Manuela…the Art of Food and Design

by SweisKloss
April 1, 2021

Would you all agree that we have some of the best restaurants in Los Angeles? Successful restaurants have to check many boxes, but the clear-cut ones are as follows: the menu/food has to be incredible, especially with such discerning foodies in LA; service has to be on point; and the design of the space has to be memorable…a place one would want to go back to time and again. Manuela in DTLA’s Arts District would certainly meet these criteria.

Let’s start with the fact that Manuela is situated at the center of the Hauser + Wirth Los Angeles building. A former flour mill, the communal space blends architecture with art, cultural events and exhibitions. “The site was restored by Los Angeles real estate company Creative Space LA in consultation with Annabelle Selldorf, Principal of Selldorf Architects. In 2018, Hauser + Wirth Los Angeles was awarded the Chair’s Award, Los Angeles Conservancy’s highest honor recognizing the importance of preserving historic landmarks that make the city unique.”

Upon entering the restaurant, one feels as if they have stumbled upon a hidden gem of a bistro in a remote part of Paris. Yet there is an industrial modernity that complements the old-world charm of the design. Warm reclaimed woods, natural stone, custom-made chandeliers, and rich-colored artwork create a visual display for the eye. To add to the atmosphere is the courtyard that opens to the sky above. And tables are surrounded by plenty of greenery. All in all, the restaurant truly feels like an oasis from the busyness that is LA.

Manuela is all about sustainability. They source from local farms and vendors in Southern California. Ingredients are plucked from their herb garden, chickens (in coops) provide fresh eggs, and bitters and tonics are made in-house. Elements from the antique mill were restored and used as additional architectural features. High-end artwork rotates often, promoting local artists of diverse backgrounds.

Now that restaurants are opening a bit more, this is the time to keep supporting our wonderful restaurants that have thankfully survived the past year. Plus, aren’t we all wanting to get out of the sweatpants and get a little dressed up—albeit still masked—and hang out with friends and family at a lovely restaurant? When you are ready, put Manuela on your list. Learn more about Manuela by clicking here.

P.S. One SK Staffer highly recommends the cast iron blue cornbread, wood grilled sunchokes, and for dessert the burnt honey cake with mascarpone and honeycomb brittle. Thank us later.