Mignon

Tucked beneath street level in Downtown LA, Mignon occupies a compact space that feels more like a charming Parisian wine cave than a typical restaurant. The room is intimate—dominated by a large wooden bar that doubles as the entire kitchen, where a single chef works magic with little more than a hot plate and a small oven. French fashion posters line the walls, jazz plays softly overhead, and the vibe is unmistakably relaxed and welcoming.

The menu here is a love letter to butter, bread, and all things rich. Nearly every dish arrives with warm, crusty baguette begging to be slathered and soaked. The escargots come swimming in pools of herb butter, while the jamon serrano sandwich is assembled right before your eyes—generous swipes of butter followed by delicate layers of salty ham. The country pate is substantial enough to be a meal, and the cheese board delivers actual portions rather than the typical precious slivers. For a proper entree, the steak punches well above its price point.

What makes Mignon particularly appealing is its accessibility. This is French dining without the formality or the wallet-emptying bill. Bottles stay under $50, happy hour brings $6 glasses, and everything is available by the glass for sampling. The rotating selection focuses on natural wines from small European producers—you can play it safe with something from Champagne or venture into funkier territory with a Hungarian pick. Regulars clearly feel at home here, knowing the staff by name and lingering long after their plates have been cleared.

Whether you’re meeting someone for a first date or settling in solo with a book and a glass of gamay, Mignon delivers an experience that feels both special and unpretentious. It shares its daytime space with the popular Cento Pasta Bar, but this evening incarnation has carved out its own devoted following—proof that sometimes the quieter sibling has just as much to offer.