Downey is located in Southeast Los Angeles County, California, USA, 13 miles southeast of Downtown Los Angeles.
It has a population of 111,645 as of 2021 and is considered part of the Gateway Cities. You will enjoy a trip to this charming city if you love history.
Downey harbors the world’s oldest McDonald’s and is where the Apollo Space Program started. Aside from that, Downey has numerous attractions and city parks.
Food lovers will be glad to explore the city’s food scene, relishing their lovely flavors and fascinating settings.
If you are planning a visit to Downey, here are the best restaurants in Downey, CA that are worth visiting.
Best Restaurants in Downey
1. Lock & Key Social Drinkery + Kitchen
Located on Downey Avenue, Lock & Key Social Drinkery + Kitchen is a laid-back restaurant providing delicious steaks, wings, burgers, and sides.
It is among the top places to eat in Downey, CA supplying sleek, modern, visual, and artistically good food.
Blending the atmosphere with a touch of elegance stands it out among the best. Thus, if you want a lovely place to celebrate birthdays and small wins, you can choose this spot. It also provides efficient service for the fast and prompt delivery of meals.
Although it releases a bar vibe, it offers comfort food that is freshly prepared and served with one of the ice-cold brews in the full-service bar.
Lock & Key Social Drinkery + Kitchen is open on Monday to Thursday, from 5 – 10 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 2 pm – 12 am, and Sunday, from 2 – 10 pm.
Address: 11033 Downey Avenue, Downey, CA 90241. Phone: (562) 619-8426
2. Gaucho Grill Argentine Steakhouse
Nestled in a shopping center, Gaucho Grill Argentine Steakhouse is a contemporary restaurant focusing on traditional Argentine cuisine.
Gaucho Grill Argentine Steakhouse is one of the best restaurants in the Downey, CA, providing an upscale ambiance, perfect for all occasions.
The menu is innovative, combining traditional dishes with modern twists.
It boasts diverse beef flavors, seafood, chicken, and sides. Try the empanadas, comprising beef and spinach with argentine chorizo, for your appetizer.
If you are hungry, grab a meat platter with a cocktail, and you will not be disappointed.
In addition, the warm atmosphere, which blends with the argentine flavors, is perfect for special occasions.
The prices are about what you would get elsewhere, and the service is everything you would wish for in an exquisite setting.
Gaucho Grill Argentine Steakhouse is open on Sunday to Thursday, from 11 am – 10 pm, and Friday to Saturday, from 11 am – 11 pm.
Address: 8830 Apollo Way, Downey, CA 90242. Phone: (562) 381-2517
3. Tempo Cantina
Not only does Tempo Cantina whip up authentic Mexican fares, but it also serves them creatively to appeal to the sense of sight.
It is a perfect spot to eat your favorite dish with the traditional mixed flavors you crave. The atmosphere is boisterous with a more contemporary design blend.
Something clicks right about the menu; the food is made with only fresh ingredients that transport you to the streets of Mexico.
You cannot go wrong with the fajitas, tacos, burritos, guacamoles, and other Mexican flavors with different meat, seafood, and fish flavors. Besides, the margaritas are smoothly mixed to blend well with the food.
The vibes are casual and ideal for a hangout. You don’t have to wait long before being attended to because quality service is the goal.
Moreover, if you are a music lover, you will enjoy the cool tune serenading the ears.
Tempo Cantina is open on Monday to Thursday, from 11 am – 10 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 11 am – 11 pm, and Sunday, from 9 am – 10 pm.
Address: 12056 Paramount Boulevard, Downey, CA 90242. Phone: (562) 321 9600
4. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
It is hard to beat the relaxed old-fashioned feel that Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar offers the residents and locals of Downey.
It ranks among the top eateries in the city, providing American and global comfort food. The restaurant is where family and friends unite for relaxation and savor good food.
Sample the Pot Roast Dip Sandwich with onion rings; you will enjoy it to the last drop. Another option is the queso dip with grilled chicken Caesar salad, then end the meal with some butter cake. They also have good beers and other drinks you may want to taste.
If you belong to the ‘Lay Dog Beer’ club, you will enjoy an excellent selection of beer and other items every quarter.
It is fantastic dining here and relishing the beautiful interior, together with your food. The atmosphere rounds it off with its inviting vibes.
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar is open on Monday to Friday, from 11 – 12 am, Saturday, from 10 – 12 am, and Sunday, from 9 – 12 am.
Address: 8800 Apollo Way, Downey, CA 90242. Phone: (562) 354-4910
5. The Olive RestoBar
Come and experience the taste of Mediterranean culture as you step into The Olive RestoBar. It is among the top restaurants in Downey, CA to visit for a superb brunch with well-spiced dishes.
Its contemporary garden atmosphere and tastefully furnished interior make it a perfect place to eat your favorite Mediterranean cuisine.
The menu promises a lot, from well-seasoned kabob to seafood specialties, delectable steaks, homemade desserts, and crunchy salads.
They are all made from scratch and served to order; you won’t like to miss any. Of course, you will have eclectic wines, beers, and cocktails to sample at the bar.
You can select the cozy dining room or inviting patio for relaxation with friends. You can expect exceptional taste and service from their catering section if you have a wedding, birthday, or other special day to celebrate.
Get ready to enjoy a fine-dining experience as you enter this heartwarming restaurant.
The Olive RestoBar is open on Monday to Thursday, from 11 am – 10 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 11 am – 11 pm, and Sunday, from 10 am – 11 pm.
Address: 8830 Apollo Way, Suite 104, Downey, CA 90242. Phone: (562) 401-0054
6. Chris’ & Pitt’s Restaurant
Chris’ & Pitt’s Restaurant is a small, family-owned restaurant in Southern California, serving BBQ and traditional American dishes.
The owners use original recipes to create tasty and fresh dishes that impact your taste buds. A peek into the menu, you will discover most of your favorites, including burgers, chicken, pork, and beef sandwiches, fries, soups, and salads.
Start with a cup of chili and onion rings. Then, continue with a dish of Hawaiian-style chicken and tossed green salad or any of the meat platters with BBQ sauces. There are also daily specials and other choices to taste.
The casual atmosphere and the swish leather booths help to keep you homey and relaxed. The service is super friendly; you will be quickly seated, and the servers will take care of you.
Chris’ & Pitt’s Restaurant is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 11 am – 10 pm. Feel free to add it to your list of best restaurants in Downey, CA.
Address: 9243 Lakewood Boulevard, Downey, CA 90240. Phone: (562) 869-9069
7. The Downey Pizza Co
If it is about pizza, give it to The Downey Pizza Co. It does not only produce fresh pizzas; it makes flavorful ones, served at a fantastic rate.
Everyone loves a good pizza, and if you want a casual restaurant to eat it, you will not go wrong coming here.
The menu features diverse flavors, but you should go for the pastrami pizza, comprising pastrami, mustard and pickles.
Combine it with salads or fries. You will find mouthwatering sandwiches as alternatives if you don’t want pizzas.
Undoubtedly, The Downey Pizza Co is your best bet whenever you visit the city. Bring your family; they will love to share in the fun as each picks a slice of their favorites from the platter. The professional service makes it a great place to unwind and create moments.
The Downey Pizza Co is open on Sunday to Thursday, from 11 am – 9 pm, and Friday to Saturday, from 11 am – 10 pm.
Address: 9026 Florence Avenue, Downey, CA 90241. Phone: (562) 862-1112
8. Marketplace Grill
If you crave fresh, delicious, and healthy grilled meats, the Marketplace Grill should be on your list of best places to eat in Downey, CA.
This restaurant is located at the Courtyard Business Center and serves authentic Mediterranean and American cuisine. This spot also features light-colored walls and natural lighting to calm the nerves.
In addition, the menu boasts simple but flavorful dishes that are easy to eat. Ensure to grab a chicken wrap with a drink for lunch.
However, there are breakfast and dinner options to start or end your day. Deluxe services await you once you step in and relax on the casual seating.
Marketplace Grill is open on Monday to Thursday, from 11 am – 10 pm, Friday to Saturday, from 11 am – 11 pm, and Sunday, from 8 am – 10 pm.
Address: 7877 Florence Avenue, Downey, CA 90240. Phone: (562) 927-8700.
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9. Fatimas Grill
This casual restaurant provides some of the best food in Downey, California. It is popular for its unique Lebanese-Mexican cuisine, which is creatively presented and generously served.
They are also made from scratch and to order, offering a fine dining experience.
If you are a Cheetos fan, try the hot Cheetos beef burrito. Everyone raves about this specialty dish.
Besides, the place is small and may not contain a large group. It is ideal for a quick bite or to-go meals, although the taste remains the goal.
Fatimas Grill is open on Monday to Saturday, from 10 am – 8 pm, and Sunday, from 11 am – 7 pm.
Address: 7840 Firestone Boulevard, Downey, CA 90241. Phone: (562) 659-7585
10. Porto’s Bakery and Café
A glimpse of Porto’s Bakery and Café gives an inviting aura and leaves your mouth to water.
It is a trendy restaurant in Downey, serving residents and visitors delicious Southern comfort food. It is a also one of the best Downey restaurants.
Only the freshest and finest ingredients make it to the kitchen, and the food served on your table hot.
Because of their unique tastes and quality, the meals have warmed their way into the guests’ hearts, and they cannot resist coming again.
Grab some tasty Porto’s cheese rolls, which are signature food. Then, pair them with a cup of latte for a refreshing breakfast.
There is no denying that this unpretentious café releases a comfy ambiance that leaves a laid-back effect on guests.
It is where savory baked goods meet hungry diners eager to start their day on a beautiful note.
Porto’s Bakery and Café is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 6:30 am – 8 pm.
Address: 8233 Firestone Boulevard, Downey, CA 90241. Phone: (562) 862-8888
11. Poached Neighborhood Kitchen
The owners of Poached Neighborhood Kitchen opened their doors in 2017, catering to the gastronomic needs of its guests.
Its goal has always been to add class and style to its classic breakfast and lunch taste. Of course, the meal is prepared fresh from local ingredients.
For breakfast, try the avocado toast on brioche with poached eggs and a side of fruit. Send it down with a cup of ice or hot coffee, and stay refreshed all day.
If you are in for lunch, consider a steak with a sauce, salad, or soup; it gives a different feeling.
Aside from the food, the staff is a fantastic set of people you would love to encounter. The service is top-notch, with a tremendous amount of love added to each serving.
Whether you choose to dine in the indoor dining space or outdoor patio, the experience remains excellent.
Poached Neighborhood Kitchen, one of the best Downey restaurants is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 7 am – 2 pm.
Address: 9510 Lakewood Boulevard, Downey, CA 90240. Phone: (562) 485-2300
12. Pop’s Café
If you don’t mind eating in a small dining place, you will love the breakfast staples offered by Pop’s Café.
The food is prepared to entice your taste bud and fill your stomach. Everything is made fresh every day to ensure you enjoy yourself.
You may experience some challenges selecting a meal with many items on the menu. However, you can choose any flavor of omelet, toast, pancake, burger, soup, and salad. They also serve good drinks, especially coffee, chocolate, and tea for your breakfast.
The food portion is large and filling. The place is often crowded on weekends and may require you to come earlier if you have somewhere to go quickly. In everything, the wait is worth it.
Pop’s Café is open on Sunday to Saturday, from 7 am – 3 pm, and is also among the best restaurants in Downey, CA.
Address: 7840 Florence Ave, Downey, CA 90240-3728. Phone: +1 562-927-0096
13. Green Olive Mediterranean Cuisine
In 2012, Green Olive Mediterranean Cuisine was established to provide Downey with fresh, delicious, and healthy food options.
It serves only traditional cuisine, which is rich and satisfying with generous portions. Besides, the ingredients are prepared daily to capture the authenticity of the flavor.
You can go for entrees served with house-made hummus, salad, one pita bread, hot sauce, and rice pilaf.
If you are a vegetarian, this one of the top Downey restaurants to visit as it offers diverse dishes that allow you to explore flavors like never before.
There are also specialty healthy Mediterranean choices like falafel, tawook, seafood, kabob, shawarma, chicken, lamb, and more.
They also have a full bar with extensive wine and beer lists you won’t resist. If you are with friends, you may sit on the patio and relax for your meal.
However, the indoor dining option is cool if you choose to dine in. the locals love spending their evening here, while some order takeout if they are on the go.
Green Olive Mediterranean Cuisine is open from 10 am – 10 pm on Sunday to Saturday.
Address: 9234 Lakewood Blvd, Downey, CA 90240-2909. Phone: +1 562-862-8080
14. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
Tucked away in a shopping mall, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse serves authentic pizzas, steaks, chicken, desserts, and salads. It also has the best microbrews in town, where you can relax and enjoy good flavors. Moreover, the restaurant is ideal for family hangouts.
If you are a sports fan, you can come and watch your favorite game while ordering a good meal. Those keen on their health can select a small plate with fewer calories. The prices are affordable, and you will have a solid choice of items on the menu.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is open from Sunday to Saturday, from 11 am – 12 am.
Address: 121 Stonewood St, Downey, CA 90241. Phone: 15622310820
15. Stox Restaurant and Bakery
Established in 1962, Stox Restaurant and Bakery is one of the oldest diners in California. It is a blast from the past, which has become a significant landmark in the city. Stop in for homemade American comfort food and breakfast classics in a pleasant setting.
The menu boasts breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, with your favorites topping the list. You will not go wrong from burgers to pies, French dips, poached eggs, sandwiches, fries, desserts, soups, and salads. Check the cocktail lounge to pair with your meal, and you will enjoy it.
Moreover, the old-world charm of the atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxing on a casual evening. The place is not fanciful but offers the excellent food you deserve. Stepping inside, you will experience stellar service from the professional staff.
Stox Restaurant and Bakery is open from Sunday to Saturday, from 6 am – 9 pm.
Address: 9518 Imperial Hwy, Downey, CA 90242-3010. Phone: +1 562-803-4004.
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Plan a Trip to Downey
The above restaurants in Downey, CA, are our top picks. Besides, they are among the best and serve your favorite dishes.
Visit Downey today to have an amazing dining experience at any of the above-listed restaurants.