Cafe 2001 located at the rear of YESS Restaurant in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles is a bit of a hidden gem. No permanent sign on the entrance. 2001 E. 7th Street is the actual street address but it’s really located at the back end of the building entered off the Mateo St. side.

Chef Giles Clark (ex-Yess) has created a relaxed all- day café. Guests order at the counter and your food and beverages (natural wines are featured) are brought to you. Excellent baked goods and desserts are created by a skilled onsite pastry chef. On Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings (4 to 8:00 p.m.) it transforms into a casual bistro with very creative cooking. Happy Hours are 4 to 6 p.m. daily. Closed on Monday. Music, too.

The free-form, 2-level space is not really designed. The interior is exposed brick walls. The tables and chairs are all mismatched but comfortable. The 2nd level has more contemporary furniture. The spotlight is on the constantly evolving menu. Think Japanese Fried Chicken Basket, Snap Pea and Potato Salad and Lemon Tart.

Chef Giles Clark takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.