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Camphor
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Camphor
9.1
A modern French dining room in the Arts District led by Chef Max Boonthanakit, blending classic technique with subtle Southeast Asian accents. The cooking is precise and layered—rich sauces, careful char, and bright aromatics—without losing bistro warmth. Reservations are competitive for a reason: it consistently delivers special-occasion caliber meals in a relaxed, warehouse-chic space.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak au poivre with frites, Rigatoni stuffed with artichoke and Comté, Seasonal crudo with citrus and herbs
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized French cooking with a subtle Thai-leaning spice lens.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners and French-food obsessives.
When to visit: Weeknights for the smoothest pacing.
What to order: Steak au poivre, stuffed rigatoni, any seasonal starter.
Insider tip: Let the staff steer you to off-menu seasonal specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the Arts District is limited after 6pm; paid garages on Traction Ave and Alameda are your safest bet. No dedicated valet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished—think elevated denim with a jacket or a dressy top. Most guests dress up for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate. You can hold a comfortable conversation, though weekend peaks add a lively hum.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins are uncommon; if accepted, expect a 45–75 minute wait depending on cancellations.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner-only service. For early week dinner, walk-in availability is slightly better but still limited.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including vegetable-forward starters and occasional seasonal pastas; staff can guide customizations.
Vegan options: Limited—sauces and butter-forward French technique narrow choices. One or two vegetable dishes may be adaptable.
Gluten-free options: Good flexibility; many proteins and sauces are naturally gluten-free, and the kitchen is attentive to cross-contact requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The lighting is warm, pacing is thoughtful, and the room has enough energy without being chaotic. It feels upscale without being stiff—ideal for making a strong first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not likely during prime hours. Your best shot is early week (Mon–Wed) right at opening. Bar seats sometimes open up for small parties.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The room skews adult, service is paced for longer meals, and the menu is rich. Best for teens with adventurous palates rather than young kids.
Best For
Better for: Refined French technique with subtle Southeast Asian accents in a setting that still feels relaxed and Arts District-cool. Ideal for diners who value precision cooking without formal rigidity.
Skip if: If you're seeking a loud party atmosphere, a super-fast meal, or strictly traditional French classics without any modern inflection, other spots will fit better.
Camphor
8.6
Camphor is a Michelin-starred modern French bistro in the Arts District where candlelit tables, whitewashed walls, and an open kitchen frame shareable plates and polished cocktails. The menu leans rich and saucy, making it ideal for lingering date nights rather than quick bites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites, Onion Tartine, Lobster Risotto
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Michelin-starred French cooking with subtle Southeast Asian notes in a chic bistro room.
Who should go: Couples who obsess over sauces, wine lists, and technique.
When to visit: Weeknight evenings when the room hums but isn’t too loud.
What to order: Onion tartine, steak frites, lobster risotto if offered.
Insider tip: Ask about steak frites or specialty nights; they book out quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 3rd and nearby side streets is metered and competitive after 6pm; several paid lots within a 2–3 minute walk typically have space.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished—elevated denim is fine, but most diners opt for dressy tops, jackets, or chic date-night outfits.
Noise level: Moderate—a steady hum from the open kitchen, but still easy to hold a date-night conversation at two-tops.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins can face 45–75 minutes depending on peak hours; bar seating is sometimes available sooner.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Camphor focuses on dinner service; early weekday evenings typically have minimal waiting with reservations.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few strong options, especially among starters and vegetable-focused plates, though not a fully vegetarian menu.
Vegan options: Limited—sauces and French technique lean heavily on butter and cream; vegan diners will have to inquire about modifications.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free dishes, and the kitchen can modify certain plates; cross-contact possible due to a small open kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the candlelit room, attentive pacing, and polished but not stuffy vibe make it ideal for a first or second date where you want something elevated without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally—early evenings or later seatings may have space, but weekend nights almost always require a reservation. Bar seats are the best bet for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The menu, pacing, and atmosphere are geared toward adults, and there are no kid-specific accommodations. Teens with adventurous palates may be fine.
Best For
Better for: Camphor excels at rich, technique-driven French dishes with standout sauces and a more intimate, design-forward dining room than many Arts District spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want something light, vegan-friendly, or fast-paced; the menu leans indulgent and the experience is built for lingering rather than quick meals.
Camphor
8.5
Camphor is a modern French bistro in the Arts District where a Michelin-starred team sends out glossy sauces, onion tartines, and signature mains in a pared-back white room. Since opening in 2022 it has become a go-to for diners who want high-end cooking without a stiff, old-school dining ritual.
Must-Try Dishes:
French onion tartine with comté and gruyère, Le Burger with dry-aged beef and melty cheese, Steak au poivre with peppercorn sauce
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Michelin-starred French cooking with subtle Southeast Asian touches in a minimalist bistro.
Who should go: Guests craving polished French technique in a relaxed setting.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners when it’s lively but not overwhelmingly loud.
What to order: Onion tartine, Le Burger, steak au poivre to share.
Insider tip: Book bar seats if you like to watch cocktails and plates being finished.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 3rd Street and side streets is limited during peak hours; nearby paid garages on Traction Ave typically run $6–$12 for evening visits.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished edge; dark denim is fine, but most guests lean toward elevated, date-night outfits.
Noise level: Moderate—enough background energy for atmosphere, but still easy to hold a full conversation.
Weekend wait: Usually no walk-in availability; expect 45–75 minutes or to be turned away without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; dinner-only service means evenings are consistently busier.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of well-crafted options; the onion tartine and several vegetable-forward starters work well.
Vegan options: Very limited—sauces and dairy-forward preparations dominate the menu.
Gluten-free options: Several safe picks, and many dishes can be adapted; staff is used to navigating gluten sensitivities.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, refined plating, and an intimate dining room make it a strong first-date choice, especially for someone who appreciates technique-driven cooking.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly at off-peak times early in the week, but weekends require advance booking; the bar is your best bet for spontaneous seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—the room is quiet, the menu leans sophisticated, and there are no kid-focused items or accommodations.
Best For
Better for: Polished French cooking with high-end sauces and bistro classics delivered in a relaxed, non-stuffy room—making it easier than many fine-dining peers for casual special occasions.
Skip if: You want a long tasting menu, large portions, or a broader menu with many dietary substitutions; look elsewhere for more flexible or family-friendly dining.
Camphor
8.5
Camphor is a Michelin-starred modern French bistro in the Arts District, pairing glossy sauces and precise plates with a laid-back, velvet-booth dining room. It’s a strong choice for special occasions where guests want high-end cooking without fussy old-school formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic parsley butter clams, Sea bream or other signature fish preparation, Kiwi and mint frozen dessert
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Michelin-starred French cooking in a stylish room that still feels relaxed.
Who should go: Guests craving polished sauces and modern bistro energy for celebrations.
When to visit: Evening seatings when the room is humming but not overwhelming.
What to order: Garlic butter clams, a rich main like duck or steak, signature dessert.
Insider tip: Build your meal around a couple of appetizers and one or two big mains to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 3rd Street is limited at dinner; nearby paid lots typically run $8–$15 for the evening. Valet is not offered.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—think elevated denim, button-downs, slip dresses, or tailored pieces. Guests often dress up a bit for occasions.
Noise level: Moderate with a steady hum; intimate conversations are easy but it’s not a quiet room.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes if you walk in; reservations are strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is not typical here; dinner-focused restaurant.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of strong options, especially in appetizers and vegetable-forward sides.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes lean heavily on butter, cream, or stock-based sauces. One or two modifications may be possible.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free dishes; the team is knowledgeable and can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The room is stylish, the lighting is flattering, and the pacing is relaxed—ideal for a first date that feels intentional without being stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly early or very late in the evening, but prime times are usually booked. Walk-ins should be prepared to wait or sit at the bar if space opens.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The atmosphere is adult-leaning, with rich dishes and a slower pacing. Best for teens or older, not young children.
Best For
Better for: Highly refined sauces and polished French technique in a more relaxed, contemporary room than traditional fine-dining destinations.
Skip if: You want a breezy, budget-friendly bistro or need extensive vegan options—Camphor leans rich, indulgent, and celebratory.
Camphor
8.8
Camphor is a modern French bistro in the Arts District where chef Max Boonthanakit layers precise French technique with Southeast Asian accents. Tasting-leaning plates, a focused cocktail program, and an open kitchen make it a destination for guests who want polished, contemporary cooking in a lively room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rigatoni stuffed with artichokes, Swiss chard and Comté, Steak au poivre with green peppercorn sauce, Duck and citrus preparation from the seasonal menu
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: French technique meets Southeast Asian notes in a sleek, open-kitchen bistro.
Who should go: Diners chasing inventive French cooking and strong cocktails.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner for full room energy and kitchen buzz.
What to order: Artichoke-stuffed rigatoni, steak au poivre, seasonal dessert.
Insider tip: Book bar-adjacent seats for the best view of the open kitchen.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Traction/Mateo is limited after 6pm; nearby paid lots run $8–$15 depending on event traffic. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning elevated; polished jeans are fine, but most guests dress stylishly for a night out.
Noise level: Moderate-lively—conversations are doable but expect a bustling open-kitchen soundtrack during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats sometimes open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the restaurant is dinner-focused and lunch service may be limited or unavailable depending on the day.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several composed vegetarian dishes and starters are available; kitchen is accommodating with modifications.
Vegan options: Limited—some items can be adjusted, but fully vegan entrées are not a core focus.
Gluten-free options: Strong GF awareness; many sauces and proteins are naturally GF and staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its chic room, polished service, and shareable plates create a comfortable rhythm for conversation while still feeling impressive.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—arrive early or try for bar seating; walk-ins during peak hours are tough due to the restaurant’s Michelin following.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's better suited to adults given the intimate tables, refined menu, and lively evening atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: Inventive French cooking with subtle Southeast Asian flair, a sharper cocktail program, and a more intimate, design-forward vibe than many Arts District contemporaries.
Skip if: You want large portions, ultra-casual dining, or a fully vegan-friendly menu—other DTLA spots are better fits.
Camphor
8.8
Camphor, opened in 2022 by No.8 Hospitality with chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George, layers French technique with South Asian accents in an Arts District dining room. Its focused tasting-leaning menus, polished service, and strong cocktail and wine program make it one of downtown’s most sought-after modern bistros.
Must-Try Dishes:
Onion tartine with Comté and Gruyère, Artichoke-stuffed rigatoni with Parmesan, Black cod with saffron jus and basmati rice
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Michelin-starred French cooking with subtle South Asian notes in a sleek room.
Who should go: Diners who enjoy modern bistros and curated tasting menus.
When to visit: Prime-time weekend dinners when the room feels most alive.
What to order: Onion tartine, artichoke rigatoni, a shared fish or steak.
Insider tip: Sit along the banquettes to watch both the bar and open kitchen at once.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tight around peak dinner hours; nearby paid garages on 3rd and Traction typically have availability. No valet offered.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; elevated denim works, but most guests opt for dress shirts, blouses, or chic dinner attire.
Noise level: Moderate with lively energy. Conversations are easy at two-tops, though bar-adjacent tables trend louder.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins can face 45–75 minutes depending on bar seating availability; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Lunch is not served; early weekday dinners generally see little to no wait with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—several vegetable-driven small plates and the artichoke rigatoni can be requested fully vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—kitchen can modify a couple of dishes, but the menu is not designed around plant-based dining.
Gluten-free options: Solid showing—many proteins and sides are naturally gluten-free, and staff is well-versed in modifications, though no separate prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, polished service, and a refined but not overly formal vibe make it ideal for first dates where you want to impress without stiffness.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—bar seating opens up throughout the night, but prime-time tables fill quickly. Arrive early or check last-minute reservation drops.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—menu, pacing, and ambiance skew adult. Older teens interested in tasting menus may enjoy it, but younger kids may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Refined French technique with subtle South Asian accents, a strong cocktail program, and a lively, design-forward room ideal for dates or stylish group outings.
Skip if: You want a quiet, minimalist omakase-style experience, fully vegan tasting menus, or more casual, budget-friendly dining in the Arts District.
Camphor
8.3
Camphor is a Michelin-recognized Arts District dining room where chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George layer French technique with South Asian accents in tightly composed courses. A seat at the bar or along the open kitchen line feels close to a chef’s table, with tasting-leaning menus and polished service that make the room hum.
Must-Try Dishes:
Onion tartine, Artichoke-stuffed rigatoni, Steak au poivre
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: French cooking with South Asian flourishes served in a sleek, chef-focused Arts District room.
Who should go: Guests wanting refined French technique without stuffy formality.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinner for full room energy and kitchen theater.
What to order: Onion tartine, artichoke rigatoni, a shared steak or fish.
Insider tip: Book bar-adjacent seats to watch sauces, plating, and fire hits up close.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Arts District, especially after 6pm; expect to circle. Nearby paid lots along 3rd St. and Traction Ave. usually have space ($8–$15). No dedicated valet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; elevated tops, dark denim, or casual dresses fit the room. Most guests dress slightly upscale for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate with a lively dining room; conversational but energetic. Bar seats feel louder due to kitchen proximity.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins may face 30–60 minutes depending on bar availability.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited; when offered, waits are rare and walk-ins are typically accommodated.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several vegetarian dishes are available, and the kitchen can adapt select plates with notice.
Vegan options: Very limited; dishes rely heavily on butter and dairy. Call ahead to confirm accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Good flexibility; many dishes are naturally gluten-friendly, and the kitchen can adjust components when alerted early.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The polished atmosphere, warm service, and visible chef’s line create a memorable but not overly formal backdrop. It works especially well for dates that enjoy food-focused conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, especially early evening or on weekdays. Bar seating is your best chance; arriving right when doors open improves your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children. The menu skews refined, portions are composed, and the atmosphere is geared toward adults. Teens familiar with upscale dining may be fine.
Best For
Better for: Exceptional sauce work, elegant plating, and a chef-adjacent experience that feels elevated without Michelin-level rigidity. A strong pick for guests who want refined cooking with personality.
Skip if: If you’re seeking a long-format omakase or tasting-only experience, or if you prefer louder, high-energy bistro settings. Guests with strict vegan needs may find options too limited.
Camphor
8.9
A Michelin-starred modern French bistro in the Arts District where co-executive chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George pair a focused à la carte menu with a calm, dimly lit dining room. Steak au poivre, scallop dumplings, and precise sauces headline a date-night experience that feels intimate yet polished.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak au Poivre, Scallop Dumplings in Truffle Sauce, Hazelnut Chocolate Meringue
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A Michelin-starred Arts District bistro where steak au poivre and precise French technique anchor an intimate, design-forward room.
Who should go: Couples who prioritize refined cooking over a loud scene.
When to visit: Later evening seatings for the most relaxed, romantic pacing.
What to order: Steak au Poivre, scallop dumplings, hazelnut chocolate meringue.
Insider tip: Ask about bar seating for a slightly more casual omakase-style progression of shared plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically offered in the district during peak dinner hours; otherwise expect competitive street parking and nearby paid lots on Traction Ave and 3rd St.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; button-downs, elevated tops, boots, and dresses fit the room’s polished, Michelin-level tone.
Noise level: Moderate and intentionally subdued — easy for date-night conversation even during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins may face 45–75 minute waits depending on bar availability.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited and often quieter; typically no wait with a reservation or early arrival.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of composed vegetarian dishes and sides; the kitchen can modify some plates but the menu skews seafood- and meat-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect only 1–2 modifiable items; best to call ahead.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free dishes and sauces; staff is knowledgeable and can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim lighting, calm pacing, and polished service create an intimate backdrop without feeling too formal or stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly. The bar occasionally seats walk-ins, but peak weekend evenings are unlikely without a long wait. Aim for early or late seatings for the best chance.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children. The refined menu and quiet room suit adults or older teens who can appreciate a slower, fine-dining rhythm.
Best For
Better for: Intimate, technique-driven French cooking and a serene, upscale date-night setting — a strong choice when you want precision over flash.
Skip if: You prefer large portions, loud steakhouses, or a broad menu. Choose alternatives if you need extensive vegan options or a family-oriented environment.