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Photos: A Gorgeous French Brasserie Just Opened In A Historic DTLA Hotel
A new French brasserie just opened in a historic downtown L.A. hotel and is serving up French classics in a stunning setting.
Located in the lobby of the 1913-built El Dorado Hotel, Le Petit Paris is a beautiful and sprawling two-floor restaurant with a large outdoor patio. It's got date night written all over it. The menu features old school hits like steak tartare, escargot and duck foie gras, as well as L.A.-friendly, modern takes like a rainbow beet carpaccio and pizzas with French twists (think truffles and lobster). And—not surprisingly—the wine list is extensive, featuring both European and California vintages. The restaurant also features two bars, an upstairs area that becomes a lounge with a DJ at night, as well as a gift shop with artisanal goodies from France.
Le Petit Paris was launched by Cannes-based restaurateurs David and Fanny Rolland, who brought a modern European flair to downtown without being overly slick. The lobby of the historic hotel—which was transformed by designer Beth Holden of L.A.-based New Theme Inc.—features gold-leafed columns, tons of natural light during the day and huge, circular crystal chandeliers with loads of candlelight for romantic evenings. The space seats over 300 with a spacious, high-ceilinged mezzanine level and a grand staircase leading to the upper floor where you can peer down on the scene below. There's also plenty of secluded nooks for couples who aren't interested in being seen.
The menu, developed by Chefs Grellier Baptiste and Jeremie Cazes, features many dishes you might expect from a traditional French brasserie, but also takes plenty of welcome detours. Of course, you can start your day with a simple croissant or a more indulgent eggs Benedict with lobster. Stop by for lunch to enjoy a classic croque monsieur or branch out with a vegan ceviche. And for dinner, you'll find steak tartare, as well as a risotto with scallops and asparagus. For dessert, you'll find French staples like crêpes Suzette flambé and house-made macarons. Oui.
Le Petit Paris is located at 418 S Spring St, Los Angeles, (213) 217-4445.
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