The Capital Grille: South Park’s Fine Dining at Its Finest
I had the privilege and full pleasure to have eaten lunch and celebrated my anniversary dinner recently at The Capital Grille on 700 W. 9th Street at Figueroa. My experience is the same as other highly rated reviews. I love the restaurant for its food, service, and ambiance. I spoke with Britney Gregoire, its delightful and charismatic Managing Director. I am happy to share our exchange below.
Marty: Why South Park for a new Capital Grille location? Why do you live in South Park?
Britney: Our position to Crypto, LA Live, and the Convention Center, makes South Park a prime location for our brand! I moved here two years ago as the manager of the opening team and knew I wanted to be ultra close, so I moved literally across the street. I'm an Orange County native and although I was only 30 miles away, I didn't venture into DTLA often. But I have loved my experience working and living in South Park; my favorite part is the walkability and energy of the city!
Marty: The Capital Grille is part of the Darden Group. What have you done to give it a DTLA personality?
Britney: Our restaurant is unique - we have a lot of natural light, large windows, and overall, a more modern scape. We are very much what one would expect from The Capital Grille, but with a modern, city vibe.
Marty: The two silver lions in front of the restaurant are iconic. What is the background and what do they symbolize for Capital Grille?
Britney: Loyalty and strength. Timeless representation of those qualities. They stand strong regardless of circumstance. They, like The Capital Grille, will stand the test of time.
Marty: What have been the most rewarding aspects of having a restaurant in South Park?
Britney: We have built a connection with the city and are committed to seeing South Park and downtown thrive. We want to be a part of the revival and the reason DTLA becomes a destination. We enjoy the diversity of our guests and being somewhat of a "lobby lounge" to the local residential buildings in South Park.
Marty: What are your personal favorites on the menu?
Britney: Dry Aged New York Strip, medium rare, simply broiled with Kobe beef steak butter accompanied by our lobster mac and cheese or mashed potatoes!
Marty: Many fine dining restaurants are only open for dinner. Capital Grille is also open for lunch Monday to Friday. How is that working out?
Britney: Great! Our lunch business continues to steadily increase. We love the vibe of the "power lunch" of suits, mixed with leisurely, casual lunch dining.
Marty: My South Park neighbor raves about the Stoli Doli. What is it and how do you get one?
Britney: The Stoli Doli is a signature and a must have! It is Stoli vodka marinated with Dole pineapples for 7-10 days, strained by hand, shaken, and served chilled in a frosty martini glass. Perfection! It is always available!
Marty: What one message would you like to share with your neighbors?
Britney: We have so much pride in being part of Downtown and South Park specifically. We value the relationships we build with our guests. We want to create an environment that is elevated, yet welcoming - for a special occasion, casual weekday steak and glass of wine in the bar, business deal, or take to go back to your apartment. We strive to offer consistency as a brand, but our team is what makes the difference, offering personalized experiences and a unique edge!
By Marty Goldberg