Where to Eat Near the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
Whether you’re enjoying a performance by the Los Angeles Opera or a show at the Ahmanson Theatre, you’ll find that all venues unite in Downtown Los Angeles with the help of the Jerry Moss Plaza to form The Music Center. Convenient parking is available below for a reasonable price, but to make the most of your night, it’s recommended to arrive early and stay there until the curtain rises. Here’s where to eat near the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion to fuel those epic late nights of culture.
What’s on Now at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion?
The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to the Los Angeles Opera and Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center. Currently, the Los Angeles Opera is performing a limited run of Verdi’s Falstaff, and I’m urging you to “get thee to the theatre!” The show is based on Shakespeare’s Merry Wives of Windsor and is Verdi’s final masterpiece. This opera is pure comedic joy even in 2026, and Craig Colclough as Sir John Falstaff couldn’t have been more perfect. Purchase your tickets here for one of five shows until May 10th. Opera isn’t just for the elite, either, as tickets are available for as low as $33.50.
Where to Eat Near the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
As mentioned above, if you want to get a primo parking space and avoid long lines at the end of the show, an early arrival is a must. Therefore, it’s best to focus on restaurants near the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. There are several dining options at The Music Center, but some have stopped hitting those high notes due to their long tenures and built-in audiences. I’m here to guide you to the spots that still strive for excellence.
Abernethy’s
Abernethy’s is located right on The Jerry Moss Plaza and features rotating chefs serving modern California cuisine. During my visit, the menu was Italian, with Pastas hovering around $30 and Main Courses around $40. Wine and Beer are available for $10 to $20 a glass, which is a little less than what you’ll pay for a Pre-Theatre Drink at The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Reservations are encouraged, and the restaurant is open for both Brunch and Dinner.
The Mullin Wine Bar
If you want the feel of Abernethy’s without the food, then The Mullin Wine Bar is the perfect choice. The restaurant spaces are almost identical, but The Mullin Wine Bar is more focused on drinks and shareables. A Margherita Pizza is $24 while a Market Vegetable Crudité is $16. Drinks include everything from a Negroni ($22) to a Portuguese Vinho Verde ($16).
Kendall’s Brasserie
Kendall’s Brasserie is part of the old guard when it comes to where to eat near the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The restaurant has been open for nearly twenty years and underwent a refresh in 2017. Positive reviews are on the decline, perhaps because 2017 was the last time they taste-tested the menu. If all you’re looking for is a Duck Confit ($28) and a glass of Gamay ($19), though, Kendall’s might be enough to satisfy. Searching for a tasty Steak Frites at a more affordable price? (Kendall’s is $52), Keep reading. Reservations are a must here due to its proximity to The Music Center. The restaurant is open is for both Brunch and Dinner.
San Laurel
San Laurel, from Michelin-starred chef José Andrés, is located atop the Conrad Los Angeles and happens to be right across the street from The Music Center. Menu must-haves from this famed Spanish chef include Jamón Iberico de Bellota and Gambas al aji Amarillo, but be prepared to pay about $40 per dish. During lunch, you can enjoy a $48 prix-fixe, with a Crudo selection, Oysters, and a larger plate such as the Octopus or Grilled Lubina. This is a great way to go if you’re enjoying a matinee show. Reserve on their website for lunch and dinner daily.
Massilia
Remember that affordable Steak Frites? Well, you’ll find it tenderly waiting for you at Massilia, right across the street from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. This is one of the newest restaurants on this list, and it’s got a near-perfect rating from diners. The restaurant is modern European, meaning you’ll find dishes from France, Italy, and Morocco alongside one another. The vibe is hip and upbeat, which is just what you want before a night out at the theater.
Popular dishes include the 8-Hour Lamb Shank with Potato Puree ($38), and I enjoyed the Tagliatelle aux Morilles ($25) during my visit. As for that Steak Frites, it’s served with béarnaise and chimichurri sauces and pencil-perfect fries ($34). The restaurant has a full bar and specializes in Negronis ($15+). Reservations are a must in the pre-theatre hours.
Hotels Near the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
Transform showtime into a staycation by adding on a hotel stay to your night out.
