Downtown Los Angeles, already a thriving cultural and culinary hub, has a delightful new addition to its gastronomic scene. Dahlia, an intimate cocktail lounge, is the latest offering from Property Hospitality and Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel. Helmed by the dynamic James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanna Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group, Dahlia completes a trio of dining destinations, joining the Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde and the chic rooftop lounge Cara Cara.
Nestled at the corner of South Broadway and West 11th Street within the South Park District, Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel boasts a rich history dating back to the 1920s. Designed by famed Los Angeles architects Curlett & Beelman, the property served as a private club in its early years, counting luminaries like Cecil B. DeMille among its members. It transformed into a YWCA in the 1960s, and today, it stands as a vibrant emblem of Downtown Los Angeles’ renaissance, offering a glimpse into the area’s storied past while celebrating its thriving creative community.
Aptly named for Mexico’s native flower, Dahlia epitomizes the hotel’s mission by providing a welcoming space for both hotel guests and visitors to savor classic and non-alcoholic cocktails. The lounge boasts a remarkable selection of high-end, rare, and small-batch liquors, all meticulously chosen to elevate the art of mixology. All cocktails are either created or finished tableside from Dahlia’s Cocktail Cart, allowing each guest to engage with the “cart tender” and access the lounge’s range of iconic and hard-to-find spirits.
The cocktail menu is a testament to the lounge’s dedication to craft, featuring tantalizing concoctions such as “The Sour” with single-harvest tequila, fresh lime, egg white, and orange bitters, as well as “The Old Fashioned” which calls for barrel-strength Japanese whisky and house-smoked cherries. For those seeking a touch of effervescence, “The Fizz de Jerez” combines PX Sherry, Brandy de Jerez, lemon, and tonic.
These libations are complemented by a delectable menu of Iberian-inspired bites. Guests can indulge in treats like Jamón Iberíco Tartine with Braised Leeks and Rodolfe’s Butter or savor Tinned Ris de Arosa Mussels en Escabeche with Radish, Guindillas, and Grilled AOC Boule. A highlight is the festive Fondue de Azores with Croutons, Sopressata, Apples, and Fennel.
The interior design by internationally renowned designer Kelly Wearstler draws from Mexican, Spanish, and Morrocan influences that echo throughout the hotel. Custom stained glass doors by the historic LA-based Judson Studios welcome guests to Dahlia, where warm monochromatic shades of terracotta and pink envelop the space. Textured Roman clay plaster walls, ceilings, and built-in banquette seating exude inviting charm.
Moroccan cement tiles adorn the bar area, complementing a rich tapestry of vintage and contemporary artwork. Ceramic mirrors by Mithe Espelt, a large-scale work by artist Lou Fink, and sand/gesso art by Jonathan Todryk are among the standout pieces in the curation. The space also features dramatic silk ceiling fixtures by design company Ruemmler, further enhancing the ambiance.
With its commitment to gastronomic and design-centric artistry, personal touches, and the local creative scene, Dahlia adds a charming new dimension to the Downtown Los Angeles scene.
Top Takeaways
Location: Los Angeles, California
Address: Ground Floor Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel, 1100 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Cuisine: Botanical cocktails, boutique wines, and garden fresh bites
Price Point: $$$
Takes Reservations: Yes, they are required – OpenTable
The Vibe: An intimate speakeasy boasting Mexican modernism and Moroccan influence
Our favorite thing on the menu: The Boozy Flight is truly the menu’s most underrated offering, ideal for indulgent evenings. This flight consists of three different sweet treats and buzzy accompaniments. Sea salt caramel, espresso, and vanilla ice cream are paired with bourbon; chocolate ice cream, espresso, and Luxardo cherries with Ginja; and finally, Kalamansi Gelee, ginger ice cream, and sparkling lime with whiskey.
The attire based on the vibe: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
