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ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Downtown LA
Best Brunch in Downtown LA
Best Romantic Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Michelin Star Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Restaurants With Private Dining Rooms in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour in Downtown LA
Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Redbird
7.9
New American cooking served inside a converted Gothic cathedral rectory, where the vaulted ceilings and brick archways do most of the heavy lifting for date nights and celebrations. The kitchen delivers crowd-pleasing shareable plates—Parker House rolls, shishito peppers, Brazilian cheese bread—that lean accessible rather than fussy. Expect a lively, conversation-competing volume on weekends; request a quieter corner table if that matters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Avocado Salad, Shishito Peppers, Blueberry Pancakes
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: New American dining inside a restored Gothic cathedral rectory in Downtown LA
Who should go: Couples and groups seeking dramatic architecture with refined plates
When to visit: Brunch for pancakes; dinner for the full cathedral ambiance
What to order: Start with pão de queijo and shishito peppers, then the avocado salad; save room for brunch pancakes if visiting weekends
Insider tip: Request seating near the original cathedral windows for the most striking views
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet on 2nd Street between Main and Los Angeles Street ($15). Street metered parking also available but valet recommended for weekend dinner.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans acceptable, skip athletic wear and beachwear. Weekend evenings draw a dressier crowd.
Noise level: Boisterous atmosphere—lively and social, can be difficult for conversation at the bar. Request early seating or quieter table if conversation is priority.
Weekend wait: Reservations honored promptly; walk-ins accommodated based on availability
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple options including rigatoni with foraged mushrooms, burrata salad, brussels sprouts, sweet potato, grilled romano beans, and Brazilian cheese bread (pão de queijo)
Vegan options: Barbecue tofu with beluga lentils and swiss chard available; limited compared to vegetarian options
Gluten-free options: Several dishes marked gluten-free including pão de queijo, shishito peppers, prawns, lamb belly, day boat scallops, ribeye, and rice pudding
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - Redbird occupies a beautifully restored historic rectory with plant-filled dining areas, warming fireplaces, and intimate lighting that creates a genuinely romantic atmosphere. The space allows conversation, though evenings can get lively. For maximum romance, request an early seating or a table near the fireplace. The garden area with mature olive trees is particularly enchanting. Dress upscale to match the vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted based on availability, but reservations are strongly recommended. This Michelin-recognized restaurant is popular for special occasions, so weekends and holidays book up well in advance. For the best chance at a walk-in, try early on a Tuesday-Thursday evening. Bar seating may have more flexibility. Book online or call (213) 788-1191.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children. There's no dedicated kids menu, portions are designed for adults, and the upscale fine-dining atmosphere isn't suited for restless little ones. That said, families do celebrate special occasions here. If bringing older kids or teens who can handle a 2-hour refined meal, request an early seating or inquire about a private room for more flexibility.
Is it good for groups? Yes - Redbird excels at group dining with eight private rooms accommodating 10 to 120 guests. Options range from intimate 18-seat rooms with fireplaces to larger spaces seating 75. Several rooms have private balconies and open kitchens for interactive experiences. For groups over 6 in the main dining room, book at least 1-2 weeks ahead. Contact them directly for private event planning.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - Multiple outdoor options available. The main dining room features a retractable roof for open-air dining with views of Vibiana's bell tower. The Redbird Courtyard and Garden offer dedicated alfresco seating surrounded by olive trees and herb gardens. Private rooms upstairs also have outdoor patios. Note: evenings can be chilly when the roof is open, so request a heated table if needed.
Best For
Better for: Special occasions and date nights in a stunning architectural setting—retractable roof dining room with views of Vibiana bell tower, candlelit lounge with hand-painted ceilings
Consider Alternatives If: You need quiet intimate conversation or prefer subdued atmospheres—the vibe is energetic and social
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday10am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sunday10am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm