For SummitLA19, we hear from Luke Reyes and Michael Backlinder on what to see, eat, sip, and do in the city.
Luke Reyes
Chef and Owner of La Hoja, 9th Street Ramen, and Gitanes
On where to find inspiration in DTLA:
“My favorite place to find inspiration in the city is at the Los Angeles Flower market in Downtown. I try to go at least once a week in the early mornings to see what’s available and just walk around for a bit. The incredible selection of plants and flowers inspires me to think about colors in food and different plating ideas. It’s nice to combine that aspect with my usual farmers market visits for produce to really draw out the best dishes.”
On the best kept secret in DTLA:
“Estretto Bros Deli in Downtown LA is the best kept secret. Joel and Dave are doing great things, and have an insane wine selection for what you’d usually expect from a ‘sandwich’ shop.”
Courtesy of Luke Reyes.
Michael Backlinder
Owner of ilCaffè
On a favorite city spot:
“The Walt Disney Hall!”
On a favorite restaurant in DTLA:
“Shibumi on Hill between 8th and 9th—a stone throw from my home and business.”
