L.A. Live is an entertainment complex in Los Angeles which was built at an approximate cost of US$ 2.5 billion. The entire complex which is right across Staples Center houses hotels like Ritz Carlton and JW Marriott, Nokia Theater, Grammy Museum, Lucky Strike which is supposedly owned by Britney Spears & other celebrities, clubs, bars and restaurants. The name is very appropriate as the place gets really lively especially at night and when a Lakers or Clippers game is scheduled at the nearby Staples Center.
L.A. Live night shot
Day shot of some parts of L.A. Live
One of the best restaurants we’ve been to is Yard House located within the L.A. Live complex. It’s sports bar meets casual dining meets date place ambience. Flat screens showing sports events are all over, dining and cocktail tables and bar seating available, mood lighting, gracious service and yes…very good food!
Steak was grilled to perfection and to our liking. Other entrees were remarkably good. Presentation was note worthy. We dined here twice but TBW had no camera the 2nd time to capture the spicy Mahi tuna roll which was actually done in layers, nacho platter which resembled a hill and more.
An interesting restaurant in L.A. Live is Trader Vic’s (any relation to Joe? Ü). Polynesian, Hawaiian in theme, it’s menu carries standard favorites with a South Pacific twist. Owners are wise though not to mess with the all-time favorite burger.
L-R: Shrimp drizzled with a spicy lime coconut dressing; "don't mess with me burger" which was grilled just right, maintaining the patty's juiciness and tenderness; fish and chips with cilantro & carrot strings.
For sports fanatics, ESPN Zone is the place to be. Right beside L.A. Live’s open-air activity area and with a direct view of Staples Center, this restaurant is a popular choice for many. Line gets pretty long especially when a Lakers game is on.
Place your orders then walk a few steps and get into the frenzy of things in the activity area. Such as? O…meet up with basketball stars…
....like L.A. Lakers Michael Thompson Ü
Then eat up and proceed to Staples to watch the warm-up and game.
L.A. Live is in West Olympic Blvd. corner South Figueroa st.
