When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
CBS Seafood
Why CBS Seafood is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
CBS Seafood, located at 700 N Spring St in Los Angeles, is a vibrant dining destination well-regarded for its authentic dim sum and fresh seafood offerings. This restaurant provides an engaging experience reminiscent of traditional Chinatown eateries, complete with seafood tanks along the wall that highlight its commitment to freshness. The atmosphere is lively, bustling with the sound of conversations in Chinese and servers pushing dim sum carts through the dining area, allowing guests to select from a variety of freshly prepared dishes as they pass by. The menu focuses primarily on dim sum, including steamed buns, dumplings, and other classic items, but also features other seafood dishes that appeal to a broad audience. CBS Seafood is praised for its family-friendly environment, making it an excellent place for casual meetups with friends and family. Customers appreciate the free parking available, which adds convenience to the overall visit. The restaurant’s hours are generous, typically open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, supporting both lunch and dinner crowds. This combination of quality food, authentic ambiance, and convenient amenities makes CBS Seafood a notable spot for groups looking to enjoy a flavorful and social dining experience in downtown Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of CBS Seafood
As of recent, CBS Seafood holds a 3.9-star rating based on 928 reviews.
User reviews of CBS Seafood average a 3.9 out of 5 based on approximately 928 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception with some areas for improvement. Many positive reviews highlight the freshness and hot quality of the food upon arrival, with particular praise for the authentic dim sum experience that rivals many Chinatown establishments. Customers enjoy the fast and welcoming service, the child-friendly environment, and the convenience offered by free parking. The visual appeal of live seafood tanks and the bustling ambiance of carts delivering hot food contribute to a genuine and enjoyable dining atmosphere. However, some negative feedback has been noted, mainly focusing on inconsistent restroom facilities which some customers found to detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the somewhat intimidating environment caused by the busy carts and language barrier may be challenging for first-time visitors unfamiliar with traditional dim sum culture. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus suggests that CBS Seafood provides good value for money with fresh, tasty dishes and efficient service, making it a favored spot for group dining and seafood lovers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sue Martin
Open early in the morning for breakfast. In Chinatown, an easy 5-8 minute walk from Union Station where we had a 1.5 layover. Not enough time to do the sit down dim sum cart breakfast, but plenty of time to order takeout and get back to the station. The pork steamed bun was the best I’ve ever had. The filling was a slightly sweet smoky pork.
Demitrius Gilbert
I don't believe I have anything bad to say about CBS Seafood Restaurant. Visiting Los Angeles and thought this would be the perfect place to go. The price per items were very good compared to other places I have visited in my home town. I ordered (2) Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, Egg Rolls, Orange Chicken, Shrimp and Leek Dumplings, Beef Noodle, and Fried Shrimp Rolls. ALL the food that was ordered is delicious. The services was fast. Staff members were very kind and friends. Food was hot and fresh. I have provided pictures of most of the items I ordered. If anyone is in the area, would recommend stopping here. Great food at great prices.
S Mayeda
We had Dim Sum on a Sunday at 9:30am. We were seated immediately. We received our dim sum very quickly. We enjoyed the the the large baked bbq pork buns the most. Freshly made still warm and the buns were soft. Not the best dim sum but good enough.
Cris Pantz
CBS Seafood Restaurant The only thing I miss when I worked day shift is having dim sum after work. And our go to place is CBS. We go for the great food or else the cr@ppy attitude of the workers will surely turn you off. Love their siomai, short ribs in black bean sauce, and yang chow fried rice. We're all set. The complimentary hot tea makes a meal. Sometimes we get a canned soda. Parking can be tight. Hey this is Chinatown in DTLA. We're over it. Do not go during noon time you will pass out from hunger, coz they like to pile on the food on tables of locals who are already stuffing their faces silly, then leave other customers craning our necks for the next food cart to come by. There’s also fast food options and bakery beside it. I love their red bean bun, pork bbq bun, and steamed rice cakes. Although they sell most of the items in the restaurant, it’s not allowed to buy from the fast food section then eat at the dining area, it’s strictly “to-go” orders. Restroom can be a hit or a miss. Use at your own risk.
Hannah
Great dim sum place in downtown LA. Service was fast and food was hot and steamy. We ordered a little too much for two people but it was worth it :) They have a menu to order from but also traditional push carts.
How to reach CBS Seafood
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Why CBS Seafood may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at CBS Seafood with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at CBS Seafood in Los Angeles offers an experience that goes beyond the typical dining outing. This restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and expansive seating capacity, making it ideal for group meetups of various sizes. The spacious dining room, seating close to 200 guests, features opulent design elements like gleaming brass columns, art deco turquoise chairs, and colorful red tapestries that create a lively yet comfortable ambiance perfect for socializing. The focus here is on fresh, authentic Cantonese cuisine, particularly celebrated for its dim sum and barbecue dishes, which invite sharing and communal enjoyment—an excellent way to strengthen bonds over a multi-dish meal. Additionally, the affordability combined with quality makes dining here a rewarding experience, allowing groups to sample a variety of flavors without straining the budget. Whether you’re planning a casual brunch or an elaborate dinner, CBS Seafood provides an accommodating, unique setting where conversations flow easily, and everyone can find something delicious to savor. This blend of excellent food, compelling ambiance, and group-friendly facilities makes CBS Seafood a top choice to rally with friends or family.
What kind of food and dining experience does CBS Seafood offer?
CBS Seafood is renowned for its classic Cantonese fare, specializing in dim sum and BBQ meats that transport diners to the heart of traditional Chinese culinary culture. The restaurant’s menu is extensive, but its dim sum selections, served in shiny metal tins, are a particular highlight. Items like steamed sticky rice, scallion dumplings, and braised bean curd are popular choices that appeal to a range of tastes and dietary preferences. The restaurant also features roasted specialties such as Peking duck, which is displayed prominently in the front window, showcasing the care and expertise that goes into their preparation. Customers consistently praise the freshness of the ingredients and the bold, vivid flavors that characterize the dishes. What sets CBS Seafood apart is not only the quality of the food but also the generous portion sizes, making it ideal for groups to share and sample multiple offerings. The combination of traditional recipes with a modern dining space creates a comforting yet exciting culinary experience that resonates with both longtime fans of Cantonese cuisine and newcomers eager to explore.
Why is CBS Seafood perfect for group activities and meetups?
CBS Seafood’s large seating capacity and welcoming environment make it particularly well-suited for hosting groups of friends, family celebrations, or casual meetups. With room to accommodate nearly 200 diners at once, the restaurant can handle sizable parties without feeling cramped, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere for conversation and bonding. The layout encourages sharing dishes, which is a staple of communal dining in Chinese culture, fostering interaction over a shared meal. Additionally, the menu offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, including seafood, meats, vegetarian options, and a range of dim sum, so everyone in the group can find something they enjoy. The establishment’s affordability further supports group dining since multiple plates can be ordered without worry about excessive costs. Moreover, the staff’s generally positive attitude and quick service help keep the dining experience smooth and enjoyable even for large groups. CBS Seafood thus functions as a culinary gathering spot where good food and lively company come together seamlessly.
What are the social and cultural highlights of dining at CBS Seafood?
Dining at CBS Seafood is not only about the food but also the cultural immersion and social engagement it fosters. The restaurant stands as a Chinatown institution, offering patrons an authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine within a bustling urban setting. The lively dim sum brunch atmosphere, especially popular on weekends, creates a sense of tradition where families and friends can come together in a celebratory mood. The visual ambiance, drawing from traditional Chinese decor with lavish art deco influences, adds a layer of cultural richness that enhances the overall dining experience. This setting is conducive to socializing, allowing guests to connect over shared flavors and culinary traditions while enjoying a culturally vibrant backdrop. For groups seeking to combine a culinary adventure with cultural exploration in Los Angeles, CBS Seafood offers both in equal measure, making it a memorable destination that goes beyond just a meal.
How does CBS Seafood balance affordability with quality, especially for large groups?
One of the standout features of CBS Seafood is its excellent value for money, particularly advantageous for groups looking to enjoy quality dining without breaking the bank. Despite the high standards in food freshness and preparation, prices are reported to be very reasonable, with large group meals often coming in well below what one might expect for such variety and quality. Many customers share positive feedback about how a spread of nine or ten dishes can be enjoyed comfortably at a fraction of typical restaurant costs. This balance is achieved through well-managed operations, strategic menu offerings focused on popular dim sum and roasted dishes, and an emphasis on efficient service. The affordability encourages groups to order a diverse selection of dishes, enhancing the shared dining experience with multiple flavors and textures, without concern over excessive tab sizes. This pricing approach contributes to CBS Seafood’s reputation as a top choice for group gatherings—from casual weekends to special occasions—where quality and frugality can coexist.
What makes the atmosphere at CBS Seafood conducive to enjoyable group dining?
The physical environment and service ambiance at CBS Seafood play crucial roles in making group dining enjoyable. The restaurant’s large, elegantly decorated space offers plenty of room for groups to sit comfortably without intruding on others, which is often a challenge in Chinese restaurants. The art deco and traditional elements, including brass columns and vibrant tapestries, create a visually pleasing setting that feels festive and inviting. This bright, open atmosphere encourages conversations and laughter to flow freely, essential for social gatherings. Though some reviews mention occasional language barriers or moments of brusqueness in service, many guests report positive interactions with staff who are accommodating and attentive, helping large groups navigate orders smoothly. The combination of spaciousness, décor, and attentive service ensures that dining at CBS Seafood can be relaxed and engaging for groups, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying their time together over expertly prepared dishes.
How accessible and convenient is CBS Seafood for group meetups?
Located in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, CBS Seafood is easily accessible via multiple transportation options, which is important for group meetups. The central location means it is close to several cultural landmarks and attractions, which allows groups to combine dining with other activities like sightseeing or shopping. The restaurant’s hours of operation—open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM—provide flexible timing for meetups, whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Large groups will appreciate the possibility of advance reservations and the presence of a busy to-go counter for those who might want to extend their gathering outside the premises. Moreover, the restaurant is adjacent to interesting venues like the Velveteria Museum of Velvet Paintings, offering post-meal entertainment options to prolong your social outing. CBS Seafood’s convenient location, generous hours, and proximity to points of interest make it an ideal hub for not only dining but also a full day’s meetup itinerary.
What special group-friendly features does CBS Seafood offer?
Beyond its high seating capacity, CBS Seafood offers several features that enhance its suitability for group gatherings. The menu is designed for shared plates which naturally support communal eating, a social dining style that encourages interaction and conversation as guests try multiple dishes together. Dim sum service is particularly accommodating for groups because it involves ordering several small items that arrive continuously, building a dynamic and engaging meal experience. Additionally, the restaurant’s comprehensive menu covers diverse dietary needs and preferences, giving groups with varying tastes plenty of choices without compromising quality. The festive environment created by the décor and the busy, spirited brunch culture add an enjoyable undertone to group meals, turning them into a celebration rather than a routine eat-out. For those arranging meetups, the staff is generally prepared to handle large orders efficiently, ensuring that the dining pace suits everyone. These group-oriented aspects position CBS Seafood as a strong contender for anyone wanting a lively and memorable communal dining experience.
How does the culinary tradition at CBS Seafood enhance group dining experiences?
CBS Seafood’s commitment to authentic Cantonese cuisine enriches group meals by offering a journey through classic culinary traditions that are best enjoyed collectively. Dim sum, which is the cornerstone of their menu, is designed as a shared dining experience where small plates are sampled and passed around, sparking conversations and a sense of togetherness. The emphasis on freshly prepared ingredients and traditional techniques creates vibrant flavors that appeal broadly, inviting guests to savor dishes that might be unfamiliar otherwise. The presence of iconic items like Peking duck and baked custards introduces diners to cultural specialties that embody the heritage of Chinese gastronomy. This cultural depth adds meaning and excitement to dining with others, turning it into an immersive experience that is both social and educational. For groups, this feature provides a unique opportunity to bond through food, as they collectively explore and celebrate a rich culinary legacy.
What should groups expect regarding the quality and service at CBS Seafood?
Groups can anticipate consistently fresh food served piping hot at CBS Seafood, with many reviews emphasizing the high quality and authentic flavors of the dishes. While the service experience can vary, with some guests noting occasional language barriers or less-than-friendly interactions, most recognize the staff as efficient and capable of handling large orders effectively. The restaurant's size and busyness might occasionally lead to a more fast-paced dining rhythm, but this often complements rather than detracts from the group dynamic, keeping the meal lively and engaging. Buyers should come with reasonable expectations regarding service nuances, understanding that the focus remains firmly on delivering hearty, delicious Cantonese dishes that are worth returning for. Overall, groups will find CBS Seafood a dependable choice for enjoying flavorful food in a bustling, vibrant setting.
What is the ideal time to visit CBS Seafood for a group gathering?
The ideal time to visit CBS Seafood for a group is during weekend brunch hours, especially Sunday mornings when the dim sum offerings are at their peak and the restaurant buzzes with positive energy. This time slot ensures guests can enjoy the full dim sum experience with freshly prepared items arriving continuously, providing variety and excitement around the table. The lively environment at brunch encourages sociability and makes for dynamic group interactions. However, the restaurant is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM, making it possible to schedule meetups at less crowded times if a calmer atmosphere is preferred. Early weekday lunches or mid-afternoon visits can be quieter, allowing groups to focus more on intimate conversation without the bustle. For larger parties, making a reservation in advance is advisable to secure a good spot and ensure smooth service. Ultimately, the timing depends on the group’s preference for ambiance—either the lively weekend brunch or a more relaxed off-peak gathering.
Why is CBS Seafood a unique venue for celebratory gatherings?
CBS Seafood’s combination of authentic culinary offerings, sizeable and opulent dining space, and cultural richness makes it an exceptional venue for celebratory meetups. The restaurant’s distinctive décor, featuring brass columns and vibrant tapestries, imparts a festive mood that elevates birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions into memorable occasions. The shared nature of Cantonese dining encourages interaction and conviviality, giving celebrations a communal spirit that brings guests closer. Additionally, its reputation for fresh, flavorful food at a reasonable price lets parties indulge without worry. For groups wanting a venue that combines culture, cuisine, comfort, and value—there are few better options than CBS Seafood. Its unique ambiance and culinary depth enable groups to create joyful, lasting memories around a shared table.