Downtown Los Angeles, an ever-evolving epicenter of culture and culinary delights, has welcomed a captivating addition to its gastronomic landscape. Dahlia, an intimate cocktail lounge, represents the latest culinary endeavor from Property Hospitality and the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel. With the culinary mastery of the dynamic James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanna Goin and the expertise of restaurateur Caroline Styne from The Lucques Group, Dahlia completes a trio of dining experiences, standing alongside the Portuguese-inspired restaurant Caldo Verde and the stylish rooftop lounge Cara Cara.
Nestled at the corner of South Broadway and West 11th Street within the South Park District, the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel holds a storied past dating back to the 1920s. Designed by the renowned Los Angeles architects Curlett & Beelman, this establishment initially served as an exclusive private club, boasting luminaries such as Cecil B. DeMille among its distinguished members. Transitioning into a YWCA in the 1960s, the hotel has evolved into a vibrant symbol of Downtown Los Angeles’ revitalization. It offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history while embracing its flourishing creative community.
Aptly named after Mexico’s indigenous flower, Dahlia exemplifies the hotel’s core mission by providing a warm and inviting space for both hotel guests and visitors to indulge in both classic and non-alcoholic cocktails. The lounge features an impressive array of premium, rare, and small-batch spirits, each meticulously curated to elevate the craft of mixology. Notably, all cocktails are either crafted or perfected right at the table, thanks to Dahlia’s unique Cocktail Cart, which encourages interaction between guests and the skilled “cart tender.” This arrangement ensures that patrons have access to the lounge’s iconic and elusive spirits, enhancing their overall experience.
Dahlia’s arrival adds another layer of sophistication and charm to the cultural tapestry of Downtown Los Angeles, solidifying the city’s reputation as a thriving culinary destination with a deep appreciation for history and innovation. As guests step into this intimate cocktail lounge, they embark on a journey that seamlessly combines tradition and creativity, offering an unforgettable experience for all who appreciate the art of fine libations.
