A truly great meal is more than just food - it is an experience, and that can come in so many forms. I have had incredible dining experiences at humble local diners, wildly expensive mountain-top restaurants, friends’ homes, etc. Looking for something a little different for a night out? This tiny restaurant in Los Angeles feels like a dinner party with friends… if your friends happen to have a professional kitchen and French chef making dinner. Welcome to Le Comptoir.

Le Comptoir restaurant is tucked along the ground floor of the historic Hotel Normandie in the Koreatown district of Los Angeles.

The bistro’s name means “counter” in French, which quite literally describes this intimate dining experience where meals are served only at the 10-seat counter. Seatings are offered on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday only by reservation.

Le Comptoir is a French bistro, inspired by tradition and driven by seasonal California produce to create innovative dishes that are as pretty as they are flavorful.

Diners at Le Comptoir enjoy the unique culinary expertise and perspective of Michelin-starred Gary Menes and his enthusiastic team. Ingredients are sourced from the kitchen’s own organic garden as well as local farmers.

The vegetable-forward prix fixe tasting menu consists of eight farm-to-table courses meticulously prepared as curious guests look on - like a very personal dinner and show.

Some of the most exclusive restaurants offer elite customers the opportunity to eat at the “chef’s table,” right in the kitchen. In this intimate setting, everyone is offered this unique experience.

When making reservations, there are a few things you can pre-order to add on to your meal. One of them is fresh house-baked sourdough bread. You can also pre-order single-origin coffee prepared as a pour-over and served with your dessert.

A French wine pairing is available also, with a specially-selected wine chosen for each course. The ambiance seems to change a bit depending on who is dining, from lively to quiet and romantic, but is always a cozy and unique experience.

From the extremely limited seating to the beautifully prepared dishes, a meal at Le Comptoir is pretty unforgettable. Have you dined at this tiny Los Angeles restaurant? We would love to hear about your experience. You can find out more and make your reservations on the Le Comptoir website. Craving more inspiration? Check out more of our favorite hidden gems and unique dining in Southern California!