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ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Downtown LA
Best Sandwiches in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Cherry Pick Cafe
7.8
A compact counter-service cafe on South Hill Street that keeps the menu tight—sandwiches, bagels, and flaky croissants turned out fresh from early morning for the DTLA office and hotel crowd. Prices stay low for the neighborhood, and the small footprint means a quiet, no-fuss stop rather than a linger-and-laptop setup. It delivers on speed and simplicity without cutting corners on the baked goods.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sandwich, Bagel, Cheese Croissant
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Fast, affordable cafe steps from Downtown LA hotels turning out fresh sandwiches and baked goods from early morning
Who should go: Downtown workers and hotel guests grabbing a quick breakfast
When to visit: Early morning before the lunch rush for best selection
What to order: Start with a cheese croissant, grab a sandwich for later — portions are generous for the price
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot — street metered parking on Hill St and surrounding DTLA blocks. Nearby paid lots on Broadway start around $13, garages on Spring St around $14. Budget $13–15 for a nearby lot on a weekday.
Dress code: Come as you are — counter-service deli in a hotel lobby with checkered floors. T-shirts, jeans, courthouse attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Quiet and conversational — small counter-service space with cozy seating. Easy to chat or work without raising your voice.
Weekday lunch: Line can form but moves fast — counter service, not table seating, so you're ordering and going within a few minutes even when busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — dedicated 'Vegetarian Pickers Sandwiches' section with 11 items including veggie burger, veggie corned beef, veggie Italian sub. Plus cheese pizza, veggie meatball pizza, omelets, and salads.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — this is a casual counter-service cafe with bistro-style seating and a daytime-only schedule (closes by 4pm weekdays, noon Saturday, closed Sunday). The vibe is friendly neighborhood deli, not romantic. Great for a low-key coffee meetup, but if you're looking for ambiance and evening dining, look elsewhere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-in, counter-service cafe with no reservations needed or accepted. The space is small and popular with the Downtown LA courthouse and office crowd, so it can get packed during weekday breakfast and lunch rushes. Arrive early or off-peak for the best chance at a seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately — the casual counter-service format and friendly family atmosphere make it welcoming for kids, and the menu has simple options like croissant sandwiches, pastries, and smoothies that work for younger eaters. However, no dedicated kids menu or high chairs have been confirmed, and the small space with mostly bistro-style seating may be tight for families with strollers. Best for older kids who can sit at a small table.
Is it good for groups? Difficult — the space is small with only two or three regular tables and mostly bistro-style seating. Not built for groups larger than 3-4. They do offer catering for group gatherings, so if you need to feed a crowd, call ahead about catering options rather than trying to seat everyone inside.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor seating is available. Given the Downtown LA storefront location, it appears to be sidewalk-style seating. Details on whether it is covered or heated are not confirmed — call ahead if weather is a concern.
Best For
Better for: Quick weekday breakfast or lunch near the courthouse or Grand Park — fast counter service, affordable, quiet enough for a casual catch-up. Great grab-and-go before jury duty or a museum visit.
Consider Alternatives If: You want dinner (closes by 4–6 PM weekdays, noon weekends), cocktails (no alcohol), or anything beyond a casual counter-service deli. Not the move for date night or large group sit-downs.
Hours
Monday7am - 2:30pm
Tuesday7am - 2:30pm
Wednesday7am - 2:30pm
Thursday7am - 2:30pm
Friday7am - 2:30pm
Saturday7:30am - 11:30am
SundayClosed