Holiday Gifts for Foodies in Downtown LA

A Unique Book for Amateur Chefs

Autographed at Chef Ludo Lefebvre’s recent [ALOUD] appearance, this cookbook chronicles the charismatic chef and his cult-hit, pop-up restaurant, LudoBites. Each chapter showcases the story and the outrageously inventive food of the seven different LudoBites incarnations, featuring recipes that merge the techniques Lefebvre perfected in his years at the finest French restaurants with the simplicity forced upon him by the limits of a pop-up kitchen.

Ultimate Chocolate Almond Heaven

Fall in love with hand-roasted almonds, caramelized with vanilla beans and a pinch of salt from the sea, then tossed in Compartes&rsquop; delicious signature gourmet chocolate and topped off with extra brut cocoa powder. Crunchy caramelized almonds + sea salt + vanilla + chocolate = heaven! Handcrafted in Los Angeles. The Shop at The Standard features a curated selection of unique holiday gifts.

Delicious Accessories for Fashionistas

These earrings by FIDM alum Meghan McChone are sure to add some flavor to your next holiday cocktail party. Lightweight and petite, they look like real almonds and cashews – just covered in gold. Choose between hazelnuts, cashews, or peanuts. In other words, go nuts.

Special Offer: 15% off in December when you mention DowntownLA.com

Kitchen Accessories for All Chefs

Find an extensive collection of rare and collectible knives at this Downtown LA staple. The shop also sells everything from medieval swords and lances to Swiss Army knives and antique razors, so you’ll be sure to find something special. Even better: For the more experienced chef, these guys are some of the best knife sharpeners in town!

The Singular Vegan Cooking Reference

Work your vegan wizardry at home with this award-winning cookbook of over 250 quick and easy recipes. Named after the infamous spellbook, Necronomicon, this book could actually be magical for the health of you and your loved ones. And, if you or the vegan in your life already have this book, check out the dozens of other new plant-based cookbooks in The Last Bookstore’s cooking section – over 2,000 volumes strong, from new to antique. Whether it’s Italian, Chef-of-the-Moment, or home-brewing tips you’re after, you can find it and more at The Last Bookstore.

A Little Cup of Heaven

Enjoy the taste of the holidays with various special limited-time, holiday-flavored cupcakes from Big Man Bakes. Unique to Downtown LA, these treats make the perfect gift for the sweet tooth on your list! Preorders are highly encouraged.

Farm-Fresh Custom Jams & More Jarred Sides

These popular homemade jams come in a variety of flavors that vary based on the season. They are sure to satisfy every foodie on your list! Chef Joseph Antonishek has done a great culinary job at Industriel, which features an eclectic menu that features simple, pure, fresh, flavorful dishes with roots in the Provençal tradition, but with modern LA attitude.

Delicious Assorted Sweets from Bottega Louie

Indulge in this exclusive line of holiday gift boxes from LA’s beloved Bottega Louie restaurant. Each extravagant gift box contains handmade fine macarons, assorted caramels, assorted truffles, handcrafted chocolate bars, chocolate-enrobed Palet d’Or, and candies. Holiday gift boxes come in five magnificent presentations for $150 (shown), $200, and $250.

Boxes may be purchased at Bottega Louie; orders requiring shipping or large quantities may call (213) 802-1487. Also, stay for lunch or dinner, as Bottega Louie’s always-popular bar and restaurant offer Italian-inspired small plates and pizzas in an exciting, urban atmosphere.

Delicious Holiday Snacks at the New CityTarget

Downtown’s just-opened CityTarget debuted a seasonal treat for the holidays: Archer Farms Jingle Blend Trail Mix. This indulgent snack mix blends M&M’S Chocolate Candies, chocolate nonpareils, chocolate-pomegranate-flavored fruit gels, almonds, cashews, and pecans. Sure to become a holiday favorite!

Tour and Taste Six Eateries in Downtown LA

Take part in the Downtown Renaissance as you explore Art Deco skyscrapers and hip bistros. Sample pupusas made from a family recipe, modern Thai cuisine, and European inspired sweets as you walk the most urban spot in the country’s second-largest city. Guests will be led on a route of about six eateries on roughly 12 walking blocks over a period of about four hours. You can also purchase gift certificates for the foodies on your list.

Special Offer: Use code "DTLA_DOT_COM" for $5 OFF the Downtown LA tour. Don’t wait – book today!

For Coffee & Hot Chocolate Lovers

This new mug features a beautiful artist’s rendition of the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Downtown Los Angeles. In addition, the LA Phil Store has a wide assortment of unique gifts – including music, books, clothing, games, and even jewelry. Proceeds from all sales at the LA Phil Store support the Los Angeles Philharmonic and its programs.

Cook With Mary Sue Milliken & Susan Feniger

Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger teach you their favorite street eats hot off the Border Grill Truck, and from the new “STREET FOOD” cookbook! For only $75, this demonstration-style cooking class includes a multi-course lunch at Border Grill Downtown LA, signature cocktails, and a recipe booklet.

Special Offer: Free appetizer when you purchase one entrée and mention DowntownLA.com (Single appetizers only; Border Classics and Ceviche Trio not included. One appetizer per table. Not valid on holidays, special menus, or with any other offer. No cash value.)

Designer Gifts by Local Artisans

The largest independent design show in the country, attendees get the rare chance to meet and shop directly from over 350 hand-selected designers and artists. You will be able to find unique kitchen and food items as well. The exciting two-day shopping event makes it easy for you to buy local and support LA’s economy, discover great design and deals, join in community, and have a blast. The products at the show are proudly made in the USA, so you’re putting your dollars right back into our economy and local community!