The food was surprisingly delicious! I loved the tuna tostada. The service was friendly and helpful. The seating can be a bit confusing. It is small and cramped. read more

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Ignore the 3.5 star rating. Just a few 1 stars from people with an inability to regulate their emotions about minor things. A little hidden gem tucked away in Chinatown and I'm so glad we did. Went on a Saturday afternoon and it was very laid back. People were playing chess at the tables, jazz playing in the background, and the whole vibe was just relaxed. Great place to catch up with a friend over coffee. They have a full food menu too. My son had the breakfast burrito, I got a black coffee with pan dulce, and my friend had an iced coffee. All solid. Loved it and will definitely be back. read more

I'll start by saying that Cafe Tondo was quite an unexpected experience that I have never been in. Humiliated, confusing and stressful. Unfortunately, the seating arrangement was confusing and uncomfortable from the beginning. If you plan on sitting outside, be prepared for a very tight and somewhat invasive setup. Tables and seating are extremely close together, and our group of four found ourselves practically sitting beside other guests. At one point, we were even using stools as our dining table, which made the experience uncomfortable and unnecessarily stressful. The communication regarding seating also could have been handled much better. Our hostess initially told us that if we changed our minds about sitting outside or wanted to move to the bar area, we should simply let her know. When we did exactly that, her response was, "Yeah, you should've told me beforehand, it's usually reserved for larger parties." This was confusing considering we were specifically told that changing our seating preference was an option. We were also a party of four, so the response felt unnecessarily dismissive. To include, the tone was delivered to us as if we're slow at our understanding that it made surrounding guests stare into our confrontational approach. We have never been in a position where we were second hand embarrassed. Overall, the biggest issue wasn't necessarily one individual mistake, but the combination of unclear seating expectations, poor communication, cramped accommodations, and inconsistent service. The concept has potential, but the guest experience could be significantly improved with clearer seating policies and better communication from the staff. read more

dih place gahhhhhhhh came here with my gf for a gno and we had such a great time! we got seated in the front on the comfy couches and we were probably there for way too long but we didn't wanna leaveee food was good, everything was is shareable so perfect for a 2 top like us we ordered sm food i lowkey forgot what we ordered but i remember loving everything. vibes were immaculate, i wish they played more lit music cus the music was giving elevator music but it's fine, gives me an excuse to come on a diff night parking is easy & the outdoor area got pretty packed greta place to hang out with some yummy drinks and food! harry is the goat, he's funny and nice read more

Café Tondo - our table - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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It's an absolute vibe. The iconic red lights, the ambiance, the train passing by every so often, and I happened to go on jazz night ?? Sunday btw I recommend making a reservation before going so you don't have to wait in line. The bites there are yummy. We got the baguette sampler(cheese, jam, olives, and bagguette slices) and the tacos. Earl gray tea was a nice reset drink and the affagoto was STRONG but was the must get thing. Parking might be hard because they only have small lot but there's options around. I'd def come back. read more

Even if you just stop outside for a smoke and not even buy a drink, it's cool spot. Our group decided on a bottle of wine, it was about $70 and everyone enjoyed ~1.5 drinks. Bouncers and workers were kind. There are only 2 restrooms, just remember to lock the door so you don't get walked in on by some guy and then walk out 5 min later and notice he's still telling people! read more

Café Tondo - forbidden bathroom - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

My review is for brunch, which seems like a completely different vibe or experience than some of the neutral/negative reviews from this place. We stopped for breakfast/brunch around 9am on Sunday post-Firecracker run and to my surprise/thankfully, it was not super busy. There was ample seating, although some tighter than others. The area outside where it's closed off is the cutest in my opinion, but maybe one too many tables to where it's hard to get in and out of the long bench. Between the metro rail coming in and out above, to the neat restaurant sign with the lighting, this nook is a cool place to sit in and the music is on-point for the vibe. You order first at the counter before getting a number to be seated. The menu is highly limited for breakfast, but I was very pleased with what we got. Everything was well balanced. The hot chocolate was not overly sweet, the matcha just right. Even the avocado toast, which looks very plain, is actually seasoned perfectly with lemon juice so it doesn't get boring. The texture is creamy with few chunks, and the toast is a perfect sourdough with the buttered back coming through nicely. It's also cut in a way that eating with your hands is not difficult. You wouldn't be able to tell by the picture, but the avocado toast is one of the better ones I've actually had in a while... sometimes simple is better when done right, and this place nails what I wanted and needed. read more

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This Café / Bar is so cute inside and out. We had seen they offered Salsa nights on Fridays. So we sent out a group chat to the cousins to meet up. When we arrived we found out there was no salsa night. A little disappointing, we decided to order wine, coffee and a few appetizers and the vibe was cool. Staff is super friendly and helpful. We will be returning maybe on a Saturday for DJ night. read more

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The place looks really cool and definitely has potential, but the seating arrangement was extremely inconvenient. They had everyone bunched up outside, where there was barely any room to sit or even walk through comfortably. I expressed my frustration about it, especially because I had ordered food and noticed there were plenty of empty tables inside, which made absolutely no sense. Once we finally got our food, there were no napkins, utensils, or anything else we needed. Overall, the service and setup were just poorly managed. Like I said, the place itself looks cool and could be a great spot, but the experience was frustrating from start to finish. Unfortunately, I won't be coming back. read more

Café Tondo - Small table for three with food and drinks - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I came here with my friends on a Tuesday for Bolero night. I highly suggest making reservations beforehand, as it was very helpful in having seating ready for the evening. We had some Lambrusco, the bread olive & cheese plate, the tacos, and a Cesar salad (not sure if I was just starving but all so delicious). The ambiance is very romantic especially with the live music going. Ricky took care of us and he was very attentive and took the time to answer all our questions (even got us the cheese name) even though it was extremely busy. We will be returning! read more

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We had a great time watching live music at Cafe Tondo on a Tuesday night. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is casual. They have an outdoor seating area, an atrium-like area at the entrance with bench seating, the bar area and then a dining area on the side with tables. During live shows, they have mostly stools to sit on and a few seats at the bar. Most people are outside. The drinks were great and the prices were super reasonable for downtown. We did not have any food but they did have a menu and many people were dining. The cafe is open in the morning for coffee and pastries, not sure about the lunch menu and also open at night for dinner, drinks and live music. read more

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This place had a lot of hype prior to the opening. I had a little time to kill which I was in Chinatown and decided to come for a quick breakfast. Cafe Tondo is located across from Chinatown station at the wedge of Alameda and Nort Sprint Streets just below the elevated A-Line. The site of Cafe Tondo appears to be reminiscent of an old gas station eras ago with canopy removed and replaced with a parking lot and cafe. The interior is simple with a simple Latin themed cozy bar. Now for the food, I ordered chilaquiles and a cup of coffee. The coffee was smooth and good quality. Tasted single origin and distinct fruit notes. Chilaquiles on the other hand was bland. Tortillas, fried egg, queso fresco, pickled onions. Partially missing is the salsa verde. Overall, just blahhh.. They do serve pastries sourced by Clark Street Bread and likely another source for their Latin baked goods. Service here is a bit odd. Self order at the bar counter but there's a waitress just standing there who brings you silverware and water and brings your order. Self seating. No signs for self seating or self order. A bit confusing while staff is chatting with each other or just standing around. Not sure if I'll be back unless it's for dinner or drinks. read more

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I've been wanting to try this place for a while, and it did not disappoint. Located in Chinatown, it operates as a coffee shop in the morning and transitions into a restaurant in the afternoon. I visited in the morning and ordered their café de olla, which was delicious, along with the pan de elote, which was also really good. There's plenty of seating inside, so we had no trouble finding a spot to sit and enjoy our coffee and pastries. The menu is Mexican-inspired, offering breakfast options like huevos rancheros. The staff were very friendly and helped us choose our drinks. The space is relaxing, and we sat outside where we could watch the Metro train pass above us. Overall, it's a great spot, and I'm looking forward to coming back to try their evening menu. read more

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I went to Cafe Tondo for a wine night with a few friends, and the vibe was absolutely VIBING. I wouldn't come here specifically for the food, but that's not really the point. This is the kind of place you go to if you want to chat, hang out, and listen to great live jazz. The wine prices felt fair for what you're getting, and sitting outside on the crates was actually pretty nice. It does get a bit cramped since a lot of people show up, and there's usually a line, but honestly it feels worth it once you're there because the energy is so good. This is more of a simple, low key nightlife spot. I wouldn't come expecting a full dinner, coffee, or a full on bar experience. But if you're looking for a place to socialize, talk, and enjoy music, this spot really delivers. It's out of the norm in the best way, and that's what makes it unique. read more

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Cafe Tondo has an amazing ambiance and is cool spot in Chinatown. The Mexico City inspired vibe is fun and lively, with red lighting, great music, and lots of people hanging out outside enjoying the atmosphere. A train passes overhead, which adds to the unique setting. The service was solid, and the energy of the place really stands out. Unfortunately, the food didn't live up to the vibe. We tried the ribeye taco, guacamole, and ceviche, and all of it felt pretty bland. The ceviche in particular was disappointing as the fish was hard to chew and had an off taste, to the point where we couldn't finish it. The wine also felt overpriced for what it was. Overall, Cafe Tondo is worth checking out for the ambiance and drinks, but I'd recommend stopping by for a drink and heading elsewhere for food. read more

Café Tondo - Ribeye taco, crudo - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Yes come here! Ambiance red lighting and music playing all the time. A note about this place that was recently implemented, is you can only order food if you have a table during dinner. I always frequent here for their Tuesday Bolero nights. Streets arent too busy and I am able to find free street parking no problem. I would say overall the food price, quality, and quantity is subpar. Food is delicious dont get me wrong. the ribeye taco was tender and cooked to perfection. I dont know what it is abotu the tostadas and tortillas here, but I love it. Steep in price no doubt about it tho. If you have the money to splurge, do it. If not I recommend eating a good meal before coming here because seating is extremely limited. This is a great place for some one on one quality time and to talk over a few glasses of wine or vermouth. I support this buisness 100% and continue to visit almost weekly. I just wished the prices were just a tad better for what you receive.Warning the kitchen and coffee bar closed at around 9pm I think? so always order your food or hot drinks before then! Wiine will always be available until just before closing I believe. I love the vibes, the service is good and everyone does what they can. I wish the city allowed them to play on the patio so people coudl dance, but ever since they were forced inside, they've missed on the dancing vibes because the place is so small. There is a seating area outside that is clear, there is no drinks allowed past the barrier. So come early if you plane to grab a seat or area in a reasonable amount of time. Overall great establishment, solid service, good food, and just what the community needs! read more

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Café Tondo (est. 2025) is a new casual local sidewalk cafe bar in LA. It's located just below the Chinatown subway station. From the looks of it this place is a coffee shop by day, and a bar restaurant with live music at night. It's similar to Kissaten Corazon, five blocks away from CT. I came late afternoon to grab a coffee (iced cafe de olla); served on a small whiskey glass and it was refreshing but had better iced coffee/latte. Its price $5 was a bit over the market value. But I'd move heaven 'n earth for coffee. lol. Cafe's vibe was relaxing and very intimate. I like their tiny bar, light fixtures, and the grey wall with a minimal decor. Female staff was nice and competent. Parking lot is available in-front of the bar as well as metered parking. Overall, I like the vibe and it's decent iced coffee drink. read more

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Very cool vibes, stopped by here during the Chinatown-DTLA-Boyle heights CicLaVia day. They have a cafe de olla which is pretty good, I don't have much to compare against so will update this review when I come back again with more data points. I have heard that they events here and the place is a quaint spot, right next to a metro stop (and many metro bike stations in the area) so very accessible to get to. Would love to come back and chill here for a bit, seems like a nice cafe to relax with coffee or a light drink. Service was quick and very friendly! read more

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We got to this place around 7pm before the larger crowds show up as we know it's a new popular spot on the weekends. They had good music playing and a nice ambiance however service was a bit slow as the host told us were told we could only sit at our table for one hour b4 the reservation showed up which was fine but then it took about 15 -20 min for anyone to notice we were sitting so my guy just ended up ordering at the bar instead. We didn't have time for dinner so we got a guac appetizer, Tortilla chips were horrible, they tasted like literal burnt tortillas and they did not fry them the tortillas would break and disintegrate with every scoop or bite so that was annoying for a $12 guac plate. Other than that I'm sure it turns into a better vibe at night & I hope to be back on an event night. read more

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Food here is very fresh and good. Got the guac, tuna tostada, and the steak taco. Guac was very fresh and very delicious. It was a nice combo to everything that I ordered. Tuna Tostada was fresh as well. There is a little spicy kick to it which was good. Steak taco was well cooked and still juicy. Atmosphere is amazing. Great for date night with outdoor seating and live music. Service is great but can be a bit slow due to how busy it is. Parking is available but limited. read more

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Very vibey atmosphere! Good for large groups and a date. Moody and dark. Ordered wine and some appetizers. The service was excellent and the staff was kind and warm. I would Come back here and order a full meal sometime. read more

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a memorable night seeing LA dance to Bad Bunny like if it was NY w/ lil bro Café Tondo is one of the best tings that has happened to Los Angeles FR - @eatingwithricardo read more

Café Tondo - Tacos & Guacamole - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I completely understand why this is LA's hot spot. The iconic red lighting in the outside of the building welcomes you in. Make sure you get a video of the train going by! I was there for jazz night and it was such an intimate experience. The staff were incredible from the moment we stepped inside to the moment we left. And the baguette platter was so fresh and perfect with our drinks. I can't wait to go back read more

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I have no been back three times, and I enjoy the atmosphere more and more each time! I have experienced both the sunlight hours and aftersun, and I think this may be my favorite spot in all of LA. They have multiple events going on throughout the week to accommodate everyone and their different hours. Went to the Bolero night and copped a seat outside, was so fantastic. I ordered a Modelo, some of their house-made horchata and a concha. Ugh. I yearn to go back. I also tried their cardamom bun and one of their specialty lattes (I forgot which one I fear) Ugh yeah. So good. No Notes. read more

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Cafe Tondo reads like a sultry, city-night novel -- think film noir meets a smooth Pinot noir. I'm here for the red glow, the little bridge, and that random metro train rumbling by like it's part of the soundtrack. Urban, textured, full of character and charm -- the kind of place you want to root for. I really wanted to love it. I'd watched live music clips online, so I came ready for a soundtrack -- but on the Friday we visited it was more cozy chatter than a show. Glasses clinked, two coworkers toasted the week, and the vibe was easygoing. My date raised an eyebrow when we stepped out of the Uber (cute skepticism), but she shrugged and went with it -- winner move. Small gripe: we were sat at the last table by the door and restrooms. That corner spot? It's doing the restaurant no favors -- feels cramped and a little awkward. For reservations, a heads-up or option for a better table would've been lovely, especially since there's clearly a charming patio out back. The food, though -- big thumbs up. We shared steak and fries and a Caesar, and honestly it was perfection: simple, well-executed, exactly what we wanted. Drinks felt more beer-forward than cocktail-forward; options were light, so we sipped non-alcoholic Negronis and enjoyed the stop as a cool second spot of the night. Here's where I get a little cheering-section-y: I want Cafe Tondo to shine. It represents something I care about, and with a few thoughtful tweaks -- seating swaps, attention to detail (restrooms), maybe rounding out the cocktail list -- this place could go from "cute" to "iconic." I'll be back, rooting for them every step. Small businesses deserve a fan club, and I'm ready to be their loudest supporter. Let's polish it up and get the party started. read more

I came here for their brunch hours and order the tres Leche Matcha! I would highly recommend! The cinnamon on top makes it a great! Definitely worth getting there avocado toast, and pastries! The vibe here is great. There's a lot of outdoor seating and it's dog friendly! Everyone that works here is super friendly and I really enjoyed the hospitality! I definitely wanna come back for a jazz night and for their dinner menu! read more

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Ambiance is vibey Service was quick and friendly I ordered an avocado toast & a hot cafe de olla latte w/ oat milk and it was divine! Perfectly sweet with a dash of cinnamon. Loved it so much, I ordered one to-go as well. The avocado toast was also delicious, fresh avo and the bread was the right amount of crunchy and soft. read more

Café Tondo - Café de olla latte w/ oat milk and iced matcha - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Crazy how every 1 star is about the seating arrangement. Plastic chairs that you grab and get crafty with to find a spot is part of the authenticity and experience of Café Tondo. Vibes were great, food and drinks were excellent, and service was friendly. Come here for a fun time. Don't let plastic chairs and a tight squeeze scare you. It's truly a lovely spot. read more

I've been here several times with my boyfriend during the day for a quick bite and a drink. The Micheladas are pretty good, that's our new favorite from there. The service is great, so far everyone that has provided a service has been really great. I want to especially thank Camila, the hostess that helped my boyfriend and I with a reservation we couldn't make online and with accommodating us even though we arrived a bit late . The night of our reservation, Cafe Tondo was hosting a soccer game watch party and boleros night. We were specifically going for the boleros night and it was such a good experience and Camila helped facilitate that. She's a great hostess and is great at managing the big crowds arriving, she's especially graceful even when faced with people and expectations. This our new favorite spot read more

Service was confusing I got there around 10:00am No one greeted us so we just sat down thinking they were going to ask if we wanted to order but nothing then came more people and started to order at the counter so we waited for 5 people to order till it was our turn and the girl didn't even want to take our order when we did we got the Coffey and cinnamon roll came out cold I asked if she can warm it up I didn't understand how careless they are this girl needs to get replaced she's only friendly to who ever she feels like read more

Café Tondo - Our breakfast - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Oof, yikes. Crudo was enjoyable, despite not getting to enjoy all of it coz no spoon was available.. even tho the toasted tortilla/pita bread bites were clever, it just couldn't let me re-drizzle the salsa back on, which was the smallest tragedy of this place. The rest of the food and drinks were simply existing, like the staff. And worse, quite overpriced. The staff: non-plussed and aloof but ofc stylish and cool. I wasn't sure if I was less impressed that the suave stools looking out of place with the non-ergonomic plastic crates turned table (literally just add one more stack pls, it will cost you $200). The screeching train tracks while you spend $120+ for small bites and drinks for two is a beautiful anguishing remembrance of all the other "restaurants" in LA where people seem to forego an enjoyable experience with snack, company, food seating for something sceney. read more

Salsa night yes please!! This cute little spot in the side of china town perfect spot for a live band and some dancing!!! Have to check the nights I been here on a Friday and also on some Thursday nights. My return to Tuesday bolero nights. Just a romantic night of beautiful voice. read more

Super cute spot for an intimate catch up with friends or date night! Came early evening on a Saturday night around 6 so was able to snag a table inside, but I do hear that there is usually a long wait and reservations get snagged up quick- just a heads up! Food is good but small portions, though my party and I mainly came for drinks we were pleasantly surprised by the food! We tried the guac and tacos. As for drinks, it was very fun getting the Vermouth Spritz. They give you the whole bottle of Vermouth and the soda water in a fun fire extinguisher like bottle- so being able to make your own drinks was a treat. Be careful though because you don't want to accidentally spray the whole table Outdoor seating is cute and vibey, reminds me of nightlife in Asia with all the plastic chairs. Overall a great spot, just note wait times if you're trying to go on a weekend! read more

Id love to come back during the day to see their daytime cafe vibes but at night it's just people standing around and doing literally nothing. It's really cute but this place is kind of just meant for photos and like a glass of wine in a corner. Very tight space inside and it's really loud so I wouldn't go for a social dinner, outside seating is very limited and not meant to hang around for too long either. Parking lot is tight but there's lots of street parking. read more

Café Tondo - Outside - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This is the happening spot!! Had a great time here and honestly didnt even get to step in the actual building. I think it was a friday or saturday evening, we had a huge spread. all apps and bottles. service was great very helpful. Outside obviously. barely sat just mingling with our gang. Crowd was looking beautiful, definitely a fun vibe. Fashion was on point. its nice because you can people watch and still rub shoulders with strangers you could be friends with. Vibe felt like brooklyn with the train coming over building. Lighting is on point and a reall cool crowd overall. Would go back 1000 I think they only serve beer+wine not full bar but its not needed in this atmosphere. read more

I really enjoyed the vibe of the place , I loved the way it just felt the dim lights and the red neon makes it feel very cozy / romantic . Went with my partner , we ordered the cafe de olla latte it was pretty good I enjoyed it definitely will come back to try more . Also I do think employees can be a lot nice and attentive but maybe it was just because we got there at 9:30 so they were maybe tired overall was a great experience read more

Café Tondo - Cafes Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Very nice place the drinks menu is really good they also have good prices, the whole restaurant is very bohemian vibe pretty big they also accommodate people in the parking lot, what I think is a good idea if you come for drinks and to enjoy the music, what I didn't like is the food menu, is really basic, plates are very small and the servers never suggest to order more. I hope they can let people know some sharing suggestions and order more that one thing. Thank you read more

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Usually when a chef from Mexcio opens a spot i will try... A pastry chef from the famous Rosetta panaderia in CDMX offers her pastries here...or so..??... So, tried this place couple of times... BUT AFTER TODAY I dont think I'll go back WHY...?... the granola yogurt and chilaquiles were taken off the menu... I was told, the new chef decided not to offer... (so that was disappointing) But listen... Coffee is great... smooth and tasty!!... Granola and yogurt is (was) very good (one of my favorite item on the menu) The elote pan is just OK... The concha is just average The cardamom bun is good (recommend) Chill ambiance, music playing...inside sitting (about 4 or 5 tables)... small patio on the side... now in my opinion the tables are too close to each other.... spread out the tables, maybe eliminate one... (hope this makes sense) outside patio on the side... both dont look esthetic, not big on decor... simple and old looking place.... the outdoor patio has no tables, uses plastic containers as tables... Service has always been friendly, no issues... BUT did notice, not very attentive service, So, sat down and ate here once, after our order came to our table, no one came by to ask if anything was needed... Seems as they are short in staffing.... ??!! Small parking right in front or street parking available.... so far plenty of parking on the weekends... Will go back, but not anytime soon.... Maybe this place is not the too go spot for breakfast, I have only seen pictures on how busy it gets in the afternoons...???... So, when you go.... Enjoy!!.... read more

It's not 18+ it 21+, please don't listen to the yelp reviews that says it's 18+ on sundays for jazz, went here this past Sunday, bouncer wouldn't let us in because we were under 21+ not even to get a coffee/water were we allowed to go in. Ambiance is nice but it's insanely small read more

Honestly was really excited for this place but i didn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to. The chilaquiles was relatively plain. At first, I thought it was just me but a group of my friends who got it felt the same way too. The coffee was okay not too blown away by it. The only thing that was somewhat good was their pastry but aside from that, I'm going to have to come back for another round. Parking: The parking right in front, you need to pay or you can find street parking across the street next to LA historic park for free. read more