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Best Late Night Restaurants in Downtown LA (90012)

5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$$ Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo’s ramen institution known for a rich, pork-forward tonkotsu and steady execution despite the constant line. The cramped, high-energy room moves fast and feels like a neighborhood rite of passage.
Must-Try Dishes: Daikokuya Ramen, Spicy Miso Ramen, Pan-Fried Gyoza
What makes it special: A decades-running tonkotsu benchmark with massive, proven consistency.
$ Chinatown
A century-old French dip institution with sawdust floors and cafeteria swagger. The rolls are sturdy, the jus is beefy, and the no-frills pace makes it ideal for a fast historic bite.
Must-Try Dishes: Roast Beef French Dip, Lamb French Dip, Pickled Eggs
What makes it special: Birthplace-level French dip lore with nonstop local loyalty.
$ Chinatown
A Chinatown institution known for big, bright flavors and tables that turn fast but stay friendly. The patio and open storefront make it ideal for a lively al-fresco meal centered on their signature shrimp and classic wok dishes.
Must-Try Dishes: Slippery Shrimp, Yang Chow Fried Rice, Sizzling Rice Soup
What makes it special: Legendary Slippery Shrimp backed by massive, long-running local love.
8.1
$$$ Chinatown
Filipino rotisserie and natural wine in Far East Plaza with a house-party buzz. The chicken is smoky and juicy, and the sides swing bright and funky.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Inasal, Pork Belly Sisig, Calamansi Cream Pie
What makes it special: Rotisserie Filipino cooking paired with a deep natural-wine list.
$$ Chinatown
A multi-decade Chinatown staple mixing Cantonese seafood with Hong Kong-style BBQ. It’s a go-to for late-night groups ordering clay pots, roast meats, and live-tank seafood without pretense.
Must-Try Dishes: Ginger-Scallion Lobster, BBQ Roast Duck, Salt & Pepper Squid
What makes it special: Old-school Chinatown seafood-and-BBQ institution open late.