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ZipPicks Awards
Best Pizza in LA Arts District
Best Sandwiches in LA Arts District
Master Critic Review
Pane Bianco DTLA
8.0
Chris Bianco's lunch-only counter shop at ROW DTLA builds each sandwich on split focaccia baked to order in a wood-fired oven, filled with house-cured meats and local produce—a format that rewards the single-item visit over a full meal. The patio runs conversational rather than chaotic, and the free two-hour garage parking removes the usual downtown friction. With only 55 reviews it's still proving itself at this location, but the 80% five-star rate and Bianco's James Beard pedigree suggest the Phoenix playbook translates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Roast Beef Sandwich with Green Garlic Aioli, Mortadella Sandwich, Green Slice
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Chris Bianco's lunch-only sandwich shop where split focaccia is baked to order in a wood-fired oven and served with house-cured meats and local produce.
Who should go: Sandwich devotees and NY-style slice seekers near Row DTLA
When to visit: Weekday lunch before 1PM to beat the line
What to order: Grab a roast beef sandwich and a green slice — the pizza here rivals the sandwiches, so get both rather than doubling up on one category.
Insider tip: The green slice with spinach cheese sauce is easy to overlook next to the sandwich menu but regularly outperforms expectations — don't skip it.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free 2-hour garage parking at ROW DTLA (777 S Alameda St entrance off Center Street). Beyond 2 hours weekdays: $10 3rd hour, $12 daily max. Weekend rates lower after validation.
Dress code: Come as you are — counter-service sandwich and slice shop with no dress expectations. Jeans, shorts, whatever works.
Noise level: Moderate — outdoor cafe patio seating described as bustling but conversational. Notably quieter than the full-service Pizzeria Bianco next door.
Weekday lunch: Minimal — counter service with slices ready to grab, no reservations needed. Unlike Pizzeria Bianco next door, waits here are short.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple options: Mozzarella Basil focaccia sandwich, Sweet Aged Provolone with Roasted Pepper sandwich, Green Slice (spinach cheese sauce), market salads, and focaccia with eggplant Parmigiano.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional date — this is a casual counter-service sandwich and slice shop with a bustling, chatty atmosphere inside an industrial ROW DTLA warehouse space. Great for a low-key daytime lunch date where you want to keep things relaxed and pressure-free, but don't expect romantic lighting or intimate vibes. If you're looking for a proper date-night experience, the adjacent Pizzeria Bianco is the better pick.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Pane Bianco is entirely walk-in, counter-service only. No reservations taken or needed. Order at the counter and grab a seat. Open Monday through Friday, 11am to 3pm only, so this is strictly a lunch spot. Lines can build during the noon rush but move quickly since you're just ordering slices and sandwiches. Free 2-hour parking is available in the ROW DTLA garage.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual counter-service format and lively noise level make it very forgiving for families with kids. Pizza slices and simple sandwiches are easy crowd-pleasers for younger eaters. No specific kids menu has been confirmed, but the portions and menu style work well for children. The open ROW DTLA courtyard gives kids room to move around. Best suited for a quick weekday lunch rather than a long sit-down meal.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 4-5 who don't mind counter service and finding seats together. For larger parties, contact them directly — they encourage large group inquiries. Keep in mind seating is limited and first-come, first-served, so a group of 6+ during peak lunch hour may struggle to sit together. Not the spot for a structured group dinner — it's a grab-and-go lunch operation.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — Pane Bianco has patio seating within the ROW DTLA complex, described as warm and inviting. The industrial courtyard setting gives it an open-air feel with a mix of dedicated cafe patio seats and the broader ROW DTLA outdoor areas. Southern California weather makes it usable most of the year. No confirmed details on covered or heated sections — call ahead if weather is a concern.
Best For
Better for: Quick weekday lunch, solo dining, grabbing a slice without a wait. The perfect casual lunch move in the Arts District when you want Chris Bianco quality without the full sit-down commitment.
Skip if: You need weekend or dinner plans (closes at 3pm, weekdays only). Also skip for date night or groups — it's counter-service with limited patio seating. For whole wood-fired pies, go to Pizzeria Bianco next door instead.
Hours
Monday11am - 3pm
Tuesday11am - 3pm
Wednesday11am - 3pm
Thursday11am - 3pm
Friday11am - 3pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed