The DTLA Alliance Staff Shortlist

Break The Bloc 
Recommended by Kevin, Executive Assistant 

When you’ve hit a creative “block” at the office, and need a few moments away from a screen, the open-air commons at The Bloc is the ultimate reset button. Three levels of options make it easy to try something new each visit. A few of Kevin’s favorites are coffee at Café Balzac, a quick bento of yakitori at Hatch, or a full lunch at District when he has the extra time. But the real move is to grab a good book (or in my case, gelato at Bella Luna) and just sit in the plaza for a few minutes. Fresh air, vitamin D, a little people-watching, and suddenly the day feels new again. 

Where Everybody Knows Your Name
Recommended by Gerald, Director, Maintenance 

Family-owned since 1985, Shekarchi Kabob House has a reputation for perfectly grilled kabobs, fragrant rice, warm flatbread, and generous plates that never disappoint. It’s the kind of place with killer happy hour prices, spacious seating, and hospitality so warm that after a few visits, they’ll probably know your name. Gerald says the connection goes beyond the food. After getting to know his team and seeing their work firsthand, the owners ultimately relocated the restaurant’s beautifully renovated space into the District. It’s the kind of Downtown story that proves even in a city this big, building community still matters. Come hungry, and leave reminded that the best local spots invest in the neighborhood just as much as they do the food they serve 

Luxury Lunches 
Recommended by Elan, Director, Economic Development 

In his role, Elan spends a lot of time thinking about the businesses and gathering places that help Downtown thrive. Decades after opening, Bottega Louie has remained a DTLA favorite without losing the quality or charm that made people fall in love with it in the first place. Between the soaring ceilings, marble counters, and famously packed pastry cases, the impressive space elevates an otherwise average lunch or coffee run. It’s also the perfect spot for last-minute gifts, thanks to beautifully packaged macarons that feel polished, thoughtful, and luxurious all at once. A guaranteed save when you want to show up looking like you planned ahead. 

The Crowd Pleaser
Recommended by Jorge, Vice President, Operations

When you spend your days covering the streets of Downtown like Jorge does, you get to know which places are actually worth the walk. For him, Grand Central Market remains one of DTLA’s most iconic lunch destinations for good reason. Part food hall, part Downtown institution, the market is really great for dining with your pickiest group of coworkers because everyone can find something fantastic without turning lunch into a committee meeting. I mean, honestly, there are not a lot of places where you can get Michelin-recognized tacos, solid ramen, smokey BBQ, fresh oysters, serious coffee, and a dozen other cravings all under one roof. There’s a reason it’s remained a Downtown staple for generations.

Small Spot, Big Flavor
Recommended by Michael, Vice President, Administration and Finance 

Known for its made-to-order salads and sandwiches, Little Spread packs each dish with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu combines classics with unexpected twists, like the Roast Beef Sandwich, braised overnight and topped with Swiss cheese, harissa aioli, and zhoug vinaigrette on seeded sourdough. Michael says to pair it with their refreshing hibiscus-pom tea. Pop in for a bite and see why this little spot has a big following.  

Spanish Flavors, DTLA Style
Recommended by Suzanne, President & CEO

After falling in love with Vaca’s original location, Suzanne was thrilled to see the celebrated Spanish-inspired restaurant open its latest outpost in Downtown LA. The menu’s creative take on Spanish cuisine immediately transported Suzanne back to meals she enjoyed while traveling in Spain. Vaca has quickly become one of her favorite spots to bring colleagues and friends alike. She revealed her biggest dilemma is deciding between introducing people to the “greatest hits” or continuing her personal mission of eating her way through the menu. Pure goals. Either way, it’s the kind of place best enjoyed with a group, a few shared plates, and enough time to linger a little longer over lunch or dinner.