Rappahannock Oyster Bar

Tucked into the RowDTLA development, Rappahannock Oyster Bar offers something rare in Los Angeles: the feeling of being somewhere else entirely. Beneath a towering tree on a charming patio surrounded by cobblestone walkways and twinkling string lights, you could almost convince yourself you’re dining on the East Coast. That’s by design—this spot is an outpost of a century-old Virginia oyster farm with locations scattered across the Southeast.

The menu shines brightest during daytime hours when simpler, more casual fare takes center stage. The oyster po’boy is the undisputed star—perfectly fried oysters nestled in a sandwich with butter lettuce, tangy remoulade, and a refreshing celery root slaw. The lobster roll offers a generous portion of fresh meat that makes it worth every penny. For dinner, the focus shifts to the raw bar, where impressive seafood towers make for ideal group ordering. And of course, oysters should always be on your table—typically three varieties are available, best enjoyed with the house dipping sauce.

This is a restaurant built for escape. It works beautifully for solo diners looking to lose themselves in a good meal, weekend brunch seekers wanting something a bit different, or anyone craving solid seafood in an unexpectedly transporting setting. The oversized cheddar biscuits from the dinner menu are an essential add-on.

While it may not claim the title of best seafood in LA, Rappahannock succeeds at something equally valuable: providing a genuine getaway within city limits. For a couple of hours, the stresses of the day melt away, and you find yourself somewhere pleasantly removed from the ordinary.