Downtown LA’s Redbird serves modern cuisine in a former cathedral space
Carved into the rectory of Vibiana, one of downtown LA’s most historic buildings, Redbird is the result of a creative collaboration between chef Neal Fraser and restaurateurs Amy Knoll Fraser and Bill Chait. Serving seasonal small and large format plates, ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrées meant to be enjoyed by the whole table, in a unique space featuring a retractable ceiling and craft cocktails on tap, Redbird is a culinary establishment like no other.
Interesting dishes like Barbecue Smoked Tofu with beluga lentils, Swiss chard and truffle nage, and Grilled Ancient Grains with grape leaf, artichoke, fava bean puree and Parmesan appeal to vegetarians. Yet the menu also caters to exploratory carnivores with items like rabbit sausage, chicken hearts and gizzards, bone marrow, braised goat and foie gras, showcasing Fraser’s ability to deftly please palates across the spectrum.
Desserts like the Creamsicle, with vanilla, murcott tangerines, mint and chile are seemingly familiar, while ones like the Sweet Pea, an English pea cake with sorrel and yogurt mint sherbert are quite unexpected.
The patio is one of the best in town for a Sunday Brunch, perfectly paired with Redbird’s Modern Mimosa with Chablis, clarified orange juice and bubbles. Cheers!
Redbird
114 East Second Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
213.788.1191 | Redbird.LA
Photos Courtesy of Mary Costa and Dylan + Jeni