Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Los Angeles

Poke (poh-kay), a Hawaiian raw fish salad is one of the dishes that is taking the city's food scene by storm. Taking this classic dish to a notch higher with their innovative twist, PokeBar is where you can build your own poke bowl. Their branch on South Grand Avenue might be modest in size and very busy during lunch hours, but then for a delicious bite, it is worth all of it. Choose your base and size, protein (eight seafood choices), mix-ins, dressings and toppings. Your poke bowl will be ready in a jiffy once the order is given. Fresh, delicious and healthy, this popular eatery will surely curb your poke pangs when in the Downtown area.

Traxx, located inside Union Station, is one of Los Angeles' grandest architectural structures. The restaurant is done in an Art Deco style, complementing the station's merger of streamline modern and mission architecture. It is small and cozy, seating 100 people. There are tables outside by the concourse and a bar in the train station's old telephone room. The open kitchen serves a variety of American dishes, from crab cakes to lamb chops. Its desserts are also good, particularly the pies, which are delicious.

Otium, roughly meaning leisure time in Latin is a great way to describe this contemporary restaurant. Bringing great food and fun vibes to the neighborhood, Otium is the ideal dining destination to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy a hearty meal. Serving an assortment of globally-inspired dishes, the restaurant offers patrons the chance dig into delicacies like Foie Gras, Falafel and Tai Snapper under one roof. The delectable meals can be complemented with cocktails, beers or wines. Once you are here, consider sitting at the counter to see the chefs work their magic on the ingredients. If you are in the mood to try some extraordinary food, head to Otium for a meal that you are unlikely to forget for a long time.

Dominating the culinary scene in Los Angeles since 1930s, El Paseo Inn with its Mexican flavors and hospitality has managed to sustain its popularity. This restaurant-cum-bar goes further from being a simple Mexican diner and celebrates the colorful Mexican culture. Recreating old world charm of Mexico, its menu boasts of authentic recipes and handmade dishes. And, if the spices and chilies are too hot to handle, cool it off with tequila or margaritas. Well, if it is Mexican, one can't do without song and dance; hence music and dance performances are a regular feature here. This lovely space can also be hired for private events. Check website for details.

Spring Street Smoke House is filled with the aromas of classic American barbecue, with the meat sometimes grilled for as long as 18 hours. Its menu offers appetizers such as Smokehouse Chili, Pork Rinds, Whole Dili Pickle and Chicken Tenders. The mains include Louisiana Hot Links, Smoked Beef Brisket, Pork Baby Back Ribs, Chicago Rib Tips and Smoked Chicken Breast. They also have a good selection of sandwiches such as the Cat Fish Po' Boy, complemented by the Smoked Brisket Salad or the Tri Tip Salad. Let their Sweet Mint Tea or Fresh Limeade refresh your throat after a round of tangy barbecue dishes.

Sushi Go 55 recreates the experience of dining at a sushi bar in Japan, right in the Downtown district of Los Angeles. It has bagged multiple awards for its sushi as well as gained critical acclaim in the media. With a focus on traditional flavors rather than being bogged down by contemporary trends, this restaurant offers sushi with emphasis on premium seafood rather than exotic sauces. The fish is imported from Japan as well as other fishing destinations on the globe. If you are unsure of which variety you prefer, start off with the Sushi Sampler, which serves five pieces of sushi accompanied by Blue Crab Handroll. Guests can also savor Ama Ebi with shellfish, Japanese specialties such as Shrimp Tempura Lunch and combination platters including Tempura and Sashimi.