Cassell’s Opens New Downtown LA Burger Joint

Cassell’s Hamburgers has completed its takeover of the former Pellicola Pizzeria in Downtown LA, right next to the iconic Golden Gopher bar, with an opening set for October 29. Founders Christian Page, Jingbo Lou, and Elia Aboumrad took over longtime Koreatown burger joint, moving it into the ground floor of the Hotel Normandie before plotting this Downtown expansion.

The menu resembles pretty straightforward modern diner, with fresh beef ground on the premises then grilled with a plush bun and toppings placed on the side of the tray. The Downtown spot also features the world-class patty melt, which Majordomo chef David Chang says is the best he’s ever had, while new items include a chicken cutlet sandwich on ciabatta roll and a hoagie with nitrate-free meats and provolone. Dante Fried Chicken, a delivery-only restaurant, will also serve chicken tenders at Cassell’s, with a wider fried chicken selection to come in the near future.

In addition to some pineapple cinnamon hand pies and pies by the slice, Cassell’s will make ice cream shakes using McConnell’s ice cream. Prices for the burgers start at $10.75 and up to $12.79 for the patty melt, while salads like the Cobb or Wedge run around $12 apiece. Eventually they’ll serve breakfast, but opening hours will be 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Anyone wanting drinks can order Cassell’s at Golden Gopher next door at a kiosk, with text notification once the order’s ready. Eventually Cassell’s will serve their own beer and wine.

Cassell’s Hamburgers, 421 West 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014.

• All Cassell’s Hamburgers Coverage [ELA]
• 18 Essential LA Burgers [ELA]

Wonho Frank Lee

Berry hand pie