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ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Traxx Restaurant & Bar
7.7
A family-owned upscale American comfort kitchen operating for over 25 years inside the grand halls of Union Station, where the architectural setting does as much work as the menu. The scratch-made approach to dishes like crab cakes and pappardelle draws a mix of pre-theater couples and travelers who want a sit-down meal with real ambiance rather than terminal food. Best suited for occasions where the landmark experience matters as much as the plate.
Must-Try Dishes:
Louisiana Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, Pesto Pappardelle with Crispy Prosciutto, Wild Alaskan Salmon
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 7.5
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Family-owned for over 25 years inside Union Station, serving scratch-made upscale American comfort food in one of LA's most iconic architectural landmarks
Who should go: Pre-theater couples, train travelers, and architecture lovers
When to visit: Daily happy hour 4-7pm for wine and bar bites
What to order: Start with the crab cake, choose a pasta or the salmon as your main, and share the brussels sprouts — the wine list leans California with reasonable pours
Insider tip: Grab a table on the outdoor patio for a view of Union Station's grand hall, and check the bar across the hallway for a more intimate 44-seat setting
Logistics & Planning
Parking: $3 validated parking in Union Station Lots B, D & G on the west side via the Alameda St entrance; lots otherwise charge $2 per 20 minutes or $14 for 24 hours
Dress code: Casual—a relaxed, semi-fine dining atmosphere inside a historic Art Deco train station; neat casual is the sweet spot
Weekday lunch: Reservations accepted for weekday lunch; walk-ins welcome all day
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—menu marks items with VG label; Beyond patty burger swap available, plus salads that can skip meat add-ons
Vegan options: Limited—tomato soup with thai basil oil is the only item marked V on the menu
Gluten-free options: Menu marks GF items: tomato soup and posole verde are labeled gluten-free
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the Art Deco setting inside historic Union Station creates a uniquely romantic backdrop you won't find anywhere else in LA. The dining room and courtyard patio both offer a relaxed, intimate atmosphere with enough ambient energy from the station to keep conversation flowing without feeling loud. Request a patio table for a more private vibe, or sit on the concourse for dramatic people-watching under the station's iconic dome. Best for a casual, unhurried date rather than a high-energy night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are generally welcome, especially on weekday lunches and quieter afternoons when you'll have no trouble getting seated. The restaurant seats about 100 across multiple areas, so availability is usually decent outside of special events at Union Station. For weekend visits or if you want a specific patio table, calling ahead is smart. Avoid days with major Union Station events (train festivals, holiday travel surges) when the space fills up. Reservations are accepted for weekday and Saturday lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, relaxed atmosphere and American comfort food menu (burgers, sandwiches, salads) works well for kids. Minors are welcome in both the restaurant and bar areas. The open concourse and courtyard setting gives families some breathing room, and the novelty of dining in a working train station keeps kids entertained. A dedicated kids menu has not been confirmed — call ahead to ask. Best before the evening wind-down, especially on weekdays when the vibe is more relaxed.
Is it good for groups? Good for small to medium groups — the restaurant seats 100 guests across the dining room, concourse, and patio, with configurations that work for parties of 4–8. Private event availability is offered after 3 p.m. on request. However, large party accommodations are limited, so groups over 8 should call ahead to confirm seating arrangements. The bar area (44 seats) is a solid option for casual group drinks. For very large gatherings, this isn't the best fit.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a courtyard patio in Union Station's grounds offers a peaceful, sheltered outdoor dining experience with heaters for cooler evenings. The patio is dog-friendly. It's shaded and pleasant year-round given LA's climate, with a quieter feel than the concourse seating inside. Patio tables are popular, so if outdoor seating is a must, calling ahead or arriving early is a good idea.
Best For
Better for: A pre-train date night or catching up with friends in a stunning 1939 Art Deco dining room with courtyard patio seating—the setting does the heavy lifting
Consider Alternatives If: You need a deep vegetarian or vegan menu—plant-based options are minimal; also no dinner reservations, so peak evening walk-in waits are unpredictable
Hours
Monday11am - 8pm
Tuesday11am - 8pm
Wednesday11am - 8pm
Thursday11am - 8pm
Friday11am - 8pm
Saturday11:30am - 4pm
SundayClosed