TOP SPOTS IN DTLA FOR THE 9 to 5ISH CROWD: May 2025

Come hungry! H&H is a DTLA power lunch classic for fans of all-you-can-eat Brazilian barbecue. With top-tier meats and attentive service, it’s perfect for large teams, especially if you're looking to celebrate something (or someone) special. Michael calls it a “carnivore's dream” and recommends coming during lunch for great value, but warns: pace yourself; the skewers never stop coming.

Since Kevin is one of the few people in the office who never brings lunch from home, we were curious to hear which restaurant topped his list. But to our surprise, Kevin recommended taking your lunch to-go and heading to his favorite hidden picnic spot instead. This Midwestern transplant enjoys eating lunch outside here in LA and is always trying somewhere new. Tucked beneath the city streets in the lower-level park at Bank of America Plaza, a lush plaza features tropical gardens, a waterfall-fed reflecting pool, and plenty of space to soak up the sun. You’ve probably seen it in movies— now it’s your turn to enjoy it in person.

Gerald gave the ultimate shout-out to his own crew: the DTLA Alliance Clean & Safe Team. “We’re here every day building strong relationships and helping keep DTLA clean, welcoming, and safe,” he says. You might know our 24-hour hotline (213-624-2425) or our handy app, but Gerald recommends saying hi to someone on the purple team when you see them in person. We’re proud to be part of the DTLA community and committed to making every workday better.

Kevin loves the al fresco patio at Settecento, tucked into Maguire Gardens. From the simple house-made bread and balsamic to the standout Lasagna Classica, the menu hits all the right notes. The fire pits and the happy hour prices are going to make this newly opened gem our go-to spot for the summer. When our hearts want to summer in Italy, but our wallets disagree, Kevin says dining here feels like a quick escape —no passport needed.

When Suzanne’s in need of a last-minute appetizer —or just wants to treat herself—she heads straight for the cheese counters at Whole Foods and Ralphs in DTLA. The Whole Foods cheesemongers helpfully navigate those overwhelmed by the selection and DTLA Ralph’s is one of the select in the chain whose counter is curated by Murray’s Cheese, known for its artisanal selections and specialty pairings. They both have small cuts or specials and provide friendly samples! Add some fig jam, honey, or Croccantini crackers (stocked nearby), and you have an instant, elegant spread.

Gabriel, the force behind last year’s DTLA Office Games, has reimagined this year’s event as a “summer camp” for adults – a three-week series of team-friendly events for Downtown workers. Think rooftop s’mores, game nights, friendship bracelets, water ballon brigades, basketball free throw, trail mix, cornhole, and much more. It’s where you and your coworkers can relive their best days of summer and it’s going to be unforgettable.

When you’ve got back-to-back meetings, the right setting makes all the difference. And when you take as many as our EVP does, you’re bound to have a go-to spot. Nick recommends the open-air plaza at Nice Coffee for its comfy chairs, skyscraper views, and the calming vibe of the reflecting pool. If you’ve got time, stroll across the street to FourFortyFour Flower’s public art collection and rooftop terrace for a little midday mental refresh.

Not surprisingly, our Content Manager is all about preserving the things that tell our stories - think old family tapes, cassettes, and photo prints. Johnna recommends checking out the DIY Memory Lab in the Central Library’s Octavia Lab for all of your digital transfer needs. Instead of paying hundreds to digitize, it’s totally free with your library card—just attend an orientation and book your session. Nostalgia has never been so easy. Get more information at lapl.org/memorylab.

Why take the stairs when you can ride a piece of history? Elan’s go-to micro-adventure is hopping on the bright orange Angels Flight, the world’s shortest railway. This funicular whisks you from the art and offices of Bunker Hill down to the delicious delights of Grand Central Market– or, in more likely cases, back up to work after a very full lunch. It’s just $1 (or .50 cents with a Metro TAP card) and adds a little magic and unexpected joy to your daily commute.

You didn’t think I’d skip out on submitting my favorite, did you? I’ve had so much fun building the DTLA Coffee Trail over my two years at DTLA Alliance and especially enjoy connecting small cafe owners and larger coffee chain alike with the city’s local java lovers. Ironically, I don’t even drink coffee, but I’ve found amazing tea options, pastries, and more, so there is definitely something for everyone on the trail. Insider Tip: you can win one up to gift card a year just by trying new places. Visit our DTLA Coffee Trail for the full list and fuel your day!