Magnolia now open on 9th Street in downtown

The downtown outpost of Ron Marino and Laurie Mulstay's well-liked Hollywood restaurant Magnolia is now open. Mulstay and Marino launched the restaurant, which is adjacent to the Original Pantry Cafe, with little fanfare at lunch Thursday.

Curious office workers from nearby buildings seemed eager to stop in and check out the menu. The space is only slightly larger than the Sunset Boulevard location, with two patios, a small lounge area (complete with gas fireplace) and a full bar awaiting those who want to do more than gawk through the large windows that face 9th Street.

Formerly Zita Trattoria, 825 W. 9th St. will now cater to a more sophisticated crowd. Mulstay, who also owns sexy nightlife destinations Chloe in Santa Monica and the Bar in Hollywood, has come up with a winning design scheme for downtown's Magnolia. The ex-New Yorker replaced the Zita's white with wood throughout, and has even added some nice wallpaper and vintage light fixtures. Expect virtually the same menu as Magnolia in Hollywood, with happy hour specials coming soon for the slightly different demographic that surrounds the new Magnolia (think paralegals and hospitality workers). Downtown dwellers familiar with Magnolia are no doubt excited that the restaurant is now open, despite the numerous dining options just up the street.

Magnolia, 825 W. 9th St., L.A. (213) 362-0880.

-- Charlie Amter

Four views of Magnolia restaurant in downtown L.A. Credit: Elina Shatkin / Los Angeles Times

Comments

[Vlggrngrl]

Magnolia shares a plaza and parking garage with the office building at 865 S. Figueroa, Los Angeles, 90017. Parking is easily available in the parking garage or in nearby lots. I am not aware if they validate for the adjoining parking garage.

[SinoSoul]

925 James Wood, LA 90015 is the better address.

925 W. 9th, LA takes you to San Pedro via Google Maps.