Clifton's Awards

Clifton's Restaurant Review:

This massive 80-year-old cafeteria has returned to downtown L.A. after a $10-million renovation, resulting in a truly eye-popping experience. Founded in the Great Depression by philanthropist Clifford Clinton, who instigated a “pay what you can” policy to combat the city’s endemic hunger, the iconic cafeteria closed in 2010. The Edison owner Andrew Meieran has revived the surreal restaurant that juxtaposes taxidermy (a lot of it) with gleaming Deco-themed cocktail bars, loungy antler furniture, enormous stone fireplaces, a waterfall, a meteorite and oh, did we mention the giant fake redwood tree up through the center? It’s little wonder then that the nightlife scene here buzzes, particularly on weekends. The cafeteria is being re-imagined as The Marketplace, offering small plates and rotating classics. The beauty of Clifton's is always finding an odd new nook to explore, a lively local crowd and a feeling of community.