The Lowdown on Downtown

Staples Center, Lakers, Phillipe's, Santee Alley, high-rise buildings and music --this is how I picture Downtown LA. I didn't go to USC and I don't work there, so Downtown is basically foreign territory. New buildings and restaurants are fitting themselves in nicely.

I spent two nights exploring new places. On Saturday night, my friend and I met at BottleRock, an industrial yet cozy wine bar tucked away under the Met Lofts building. The decor was eco-modern and the waitstaff was welcoming. They have an extensive wine list, but I should really call it a book, with prices ranging from $8 a glass to $500 a bottle.

We sat in the lounge, chatting and our sipping our pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc. I was surprised how quiet it was for a Saturday night, expecting it to be filled with local suits or artist that live in neighboring lofts.  They could use better PR, because it is definitely a place to visit. I give an A-.

Then there was Sunday night at Chaya Downtown for happy hour before the theater. I used to work at Chaya Brasserie on Robertson Blvd as a hostess, so I know what the standards should be.  When I walked in, I was coldly greeted by the hostess who then let my friends and I wander around the restaurant in search of our own table. The bartender was great; helpful and funny, but the food was terrible.

I was shocked! The spicy tuna roll tasted old and fishy. The hummus plate had was short at least 5 slices of pita, the four-cheese polenta was overrun by blue cheese and finally, the crispy calamari had no depth flavor or sophistication.  I was thoroughly disappointed.

The Asian-fusion decor is complimented by the great outdoor area with wooden booths, a perfect vibe for a party of six girls gearing up to see Next To Normal at the Ahmanson.

Downtown is turning into quite the hot-spot.