TOP SPOTS IN DTLA FOR THE 9-5ISH CROWD: July 2024

Your Japanese Izakaya Fix

HATCH is one of those IYKYK spots in DTLA for Japanese tapas-style dishes, curated cocktails, and a killer happy hour. To celebrate the return of the lunch crowd, HATCH now offers Bento boxes for both dine-in and takeout as a "quick lunch" option for those of us who love HATCH but don’t always have a full hour to linger. The pescatarian "MICHAEL KELPS" features smoky, slightly sweet unagi yakitori, while the vegetarian "PLANT MCCARTNEY" offers mushroom and eggplant skewers with a side of charred edamame. They’ve also started a catering service—office managers take note—with their famous skewers served in trays, plus platters like squid ink karaage with 48-hour brined fried chicken thighs and black garlic ranch dip. Yes, please!

From Morning Kickstart to Evening Retreat

Located in the bustling City National Plaza, Nice Coffee might be hard to miss among the large crowds that swarm the small kiosk for their morning pick-me-up. Nice is known for its smooth espresso and creative lattes made with washed coffee, giving a clean and lighter flavor that perfectly suits our LA weather. But the recent surge in recommendations is probably because they’ve started reopening from 4 PM – 8 PM for wine and beer every Monday – Thursday. I stopped by and had a lovely glass of French orange wine with a great pithy base and tropical notes, just perfect for July. In a nutshell, yes, stop by before work or during a break to fuel up, but definitely go back in the evening to unwind.

Bookish Brews

Library Bar is a cozy, literary-themed spot with handcrafted cocktails and gastropub bites, set among book-lined walls & leather couches. I headed over one Friday evening (for research, obviously) and loved the buffalo cauliflower from the happy hour menu, featuring large pieces of lightly fried cauliflower served with a savory vegan blue cheese. Most compelling is the weekly bartender’s cocktail series; last week's “Fear and Loathing in DTLA” was a bright mezcal and tequila drink, topped with Fee Brothers foam, perfect for summer. I also got a sneak preview of the drink planned for the week of publication – an aquavit cocktail designed by Richie, served up with Aperol and lime juice, making this herb-focused beverage balanced and deliciously strong. Happy hour runs from 3-7 PM, Monday through Friday.

Jeweled Perfection

When I asked our 9-5ers for a "splurge-worthy" DTLA recommendation, I expected a different type of iced treat. Instead, a local suggested Bez Ambar, a bespoke jeweler in the heart of downtown, renowned for their stylish heirloom pieces. Our insider raved about Noga and Chris, calling them the "best in the business" with over a decade of experience designing everything from custom engagement rings to tennis bracelets. Each item is meticulously crafted to meet the individual's aesthetic and budget, focusing on the unique qualities of each diamond’s color, shape, and faceting. They use advanced software to work with guests, creating a detailed mockup to help envision your piece. Bez Ambar is open by appointment only. Visit their website for details. It’s the perfect place to splurge on a lifetime investment.

Art Break

Take a quick escape on your lunch break into the world of contemporary art. We often receive recommendations for the captivating ‘Mirror Rooms’ exhibit (reservations required) that dominate social media feeds. For July, the must-see exhibition is “Mickalene Thomas: All About Love,” running through September 29th. This exhibit shares its title and themes with the pivotal text by bell hooks, where love is an active process rooted in healing and making room for collective liberation. Open weekdays Tuesday through Friday from 11 AM to 5 PM, and until 8 PM on Thursdays, with general admission being free. Immerse yourself in a cultural experience that you can only find in DTLA.

Sculpt and Sweat

When you want the results from a workout but the mental clarity that comes from yoga, CorePower Yoga has got you covered. Unlike typical yoga classes, unique classes like Yoga Sculpt at CorePower combine cardio, weight training, and specific yoga poses in a room heated to 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit. The dynamic movement, heat, and humidity will certainly enhance both the class and your results. You’ll leave CorePower feeling completely rejuvenated and, as a bonus, fully acclimated to the summer heat. What keeps people coming back, though, is the sense of community. Plus, the convenient location and flexible schedule make it easy to find a class that fits perfectly into your lunch break or after work.

From High to Low

I need to hijack this recommendation for Perch because almost everyone who suggests it as their favorite sit-down restaurant adds the qualifier “obviously.” Yes, I’m guilty of taking out-of-town guests up 15 floors to show off my city over a glass of rosé. But recently, with the July sun beating down, I remembered their subterranean sister restaurant, Mrs. Fish. We rushed downstairs, immediately met with cool A/C and an even cooler atmosphere, featuring a suspended 5,500-gallon saltwater fish tank. After a few sushi rolls, agedashi tofu, and four drinks, our bill still lingered in the double digits. Their menu offers creative specialty rolls, like the decadent “Oyabun” with wagyu beef and lobster, a wide selection of hot and cold dishes, and Japanese whiskey tastings. Mrs. Fish needs to be on every 9-5er’s after-work spot for the summer. Perch opens daily at 4 PM, with happy hour until 6 PM (Mon-Fri), and Mrs. Fish is open Tuesday - Friday at 5 PM, with happy hour until 6:30 PM.

Taste of the Philippines

Jollibee brings a delicious twist to fast food that we’re really craving this summer. Bringing the vibrant flavors of the Philippines to DTLA, Jollibee is known for its irresistibly crispy Chickenjoy, garlicky Palabok Fiesta, the uniquely sweet Jolly Spaghetti, and for sneaking a pineapple into your sandwich. Simply grabbing a quick order of the peach mango pie is my go-to, adding a crunchy, sugary finish to any meal. Whether you're grabbing a bite during lunch or taking dinner home, Jollibee’s menu delivers comfort food at its best. If you haven’t already, be sure to add Jollibee to your weekday rotation this summer.

Your Skin’s Best Friend

This summer, we’re taking care of our skin, and Metropolis Dermatology is a game-changer, offering a range of top-notch skincare services in DTLA. With a sleek, modern clinic and a team of highly skilled professionals, they provide everything from routine medical check-ups to advanced cosmetic treatments. From mole removal and acne treatments to spa services like facials and chemical peels, plus their range of cosmetic services such as laser treatments and injectables, it’s perfect for anyone wanting to refresh their look. Although most procedures are covered by insurance, they also accept clients paying out-of-pocket for services—just give them a ring for details. It’s clear why Metropolis Dermatology comes highly recommended.

The Buzz is Building

The excitement is mounting in DTLA for Taco Bell Cantina. Although it hasn't opened for business yet as I'm writing this, the buzz is undeniable. Several fellow office workers have already recommended it as a top pick, and it's easy to see why. Imagine your Taco Bell favorites, along with some new items, paired with beer, wine, sangria, and a specialty drink called a "twisted freeze," all in a chic bar setting. This spot sounds ideal for escaping those late nights at the office, satisfying midday cravings, or unwinding after a long day at work. We're all on the edge of our seats, eagerly waiting for this new experience to come to DTLA—hurry up!