Orsa & Winston: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Gem in Downtown Los Angeles

Nestled within the historic Farmers and Merchants Bank Building on 4th Street, Orsa & Winston offers an unforgettable dining experience that artfully blends the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine with the rustic charm of Italian cooking. This Michelin-starred restaurant has quickly become a must-visit for food enthusiasts and trend-conscious travelers seeking innovative tasting menus in Los Angeles' vibrant Downtown neighborhood.

A Unique Culinary Journey with Artistic Flair

Orsa & Winston’s signature offering is a meticulously crafted five-course omakase tasting menu priced at $150 per person, showcasing the chef’s creativity through seasonal ingredients and innovative combinations. Diners rave about standout dishes such as succulent scallops and perfectly cooked snapper, alongside thoughtful extras like a seafood porridge supplement that perfectly complements the creamy risotto. The minimalist, classy décor with large windows creates a casual yet elevated vibe where each dish feels like an edible work of art.

Vegetarian food lovers rejoice: Orsa & Winston offers a five-course vegetarian tasting menu upon request, ensuring a delightful experience for all palates.

What to Expect When Visiting Orsa & Winston

While the food consistently earns high praise for its bold flavor profiles and delicate execution, some guests have noted that certain dishes can lean towards buttery richness or occasionally come with overpowering sauces. The restaurant’s intimate setting with only a handful of tables means the atmosphere feels exclusive yet approachable. Service is generally attentive and timely, though some diners have shared mixed experiences regarding staff interactions, highlighting the importance of exceptional hospitality.

For convenience, Orsa & Winston offers takeout and delivery services, accepts major credit and debit cards, and welcomes guests for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, serving an array of cocktails, beer, and wine to perfectly complement the menu.

Community Insights and Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Orsa & Winston is mixed, balancing admiration for its culinary innovation and Michelin status with candid feedback on service consistency. Many patrons appreciate the value offered by the tasting menu, considering it one of the more affordable Michelin-starred experiences in Los Angeles. The restaurant’s understated entrance and small scale add to its hidden gem allure, attracting a devoted local following and curious visitors alike.

Frequently Asked Questions about Orsa & Winston

What is the price of the tasting menu at Orsa & Winston? The five-course omakase tasting menu is priced at $150 per person, with an optional beverage pairing for an additional $85.
Does Orsa & Winston offer vegetarian options? Yes, a five-course vegetarian tasting menu is available upon request.
What are the operating hours of Orsa & Winston? The restaurant operates Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM and is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Is parking available at Orsa & Winston? There is no on-site parking; street parking is available in the vicinity.
Does Orsa & Winston accept reservations? Yes, reservations are required and can be made through their website or by contacting the restaurant directly.

The Rich History of Orsa & Winston in Downtown Los Angeles.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Orsa & Winston is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey that beautifully intertwines Italian and Japanese influences. Since its inception, this Michelin-starred establishment has consistently delighted diners with a creative tasting menu, melding flavors and techniques from these two rich cuisines.

A Timeline of Excellence at Orsa & Winston

Since opening its doors, Orsa & Winston has achieved remarkable milestones that signify its commitment to culinary artistry. Here's a closer look at the pivotal moments in its journey:

2019:
Orsa & Winston received its first Michelin star.
2020:
Named Los Angeles Times Restaurant of the Year.
2022:
Retained its Michelin star in the 2022 edition of the Guide.
2023:
Retained its Michelin star in the 2023 edition of the Guide.

An Ongoing Culinary Journey

Orsa & Winston continues to be a beacon of culinary excellence in Los Angeles, attracting food enthusiasts eager to experience its exquisite dishes and intimate dining atmosphere. As it forges ahead, this restaurant remains committed to innovation and quality, promising a dining experience that is not only memorable but also reflective of the vibrant culinary landscape of the city.

Discover Orsa & Winston in downtown Los Angeles, a standout Michelin-starred restaurant blending Italian and Japanese culinary artistry.

Nestled in the historic Farmers and Merchants Bank Building on 4th Street, Orsa & Winston offers an intimate and cozy dining experience that perfectly suits food lovers seeking innovative flavors and a refined atmosphere. This restaurant is famous for its creative fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines, delivered through expertly crafted tasting menus that highlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Unique dining experience and culinary excellence

Orsa & Winston is celebrated for its multi-course tasting menus, typically priced around $150 per person, which often include additional surprise dishes by the chef. Signature plates such as scallops, snapper, and a rich seafood porridge complement the elegant fusion theme. Guests can also enjoy thoughtfully curated beverage pairings featuring wines and sake, enhancing the overall meal journey.

The minimalist yet classy decor and the casual but elevated vibe create a welcoming environment for both special occasions and casual evenings.

Pros of dining at Orsa & Winston

Michelin-starred restaurant known for its outstanding culinary innovation and quality.
Innovative Italian-Japanese fusion cuisine that delights with unique flavor combinations.
Intimate and cozy ambiance ideal for romantic dinners or special celebrations.
Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients ensure freshness and support sustainable dining practices.
Optional beverage pairings available featuring wine and sake selections tailored to the tasting menu.

Considerations before visiting Orsa & Winston

Despite its many strengths, there are some factors to keep in mind when planning your visit. Orsa & Winston does not offer on-site parking, which can be challenging in downtown Los Angeles, so alternative transportation or parking arrangements are advisable.

No takeout or delivery options means all dining experiences must be on-site.
Limited seating with reservations required reflects the exclusive and intimate nature of the venue but means advance planning is essential.
No outdoor seating available which may affect those hoping for an alfresco dining experience.

While the food consistently receives high praise, some guests have noted particular dishes where flavors felt unbalanced or textures could improve, such as overly buttery notes or sauce intensity. Additionally, a few visitors have reported mixed experiences with service, highlighting the importance of attentive and respectful staff interactions to match the quality of the cuisine.

Final thoughts for discerning diners

Orsa & Winston stands out as a sophisticated culinary destination in Los Angeles for travelers and locals who value a thoughtfully curated tasting menu in a low-key yet stylish setting. Its emphasis on Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine and seasonal ingredients offers a fresh dining perspective with Michelin-star recognition. However, guests should plan ahead due to limited seating and the absence of takeout or outdoor dining options.

4.3

FARMERS AND MERCHANTS BANK BUILDING, 122 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA

(213) 687-0300

Closed - Opens 5:00 PM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

17:00–22:00

Wednesday

17:00–22:00

Thursday

17:00–22:00