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ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Downtown LA
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
BADMAASH Downtown LA
7.9
A 12-year DTLA fixture that fuses Punjabi technique with Canadian comfort—the butter chicken samosa and chicken tikka poutine deliver genuinely inventive crossovers rather than gimmicks. The small, loud room runs on hip-hop energy and works best for groups who want shareable plates with some heat. Bib Gourmand-recognized, though spice levels run mild unless you ask otherwise.
Must-Try Dishes:
Poutine, Butter Chicken Samosa, Pork Belly
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Indian-Canadian fusion from brothers who blend Punjab flavors with LA street food attitude
Who should go: Adventurous eaters craving Indian with a punk-rock edge
When to visit: Late night for the full DTLA scene with cocktails
What to order: Start with the poutine, move to butter chicken samosa, finish with chilli cheese naan to share
Insider tip: Ask about the ghost pepper options if you want serious heat
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available; nearby lots at Joe's Parking (215 S Main St, 220 S Spring St); street parking possible on quieter nights due to slightly remote DTLA location
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a nice top work fine, no need for formalwear
Noise level: Loud—hip-hop/R&B soundtrack plays throughout; small space amplifies sound on busy nights. Request early seating or weekday lunch for easier conversation
Weekend wait: Reservations recommended; small two-floor space fills up quickly on weekend evenings
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated immediately; calmer atmosphere during Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple options including saag paneer, dal makhani, chana masala, and butter paneer; can substitute paneer for meat in many dishes
Vegan options: Vegan options available including chickpea batter dishes with tamarind chutney and garbanzo bean stew
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the dimmed lighting, candles at each table, and intimate space create a date-worthy atmosphere. The hip-hop and Bollywood soundtrack adds energy without being a typical loud bar. However, noise levels vary: some report easy conversation while others found music uncomfortably loud. Request an early seating (5-6pm) on a weeknight for optimal conversation conditions. The Bib Gourmand-quality food provides plenty to talk about.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights are generally walk-in friendly - visitors report being seated immediately on Thursday evenings without reservations. Weekend dinners and prime hours (7-9pm) fill quickly given the small two-floor space. Book 2-3 days ahead for Friday/Saturday, or aim for lunch service (Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm) or early dinner for easier walk-in success.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - no dedicated kids menu, and the small space with loud hip-hop/R&B music and dimmed lighting caters more to adults. Families with older teens celebrating birthdays have visited successfully. If bringing children, weekday lunch offers a quieter, more relaxed environment. High chair availability not confirmed - call (213) 221-7466 ahead to verify.
Is it good for groups? Limited - the intimate two-floor space works best for parties of 2-6. For groups of 7+, you must email reservations@BadmaashLA.com or call directly rather than booking online. The Fairfax location has nearly double the space and may better accommodate larger parties. Private party facilities are available but require advance coordination.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - outdoor dining is available at the Downtown LA location, though details about size and covered/heated options are not specified online. The upcoming Venice location will feature their first dedicated patio. Call ahead to request outdoor seating, especially during peak hours when availability is limited.
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting bold Indian-fusion flavors in a lively, unpretentious DTLA setting—less 'production' than typical downtown spots
Consider Alternatives If: You need quiet conversation or prefer traditional Indian cuisine; music runs loud and the menu leans gastropub-fusion
Hours
Monday11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Tuesday11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Wednesday11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Thursday11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Friday11:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 10pm