dinner and a movie, mixing modern and classic, always with an extra shot of quality.
EAT: Broken Spanish
Downtown
Former editor Reuben Brody famously called Broken Spanish his favorite foodie-approved spot in L.A. In his words: “Broken Spanish speaks more to our city’s culinary energy than any other restaurant, and it’s the spot that seems less likely to exist elsewhere (every city has a great Italian restaurant). It’s got its Hispanic influences as well as our region’s more produce-leaning aspects, which Chef Ray Garcia uses to excellent effect.” If you and your date have an appetite, split the whole red snapper. In the world of great Mexican food, fish is often overlooked as little more than a healthier option for your taco, when in reality a whole, perfectly done snapper can be the star in a meal you’ll remember for some time.
1050 S Flower St. (map)
Website
VISIT: Wednesday Aja’s artist showcase at Hotel Figueroa
Downtown
Hotel Figueroa’s new Spring 2019 artist showcase features LA-based photographer/graphic artist Wednesday Aja (pronounced Ah-ha). Known for exploring the customs, costumes and communities of various subcultures through her work, this particular showcase will dive into the world of drag, burlesque and circus performers. The showcase will run from April through June, and all 32 of Wednesday’s pieces will be up for viewing early this week — with the option for purchase should you fall in love with one of them. And if you haven’t been to Hotel Figueroa itself, it’s a place worth checking out. The gorgeous hotel has been a part of downtown L.A.’s history since 1926, and a part of the Los Angeles art community since the ‘30s.
939 S Figueroa St. (map)
Website
After-Art Drinks: The Wolves Bar
Downtown
Broken Spanish and Hotel Figueroa have provided plenty of authentic Los Angeles culture to your night, so it’s only appropriate for your post-Wednesday Aja drinks to carry that torch, albeit slightly differently. Enter The Wolves, a Parisian/bohemian-styled bar chock-full of antique furniture, glassware and decor that embellish a century-old building that’s an artwork in its own right. The metallic lattice and glass adorning the ceiling, walls and windows are awe-inspiring, and the drinks at The Wolves might be even better than the aesthetic. Kevin Lee is a king of cocktails in Los Angeles, and The Wolves is another jewel in his crown. Should you really want to end your night with a bang, make reservations to the upstairs omakase-style cocktail adventure, named Le Néant, and watch trusted masters work their craft.
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