You've probably seen the neon sign. It’s that soft, inviting glow in Los Angeles—specifically the Arts District—that just says "Here and Now." It’s not just a name; it’s a whole mood. If you’re looking for a spot that perfectly captures the gritty yet polished evolution of DTLA, this is it. Honestly, the neighborhood has changed so much over the last decade, but Here and Now restaurant feels like it has actually found its soul.
It's a bar. It's a kitchen. It's a travel-themed escape.
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Most people walk in expecting just another cocktail lounge with overpriced bitters. They're wrong. What they find instead is a space that feels like a vintage train car from a time when travel actually felt glamorous. The booth seating is plush. The lighting is low enough to hide a bad day but bright enough to see your fries. It’s a vibe.
The Real Deal on the Here and Now Restaurant Experience
The first thing you need to know about Here and Now restaurant is that it doesn't stay the same. It’s restless. They are famous for their "takeovers" and seasonal pivots. One month it’s a tropical getaway, and the next, it’s Blitzen’s—the legendary Christmas pop-up that draws lines around the block. This isn't some lazy gimmick where they just put up a few streamers. They change the menu, the decor, and the entire energy of the room.
I’ve seen people wait two hours in the December chill just to get a drink in a reindeer mug. Is it worth it?
Yeah. Probably.
The drinks are managed with a level of precision that you’d expect from the Westbound team (the original iteration of this space). We’re talking about clear ice. We’re talking about house-made infusions. But here is the kicker: the food actually holds its own. Usually, in a "cool" bar, the food is an afterthought—some soggy wings or a sad slider. Not here.
Why the Menu Actually Works
The kitchen leans into what I’d call "elevated comfort." Think about the best burger you've had recently. Now, make it better. The Here and Now burger is a staple for a reason. It’s not trying to be a Michelin-starred experiment; it’s just a really, really good double cheeseburger. They use quality beef, the bun doesn't disintegrate under the grease, and the sauce has that tang you crave at 10:00 PM on a Tuesday.
They also do these "potted" snacks. Little jars of goodness.
- Smoked Trout Dip: It’s salty, creamy, and comes with crackers that actually have some structural integrity.
- Chicken Liver Mousse: If you’re into that sort of thing, it’s exceptionally smooth.
- The Fries: Get them. Don't overthink it. Just get them.
What’s interesting is how the menu reflects the "travel" theme of the decor. You’ll see nods to global flavors, but it never feels like it's trying too hard to be "fusion." It just feels like Los Angeles. Diverse. Messy. Delicious.
Navigating the Drinks: More Than Just Alcohol
Let's talk about the liquid side of the Here and Now restaurant. If you aren't a big drinker, don't walk away. They have one of the most thoughtful "No-Proof" programs in the city. They treat non-alcoholic drinks with the same respect as a 20-year-old scotch.
But if you are looking for the hard stuff, the menu is a journey.
They organize it in a way that actually makes sense for how people drink. Instead of just listing ingredients, they often group things by "feeling" or "style." Want something bright and herbaceous? They got you. Want something that tastes like a campfire in a glass? They have that too.
The bartenders know their stuff. Ask them for a recommendation. Don't be that person who just orders a vodka soda. You are in a temple of mixology; live a little.
The Arts District Context
You can't talk about Here and Now restaurant without talking about where it lives. The Arts District used to be where you went to buy wholesale fabric or get into a warehouse party that was definitely a fire hazard. Now? It’s the epicenter of LA’s culinary scene. You have Bestia down the street. You have Bavel.
Here and Now sits in that sweet spot.
It’s the place you go before your fancy dinner reservation, or the place you go after to decompress. Or, if you’re like most of the locals, it’s the place you go instead of a fancy dinner because you just want a good drink and a burger without the pretension.
What People Get Wrong
People think it’s just a "theme bar." That’s a mistake. A theme bar is a place you visit once for a photo and never go back to because the drinks are sugary trash. Here and Now restaurant is a neighborhood staple. It’s consistent.
The staff actually seems to like being there. That matters. In a city where service can sometimes feel like a performance for an IMDB credit, the team at Here and Now is genuinely attentive. They remember faces. They know the regulars.
How to Do It Right
If you’re planning a visit, there are some logistical realities to face.
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- Timing is everything. If you show up at 8:00 PM on a Friday, expect a wait. It’s a popular spot.
- The Patio. They have outdoor seating which is great for people-watching in the Arts District. It’s a parade of fashion choices and expensive dogs.
- Parking. It’s DTLA. It’s a nightmare. Use a ride-share. Seriously. Don't spend forty minutes circling the block only to pay $20 for a lot. Just get an Uber.
The interior is where the magic is, though. The "train car" booths are the move. If you can snag one, hold onto it. It feels private even when the room is buzzing. It’s the perfect spot for a date or a deep conversation with a friend you haven't seen in a year.
The Seasonal Shift
Keep an eye on their social media. When they flip the script for a holiday or a theme, the menu usually changes completely. This keeps it fresh. It’s why people keep coming back. Most restaurants find a groove and stay there until they die. Here and Now keeps reinventing itself while keeping the core quality high.
It’s a difficult balance to strike. Most places fail at it. They either become too kitschy or they lose their identity.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
If you want to experience Here and Now restaurant the right way, follow this plan:
The Early Bird Move
Show up around 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM. The light is still hitting the street, the bar isn't slammed yet, and you can actually talk to the bartender. Order a classic cocktail—something like a Negroni or an Old Fashioned—to test the waters. Their versions are impeccable.
The Food Strategy
Don't just snack. Order the burger. Share it if you must, but don't skip it. If you’re there with a group, grab the duck fat popcorn. It’s addictive and a much better bar snack than stale peanuts.
The Seasonal Check
Before you go, check if they are currently in a "takeover" phase. If it’s December, be prepared for the Blitzen’s madness. If it’s mid-summer, look for the tropical or "vacation" themes. Each one requires a different mindset.
The Follow-Through
After your drinks, take a walk around the block. The Arts District at night is one of the most interesting parts of Los Angeles. There’s street art everywhere, hidden galleries, and the kind of energy you can’t find in Santa Monica or West Hollywood.
Here and Now restaurant isn't just a place to get a drink. It’s a anchor for the neighborhood. It represents the best of what the "new" DTLA can be: creative, high-quality, and surprisingly welcoming. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it's a stop you actually need to make.
Go for the train car vibes. Stay for the burger. Come back for the next theme. That’s how you do Here and Now.