The best restaurant, and it is quite good, is Las Golindrinas. It has been there forever. Last time we were there the doorman at our hotel wanted to help us with directions, I asked if Las Golindrinas was still open and he brought up a big smile and said Yes ma'm and it is still good. When the taxi dropped us by the church and pointed to the restaurant, he also advised us to take the subway back assuring us it was safe, cheaper, and stopped right by our hotel.

Olvera St is a tourist thing, but it's also a vibrant part of downtown LA. I see more Latinos there on a Sunday than gueros. And they're buying the kitschy stuff and eating churros! Since Olvera street is directly across from Union Station, no problem. The train station itself is a classic and should be enjoyed. Notice the seats, the ceiling, the tiles, the woodwork around the ticket places, the rose gardens, everything from the 30's that made train travel glamorous is still there. Including the hobos. Also nearby across from Olvera St. is Philippe's home of the original French dip sandwich and 5 cent coffee if you're so inclined.

I don't know why you are looking for parking if taking the train, but there is parking, you just have to look around. If you're meeting her at Union Station, there is parking there, or the Hill Street garage, both expensive. During the week there is a DART or something mini-van that takes you around the area for 25 cents or so. With a good driver it's better than any tour bus. You see and can visit Chinatown, the jewlery district and the fabulous art in the Bunker Hill area. Have a drink at the Biltmore, then taxi back to Union Station. What a great day!