Downtown Weekly

DOWNTOWN WEEKLY THE SPIRIT OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023

DTLA PoWER lunch

JUICE

CRAFTERS

Garos Deli Sneak Peek Inside

LEVEL 8

at MOxi Hotel

THE 15 MINUTE LUNCH BREAK OF DOWNTOWN WEEKLY

ON THE COVER

VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 3

location: FASHION DISTRICT

THE TIMERS

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JUICE CRAFTERS SOUTH PARK HEALTH HUB ...4 DTLA POWER LUNCH...6 JUICE CRAFTERS...8 GAROS DELI ...9 MONUMENTS IN TIME ...13 DTLA WEEKLY

editor and chief KERI FREEMAN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS KRISTIAN JONES KERI FREEMAN

photography GARY LEONARD ERIC EPPERSON keri Freeman

VIDEO Production

@kerieatsdtla design and layout @kerieatsdtla

social media

@kerieatsdtla ART HUNTER

DTLA WEEKLY Special thanks to...

All rights reserved. DownMAYOR OF LOS ANGELES town Weekly is a news, event, LIFESTYLE & Hospitality FREE & Council district 14 resource. No portion THE CITY OF LA ofcommunity this publication may be reproARTS DISTRICT duced without express written CHINATOWN permission from the publisher.

WEEKLY, in support of local CIVIC DISTRICT DTLA residents, businesses, workers BUNKER HILL and visitors of Downtown Los Anpublishes DTLA WEEKLY. EXPO/USC geles, Readers are recommended to HISTORIC CORE make appropriate inquiries beLITTLE TOKYO fore wagering any sum in relation to any ad, article or feature FASHION DISTRICT published herein. DTLA WEEKLY FINANCIAL DISTRICT will not be liable to any person loss or damage incurred or SKID ROW forsuffered as a result of his/her SOUTH PARK accepting, offering to accept or WAREHOUSE DISTRICT following any invitation or advice in any ad, article or THEGRAWN contained feature published herein.

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4 STAY HEALTHY DTLA

VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

Stress Free South Park in Downtown Becomes LAs Newest Fitness Hub

H

as anyone noticed that South Park is becoming increasingly physically fit?

I

t turns out that the newly constructed residential neighborhood located in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is developing quite nicely as an area that promotes energy, wellness, and healing.

With over a dozen gyms and even equal amount of aesthetic wellness centers within less than a one-mile radius, South Park has become a health hub, offering a variety of fitness and wellness options to both residents and visitors.

Some Like it Hot at the Sauna Lab

Got Energy?

Robeks is a health-focused smoothie and juice bar located on Pico and Grand that offers a variety of nutrient-dense options for those looking to fuel their bodies with healthy, whole foods. Robeks is a healthfocused smoothie and juice bar located on Pico and Grand that offers a variety of nutrient-dense options for those looking to fuel their bodies with healthy, whole foods.

The Sauna Lab is a popular destination in South Park that offers infrared sauna sessions. For those looking to relieve stress, detox their bodies, or fight aging, The Sauna Lab has got sweating down to a Homebodies… We See You For homebodies, there are no excuses not science. Use coupon code: DTLAWEEKLY to stay healthy in South Park. Even the for $10 OFF the first session. lofts offer gyms as amenities for residents, making it easy for them to stay active Take the Plunge! without leaving the building.

One of the latest additions to this hub is Athlete Within, a sports performance It’s Official! South Park is prioritizing and fitness center that focuses on physical and mental well-being. Whether helping individuals reach their athletic it’s through fitness, nutrition, or potential through personalized training relaxation, there are plenty of options and coaching. The gym is offering the community free cold plunges until the end available to help DTLA residents achieve their health goals in this vibrant and of March. Bring a scarf! dynamic district.

--Forever Young? Shut Up and Take Our Money!

Looking to stay forever young? Renew Me wellness center offers a range of services such as facials, massages, and other cosmetic and anti-aging treatments to reverse the signs of aging.

For more exciting ways to stay healthy, follow @stayhealthydtla on IG or sign up to participate in “DTLA Health Hop,” our monthly review of local businesses – only on www.dtlaweekly.com.

6 DTLA APPETITE By Keri Freeman

VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

DTLA POWER LUNCH

MEALS DOWNTOWN CAN'T AFFORD TO SKIP Having lunch in the big city has always been a welcomed break from the office, or a special time to sightsee, network, or get together with family and friends.

This daytime culinary adventure should not only be prepared quickly, leaving enough time to sit leisurely and enjoy the meal before heading back to the office, but it DTLA taste buds get carried away their signature Meatloaf and should also be affordable over New York Steaks not to mention Engine and nutritious to get us Co’s flaming Firehouse chili, happy hour through the day. Flatbreads, BBQ Ribs and Wagyu Burgers.

ENGINE CO. 28 CRISPY CHICKEN SANDWISH

Caesar Salad is a perfect Here’s a list of top DTLA Engine's lunch option for those who want a quick Power Lunch picks with meal that won't leave them feeling heavy. meals we can’t afford to This salad offers a refreshing and light experience, with its crispy romaine

skip. hearts, creamy Caesar dressing, shaved

Engine Co. 28

If the DTLA crowd is ever in a panic over what to eat for lunch, Engine Co. 28 is here to rescue them with their mouthwatering options. It's like having a fire fighter rush to our aid, ready to put out the flames of our hunger.

Parmesan, and satisfying croutons that provide a satisfying crunch. @engineco28

PI^ LA

What makes PI^LA popular lunch spot is the unique is the ability to place and fill a full size pizza order in less than five minutes and of course, it’s tantalizing slices of deep pan, gourmet style pizzas When DTLA needs to put out those hunger flames for good, lunch at Engine that have the ability to send the eater into ravenous rage until there’s not so much Co. 28 is here to save the day. It's no as a crumb is left. wonder that Engine Co. 28 has become a DTLA staple and a favorite meetup for The good folks at PI^LA want the power lunches.

DTLA community to know they are With its impressive menu and reputation welcome to enjoy their new lunch hours for being a hot spot for doing business, from 11:30 to 5:30 by offering an 18% Engine Co. 28 sounds the alarm with discount off any full sized pizza plates of hot Southern-style pan-fried until April.

Chicken and sides of steamy mixed vegetables.

PI^LA IN HARLEM ALLEY

The feeling of going back in time inside PI^LA's retro diner coupled with the location’s Alley way obscurity keeps the curious lunch goer eager to discover this hidden pizza gem while rememberable flavors of Cupped Pepperoni, Spicy Smoked Fried Chicken, Roasted Spice K-Town Pork, Fennel Pollen Sausage, Pineapple and Jalapeños keep diners coming back. Vegan pizza options are also available. @pizzapila

DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE - by Rebecca Denning

DTLA – Ready and Waiting for Grand Opening of Level 8 at New Moxi Hotel

D

TLA is ready for the Grand Opening of Level 8 at the new Moxi Hotel, an exciting new nightlife project from the Houston Brothers, known for their popular LA nightlife venues such as La Descarga, Harvard & Stone, and Pour Vous.

T

he entire eighth floor of Moxi Hotel will house eight distinct venues for dining, cocktails, and nightlife, covering a massive 30,000 square feet.

Working in partnership with the Lightstone Group, the real estate developer behind the hotels, the hotel aims to create a hospitality complex with a total of 727 guest rooms, 13 restaurants, bars and lounges, and four large outdoor terraces.

One of Level 8’s venues is Mr. Wanderlust, a cocktail bar facing east towards Flower Street that draws inspiration from the Houston brothers’ extensive international travels.

Other venues include Maison Kasai, a teppanyaki spot with a French twist; Lucky Mizu, a restaurant next door to Maison Kasai; Brown Sheep Taqueria and Mother of Pearl, eateries overlooking the LA Convention Center and Eastern wall of the Crypto Arena; Que Barbaro, a dining option located next to the pool; and Sinners y Santos, a north-facing nightclub with a speakeasy-style entrance.

Although the project is not yet complete,

everything from the hotels to Level 8’s multiple venues is set to open April 4th. With Level 8, the Houston Brothers have once again demonstrated their ambition and creativity in the LA nightlife scene. www.level8.com

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8 STAY HEALTHY DTLA: JUICE CRAFTERS - PAID ADVERTORIAL

VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

JUICE CRAFTERS: ORGANIC, HEALTHY & FRESH

J

The juice bar offers a wide range of

uice Crafters delicious, nutrient-packed beverages that are perfect for those on the go, or is a juice those looking for a quick, refreshing pickbar that has me-up. quickly become From classic green juices to acai a popular bowls and smoothies, Juice Crafters has destination for health something to satisfy every taste bud and conscious individuals in craving.

Los Angeles and Orange One of the unique features of Juice County. Founded by David Crafters is that all ingredients are Nia, the establishment's delivered fresh to each store daily. This ensures that every beverage is made with mission is to provide the freshest ingredients possible, providing customers with the highest people with a delicious and nutritious way to fuel possible nutritional value. their bodies, promote In addition to their juices, Juice healthy eating habits and Crafters also offers a selection of healthy snacks, including raw energy bars, chia achieve a longer, happier pudding, and raw nuts. All of their snacks are made with high-quality ingredients life.

A

s a firm believer in the power of healthy eating habits, Nia made it his mission to create a space where people could access high-quality, organic, and nutrient-rich food and beverages.

The ingredients used at Juice Crafters are carefully sourced from local California farms, ensuring that they are fresh, healthy, and organic.

and are designed to provide customers with a quick, nutritious energy boost.

What sets Juice Crafters apart is their commitment to promoting healthy eating habits and making healthy food accessible to everyone. The juice bar is not just a place to grab a quick drink but also a community that encourages people to make healthier choices and feel better about themselves.

Whether you're a regular or a first -time visitor, Juice Crafters is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and nutritious beverage or snack. So why not swing by and try one of their signature drinks, and experience the many benefits of healthy eating for yourself? @juicecrafters

DTLA APPETITE: GAROS DELI By Keri Freeman

VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 9

CHECK OUT WHAT'S NEW AT GAROS DELI

Located near the intersection of 7th and Hill Streets, St. Vincent Court is a pedestrian alleyway that is often missed by the unknowing passersby.

However, what lies within this arched entrance is truly magnificent.

The cobblestone median divides two sides of a small street lined with various shops and restaurants, with a historical charm that cannot be missed.

G

aros Deli is one such restaurant that has been a staple in the Historic St. Vincent Alley for over 33 years. DK, the current owner, has been running the deli for the past three years after it was passed down to him by his cousin.

Garos Deli is known for the authentic flavors of delicious breakfast and lunch menus.

GAROS DELI PASTRIES

The deli also serves daily Chicken Noodle and Lentil Soup, along with various beverages including coffee, tea, and soft drinks. And of course, no deli would be complete without a dessert such as the best baklava!

What do you call return customers after 30 years? Family.

Just added to the menu - Garos New Shish Kebabs. Locals are raving about them, sending the deli lots of positive reviews and feedback since the very first bite.

Garo’s opens at 8:30 am for breakfast and usually greets regulars sitting outside, chatting, and enjoying their meals. These long-term friends are joined by fresh faces to discuss the day’s current events and catch up on each other's lifestyles.

Garo’s now offers their tasty grilled Lula Kebab, Beef Filet Kebab and Chicken Breast Kebab, all marinated in house fresh every day and served with a side of hummus, rice, and mixed vegetables.

For breakfast, they partake in such items as bagels with cream cheese and jam, omelets, exotic teas, and traditional Simit Bagels.

Garos Deli offers Indoor and outdoor seating as well as an indoor TV room where diners can come, order food and enjoy lunch and Soccer. YNWA!

Lunchtime sees an influx of locals and tourists. Tourists from around the world seek out their popular sandwiches include pastrami, turkey, ham, salami, Soujouk Armenian sausage, and Tuna, Grilled Chicken and Steak Salads.

Recently, Garos Deli obtained a beer and wine license, which DK says has been another huge hit with customers.

Although alcohol cannot be consumed on the premises, there is more than enough to purchase and take home.

GAROS DELI SANDWISHES

GAROS DELI KEBAB LUNCH

Garos Deli also offers catering services for small and large events.

DK is constantly working on the menu, adding new items and tweaking old ones to perfection. The deli is hoping to make the outdoor seating permanent, but there may be some struggles and some worries about the new SoCal gas regulations.

Despite this, Garos Deli remains a beloved spot in the community, serving delicious food and providing a space for people to gather and enjoy each other's company. @GAROSDELI

10 DTLA APPETITE: POWER LUNCH by Keri Freeman

VOL 18. NO. 5 MAR 9 - MAR 15, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

DTLA POWER LUNCH CONT...

Ootoro Japanese Sushi & Sashimi

Little Tokyo of DTLA is a hearty plate of affordable delicious lunch options, yet only a few allow DTLA to really escape into the realm of new Japan as much as Ootoro Sushi.

For seafood lovers on a lunch break, Salmon Ikura Bowl is commonly favored during lunch from 11:30 am - 1:40 pm on weekdays.

Bento Boxes are considered an art form in Japan and include the diner’s choice of miso soup, salad, and rice.

Ootoro’s Sushi Box gifts Tuna slices, salmon, yellowtail, tuna sashimi and one surprise Chef's choice Sushi Roll.

outdoor seating for seating one, two or an entire office.

What makes Tulsi such a powerful lunch option is it’s affordability. With most menu items able to fill the stomach without emptying the wallet, Tulsi is DTLAs most affordable healthy lunch option. @tulsieatery

Rappahannock Oyster Bar

It’s lunch time in the Warehouse District, as workers from Row DTLA anxiously await their daily lunch break at Rappahannock Oyster Bar.

Grab a stool, there’s only one mid-day hour to ingest RappBar’s selection of Chesapeake Bay-farmed oysters, fresh Serving Ootoro Sushi Bowls during an crab, clams, scallops, shrimp, and of office party make great lasting impressions course, Chef Wilson Santos’ Awardon coworkers. The presentation of the Winning Lobster Roll. bowls is visually stunning, with colorful and artfully arranged ingredients that are Yet, within that one hour, lunch-goers sure to impress. @ootorola can also enjoy BRUNCH ALL DAY! with menu choices that include: Lobster Tulsi Eatery is a vegetarian’s dream.

Benedict, This plant-based Indian Eatery on 4th the Chef's and Main brings healthy and flavorful Breakfast Indian dishes from all the regions of Waffle with India. Serving lunch from 11:30 am to bacon and eggs 3:30 pm on weekdays, Tulsi Eastery any style, and has just introduced the Curry Lunch the Breakfast Bowl. Curry Lunch Bowls come in three Rapp, a curry bowl varieties with rice or bread burrito with option packed with a variety of locally Eggs Avocado, sourced vegetables, lentils, fragrant herbs bacon and and spices for around $9. The DTLA taters. restaurant location has a cozy and relaxed @rappbardtla atmosphere, with plenty of indoor and RAPPBAR LOBSTER ROLL

Tulsi Eatery

OOTORO SUSHI

TULSI INDIAN EATERY CURRY BOWL

4 10 GREAT PLACES FOR VALENTINE'S DAY ROMANCE by KERI FREEMAN

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DTLA MONUMENTS IN TIME

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A Trip Back in Time to Downtown’s Oldest Buildings Via Horse & Buggy

FIRST HOME IN LA - AVILA ADOBEBOWLS ADOBE

Let’s Ride Out!

The year is 1818, but the first cars won’t be introduced until the late 1890s. For now, they are a rare sight. The only way to take a leisurely ride, visit friends, shop for goods, or build in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is by the world’s most practical transportation favorite – the horse and buggy.

While the commoner would have to get by with the usual two-wheeled, wooden frame, single bench-seater, a wealthy settler might have owned a more ornate carriage with fancier decorations, four wheels, and multiple horses, lending for a more comfortable ride.

The horse buggy also meant there would have been stables, and, yes, of course, each home had one, including a den to raise chickens and milk the cow.

Milking the Cow at Avila Adobe

The first cow ever to nourish DTLA must have been milked at the Avila Adobe built in 1818.

The Adobe is the oldest surviving building in Los Angeles, built by Francisco Avila, a wealthy rancher and landowner. A prime example of a traditional Mexican-style home, the Adobe was constructed using adobe bricks made from clay and straw brought in by…

Wait… We hear soldiers.

OUR LADY QUEEN OF THE ANGELS

Is that Commodore Robert F. Stockton and General Stephen W. Kearny riding on a horse and buggy, tattered and worn from battling the Californios in San Gabriel?

The Adobe was the site of the signing of the Treaty of Cahuenga in 1847, which ended the Mexican-American War in California.

The Cobblestone Road to Redemption

Long before the treaty, thanks to the use of horse and buggy, commerce, agriculture, and the Catholic religion had spread fully incumbent beyond the steps of the Avila Adobe. La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Angeles, also known as the Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, was constructed in close vicinity to spiritually stake claim to the area then known as El Pueblo de Los Angeles.

The Gothic Revival inspired church was originally built in 1822 and served as the city’s first Catholic church. However, the building was destroyed by an earthquake in 1863, and a new church was built on the site in 1864. The current structure is the third incarnation of the church, and it was completed in 1912.

After going through years of constant renovation, La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Angeles still holds religious ceremonies and numerous religious and cultural events, including the annual La Virgen de Guadalupe procession, which attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.

CASA DE PIO PICO

Staying With Us? Take a Taxi to the Hotel

Although horse prints, wheel tracks, and droppings over-patterned the grounds of the newly forming Downtown Los Angeles, the horse buggy was terrific for tourism in Downtown. Most tracks led towards our first high-rise, luxury hotel, La Casa de Governor Pío Pico (1870).

PICO House Hotel (as it is referred to in English) remains to this day a Monument in Time, paying homage to its builder, innovative leader Pío de Jesus Pico, the last governor of California under Mexican rule and the first governor of California under American rule.

The hotel had 33 rooms, a bar, and a large dining room that could accommodate up to 500 guests and became a popular destination for travelers and celebrities, including Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, who most likely was one of the first to ever cruise his horse buggy up and down Pico Blvd.

BROADWAY & 3RD CIRCA 1890

14 MONUMENTS IN TIME

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ST. VIBIANAS CIRCA 1890

Just in Time for Church at St. Vibiana’s

Built in the Gothic Revival style, St. Vibiana’s Cathedral served as the mother church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles until the 1890s, when the horse and buggy was the preferred mode of transportation. The Archdiocese utilized the church buggy to bring in people and goods, especially when it came to visiting clergy and other church officials.

Although riding on a horse and buggy in the late 1800s was common, the experience of riding one would have varied depending on the type of buggy, the quality of the road, and the behavior of the horse. The ride could be quite bumpy, especially on dirt roads or uneven terrain, and passengers would feel every jolt and bump in the road. The ride could also be quite slow, as the horse would typically travel at a leisurely pace, arriving just in time for Sunday service.

Making the Space at Bradbury Building

The Bradbury Building, a historic landmark located on Broadway, was completed in 1893.

Designed by architect George H. Wyman, the building’s most notable feature is its stunning central atrium, which rises five stories high and is filled with natural light that filters in through a skylight. The Bradbury Building was constructed during a time when the horse and buggy was still prevalent, and the design of the building reflects this.

In addition to its functional design, ornate and decorative elements, superior brick and terra cotta, exterior and adorning the façade, the ground floor arcade was designed wide enough to allow horse-drawn carriages to pass through. The Bradbury is a timeless design and unique blend of functionality and aesthetics that continue to captivate visitors and serve as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of architects from the horse and buggy era.

Quest for the Gold at Farmers & Merchants Bank

Designed by architect John Parkinson in 1905, Farmers & Merchants Bank used horse-drawn carriages to transport money and documents. Horse-drawn carriages were a symbol of status and prestige, and the bank’s founders, brothers Isaias W. Hellman and Herman W. Hellman, used them to project an image of stability and trustworthiness to the public. And how did they get to work…?

Wait. We hear sirens.

If at any time bandits tried to get away with the gold, police officers would have happily used the horse buggy to haul them to justice. They would also use the horse buggy to transport evidence from the crime scene.

Today, Farmers & Merchants Bank is a historic landmark in Los Angeles, and its horse-drawn carriages remain an iconic symbol of the bank’s history and legacy.

Bringing the Goods at Grand Central Market

When Grand Central Market opened in 1917, horse buggies were still in use, but they were no longer the primary mode of transportation for the market. In the years shortly after, the horse buggy gradually phased out in favor of motorized vehicles as the market grew and modernized.

Over the next 100 years, the market hosted dinners arriving by trolley, planes, trains, and automobiles, or by skates, bikes, or on foot.

Long gone are the days when the horse and buggy was used for everything from building the city to leisurely riding around taking in the sights. Yet, the horse and buggy will always remain an essential part of history when it comes to the growth of Downtown Los Angeles, providing memories of the historic means of transportation and leisure that helped the city grow and prosper.