Clark Street Diner

Step inside Clark Street Diner and you’re transported back to the swinging sixties, complete with midcentury Formica tables, orb-shaped light fixtures, and that unmistakable retro vibe. Nestled on the ground floor of a Hollywood Best Western, this spot occupies the bones of the legendary 101 Coffee Shop—a late-night institution where generations of Angelenos sought refuge in well-worn leather booths. When the beloved Clark Street Bread bakery took over in 2022, they wisely kept everything that made this place special while adding their signature touch: exceptional baked goods.

The food here straddles the line between classic diner comfort and artisanal quality. The patty melt is the undisputed star—thick slabs of butter-toasted Jewish rye cradling a generous portion of freshly ground beef, swiss cheese, and caramelized onions so sweet they practically melt in your mouth. The breakfast burrito, wrapped in a delightfully chewy Tehachapi grain tortilla, delivers hangover-healing powers with its oozy eggs and melted cheese. And don’t overlook the pastry case, where kouign-amanns with their caramelized sugar crusts and intricately folded Swedish vanilla buns await.

This is a daytime spot now, operating from 7am to 3pm, making it ideal for leisurely weekend brunches or quick weekday breakfast stops. The vibe is casual and nostalgic, with many of the original 101 staff still working the floor. Whether you’re grabbing a thick Fosselman’s milkshake at the counter or settling into a booth with an espresso made from House Roots beans, the experience feels authentically LA.

Come for the pastries and stay for the patty melt. This isn’t just a restaurant revival—it’s proof that sometimes you can honor the past while making it even better. Grab a baguette on your way out; you won’t regret it.