The Original Pantry Cafe

Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, The Original Pantry Cafe is an iconic diner that invites you to step back into classic Americana while savoring some of the city’s most satisfying comfort food. Renowned for its hearty portions and timeless appeal, this beloved institution serves up a diverse menu blending diner classics with a distinctive California flair. Whether you're craving a comforting breakfast or a robust lunch, The Original Pantry delivers with a genuine, unpretentious energy that has stood the test of time.

The cuisine embraces traditional American diner staples, featuring standout dishes like the Two Eggs Two Pancakes with Potatoes and Ham—perfectly fluffy pancakes, crisp-edged potatoes, and smoky ham making a harmonious start to your day. Coffee lovers will appreciate the rich Coffee with Milk, their ideal companion to a morning meal. For burger enthusiasts, the Original Pantry Burger offers a juicy, satisfying bite that embodies the classic diner experience.

Dive into indulgence with desserts such as the warm, comforting Peach Cobbler or the buttery Sour Dough French Toast, each bite delivering a nostalgic sweetness that lingers long after the meal. Beyond breakfast, the menu expands to savory favorites like Spaghetti & Meatball, tender Short Ribs, flavorful Pot Roast, and a hearty Meatloaf that comforts the soul.

The café’s breakfast specials are an inviting tribute to diner tradition with expertly crafted omelets—choose from classics like Bacon and Cheese or venture into bold flavors with the Philly Cheese Steak Omelet. If a protein-packed plate is what you desire, selections such as Steak and Eggs or Country Fried Steak and Eggs won’t disappoint, delivering generous portions that energize your day.

Lunch and dinner options keep the balance lighter with fresh Green Salads, the Pantry’s signature Famous Coleslaw, or heartier fare like the Chicken Strip Salad and Steak Salad, all served with the same attention to flavor and freshness.

Dining at The Original Pantry Cafe is more than just a meal—it's a sensory journey. You can almost feel the warmth from the sizzling grill, hear the friendly clatter of plates, and sense the unmistakable aroma of comfort cooking enveloping the room. Some diners have noted the strong, distinctive grease scent mingling with the air, a small price to pay for a genuine, no-frills diner experience that you can’t help but want to return to again and again.

Guest reviews affirm the cafe’s reputation: Lily Tang praises the "huge portions" and "fast service," though warns of queues after peak morning hours, a testament to its popularity. Miracle Jide-Adebayo calls it a "must visit," highlighting both the vintage charm and attentive staff that make the wait worthwhile. Monica Marianes raves about the fluffy pancakes and unforgettable salsa, encouraging guests to ask for it with their eggs—small touches like these that elevate each meal. Even visitors from abroad, like Mihai B, find the experience delightfully evocative of classic American diners, complete with fair prices and a welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you're on a solo breakfast mission, feeding a hungry group, or just in for a comforting bite amid the urban bustle, The Original Pantry Cafe delivers authenticity in portion size, flavor, and spirit. It’s a true culinary landmark where every meal feels like a warm invitation to savor the best of Los Angeles diner culture.