There are not too many restaurants that “have it all”. It is typically better to focus on a few good dishes and have one concept than to try to do too many. However with the case of Caffe Concerto in Los Angeles’ Korea Town, it somehow gets it all right: the food, ambiance, service, theme, cocktails, clientele, coffee, down to the dessert. An ideal place for hopeless romantics to escape for a glass of wine, one too many handcrafted cocktails, quality coffee, an afternoon Macaroon or a full-on Seafood Pasta dinner, this restaurant is your new go-to.
Ktown continually impresses the LA Food and Bar scene with stunning restaurant concepts. Caffe Concerto is no stranger to Ktown since its opening nearly a decade ago. Though with the switch of a new owner and redesign 3 years ago, came the revival of an old-time classic that has again become one of the Ktown’s most popular hangout spots. This time, not just for local Koreans, but diners from all over LA County.
I have visited Caffe Concerto in the evenings for late-night cocktails and was always impressed by the drinks, the service and a more mature scene. Recently, I came for Happy Hour which turned into a full dinner and was blown away by its impressive dishes.
Though Korean owned and run, the restaurant concept is Italian with a bit of blend into California fusion. The selection of Salads, Pasta, and Pizzas compare in quality and taste with the Italian Restaurants found in the popular areas of Beverly Hills and Brentwood. At reasonable prices, the perfect ambiance, it’s no wonder how they continually strive in this competing market.
Caffe Concerto is a Paradise for Seafood, Pasta and Wine Lovers
Seafood lovers will especially love Concerto as they serve appetizers such as Grilled Octopus Leg, Mare Ceviche (mix of Seafood Ceviche + Avocado Puree), Fried Calamari, Smoked Salmon Salad with a variety of Seafood Pasta. Though dishes are served in relatively large portions, I recommend sharing so everyone at your table gets a taste of it all! Pizzas are great here too. Try the Truffle Mushroom or Prosciutto & Arugula Pizza.
I am always a sucker for Frutti di Mare (Seafood Spaghetti with Mussels, Clams, Crab and Lobster). And I would highly recommend you try this dish with the Rose sauce, a blend of Tomatoes and Cream (not too sweet!).
Caffe Concerto sits bi-level, located in the bustling intersection of Serrano and 6th Street. As you enter the small parking lot (Valet available), you’ve entered a different world. The airy patio dining seats about 20 guests, perfect for people watching, wine sipping and sunset. There, you can order from the full dinner menu while basking in the ambiance of the happy hour scene. Walk in a bit more and you have entered the lounge/bar of Concerto. On your right is a small café (which also serves the whole menu), more appropriate for business meetings and quick Coffee meetups. Step inside further and you have entered a full Patisserie serving rainbow-colored Macaroons (great for gifts!), rich Desserts, lavish cakes and a Café.
The owner spent many years of his life working in Kona’s Coffee business in Hawaii.
Hence, the emphasis on a fine selection of quality coffee served at his restaurant and café.
Have a special occasion to celebrate?
The upstairs is an upscale restaurant with a private room to rent. Great for dates and anniversaries.
Caffe Concerto Hours of Operation:
- Sun-Wed: 10:00 am – 1:00 am, Thurs – Sat: until 2am
- Bar: 5 pm to 2 am (Thurs-Sat)
Address: 610 S Serrano Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90005
Website: https://www.concertousa.com
