ROCK & REILLY’S DTLA
AN IRISH TROUBLEMAKING ROCK PUB

Downtown Los Angeles, the heart of the city, is a buzz once again. There’s nightlife action, bars galore, fine dining to be had and sports action to be enjoyed. But it’s not always about fancy eats or even cheap street food, no, sometimes you just want good, hearty comfort food and drink. Welcome to Rock & Reilly’s DTLA where the portions are generous and damn tasty. Anyone making a night of it in downtown will greatly appreciate the fare although you may feel guilty about it in the morning.

I don’t know about you but I start every visit to an Irish pub with a drink and I found The Ginger Bitch made with Reilly’s Ginger Whiskey, fresh lemon, Apple Pie ‘Shine, cranberry, ginger ale, fresh basil and orange twist garish a good starter. I found the rest of the cocktails to be all miss as the Spicy Slapper was too spicy without any flavor; My Boy Bleu (great name) was a mediocre champagne cocktail; and the Feisty Clover was bland, weak Midori drink. The Irish Southie with Casa Noble tequila, agave, Ruby Red grapefruit, soda, pomegranate sugar rim with a grapefruit peel garnish was a decent spicy margarita. You’re better off sticking with Reilly’s own whiskey, beer or shots.

Just steps away from the Staples Center, there’s a good vibe at Rock & Reilly’s DTLA that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the action. Featuring one of only two patios in Downtown L.A., the outdoor space features HD TV’s and an additional bar for thirsty sports fans.

A definite must-have is the Irish Nachos, which feature house made kettle chips, peppered bacon, Irish cheddar, scallions and corn salsa. Tack on chicken, steak or corned beef for an even better dish. I think the corn beef is a must. Where else can you find that? It’s the making of an Irish good time. There’s no way any one person can finish an order but it would be fun (for a while) to try—these are perfect to share.

Likewise, Reilly's Signature Buffalo Bingo Wings are crowd-pleasing. If you’re looking to feast they do the job, and FYI, opt to get them smothered in Reilly’s Whiskey BBQ Sauce. You’ll be happy you did.

Other killer sharable plates include tater tots, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and the decadent Mac & Cheese with chipotle four cheese sauce, breadcrumbs and Applewood smoked bacon. It’s divinely delicious.

While Rock & Reilly’s DTLA, just like it’s Sunset Strip location as well as LAX, NYC and Park City, is all about oversized hearty comfort food, the Signature Burgers are solid as are the flatbreads. I’m a fan of the Black & Blue burger with dry-aged beef, Point Reyes Blue Cheese, mushrooms, peppered bacon, caramelized onion, Reilly’s Whiskey BBQ Sauce on a Brioche bun.

But if you’re looking for more than just bar bites, treat yourself right and get the Skirt Steak prepared with mustard marinade, pickled jalapeños, chimichurri and served with an heirloom tomato salad. At $21 it’s a great deal for a comforting steak.

If you save room for dessert, and you really should, definitely go for the Decadent Donut Burger, and the Apple Crostada is pretty out of this world too. You’ll probably feel guilty about it in the morning but it’s so worth it. That’s what time spent at a Rock & Reilly’s is all about—indulgence and a good time.

Rock & Reilly’s DTLA is located at 615 S. Flower Street. Hours: Weekdays 11:30am to late night; Weekends 11am to late night. Happy Hour: Weekdays 4pm to 7pm. Call 213-537-0554. Parking: $7 with validation after 4pm.

Story & Photography By: Jose Martinez

Photography Courtesy Of: Rock & Reilly’s DTLA