Photo of JOEY DTLA, one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles

JOEY DTLA

4.7/5.0 (3084 reviews)

JOEY DTLA is the ideal destination for unforgettable dining experiences, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out. With a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that delights, it's a must-visit for food lovers in Los Angeles.

Our Expert's Take

At JOEY DTLA, the blend of upscale atmosphere and attentive service creates an inviting experience that is hard to match. Guests rave about the staff, particularly Kim, whose exceptional service enhances the overall dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every aspect, from the beautifully presented dishes to the carefully curated drink menu.

The culinary offerings at JOEY are designed to please a variety of palates, making it a great choice for both casual diners and those looking to indulge in something special. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a leisurely brunch, JOEY DTLA ensures that every visit feels like an extraordinary occasion.

At a Glance

Pros

  • Exceptional service that enhances your dining experience.
  • Vibrant atmosphere perfect for celebrations.
  • Diverse menu with something for everyone.

Cons

  • Can get busy during peak hours, so reservations are recommended.
  • Prices may be higher than average for some dishes.

What Diners Are Saying

Rating: 5/5

"We had the most incredible experience at Joey Restaurant in downtown LA for a joint celebration; my birthday and my mom’s early Mother’s Day brunch, and everything from start to finish was absolutely top-notch! The service was truly exceptional. Kim and Tiffany were our servers, and they went above and beyond to make us feel special. They were warm, attentive, and made sure every detail was perfect throughout our meal. Their energy made the whole brunch feel extra celebratory and welcoming. The food was delicious, fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. We also can’t stop raving about their classic margaritas made with egg whites; honestly, the best we’ve ever had! The drinks were crafted to perfection. To top it all off, the staff surprised us with complimentary champagne and dessert, which was such a thoughtful and classy touch. Joey DTLA truly exceeded our expectations and made our special occasion unforgettable. We’ll definitely be back and can’t recommend this location highly enough!"
- Michelle Chavez

Rating: 5/5

"This place is a gem—especially considering the area’s sky-high rent. The pricing is surprisingly fair for what you get. I don’t even like French fries, but I couldn’t stop eating these. Crisp, golden, and perfectly seasoned—not with generic salt, but with shaved Parmesan cheese that adds rich, savory punch. And best of all, they’re made from real potatoes—none of that McDonald’s-style fluff. The Korean-battered cauliflower was another standout—crisp on the outside, tender inside, and coated in a sweet-savory glaze that nails that Korean street food vibe. The menu is impressive and diverse, with something for everyone: vegan and vegetarian options, sushi, pastas, steak, and updated American classics. The ambiance hits a rare sweet spot: think old-money interior design softened with cozy lighting and greenery. It’s stylish and warm without feeling pretentious—modern chic done right."
- Ria Carnations

Rating: 5/5

"We had an absolutely perfect dinner at Joeys. Tyra was an amazing waitress, she was so funny and nice, and was always there to make sure we were satisfied without hovering at all. The food was fantastic! The steak and pork chop were cooked perfectly and so juicy! The dessert was top notch. If you are looking for a restaurant with a vibrant and stylish atmosphere and wonderful food and service I highly recommend it. A++++"
- Jordan Koehler

Rating: 4/5

"Joey is a convenient place to grab a bite for local corporate workers. I personally used to work in a building two blocks away, and my company had frequent happy hours here. For everyone else, parking is a bit of a pain as the restaurant is located in the heart of DTLA. I feel like Joey is great as long as you’re not paying - whether that be on your company card or your sugar daddy’s. The portion sizes are a bit small for what they are charging. My Steak and Ravioli Bianco was $40 for 5 oz of grilled sirloin and ravioli. The steak was quantified in weight beforehand, slo I was expecting that. But I wasn’t prepared for the ravioli to also be petite. Granted, it was delicious, and every ingredient could be considered premium: shrimp, steak, truffle. On that note - the truffle sauce was very good. The sauce was creamy and surprisingly light. The truffle was not overpowering. Some truffle sauces are so rich that I get sick of them, but I could easily finish this dish. But that’s also because I was given a toddler-sized portion. Even with the garlic bread add-on, I was still hungry after. I suppose you’re also paying for the vibe, which they do very well. It’s textbook LA - a chic, modern interior with the ventilation all exposed for some reason. Moody ambient lighting softly glows against the sleek dining area, lit up dramatically by the open kitchen. And… televisions. Above the bar. Showing sports. Just to make sure the vibe wasn’t too classy, I assume. Our server was wonderful and made very good suggestions. The Seared Salmon Sushi was divine. She also suggested I have some garlic bread with my entree, probably knowing how small it was. Actually, the small portion sizes are kinda on brand with the whole LA thing. If you’re not really trying to fill up and are just trying to enjoy a few nibbles and look cute, this is probably the place for you. It was a fun experience, but I wouldn’t really come back unless it was on someone else’s credit card."
- Cody Pham

Rating: 3/5

"Ok so... J.D. delivers on the culinary front. The food is genuinely impressive, showcasing a contemporary menu executed w/ skill - (think salads, rice bowls, steak, even Italian). The atmosphere is vibrant & comfy, a blend of business & casual patrons. Parking is conveniently accessible (used the lot And if you're running late it does have a valet). However, the service experience was a notable detractor. We waited quite a long time for our entrees to be delivered which impacted our schedule, and proactive beverage service was lacking. While the staff was pleasant, efficiency was not a strong point. Overall a fun place to go and be. Next time; I would just make sure I adjusted my time frame availability."
- p k

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there parking available at JOEY DTLA?

Yes, JOEY DTLA offers nearby parking options, including valet services.

What is the dress code at JOEY DTLA?

The dress code is smart casual, making it a great place to dress up or keep it comfortable.

What is the best dish to order at JOEY DTLA?

The signature sushi rolls and handcrafted cocktails are highly recommended by frequent diners.