New Season, New Menu
The Nixo Patio Lounge is the perfect place to pregame in Downtown Los Angeles. It's located on the second floor of the newly remodeled and rebranded, E-Central Hotel. During my stay at the hotel, I was excited to get a preview and tasting of their new, spring menu.
Place your order at the bar then seat yourself on pillowy, patio furniture overlooking Figueroa Street. This urban hotspot, neighbors the Crypto.com Arena and L.A. Live. It's open for breakfast and dinner while closing for lunch. Happy hour runs Sunday through Friday from 5pm to 7pm.
The initial menu I saw, was concise. I believe they shortened the menu during the pandemic. It offered items like pizza, chicken skewers and plantain chips with guac that I could eat for days. Never the less, the flavor and creativity in the new menu has a lot to salivate over.
BREAKFAST
One of my favorite snacks or breakfast item, is plain yogurt with berries, granola and honey. It's a staple in my kitchen and a comforting treat when I'm away from home. I had to order it. It's fresh, healthy and so tasty!
When it comes to breakfast, a sandwich is my go-to. A croissant is stacked with scrambled eggs, cheese, bacon and a roasted red pepper. It's served warm with GQ aesthetics thanks to the panini grill marks.
DINNER
My first impression of the empanadas is WOW! I couldn't get over how picture perfect they look. Two golden nuggets of crispy dough are well-shaped, stuffed until fat and plated with fried plantains. The dish is complemented by a touch of garnish that includes a creamy cilantro dip, cotija cheese and micro-greens. Enjoy a mouthful of cheese-pulls, chorizo and charred Anaheim pepper. In terms of heat level, I'd say its a 2/10.
We can all appreciate a good grilled cheese sandwich. How about a waffle for the bread and cheesy goodness oozing from the edges? The raclette is topped with cranberry onion jam and micro greens. What drink would you pair this with?
The menu offers personal pizza pies year round, yet the toppings do vary. Their pepperoni pizza is classic but if your tastebuds are calling for something different, then order my favorite. The Black Trumpet Mushroom has pecorino cheese, garlic and micro greens.
Another new item is the Fennel Sausage Pizza ($18). It's topped with asiago, rose apple and spinach. If you're a fan of sausage, this pizza is for you.
One dish I must order again because it's that good, is the Smoked Prime Rib Sandwich. A crusty roll is stuffed with tender meat, gouda, crema, caramelized onions and arugula. The meat is top quality, tender and flavorful. You will not be disappointed.
I really appreciate the uniqueness of the Pulled Pork Sandwich. Flavorful meatiness is sandwiched between a waffle. Charred pineapple slaw gives it the next level taste and a pop of color with purple cabbage. Would you leave the pickles on the sandwich or move them to the side?
The full service bar probably has a longer list of drinks than food. They have a barista in the morning and a bar tender in the evening. Whether you're in the mood for a cocktail, beer, premiums spirits, or wine, they have your covered. For a more private experience, try sitting in the cabana-like area and draw the drapes. You can also send a bottle upstairs to enjoy in your hotel room.
YouTube Vlog
Nixon Patio Lounge inside E-Central Hotel
1020 S Figueroa St
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 748-1291
