A recent Italian restaurant, Florence by the Water, opened in mid-February in downtown Los Angeles. The restaurant is located poolside at the Hotel Figueroa, which is currently celebrating its 100-year anniversary.
An Italian Oasis
Restaurateur Francesco Zimone, alongside Executive Chef Giuseppe Gentile, has created what he describes as “an oasis” facing the hotel pool. Zimone stated the goal is to offer a respite for those in the city, providing a Southern Italian Mediterranean dining experience.
The menu focuses on regional Italian dishes and small plates designed for sharing. Featured items include Whipped Ricotta with harissa honey, Gnocco Fritto with 24-month prosciutto di Parma, and Gamberi with Calabrian chili herb oil, and lemon. Handmade pastas like Fettuccine al Tartufo and Linguine Aglio e Olio are also available, alongside seafood options such as whole Mediterranean branzino.
Zimone emphasized the simplicity of the cuisine, describing it as “highly very simple but extremely effective.” He specifically recommended the Wagyu beef meatballs, served without tomato sauce, and the Argentinian prawns, imported weekly and prepared with olive oil, lemon, and green olives.
Future Expansion
Zimone is planning additional restaurant concepts for the Hotel Figueroa. A Peruvian-Japanese restaurant is planned across from the pool, and a French restaurant will be located in another main room of the hotel. “We really like the idea of bringing more to downtown,” Zimone said.
Florence by the Water is located at 939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles. More information is available at hotelfigueroa.com or by calling 213-627-8971.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Florence by the Water open?
Florence by the Water opened in mid-February.
Where is Florence by the Water located?
Florence by the Water is located at the Hotel Figueroa, at 939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles.
What type of cuisine does Florence by the Water serve?
Florence by the Water serves a Southern Italian Mediterranean cuisine with regional Italian dishes and seasonal small plates.
As downtown Los Angeles continues to evolve, how might new dining experiences like Florence by the Water shape the city’s culinary landscape?
