Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

Price

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$$$
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Regions

Beach CitiesDowntownHollywoodPasadenaSan Fernando ValleySan Gabriel Valley

Neighborhoods

AlhambraArts DistrictBeverly / Fairfax / La Brea / Third St.Beverly HillsBurbankCentral Los Angeles

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

202 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Perch LA

4.6

Exceptional(11958)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 213 times today

Perch LA, situated in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, is a shining example of authentic American cuisine. Diners rave about the “amazing food and ambience,” making every visit a memorable experience. The restaurant offers an exquisite menu that perfectly captures the essence of American flavors, with standout dishes like the Pan Roasted Salmon and Braised Short Rib. Perch LA is not just about great food; it’s about the complete experience. With stunning views of the city skyline and live jazz music during brunch, it's no wonder patrons describe their visits as “truly amazing.” Perch LA is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional American dining.

2. JOEY DTLA

4.6

Exceptional(199)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 137 times today

JOEY DTLA stands out as a beacon of Global, International cuisine in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, offering a "next-level delicious" dining experience with a menu crafted by an entire team of celebrated Executive Chefs. This restaurant captures the essence of authentic international flavors, providing dishes that are "perfectly prepared, with fresh ingredients and an explosion of flavors." Guests are treated to a vibrant atmosphere complemented by exceptional service, as described in reviews highlighting the "impeccable" hospitality and "friendly, attentive" staff. With its chic ambiance and diverse menu, JOEY DTLA is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable global dining adventure.

3. 71Above

4.8

Exceptional(6031)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 75 times today

Offering elevated modern American cuisine by Chef Javier Lopez, 71Above boasts breathtaking ocean views from Malibu to Laguna Hills, along with spectacular views of Los Angeles and the surrounding mountain ranges. 71Above is a Michelin level experience featuring the finest ingredients, world-class wine list and craft cocktails. The Restaurant and Skylounge have a Smart Casual dress code. Jackets are not required however, no hats, athletic wear, shorts or flip-flops are allowed. Reservations are held for 15 minutes.71Above features a 3 course Prix-Fixe menu for dinner only. We kindly ask all dining room guests to participate in the coursed menu. Please be aware, any seating requests are noted, but not guaranteed. WINDOW TABLES ARE NOT GUARANTEED. 18% service charge is added to all checks. Valet is available at 633 W. 5th Street or Self parking is available under the building at 633 W. Hope Place. $18 for 3 hours.

A photo of Water Grill – Los Angeles restaurant

4. Water Grill – Los Angeles

4.7

Exceptional(5438)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 77 times today

Water Grill – Los Angeles is a celebrated destination for authentic American seafood cuisine, nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. This iconic restaurant, renowned for its "exceptional seafood quality" and "flawless preparation," brings the freshest catch from boat to table, allowing the true flavors of American seafood to shine. Guests rave about the "superb service" and "great ambiance," making it an ideal spot for any occasion. The dynamic menu, praised for creative dishes like the Chilean sea bass and perfectly cooked steaks, ensures an unforgettable dining experience. Water Grill truly embodies the essence of exquisite American seafood dining.

A photo of Takami Sushi & Robata Restaurant restaurant

5. Takami Sushi & Robata Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(3556)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 41 times today

Takami Sushi & Robata Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, offers a unique dining experience that brilliantly combines American cuisine with Asian influences, all while providing stunning rooftop views. The restaurant is celebrated for its "amazingly fresh sushi and sashimi," along with a menu that includes succulent steak and inventive rolls that showcase the best of American and Asian flavors. The ambiance is described as "classy & sophisticated," perfectly complementing the diverse and delectable menu. Guests rave about the "fantastic view," "superb service," and the culinary artistry, making Takami a standout destination in the vibrant LA dining scene.

6. Mrs. Fish

4.6

Exceptional(1729)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 69 times today

Mrs. Fish in Downtown Los Angeles offers a unique and enchanting American dining experience. Nestled below the historic Pershing Square Building, this subterranean gem is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service. Guests rave about the "incredible food" and "great service," with standout dishes like the seared tuna crispy rice and melt-in-your-mouth cod. The ambiance is "well-lit but intimate," enhanced by live music and a stunning 25,000-gallon fish tank that adds a distinctive charm. Whether you're looking for a pre-theater bite or a full dining experience, Mrs. Fish promises to be a "new favorite spot" for American cuisine enthusiasts.

7. Joyce

4.6

Exceptional(592)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 30 times today

Joyce, nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, is a beacon of authentic Soul food, celebrated for its commitment to Southern culinary traditions. Diners rave about the "best cornbread" they've ever tasted and the "spectacular" flavors that transport you straight to the coastal South. Each dish, from the Nashville hot fried chicken to the peach cobbler, is meticulously crafted, promising a heartfelt dining experience reminiscent of a traditional Southern gathering. The restaurant's dedication to sustainability, paired with its innovative cocktail program, elevates the dining experience, making Joyce a "great little gem" worth visiting time and again.

8. DISTRICT

4.2

Awesome(480)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 7 times today

DISTRICT in Downtown Los Angeles is a must-visit for those craving authentic American cuisine with a Californian twist. The restaurant's commitment to "uncompromising quality" shines through in every dish, from the divine fish tacos to the flavorful roast chicken. Guests consistently rave about the "excellent service" and the inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for both family dining and business lunches. With a design that marries art and craft, DISTRICT promises a dining experience that is both "wholly enticing and utterly original." Whether it's the fresh, hot dishes or the dazzling cocktails, this culinary gem ensures a memorable visit every time.

A photo of The Biltmore Los Angeles restaurant

9. The Biltmore Los Angeles

4.2

Awesome(131)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 3 times today

At The Biltmore Los Angeles, Afternoon Tea is an enchanting experience that transports you back to the elegance of 1920s Los Angeles. Guests rave about their "utterly charming" high tea service, where every detail, from the opulent decor to the "spectacular china," is meticulously curated. The Biltmore's tea offerings, including a special blend created for their 100th anniversary, delight the palate alongside a selection of delicious sweets and sandwiches. The attentive staff, led by the exceptional Mady Romero, ensures that each guest feels like royalty. With live violin music enhancing the ambiance, Afternoon Tea at The Biltmore is a "phenomenal way to celebrate" any occasion.

10. WAX ON HI-FI

4.1

Excellent(8)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 1 time today

Japanese-Creole fusion. Curated vinyl selections over a hi-fidelity system.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Shellye
Los Angeles •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 17, 2025
I will be back — amazing! Great service and vibe!
More info
JoycePrice: Expensive• Southern• Downtown
•
4.6
N
Niya
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on Apr 13, 2025
I celebrated my boyfriends 21 birthday here with his friends and we loved it 10/10
More info
Irie Restaurant & LoungePrice: Expensive• Californian• West Hollywood
•
4.9
C
Carlos
Los Angeles •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 7, 2025
This was my boyfriend and I first time here and it was so amazing☺️ And the manager Tommy was so nice and very gracious… Will definitely come back again with my family!! I give this place 5 stars… Thank you again to this team at the restaurant for making it a memorable experience
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - Los AngelesPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• Beverly Hills
•
4.4
J
Jon
Los Angeles •1 review
4.0
Dined on Mar 25, 2025
Portions for the price are on the small side. Charge more and give more.
More info
Maple Block BarbecuePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Culver City
•
4.7

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