Clifton's Cafeteria

A relic from a kitschier age, Clifton’s Cafeteria is one of the last vestiges of Old Broadway in downtown Los Angeles. Constructed in 1935, the venerable eatery’s interior looks like a slightly down-at-the-heels Disney version of a twilight forest. Tree murals adorn the walls, a fake brook babbles past a miniature log cabin and a tiny stone chapel looks down on the main floor from atop a rock incline. At the front entrance an automated raccoon perpetually peeks out from an old barrel to greet incoming diners. As gentrification rages all around, Clifton’s still serves up hearty cafeteria style cuts of roast turkey, beef brisket and ham. Revolving daily specials include a fish plate and a fried chicken plate, both of which come with mashed potatoes and vegetables.  In keeping with the eatery’s retro spirit, there is also a selection of Jello salads, soups, eerily bright vegetables, breads and classic desserts like strawberry cream cake.