Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Los Angeles

Diners appreciate the unique culinary experience at Camphor, noting the harmonious blend of French techniques with South Asian spices. The ambiance is described as elegant yet unpretentious, with attentive and knowledgeable staff enhancing the dining experience. Signature dishes like the Gunpowder Shrimp and Le Burger receive particular acclaim.

Discover Camphor: A Michelin-Starred Gem in Downtown Los Angeles Dining Scene 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles at 923 E 3rd St #109, Camphor offers an exceptional culinary journey that brilliantly fuses classic French techniques with the bold spices of South Asia. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-visit destination for foodies, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers seeking an unforgettable dining experience with a sophisticated yet unpretentious vibe.

shine through every dish, with standout offerings like the Gunpowder Shrimp and the fan-favorite Le Burger. The open kitchen creates a dynamic atmosphere where guests can catch a glimpse of the culinary magic crafted by chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George.

Camphor's atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort. The stylish interior design complements the culinary creativity, while attentive and knowledgeable staff ensure your visit is seamless and memorable. Whether you’re dining solo at the bar or sharing a meal with friends, the experience feels personalized and inviting.

Menu Highlights and Dietary Accommodations

Camphor’s innovative menu showcases a blend of French fine dining with American share-style eating, featuring dishes like creamy scallops with decadent sauces, fresh oysters, and the ever-popular bread pudding dessert. The kitchen thoughtfully accommodates dietary needs, offering vegan-friendly options and gluten-free requests to ensure everyone enjoys a delightful meal.

 Camphor operates from 5 PM to 10 PM on Sundays and Mondays, and from 5 PM to 10:30 PM on Thursdays through Saturdays. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

 No, there is no specific dress code at Camphor.

Does Camphor offer takeout or delivery services?

 Yes, Camphor provides both takeout and delivery.

 Valet parking is available for guests' convenience.

Does Camphor accommodate dietary restrictions?

 Yes, vegan-friendly options and gluten-free accommodations are available upon request.

Camphor consistently earns glowing reviews for its innovative culinary approach, blending French and South Asian influences into harmonious dishes bursting with flavor. Guests rave about the attentive service and elegant, unpretentious ambiance that makes each visit special. Signature plates like the Gunpowder Shrimp and Le Burger receive particular acclaim, drawing locals and visitors alike to this Downtown LA hotspot.

Whether you’re a foodie craving bold fusion cuisine or a traveler seeking a memorable meal in Los Angeles, Camphor promises an exquisite dining adventure that delights the senses and lingers in your memory long after the last bite.

North America

United States

Overview  
Camphor is a Michelin-starred gem nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, where culinary artistry meets vibrant urban culture. This exquisite restaurant, located at 923 E 3rd St #109, invites diners into a world of sophisticated flavors and elegant presentations, all crafted by the talented chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George. With a bustling open kitchen that allows guests to witness the magic of meal preparation, Camphor is not just a dining destination; it’s an experience.

The ambiance is a harmonious blend of modern elegance and artistic flair, making it the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. As you step inside, the warm lighting and chic decor set the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.

At Camphor, the menu is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, showcasing dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. Two standout offerings include the **Onion Tartine**, a delicate creation featuring layers of caramelized onions atop a perfectly baked crust, and the **Scallops Demi Lune**, which are seared to perfection and served with a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. Each bite is a testament to the chefs' commitment to excellence.

For dessert, the **Bread Pudding** is a must-try, perfectly fluffy and paired with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful end to your meal. The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring a selection of wines and cocktails that complement the dishes beautifully.

One of the most captivating aspects of dining at Camphor is the open kitchen concept. Guests can watch as chefs skillfully prepare each dish, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. This transparency not only showcases the chefs' talents but also emphasizes the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness.

Located in the vibrant arts district of Downtown Los Angeles, Camphor is surrounded by an array of galleries, shops, and cultural landmarks. After your meal, take a stroll through the neighborhood to explore local art installations or visit nearby attractions such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad Museum.

Camphor is renowned for its Michelin-starred cuisine, featuring a blend of French fine dining and American share-style dishes.

Yes, Camphor offers valet parking for a fee, along with paid street parking options.

Camphor is open for dinner service, and reservations are recommended to ensure a table.

Whether you are a local or visiting Los Angeles, make sure to experience the culinary delights at Camphor. Book your table now and indulge in a dining experience that promises to be both memorable and delicious.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeHZ6OFdBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNW1lfmzHwoARxzp7unjgv-0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeHZ6OFdBEAE

Hands down my favorite restaurant in LA. There’s a reason they have a Michelin star! ⭐️ Everything on this menu is incredible! I’ve taken probably 20 family or friends to Camphor for dinner over the numerous times I’ve eaten here and all of them loved it. My personal favorites are the chicken, onion tartine, bread pudding, radicchio salad and of course who doesn’t love a good French fry.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQX1llaUVnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNW1lfmzHwoARxzp7unjgv-0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQX1llaUVnEAE

1️⃣oysters-  I absolutely loved it. My boyfriend, who usually hates the taste of oysters, actually enjoyed these—which says a lot about how well they were prepared. They were fresh and sweet without any overpowering flavors.✅✅✅

2️⃣tartare-This dish felt a bit Americanized, as I haven’t encountered a sauce like this elsewhere. It was very fresh, but I think the fried basil could be improved. Either adjust the frying technique or make the batter thinner, as it felt too dry and heavy.

3️⃣main scallops (Demi lune)-Exceptionally creamy and absolutely delicious! The sauce was incredibly flavorful. A must-order for anyone dining here!✅✅✅✅

4️⃣rib eye-The charred flavor was a bit overpowering, giving it a slightly bitter taste. However, it was still very enjoyable. The portion of potatoes on the side was generous—there was plenty to go around!✅

5️⃣bread pudding-Not overly sweet, wonderfully fluffy, and paired perfectly with the ice cream. An excellent dessert choice!✅✅

6️⃣non alcoholic drinks (monaco , nice):
i like nice better, it’s more like lemon ice tea ahah really suits the dishes fr fr

*there’s valet parking 20usd

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3bzV1TFpnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNW1lfmzHwoARxzp7unjgv-0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3bzV1TFpnEAE

It was my first visit to LA and the food and service were exceptional! Each dish offered a unique and exciting blend of flavors that truly stood out. I was thrilled with every bite and found myself wanting to try even more. It was a memorable dining experience that I highly recommend to anyone looking for something special.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYb2RUOXJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNW1lfmzHwoARxzp7unjgv-0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYb2RUOXJRRRAB

Taste :4.8/5
Environment: 4.3/5
Service：5/5

Camphor in the artist district is like a masterpiece painted by the uber-talented Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George!
It's a Michelin one star French restaurant with a bustling open kitchen, where the magic happens right before your eyes. The service is so detailed, it's like they've thought of everything, down to the tiniest little nuance.

we are capitivated by delicate pastries and cuisine . The way they blend French fine dining into American share style is pure genius. From the appetizer to the dessert, every bite just made our day. It's like they've distilled the essence of culinary perfection and served it up on a plate.
I will definately come back again

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eUpyV1JREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNW1lfmzHwoARxzp7unjgv-0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eUpyV1JREAE

I want to begin by acknowledging that my review is informed by my previous experiences with Michelin-starred restaurants, particularly in Europe—Spain, Italy, and France. I share this feedback not as a critique but with the hope that it might help elevate the experience.

The service was satisfactory, and the staff were friendly. However, I was seated at the bar despite having booked a table for one. The bar seating felt a bit cramped and less comfortable than I would have expected from a Michelin-starred establishment, with only a small gap between myself and the other guests. Additionally, the bar chairs were very uncomfortable, which detracted from the overall dining experience.

As for the food:

The Onion Tartine ($28) was quite good, although it didn’t stand out as something particularly unique.
The Chicken ($65) could have used more seasoning, especially after the very salty tartine. For the price, the dish, which consisted of a chicken breast and tomato sauce, felt a bit underwhelming.
Unfortunately, the dessert was served too hot. The bread pudding with vanilla ice cream ($28) left me with a burned tongue and palate. Additionally, the ice cream had noticeable ice crystals in it, which is not something one expects from a Michelin-starred experience.
Overall, I think there is room for improvement to better align with the high standards typically associated with a Michelin star. I offer this feedback with appreciation and hope it will be taken constructively.

Marco Pierre White’s perspective on Michelin stars seems relevant here. His decision to move away from Michelin inspections speaks volumes, and I have noticed a trickle-down effect in experiences like this one.

Lastly, the absence of a tasting menu was another letdown. While the concept may be geared toward sharing dishes, I couldn’t help but feel that the experience should be more in line with a fine dining establishment, not reminiscent of something more casual.

Michelin-Starred Camphor Restaurant in Downtown LA

Camphor, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Los Angeles' Arts District, opened in April 2022.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Live Music

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Good for Groups

Serves Dessert

Outdoor Seating

Good for Children

A vibrant culinary gem in Downtown Los Angeles, Camphor offers an immersive dining experience with a fusion of flavors that reflect the diversity of the city. The atmosphere combines industrial charm with contemporary flair, making it a perfect spot for food lovers and urban explorers alike.

Camphor

A fusion of French technique with South Asian influences, offering a unique dining experience.

Gunpowder Shrimp

Beef Tartare

Onion Tartine

Lentils & Lamb

Steak Au Poivre

Scallop Ravioli

Le Burger

Seasonal Fruit Tart

Marzipan with Meyer Lemon Ice

Camphor Menu

Explore Camphor's Distinctive Culinary Journey

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Camphor offers a uniquely enticing menu that artfully blends French culinary techniques with rich South Asian flavors. This Michelin-starred gem invites food enthusiasts and adventurous palates alike to savor a dining experience defined by innovation, precision, and bold tastes.

Begin your meal with starters crafted to awaken your appetite. The Gunpowder Shrimp bursts with a vibrant kick of chili powder and robust spices, delivering a fiery yet balanced introduction. For lovers of refined flavors, the Beef Tartare combines tender beef with creamy egg yolk, capers, shallots, and fresh herbs for an exquisite harmony of textures and tastes. The Onion Tartine offers a comforting yet sophisticated blend of caramelized onions, molten Gruyère cheese, and rich duck broth perched atop artisan bread — a true testament to the kitchen’s finesse.

For the main course, Camphor offers a selection that balances tradition with adventurous flair. The Lentils & Lamb dish is a comforting fusion of perfectly spiced lamb, tender lentils, and a lush cream sauce that envelops each bite in warmth. Steak Au Poivre elevates the classic French preparation with a succulent beef tenderloin encrusted in peppercorns and adorned with a luxurious cognac cream sauce. The Scallop Ravioli exemplifies delicate craftsmanship, pairing fresh scallops with silky pasta, fragrant herbs, and velvety butter. And for those craving indulgence, Le Burger delivers Wagyu beef richness enhanced by duck fat, gooey Gouda cheese, a pillowy brioche bun, and a tangy rémoulade that ties it all together.

Complete your meal on a sweet note with Camphor’s refined desserts. The Seasonal Fruit Tart highlights the freshest fruits atop a creamy and delicate pastry cream nestled in a buttery pastry crust — a refreshing balance of sweetness and texture. The Marzipan with Meyer Lemon Ice juxtaposes nutty almond sweetness with the bright, tangy zest of Meyer lemon, offering a refreshing and memorable finale.

Pair your meal with Camphor’s curated selection of wines, craft beers, and expertly crafted cocktails that complement the menu’s complex flavors. Non-alcoholic options like their refreshing lemon ice tea-inspired drinks also provide a perfect balance to the bold and delicate dishes alike. Valet parking is available for a seamless dining experience in the bustling Arts District.

 Gunpowder Shrimp, Beef Tartare, Onion Tartine

 Lentils & Lamb, Steak Au Poivre, Scallop Ravioli, Le Burger

 Seasonal Fruit Tart, Marzipan with Meyer Lemon Ice

 Experienced sommeliers and mixologists craft wines, beers, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages that perfectly complement your meal.

Savor delicious flavors at Camphor in Downtown Los Angeles! Indulge in unique culinary delights—book your table today!

Camphor Restaurant: Unique Dining in Downtown LA

Los Angeles County

Innovative drinks like the Saint-Germain, combining tequila blanco, sage, and spiced vanilla pineapple.

Creative Cocktails

Curated selections to complement each dish, featuring Old World classics and unique domestic wines.

Wine Pairings

Camphor in Downtown Los Angeles: A Michelin-starred Culinary Gem 

Located at 923 E 3rd St #109 in the vibrant Downtown Los Angeles Arts District, Camphor is a Michelin-starred restaurant that masterfully blends French fine dining with an American share-style approach, creating an unforgettable dining experience. This spot is a favorite among food lovers looking for innovative flavors and impeccable presentation in a buzzing open kitchen setting.

Camphor's menu is a celebration of culinary craftsmanship, featuring standout dishes like the delicately prepared chicken breast, the flavorful onion tartine, and a radicchio salad that perfectly balances bitterness and freshness. Guests rave about the creamy, expertly sauced main scallops known as Demi lune, which are a must-try for seafood aficionados. The bread pudding with vanilla ice cream offers a delightful and airy dessert experience, rounding off the meal with finesse.

 Additionally, Camphor is praised for its perfectly cooked oysters that even convert skeptics, and its rib eye that, despite a slightly charred edge, offers a generous and satisfying portion accompanied by hearty potatoes.

Camphor elevates the beverage experience with its inventive cocktail menu, priced at $12, showcasing drinks like the Saint-Germain—a unique blend of tequila blanco, fragrant sage, and spiced vanilla pineapple. For wine lovers, the restaurant offers curated wine pairings at $15 that complement the diverse menu perfectly, featuring both Old World classics and distinctive domestic wines.

Dining at Camphor means enjoying attentive, detailed service that many diners describe as impeccable, with the added charm of watching culinary magic unfold in an open kitchen. The atmosphere is intimate yet lively, ideal for groups and special occasions. While outdoor seating isn't available, valet parking is offered for convenient access to the venue.

 with options for delivery to enjoy Camphor’s cuisine wherever you are.

 catering to diverse beverage preferences.

Accepts contactless payments, credit, and debit cards

Not suitable for children or family menus

 making it perfect for adult fine dining.

Whether you're a local foodie, a traveler seeking the best of Los Angeles dining, or a digital nomad hunting for a stylish spot to indulge, Camphor offers a sophisticated experience marked by bold flavors, meticulous technique, and an inviting atmosphere. Its Michelin star status is well-deserved, reflecting the passion and precision of chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George.

Book Your Table Today and Discover Camphor’s Culinary Mastery

Reservations are recommended to secure your seat at this sought-after Downtown LA dining destination. Experience the artistry and flavors that have captivated critics and guests alike – a true highlight of California's gourmet scene.

California

Experience Michelin-star dining at Camphor in Downtown Los Angeles! Enjoy a blend of French & South Asian cuisines with delightful dishes. Book now!

Camphor: Michelin-Star Dining in Downtown LA

Discover Camphor, a Michelin-starred gem in LA! Check out our guide for menu highlights, ambiance, and what to expect during your visit.

Your Guide to Camphor Restaurant in LA

Learn the story behind Camphor, Los Angeles' Michelin-star restaurant. Explore its unique culinary offerings that blend French and South Asian influences.

Explore Camphor's Distinctive Culinary Journey

Starters that Ignite the Senses

Mains Crafted to Impress

Decadent Desserts

Signature Drinks and Specials

Kreation Juicery & Avoholic Bar - Arts District

Rosalynn Supper Club | Fine Dining | Tasting Menu | Catering | Private Chef | Private Dining

UOVO Los Angeles