For some reason, I can't edit my post above.
Check out
Bäco Mercat - Josef Centeno
I just had dinner earlier with family and friends. The food here is amazing and is meant to be shared.
We sat at the bar and it was a full house as we couldn't make reservations in time (highly recommended btw.) Service here is top notch - everyone has their A-game on. The drinks prepared by the bar staff were VERY generous with their portions. Highly skilled and they have their technique down. Feel free to chat them up, asking them about their prep methods and even the food - they are very confident in their recommendations and know their stuff inside and out.
Parking can be a bitch so it's street only or surrounding parking lots in the area so make sure you have change or credit card ready. Be careful after dark because downtown LA turns all hood and the freaks come out. All in all, amazing place. Highly recommended. There is NOTHING on that menu I wouldn't recommend!