There are only a few things in life everyone can agree on, and brunch’s reign as monarch of meals ranks high on that list. Los Angeles may not have invented brunch, but thanks to an abundance of restaurants serving brunch menus showcasing fresh, local ingredients and the skill of world-renowned chefs, the city has helped defined what it means to brunch. As the pulse of L.A.’s culinary scene, downtown is unsurprisingly home to many of the best weekend brunches. If you’re mind is on mimosas when it’s time to head for brunch on any given weekend, these restaurants are where you should start.
Get a taste of Louisiana in Downtown Los Angeles at Preux & Proper, a Southern-inspired restaurant that adds a contemporary spin to Cajun and Creole recipes. Just a five-minute ride from Hotel Figueroa, Preux & Proper’s Sunday brunch runs from noon until 4PM weekly, when diners can expect everything from a crawfish roll and shrimp and grits to French toast and avocado toast. Plus: bottomless mimosas run just $15 per person. Photo via @preuxandproper on Instagram.
Italian restaurant and market Bottega Louie was at the forefront of DTLA’s culinary renaissance when it opened 10 years ago, and a decade later, the 255-seat restaurant barely a ten-minute walk from Hotel Figueroa is still one of the city’s favorite establishments. Arrive when it opens at 9am to avoid a wait—Bottega Louie doesn’t take reservations. If you do have to wait for a table in the sparkling white restaurant, known for its high ceilings and dessert bar, one bite of the lobster hash, artichoke pizza or lemon ricotta pancakes will make up for it. Photo via @bottegalouie on Instagram.
The art of brunch is not taken lightly at Otium, especially since the restaurant is located right next door to The Broad and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Chef Timothy Hollingsworth has fun with the menu for every meal, but especially during the brunch service, where dishes like the grown-up grilled cheese and breakfast mole can satisfy any craving. But for those that have a sweet tooth, the homemade strawberry pop tarts and funnel cake topped with ice cream and strawberry jam are sure to provided the sugar fix you need. Photo via @otiumla on Instagram.
Located inside Hotel Figueroa, Cafe Fig offers menu items normally reserved for brunch every day of the week, serving breakfast with sweet and savory options from 7AM-11AM. Order the Omelette Chorizo for a distinct dish that’s hearty and flavorful, or go for the roasted grapefruit and an order of waffles with a fresh juice for the ultimate brunch experience.
The weekend brunch at Redbird is best enjoyed on the patio where guests can try Chef Neal Fraser’s New American dishes in a location packed with history. Seasonal menus change often, but dishes like the blueberry ricotta pancakes and prime burger are staples. The brunch cocktail menu is also not to be missed, so be sure to try the rum and cold brew drink or the Good Morning Fizz made from a 10-year-old scotch, lemon, and egg whites. Photo via @redbirdla on Instagram.
We’re continually inspired by the creative energy of Downtown Los Angeles. For local recommendations—and to hear from the diverse individuals who make DTLA what it is today—head to our Meet You Downtownblog.
