Wolfgang Puck's WP24 Offers Drinks And Dumplings From The 24th Floor

It's surprising how few skyscraping dining and drinking options we have in L.A. But Wolfgang Puck is changing that with his new WP24 at The Ritz-Carlton at L.A. Live–and you don't need a reservation to enjoy those 24th-floor views.

When you want Puck's take on Chinese-inspired dishes like whole roasted Peking duck, reserve a table in the dining room. But the stunning lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the entire Southland, is meant for spontaneous snacking.

There's no discount happy-hour menu, but the lounge's bar bites are worth the price. Order the soft bao stuffed with honey-lacquered pork belly ($12), and supple pork dumplings with a slick of sweet black vinegar and chili oil ($12). Or try the crispy squid, with its fiery red-curry sauce for dipping ($12).

It's amazing that Puck hasn't done sushi before: Here, rolls are fat with spicy lobster and scallop ($21) or pristine hamachi ($14).

To drink, the Dragon's Fire, with tequila, grapefruit, jalapeño and Thai basil ($14), offers just enough kick. Trust us, it will help ease the valet sticker shock later.

WP24 at The Ritz-Carlton, 900 W. Olympic Blvd., Downtown; 213-743-8824 or wolfgangpuck.com