// LOS ANGELES // DTLA //
redbird
a beautiful restaurant that makes every meal feel like a celebration
Let’s start with the important information: Redbird is the home of the fan-favorite BLD ricotta blueberry pancakes since the original BLD is no more. Real ones know that this is first reason you come here. But the reason you keep coming back is, well, everything else.
You wouldn’t know from street level, besides perhaps the valet set up. The signage is simple, the entrance a little obscured from street view, hidden in plain sight on a quiet block of a commuter street blocks away from the more bustling parts of DTLA. Once the rectory of the Vibiana Cathedral, Redbird is now a stunning restaurant and bar that serves contemporary American cuisine in a setting that feels, well, divine. The space is immaculate, original architectural details complemented by contemporary design accents. The main dining room is a grand open air space with a retractable roof that opens up to views of the cathedral’s bell tower, while the lounge is a cozy space with comfortable seating arrangements and bar.
And then there’s the food. The menu changes seasonally, but is always a beautiful presentation of California ingredients injected with global flavors and culinary traditions. Which means, this is the kind of place that serves a decadent steak, but also has lobster chawanmushi as a starter option and halo halo as a dessert option. The brunch menu is a bit more consistent with fan favorites (ahem, the pancake referenced above) and classic brunch entrees with finesse. And on top of all of that, an exceptional cocktail menu.
It is somehow simultaneously hyped and underhyped, a local favorite that isn’t the most sought out table of the city or even of downtown by a long shot, and yet remains a consistently beautiful and delicious restaurant that never disappoints.
the details
| Address | 114 E 2nd St, Los Angeles |
| Website | https://redbird.la/ |
| Yelp | https://www.yelp.com/biz/redbird-los-angeles |
| @redbirdla | |
| Hours | 5-10pm for dinner, 10am-2pm for brunch on weekends, closed Monday and Tuesday |
| Price | $$-$$$, brunch is pretty standard for most pretty brunch spots in the city, dinner is a bit more pricey and upscale |
| Aesthetic | contemporary elegance, bright and airy in the beautiful open-air courtyard |
good to know
Go here for: a meal in a beautiful setting, particularly on a beautiful LA weather day or warm evening
Order this: the pancakes, which in itself is worth worshipping, but also don’t miss their excellent cocktails
Amount of time to spend: an hour or two, it’s a nice space to enjoy a leisurely meal with good company
When to come: brunch is the way to go, so that you can see the space in daylight. come on the earlier side for a more quiet environment
Parking: most people who come here probably just valet, but depending on the time and day, it’s not too difficult to find a meter nearby
Other things to note:
- They have happy hour on weekdays 5-7pm at the bar, with discounted cocktails and bar snacks.
- It’s a beautiful space for private events of various sizes, they do lots of weddings here and have a lovely garden.
- Reservations are recommended, though you can always grab a drink at the bar.
Last visited: August 2022
Last updated: September 2022
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