0 Followers
Redbird
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Redbird
8.4
Chef Neal Fraser's Modern American flagship occupies a former cathedral rectory with a retractable roof and features sophisticated yet approachable cuisine that showcases LA's multicultural influences. The soaring architectural space serves creative dishes like John Dory with leek fondue alongside an impressive cocktail program from the circular bars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chawanmushi Lobster, Ricotta Cavatelli, Bone-In Ribeye
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized dining in a breathtaking converted cathedral with open-air seating
Who should go: Date nights and special occasions seekers
When to visit: Weekend brunch or weekday happy hour 5-7pm
What to order: Chawanmushi lobster, ricotta cavatelli, Meyer lemon tart
Insider tip: Book outdoor seating under the retractable roof for the full experience
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available $15, or self-park in adjacent lot ($8-12). Street parking exists but difficult after 5pm. Recommend valet for dinner dates.
Dress code: Smart casual - dress pants or dark jeans with nice top. No tank tops or flip-flops. Dressy is appreciated but not required.
Noise level: Moderately lively - the cathedral ceilings create ambient buzz but you can hold conversation without raising your voice. Quieter near outdoor patio.
Weekend wait: 60-90 min wait without reservation (often fully booked). Reserve 1-2 weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday.
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually accommodated within 15-20 minutes. Brunch books up fast on weekends.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 dedicated vegetarian dishes including creative seasonal preparations. Ricotta cavatelli and vegetable-forward small plates.
Vegan options: Limited but available - 2-3 options. Chef will modify dishes upon request with advance notice.
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates with modifications. Several naturally GF options like the John Dory. Inform server when booking.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. The dramatic cathedral setting and open roof create natural conversation starters without being overly stuffy. Noise level allows conversation. Budget $100-140 for two with drinks. Request outdoor seating for the wow factor.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and happy hour (5-7pm) are your best bet for walk-ins. Weekend dinners are nearly impossible without booking. The bar area accepts walk-ins but fills quickly. Call ahead same-day for cancellations.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for kids 10+ who can appreciate the experience. Brunch is more family-friendly than dinner. High chairs available but no kids' menu. The upscale atmosphere and price point make it better suited for special family celebrations than casual meals with young children.
Best For
Better for: Architectural wow-factor and special occasion dining without stuffiness. Best for impressive dates where you want sophistication but not Michelin-formal pressure. The retractable roof and cathedral setting create a unique LA experience competitors can't match.
Skip if: You want intimate quiet conversation (too lively), need budget-friendly ($30+ per person minimum), prefer traditional fine dining formality, or have very young children. Also skip if claustrophobic about crowds - weekends get packed.
Redbird
8.9
Chef Neal Fraser's Modern American flagship occupies a stunning converted cathedral rectory, serving elevated brunch dishes like duck confit chilaquiles and Maine lobster congee. The retractable roof dining room and serene garden courtyard create an ethereal atmosphere that feels worlds away from downtown's bustle.
Must-Try Dishes:
Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes, Duck Confit Chilaquiles, Short Rib Hash
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Cathedral setting with retractable roof creates magical ambiance
Who should go: Special occasion brunchers seeking elevated experience
When to visit: Weekend brunch for full menu and garden views
What to order: Duck chilaquiles, ricotta pancakes, blood orange mimosa
Insider tip: Request main dining room for best cathedral views
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, nearby lots $8-20, street parking challenging on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - think elevated brunch attire, no athletic wear
Noise level: Moderate - cathedral acoustics create ambient buzz but conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating, 10-15 min during peak lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several creative options including ricotta pancakes and seasonal veggie dishes
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 modified dishes, advance notice helps chef accommodate
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen experienced with modifications, separate prep protocols
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - the cathedral setting creates instant conversation, lighting is flattering, and tables are well-spaced for privacy
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch yes, weekend brunch unlikely - try bar seating or arrive right at opening (10am weekends)
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) who appreciate special meals - no kids menu but kitchen can modify portions
Best For
Better for: Cathedral ambiance unmatched downtown, duck chilaquiles best elevated Mexican-fusion brunch dish in LA
Skip if: Want quick casual brunch under $20/person or need extensive vegan menu - try Gracias Madre instead