Finding the perfect Caprese sandwich can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially in a bustling city like Downtown Los Angeles. But fear not, fellow Caprese enthusiasts! This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best 21 spots offering this classic Italian delight in the heart of LA. We've scoured the city, tasted countless variations, and compiled this list to help you find your new favorite. Whether you prefer a simple, traditional version or a gourmet twist, we've got you covered.
What Makes a Great Caprese Sandwich?
Before we delve into our top picks, let's define what constitutes a truly exceptional Caprese sandwich. The foundation lies in the quality of the ingredients:
- Fresh, ripe tomatoes: The cornerstone of any good Caprese. Juicy, flavorful tomatoes are essential.
- High-quality mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella di bufala is ideal, but a good fresh mozzarella will do. Avoid pre-shredded or processed cheese.
- Fresh basil: The fragrant basil leaves add a vital element of freshness and herbaceousness.
- Balsamic glaze: A drizzle of good balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the mozzarella.
- Bread: The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the ingredients without becoming soggy. Ciabatta, focaccia, or a crusty baguette are excellent choices.
Top 21 Caprese Sandwiches in Downtown LA
This list is organized alphabetically, not by ranking, as "best" is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, each location is noted for its strengths.
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A.O.C. Restaurant: Known for its upscale, farm-to-table approach, A.O.C.'s Caprese is a sophisticated take on the classic. Expect high-quality ingredients and a refined presentation.
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Angel City Brewery: This brewery offers a more casual setting but boasts a surprisingly delicious Caprese sandwich made with locally sourced ingredients. Great for a casual lunch or happy hour.
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Bestia: This popular Italian restaurant delivers a robust and flavorful Caprese, reflecting their commitment to authentic Italian cuisine. Expect a heavier, more filling sandwich.
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Bottega Louie: This iconic LA spot is famous for its beautiful pastries, but their Caprese sandwich is also a must-try, featuring fresh mozzarella and perfectly ripe tomatoes. A classic with a chic ambiance.
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Cafe Gratitude: While known for its vegetarian cuisine, Cafe Gratitude's Caprese features a creative twist, using seasonal ingredients. Expect unique combinations and fresh flavors.
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Casey's Restaurant: A Downtown LA institution known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients. Expect a simple but extremely tasty sandwich. A consistent and reliable choice.
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Chi Spacca: This acclaimed Italian restaurant is an excellent choice for a higher-end Caprese experience. Expect exceptional quality and attention to detail.
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Cole's Restaurant: Another Downtown LA staple, Cole's offers a classic take on the Caprese, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch. A simple, well-executed sandwich.
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Everson Royce Bar (ERB): While primarily a bar, ERB's Caprese is a hidden gem, often featuring seasonal variations. A great option for a casual setting.
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Gjelina: This trendy restaurant offers a gourmet version of the Caprese, featuring unique additions and sophisticated flavors. Expect a more adventurous Caprese experience.
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Grand Central Market: This diverse food hall boasts multiple vendors serving Caprese variations, offering a wide range of options to choose from. Explore and compare different styles.
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La Piazza Ristorante: This Italian restaurant provides a more traditional, family-style Caprese sandwich. A comforting and classic choice.
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Little Dom's: This casual Italian eatery offers a well-balanced and tasty Caprese. Expect generous portions and a friendly atmosphere.
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Osteria Mozza: This renowned Italian restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and masterful execution. Their Caprese is no exception. A top-tier Caprese experience.
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Republique: This popular restaurant provides a unique and refined take on the Caprese sandwich, combining classic flavors with creative flair. Expect a sophisticated and delicious meal.
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Rossoblu: This Italian restaurant focuses on regional Italian cuisine, offering a Caprese that reflects the flavors of a specific region. Expect a unique regional twist.
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The Luggage Room Pizzeria: Although primarily known for pizza, their Caprese is worth a try, often featuring fresh and high-quality ingredients. A solid option if you are in the area.
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WP24 by Wolfgang Puck: This upscale restaurant, located high atop the Ritz-Carlton, offers a Caprese that reflects Chef Puck's creative flair. A luxurious and memorable experience.
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Urban Radish: This trendy restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing fresh and seasonal produce in its Caprese sandwich. Expect fresh and inventive flavor combinations.
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The Factory Kitchen: Known for its stunning setting, The Factory Kitchen provides a beautiful and delectable Caprese sandwich that matches the quality of its surroundings. A high-end sandwich in a stunning location.
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Gracias Madre: A vegan restaurant that uses high-quality vegan cheeses to provide a delicious caprese. A great option for vegans and vegetarians.
Finding Your Perfect Caprese
This list provides a great starting point for your Downtown LA Caprese adventure. Remember to consider your budget, desired atmosphere, and preferred style when making your choice. Happy eating!
