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ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour Wings in Downtown LA
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best American in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Engine Co. No. 28
8.2
A historic firehouse turned American grill that works surprisingly well for family dinners, especially with teens. The room feels special without being stiff, and the menu leans into hearty classics that land with kids and adults alike. Service can be brisk during rushes, but the setting makes it a memorable downtown meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
meatloaf, fried chicken, crab cakes
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Landmark firehouse dining room serving classic American comfort.
Who should go: Families wanting a sit-down downtown classic.
When to visit: Weekend lunch or early dinner.
What to order: Meatloaf, fried chicken, a shared starter.
Insider tip: Request a booth—best for kids and big groups.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated garage parking is available in adjacent DTLA structures, with street parking limited and competitive after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and tees are fine, but most guests lean slightly polished for the historic setting.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during peak dinner hours but still manageable for family conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during pre-theater rushes.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait unless there’s a nearby office crowd surge.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate options—salads, pastas, and a few hearty sides can work.
Vegan options: Limited—expect to build from sides and salads; call ahead for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be made GF with modifications, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a classic DTLA setting with character; the historic firehouse adds charm without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes for weekday lunches, but weekend dinner walk-ins should expect a wait unless arriving early.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—best for older kids and teens who enjoy hearty American classics; booths make it easier for families.
Best For
Better for: A more memorable, historic dining room than nearby corporate-leaning DTLA options, with comfort-heavy dishes that satisfy mixed family tastes.
Skip if: You want ultra-quiet dining or strict vegan/GF accommodations—other DTLA spots handle those better.
Hours
Monday11am - 8:30pm
Tuesday11am - 8:30pm
Wednesday11am - 8:30pm
Thursday11am - 8:30pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
SundayClosed