Skip to main content
0 Followers

Free analytics & customer insights

The Exchange Restaurant

416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Vibe Check this spot

Rate this spot and tag the vibes that fit

Add Vibe Check

Master Critic Review

The Exchange Restaurant 8.4
Downtown Historic Core
Florentín is a semi-hidden rooftop above the Historic Core that feels like a Tel Aviv-inspired cocktail party with skyline views. The focus is on fun, dessert-y drinks, Mediterranean bar bites, and pizza, making it ideal for post-dinner dates or couples who want a lively, view-forward night out.
Must-Try Dishes: Florentini cocktail, Mango Sticky Rice Milk Punch, Artisanal rooftop pizza
Scores:
Value: 7 Service: 8.1 Consistency: 7.4 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 9 Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A Mediterranean rooftop bar with skyline views, fruity cocktails, and a party-after-dinner energy.
Who should go: Couples who prefer cocktails, views, and music over a formal sit-down meal.
When to visit: Arrive at golden hour and stay through nightfall for the views.
What to order: Order the Florentini, the Mango Sticky Rice Milk Punch, and a pizza to share.
Insider tip: Use the Spring Street entrance and head up early—rooftop tables with the clearest tower views go first.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the Historic Core is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Spring and Broadway run $8–$15 for evening rates.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning trendy—think date-night polished. Jeans are fine, but most guests dress stylishly for rooftop photos.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud. You can chat early in the evening, but once the music kicks up, expect more party energy than intimate conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins, depending on prime-view tables. Rooftop seats fill up fastest.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — this spot is primarily an evening venue and rarely serves lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including dips, salads, and veggie-focused pizzas.
Vegan options: Limited—there are a couple of mezze-style items and customizable requests, but not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be prepared gluten-free, including select small plates; pizzas are typically not GF-friendly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you're looking for a fun, lively first date with skyline views and cocktails. It’s less ideal if you want a quiet, sit-down conversation-focused dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes for early evenings or late nights, but expect to wait during peak weekend hours. Walk-ins are directed to lounge seating first, with the best rooftop tables going quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really. The atmosphere leans nightlife-forward with louder music and cocktails; best suited for adults and older teens if dining early.
Best For
Better for: A more energetic, view-driven night out with playful cocktails and a rooftop buzz—not a formal meal. Ideal for dates that feel like an experience.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, a full Mediterranean entrée-focused menu, or need extensive vegan/gluten-free accommodations.