"Angel City Brewery, Arts District. Angel City Brewery has been brewing beer since 1997; only in the last two years have they opened their doors and transformed their brewing space into a welcoming, friendly, popular place to visit with friends. Ask for a tour to see their giant vats of craft beer; learn about their hops growing facility on the roof above the public space. Every night has a different food truck, so no need to find dinner before heading over. The expansive space is dog friendly, and features corn-hole, Jenga and even trivia night. If you're curious, be sure to order a beer flight."

"Wurstküche, Arts District. You might say Wurstküche and its exotic sausage and German beer selection might have ushered in the Art District's renaissance. With nothing really else on Traction Ave, it made a destination east of the Historic Core worth coming to. Instead of waiting in the (sometimes heinously long) line out front, slip in the side door and order a beer at the bar. If you're having a nightcap, why not try their sort-of-secret ice cream sandwich: Toasted Apple Pie ice cream between two oatmeal raisin cookies."

"Alchemy Works, Arts District. Open and airy, this shop (and Warby Parker eyeglasses showroom) feels like a very fashion-forward sailor's living room. Perhaps it's the sailboat parked in the center of the room, replacing a beautiful vintage Fiat that's recently been sold. It could be the beautiful pieces of statement jewelry, books, surfboard fins and nautical artifacts that are strewn about the space. This whole place is photogenic; enjoy the atmosphere as much as the merchandise."

"Eat Drink Americano, Arts District. Popular for both lunch and dinner, Eat Drink Americano (or Americano if you're fancy) has an industrial feel that acts as both a nod to its location across from the former Santa Fe train depot (see Black Fig) and a beautiful decor decision. With vegetarian soup options, flatbreads, salads and sandwiches, Americano will not disappoint a lunch crowd. Stop by for dinner, too, to see the place transform into an intimate date spot and a completely different menu."

"The Pie Hole, Arts District. Not many places nail a specialty like the Pie Hole does. Something as sinful as a slice of Mexican Chocolate pie washed down with a glass of milk shouldn't be so readily available. If you're not in the mood for sweets (then why are you here?) get the kale salad and the beef pot pie for something more savory (and lunch appropriate). If you're in a need of a pick-me-up, Pie Hole also doubles as a coffee spot. Take it to go, or set up shop outside and watch the locals that live above at the American Hotel."

"Lili Lakich Neon Gallery, Arts District. Don't be fooled by the cool exterior of this truly unique storefront; Lili Lakich Neon Gallery is a wonderful secret that needs to be shared. The open gallery offers neon workshops, and the colorful and offbeat neon art that graces the walls is priceless inspiration. With a renewed appreciation for the science of neon signs, take a stroll through the deceptively large space that extends beyond the small room that greets you as you walk in."

"Groundwork Coffee, Arts District. Recently reopened, the Arts District's Groundwork Coffee location is all things shiny and new. Bright and welcoming, the shop greets you with samples of their specialty drinks (we went home with the Iced Mocha) and plenty of spots to set up shop and do some work. With a lofted area in the back, don't be surprised to see people working on screenplays or research papers, enjoying a fresh croissant with their bona-fide Los Angeles coffee."

"Black Fig, Arts District. Tucked inside Sci-Arc (the Southern California Institute of Architecture, occupying the former Santa Fe Freight Depot), Black Fig could take some sneakiness to access. Follow a student in (it's legal, don't worry), and head into the school; oogle at the work being produced and end up at what is clearly a favorite spot for students and teachers alike. The owners must be twins, and are up to creating a signature sandwich just for you. Enjoy your covert mission posing as an architecture student with some delicious Lemongrass Mate iced tea (if they have it today)."

"EightyTwo, Arts District. Built on novelty, EightyTwo is a happy marriage between video game geeks, pinball nerds, and alcohol. Armed with cash, be sure to get at least $10 in quarters at the quarter machines; you'll want to play each and every game in this place at least three times. Each machine has a convenient cup holder for whatever your beverage may be. The patio in the middle is a nice break between digital and analog, and a great place to have your beer."

"Arts District Co-op, Arts District. Recently renovated, the Arts District Co-op houses dedicated stalls for sellers hawking their art, candles, vintage pieces, and bikes. Stop by Urth Caffe first (only if you have time to wait) and grab a Honey Vanilla Latte and cruise the stalls; you might come home with some original art by a local vendor."

"Arts District Dog Park, Arts District. In a clever use of an awkward piece of land, the Arts District Dog Park was founded to give the four-legged residents of the area space to stretch their legs. With its new dog-tastic mural, setting Fido free to make friends and get his ya-yas out is all the more satisfying—yes, you can have your dog in your 600sqft loft even if you don't have a yard! Privately run, true love goes into keeping this park beautiful."

"Villain's Tavern, Arts District. Located on the corner of Santa Fe and Palmetto, Villain's Tavern is on it's own in terms of neighborhood ambiance. Feeling distinctly like a 19th century apothecary, Villain's decor is dark and moody. Order a drink from their menu, or ask the bartender to whip something up just for you. Bluegrass, Rockabilly and Soul music light up the indoor stage area, depending on the night of the week. Enjoy your drink (or hamburger, if it's a Sunday afternoon) outside by the fire pit under the stars."

"Zinc Cafe, Arts District. Unless someone points it out to you (you're welcome), Zinc Cafe's vegetarian menu is hard to spot. Instead of substituting meat with vegetarian replacements, Zinc crafts delicious meals that don't try to imitate meat. While yes, there is a veggie burger and you have the option to add lentil meatballs to your pasta, most dishes do fine without. Our favorite lunch staple is the Burrito Bowl (with a side of extra fire-roasted salsa). Come for brunch or dinner for a whole different experience, but be sure to take a look at their marketplace, full of kitchen inspiration."

"Blue Bottle, Arts District. Blue Bottle can be found only sparsely outside of San Francisco, and the Arts District has its own location to brag about. Formerly housing Handsome Coffee Roasters, the Blue Bottle storefront is airy and relaxing, until you sip their coffee and that chill is officially broken into a caffeine-fueled frenzy. Their coffee is strong and delightful; for a summer treat, try their cartons of New Orleans Iced Coffee, flavored with chicory and cane sugar."

"Urban Radish, Arts District. Urban Radish is a wonderland of mouth-watering culinary delights. Local produce, imported delicacies, jazz nights, barbecues, oyster tastings— this place has it all. It also has 12 electric-only parking spots, if you're so inclined. Peruse their well-stocked wine selection while munching on some cheese chosen for you by the resident Cheesemonger from their overflowing display of cheeses and salumi. Fresh produce, flowers from Silver Lake, olive oil from Italy; try not to go overboard (good luck with that!)."

"Church and State, Arts District. As soon as you sit down, don't hesitate to order the Absinthe. It's a spectacle, if you're ready for it: a full tap of purified water drips down to your glass, saturating the sugar cube that's perch perilously on a sugar spoon. Church and State is both extremely fancy (anniversary date-night caliber) while being effortlessly casual. You can almost imagine yourself in Paris as you dig into your escargot or lavender-honey goat cheese toasts. Don't forget to ask your server for their opinion— they know their changing menu well."

"Little Bear, Arts District. Go to Traction Ave if you want German beer (see Wurstkuche); go to Industrial Ave if you want Belgian. Little Bear (or The Little Bear, if you must) has an impressive selection of Belgian beers on tap. Just ask the servers or bartender and they'll steer you in the right direction if you're lost. Pair your drink with the truffle-tastic Little Bear burger and side of the slightly sweet balsamic-roasted brussels sprouts, sprinkled with hazelnuts."

"Daily Dose, Arts District. Almost like a fairytale, this locally-sourced food hidden gem is situated in a lush alleyway between two buildings on Industrial. Ivy covers the walls, bricks line the walkway. Be sure to sit outside! Order the Guildsmith sandwich for a plate of baked cheese goodness and spicy pesto, or the Farmer's sandwich for more roasted vegetables and spicy guacamole than you thought could fit between two slices of olive bread. Of course, they have salads and sides, too, but who can order anything more beautiful than those two sandwiches? We dare you."

"Artist & Craftsman, Arts District. While there are several Artist & Craftman Supply locations across Los Angeles, each storefront is unique and could fool anyone into thinking it was a local affair. Paint covers the floors, walls, even the ceilings; handmade signs encourage you to to dig into your pocket and buy just one more thing for your upcoming art project. Come here after Pizzanista! or Stumptown Coffee to make the trip to the edge of the Arts District complete."

"The Bread Lounge, Arts District. While those in the know will argue that The Bread Lounge is "Arts District Adjacent," we think this corner and its neighbors (see Stumptown) are worth the extra block walk. This bakery supplies pastries and bread for many of local businesses, including Stumptown, Urban Radish and Blacktop Coffee. It's easy to see why, with their creations sitting in their display cases, ready to be eaten. The stop has Stumptown coffee as well as artful sandwiches and flatbreads if you're swinging by for lunch. Check out the bakers in the back; their industrial kitchen is constantly filling orders for their goods."

"Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Arts District. Originating in Portland, Stumptown Coffee Roasters prides itself on it's amazingly strong and balanced coffee. If you're feeling playful, pick up a carton of their coldbrew—it's basically like drinking melted coffee ice cream. Or, if you're feeling especially adventurous, order a glass of their Nitro coffee. This stuff comes from a tap and will fool anyone into thinking you just ordered a beer. The process almost eliminates the need to add milk!"

"Factory Kitchen, Arts District. Upon opening its doors, you'll instantly appreciate the Factory Kitchen's hidden ambiance. With no other indicator than their glowing red neon sign, the restaurant is all the more welcoming with its warm interior and delicious food. Come hungry and order as many small plates as your stomach (and wallet) can allow. Factory Kitchen does meat especially well, so try not to bring vegetarians here; though, their almond pesto handkerchief pasta is one of their best dishes."

"Individual Medley, Atwater Village. Atwater locals and owners Monika and Justin have impressively curated an eclectic shop carrying many LA brands, and lend their space for community pop-ups and events as well. If you want to be the one who brought the best unique gift to the party, stop on by. One of those rare places you can pay $45 for a hip ceramic knick-knack and still feel good about the purchase the next day. Their always-evolving selection includes clothes, pottery, incense and fine oils, books and more treasures for discovery. For the cool parents with the coolest kids…their kids apparel and toys selection is next level."

"Proof Bakery, Atwater Village. Proof is the place most mentioned when Atwater Village comes up in a conversation, and it’s worthy of the buzz. Their delicious assortment of goodies are baked on site with seasonal ingredients. Simplicity in design and complexity in flavors, Proof is straight legit y’all. We dare you to try a sea-salted baguette and not crave it for the rest of your life. Get a quiche or an artisan sandwich to go, or enjoy some finely crafted pour-over coffee from Congoscenti, the pop-up coffee shop in Proof, featuring roasters from LA to Portland."

"Dune, Atwater Village. New kid on the Glendale Blvd block, over the counter falafel joint Dune has fast become a neighborhood favorite for lunch and dinner crowds. Take your east coast friends who bemoan LA’s lack of quality falafel, and watch them eat their words along with an incredible falafel sandwich on delicious cooked-to-order pita bread. We come here as often as we can and it’s generally the first suggestion for “what should we do for lunch today?” Brave the line, get a hummus plate and a rosemary lemonade with your falafel sandwiches and enjoy!"

"Bigfoot Lodge, Atwater Village. Step into the wonderfully quirky Bigfoot Lodge and it feels like you’ve been transported to Yosemite or Yellowstone – this is how you do a themed bar. Their signature décor feels right, from the mason jar lamps, trunk tables, taxidermy lined walls and a Smokey the Bear. They have a stellar happy hour from 5 to 9, and have some fun, boozy karaoke and trivia nights, as well as some sets by local and cover bands. It’s the perfect neighborhood bar to let loose with friends."

"The Village Bakery and Cafe, Atwater Village. The kind of place you can stay all day, The Village Bakery is the go-to for delicious breakfast and free wifi seekers alike. Peek over at a screenplay in progress at the beautiful communal tables that really do make you want to stay awhile. The staff is as sweet as the lemon almond rosemary cake (get it!) wearing patchwork aprons and shirts. Known for their breakfast for good reason the Atwater Special has polenta cakes topped with parmesan, scrambled eggs, spinach, tomatoes and chopped bacon. Gimme. Or, get a salad made fresh from the to-go case or choose from an impressive sandwich menu. You can’t go wrong here, it’s great."

"Momed Atwater Village, Atwater Village. The spectacular Momed is tucked away in a residential neighborhood with subtle signage – this is not your typical looking restaurant, but the backyard oasis is a hidden Atwater Village treasure. Traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist…influences of Italy, Spain, Israel, Lebanon, Turkey and Morocco are felt in a divine menu that throws in a little California flare for the win. A perfect example is the addictive Avocado Hummus, which you can devour in a pleasant, casual setting with a lovely Egyptian Tile dominated aesthetic. Happy hour and brunch are not to be missed."

"Tacos Villa Corona, Atwater Village. Once a wonderfully secret local gem until Anthony Bourdain ruined it for everyone, Tacos Villa Corona is in the conversation for best breakfast burrito in LA. Fully hipster minimal, cash only, nowhere to sit although many choose to enjoy theirs on the curb, once they run out of daily ingredients they close no matter what time that is so get there early especially on the weekend. You’ll fall in love with not just the burritos, but with the family who owns and runs this neighborhood treasure. First timers: go with a Chilaquiles breakfast burrito and bask in delicious wonderment."

"Viet Noodle Bar, Atwater Village. Intriguing red brick façade without a sign, Viet Noodle Bar is where we go whenever it’s cold or when we talk about needing to ‘eat healthier’. The ambience is inviting, with scattered books on shelves you can flip through a couple chapters while you eat or sip on their terrific Ginger Tea all afternoon. Pho on par with any LA staple, their bowls (get the turmeric rice) are a pleasant surprise and you can taste the freshness. Classy Vietnamese, dishes are simple and elegant. Beer, Wine and Sake if you go for dinner at terrific prices."

"Heartbeat House, Atwater Village. Try and walk by Heartbeat House without wanting to go in and join… the energy is palpable every time we stroll by. They do an amazing job offering classes for everyone no matter age or ability level in this health oriented, community studio. Just about everyone who walks by the class schedule wants to sign up for the Bollywood Dance Workout, which we can attest is “sooooo fun”. You’ve probably been to a yoga studio, but have you taken Yoga Booty Ballet? No? Do yourself a favor and get on the Heartbeat House level, friends."

"GameHäus Café, Atwater Village. Tucked away in the Seeley Creative Campus, GameHäus is worth discovering. Shelves of over 1000 games await your inner child, uber geek, or just you and some friends. A café is part of the fun, but it’s all about the games here. From classics to the newest popular games and even a rumored ‘vault’ that has out of print games, they have it all. For a very small fee, you and your friends can play any and all games until you are spent. Great for groups, make a reservation because it’s incredibly popular on weekends and most nights."

"Bon Vivant Market & Cafe, Atwater Village. The welcoming fireplace, indoor outdoor flow and pleasing airplane hangar architecture draw you in, and the food is what you want it to be from breakfast on. The Fromage and Charcuterie is legit and you can take some home with a sweet treat from the ‘market’ side of the restaurant. Their happy hour is amazing, bringing in the old world custom that if you buy a drink, you get free Tapas! This brilliancy may be why Bon Vivant has been gaining steam among the locals and the lunch and night time crowds get bigger every month."

"Golden Road Brewing, Atwater Village. Maybe the most diverse crowd you’ll see in Atwater Village at the brewery. Meg and Tony founded Golden Road to “bring fresh beer to the local market in the most sustainable way possible” and in the process have done a lot of bringing people together too. This is where LA communities collide. Families taking advantage of the lawn games, sports watchers, businessmen, college kids and hipsters all blending together over some IPAs. The beer is good, the kitchen is sports bar with a vegan-friendly twist. We aren’t sure why it works so well at Golden Road, but it really does."

"The Juice, Atwater Village. The day The Juice opened, the whole world knew Atwater Village was serious about being an LA neighborhood hipsters could settle down in. This mom and pop shop is as good as any of the pillars of the juice community you’ll find in the beach towns or Silverlake/Los Feliz. They even have a super cool bike cart for mobile sales and they deliver too. Try a #4 and feel the tasty fire of the triple ginger!"

"Treehaus, Atwater Village. Treehaus started as a pop-up shop out of a green 1977 VW bus. Owned by two coolest-ever local moms whose passion for art and design shines through in this delightful boutique. Most of the stuff here is made by local artists and you can feel their love for uncovering unknown talent not only in the shop, but their other community events (art openings and more). Treehaus is your place to find that unique item your friends keep asking where you got it. They share their space with best-name-in-town SewLA, a haven for DIY local makers."

"Common, Atwater Village. Started by two sisters, one of whom was a former buyer for Therapy, Common boasts quality women’s clothing without the LA prices. Favorite place of the Brains on Fire LA gals. Easy to wear, comfortable, cute clothes without losing any quality. You’ll want to walk through the racks and touch everything. They get a new shipment every week -- you'll be tempted to literally shop incessantly as the floor is constantly changing."

"The Griffin, Atwater Village. The layout of the place is great, with brick arches, fireplaces and hanging lanterns complementing the medieval décor. Once in awhile you may find yourself surrounded by first tinder dates, but if that’s kinda night grab a drink and get eavesdropping—you’ll have a blast. The smoking patio is a nice value-add for all you smokers out there and they have a decent full tavern menu. The service/bartenders are sometimes hit and miss, but you can always find parking and a table so it’s a great place for happy hour with friends."

"Club Tee Gee, Atwater Village. Around since 1946, Club Tee Gee is maybe the best way to end a raucous evening in Atwater. This neighborhood pillar has a front door plaque proclaiming it’s “The Cheers of Atwater Village” and it’s hard to argue. It’s the right kind of throw back, with green leather booths and vintage memorabilia with some Sinatra on the jukebox and a plethora of regulars. Get lost with some friends here because you’ll feel no need to leave for hours…in part because the prices do not feel anywhere near LA. Soon enough everyone will know your name, unless you start whining about the lack of finely crafted microbrews or try to pay with a card. Just be cool, relax and bring some cash. It’s old school."

"L.A. River, Atwater Village. Did you know that despite its concrete jungle vibe, the LA River is the cleanest fresh body of water in SoCal? We’re not sure if that’s awesome or horrifying either, but some people enjoy taking advantage of Atwater Village’s river border. It seems like it will be next level amazing when the elusive River Restoration project is done (buy your riverfront real estate now folks). For now, you can enjoy the recent bike path extension and check out all the new pop-ups in Frogtown. Not hardcore enough? Then take a Kayak trip (not a joke) with LA River Kayak Safari or rent a bike from Spoke Bicycle Café and grab a cappuccino to go."

"Atwater Village Farmers' Market, Atwater Village. Yeah, Atwater Village has a sweet farmers market too and its 10 years old so probably even more OG than yours. Every Sunday, the Wells Fargo parking lot on Glendale becomes a diverse hotbed of Atwater community folks doing the most feel good community thing ever while they hunt for certified organic fresh produce. Oysters, heirloom tomatoes, flowers, artisanal cheeses, some sick BBQ, fish tacos, a knife sharpening stand …what more do you people want?!?!? People watch, dog watch (there’s so many), get a reasonable price on some honey, feast and enjoy your Sunday."

"The Morrison, Atwater Village. Diverse and enthusiastic locals-heavy crowd, The Morrison turned a corner when it went to a signature crafted burger menu instead of traditional Scottish fare. Terrific brunch for those pesky hangovers and a good place to catch a game with people who care but aren’t to crazy about it. Burgers are great and the Butterscotch Bread Pudding lives up to it’s lofty, award-winning reputation. A deep selection of Scotch goes well with any dish."

"Link-N-Hops, Atwater Village. Tucked behind Starbucks and 55 Degree Wine, Link-N-Hops is a good surprise to find, yet exactly what you expect. They’ve got an interesting, wide range of wild sausages (from rattlesnake to wild boar) and even a generous selection of vegan sausages to go with usually loud music, sports on TVs and a ‘keep dad happy’ bar with a decent selection of beers and is littered with some actually pretty cool handmade signs. In a surprise twist of design aesthetic it has many historical images of the Glendale-Hyperion Bridge covering its walls. We recommend Bingo Night on Tuesdays."

"Alias Books East, Atwater Village. We love that this place exists and that the neighborhood supports it. Alias is carefully and thoughtfully curated by the owner, whose brother owns Alias Books West on the other side of town, which is a story we really like for some reason. Some impressive rare titles complement the many film and even more arts books (this guy knows his neighborhood readers!). There is a cool nook up front for kids’ books."

"Jacknife Records & Tapes, Atwater Village. Jacknife is a great place to get your vinyl geek on. Championing the buy, sell and trade business model of yesteryear, these guys also have a great selection of vintage speakers and record players, colorful boom boxes and even classic films. They also host uber music geek events in ‘experience form’ that are pretty radical. If you find yourself spending hours on eBay looking for rare cassette recorders, vinyl records or other vintage gear, you have found your tribe at Jacknife."

"Tony's Darts Away, Burbank. Once upon a time, being a vegan made going out to the bar with your carnivore friends difficult. That was until Tony Yanow launched a place that took the carnivore/veggie question off the table. Tony's Darts Away is a bottle free, low waste bar/restaurant that serves every beverage on a draught system featuring 50 unique taps of California's best craft beers. Their menu features vegan/carnivore versions of innovative flavorful sausages, maple drenched sweet potato fries, and brunch on the weekends. Tony's was so successful that Tony opened a series of vegan friendly bars/restaurants/breweries all over LA."

"Commonwealth, Burbank. An absolute human truth is that good food and drink can erase arbitrary boundaries and become a common denominator for people from all parts of the world. At Commonwealth, this comes together in pure delicious harmony. Stepping away from traditional entrees, you come to Commonwealth to taste a little of everything from around the globe, and experience flavor combinations that you wouldn't expect in Burbank. This hidden gem of a place is classy, comfortable, and downright amazing. Pro Tip: The butterscotch pudding topped with caramel and crispy prosciutto is so good, that it will make a carnivore out of a vegan."

"Olive & Thyme, Burbank. A gourmet is defined as a connoisseur of good food. Melina & Christian Davies, owners of the epicureans delight Olive & Thyme, have created the one stop shop for those with discerning palettes. But Olive & Thyme is not just a market, it's a fabulous fast casual always packed breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner spot. Pick up a fine wine with that perfect cheese, pastry or espresso. At Olive & Thyme you're surround by a beautiful market while enjoying the best brunch in Burbank."

"Bob's Big Boy, Burbank. Bob's Big Boy may now be a nationwide chain, but Southern California is where it all began. Designed and built in 1949 by famed "Googie" style architect Wayne McAllister, this early Bob's in Burbank is nothing like its franchise cousins across the midwest. Every Friday night the parking lot fills with pristine classic cars, hot-rods, museum cars, and even a horseless carriage or two. Friday nights at Bob's is where classic cars come to tailgate. You can even still have food delivered to you car on the weekends, or if you choose to dine inside, perhaps sit at the "Beatles Booth" where the Fab 4 once enjoyed a bite from this classic American diner."

"Commissary Coffee, Burbank. Nestled on the corner across the street from Jay Leno's old studio is the perfect answer to a mid-day pick me up. The Commissary is a delightful addition to an area of Burbank that is mostly comprised of studios and sound stages. Enjoy the only Cortado you'll find in Burbank on their sizable shady patio or hang out under the rooster painting polishing your latest literary masterpiece. You'll be delighted to find strong espresso and wifi here, and best of all an extremely mild "industry" vibe."

"Bearded Lady Vintage, Burbank. Fascinate your mind in this colorful little house turned oddities shop. Bearded Lady Vintage has the creepiest of the creepy adorning their walls from jars of creatures preserved in formaldehyde to supposedly haunted masks from around the world. Owners Erick and Kiko opened this place on a whim after stumbling across a for rent sign and opening up the shop to share their passion with Burbank. Their favorite things to collect are items with spiritual energy and bonus curses. For the truly curious, come out to one of their taxidermy classes and learn something new."

"Chili John's, Burbank. Sit down at this delightfully retro diner for some of the best chili in probably all of California. Chili John's is the oldest restaurant in Burbank, opening with its u-shaped counter in 1946 at the height of Burbank's top secret aviation era. Early chili patrons were the first aerospace engineers working for Lockheed Martin, located nearby at the time. For the past 20 years, the Loguercio family has owned Chili John’s. Debbie and her son Anthony are two of the nicest people you may meet in Burbank. Have your chili over spaghetti, mild or flaming hot and don't forget the fixin's or pineapple pie for dessert."

"It's A Wrap, Burbank. Second hand clothing stores typically have a few standout must-own pieces that you find after extensive digging, but It's A Wrap is more like a fashion designers closet. Stocking only clothing purchased from the costume departments of studios and movie sets, you stand to find a pair of nearly new Manolo Blahniks for pennies on the dollar. Most of the goods here still have their tags on them, while others may have donned the feet of your latest favorite TV star. This is your chance to wear the good stuff with a bonus pedigree."

"The Supply Sergeant, Burbank. Burbank once had a robust metropolitan military community with the Air Force and early aerospace pioneers like Lockheed Martin calling it home for many decades. The Supply Sergeant is a hold-out from the days of the greatest generation. In business since 1948, it's that kooky store with tanks parked outside. Not just military surplus anymore, Supply Sergeant carries all sorts of camping/survival gear as well as serving as a mini military museum. You can get just about anything you need here to survive the zombie apocalypse or perfect that Russian cosmonaut costume you've got planned for Halloween. The Supply Sergeant is worth a visit even if it's just to check out the tanks."

"Handy Market, Burbank. Imagine standing in a fog of meat flavored BBQ smoke; chicken, tri-tip, filets of yum. That dream happens every Saturday morning attracting a line of locals around the block waiting to bring home charred meat prepared by the Handy chefs. Handy Market is not just all about BBQ's, it also carries the most creative and unique craft beer selection from the California coast. ProTip: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are triple the size and half the price compared to the grocery store - do your stomach a favor and visit the market."

"H&S Bicycles, Burbank. Finding the right bike shop when you're new to cycling can be quite the task. A shop has to have the right people and magical mojo to turn you into a lifelong patron. Family owned and operated H&S Bicycles is just that place. At first it looks like just any other bike shop, but H&S has the post sale community you don't get at other shops. Race the guys up La Tuna canyon on Sundays, or join the ladies on Tuesdays to work on your bike confidence. Pick up juniors first bike here, and Bobby gets to stick his handprints on the wall. Or if you're just looking for a place to relax after work, shoot the shit, and drink a cold one - H&S is the place."

"Portos, Burbank. The story of Porto's is a romantic tale of emigration and the American dream. Rosa and Raul Porto came to California in 1960 from Cuba with their three children. Rosa brought an extreme talent for cake making that helped build this legendary bakery. Porto's is never slow, often times there is a line out the door and down the block. Each and every day, people line up for custom cakes, sweet & savory pastries, mousses and authentic cuban sandwiches. The staff appears to move at an unbelievable pace to keep up with the demand, while some folks come in just to take home fistfuls of the oh so amazing Potato Balls."

"The Blue Room, Burbank. Among the collection of dive bars in Burbank, the Blue Room is bar far the classiest dive bar you'll find. The blue lighting mixed with turquoise blue leather booths compliment this classic cocktail bar. Be sure to notice the port-hole bathroom signs with stenciled typography, and antique cash register that runs this cash only bar. Their Bloody Mary is spicy and there is no shortage of specialty liquors for just about any cocktail."

"Halloween Town, Burbank. Creature effect artist Wayne Toth is a horror film industry veteran, having for over twenty years crafted Hollywood's gloomy sets and realistically creepy monsters. Together with his wife Jackie, they took their passion and built a year-round Halloween mecca, beginning with one shop and expanding to three separate Halloween boutiques less than a block apart. These are more than just costume and prop shops, Halloween Town is also an art gallery and movie prop museum designed to spook and intrigue. Their sister shops down the street house every Halloween costume ever made, and another specialty store just for kids."

"Fit Works, Burbank. Squat till ya drop at this central Burbank Crossfit gym that also features a Brazilian Jui Jitsu group, and free Zumba on Fridays. Fitworks has just the right stuff combined with a great staff to help you get fit. Lead coach Jack Holiday is at every class, answers every question, pays individual attention and gets to know your abilities so that he can push you when you're ready. Eventually the sore muscles will transform into incredible strength and pure confidence."

"Niko Niko, Burbank. The best sushi joints are those tucked away in obscure strip malls off the beaten path from the hustle and bustle. At Niko Niko you'll find the standard sushi fare but with a twist, like the "Heart Attack", a deep-fried Philadelphia roll topped with fresh jalapeño. Often with a line out the door, Niko Niko has everything from mild to fire breathing spicy. Tame the burn of the spicy Ahi tuna salad with some unfiltered Kikusui sake. This place mixes creativity with tradition and never fails to deliver the flavor and quality."

"Marche Wine Bar, Burbank. Wine. That thirst quenching beverage of the gods that needs no introduction. Formerly Luna Vine Wine Bar, the service is as good if not better than the wine. Personalized attention is paid to learn about your wine preferences and professionally recommend up to a trio of tastings. Learn about the flavors of each bottle and pair it with one of Marche's fabulous cheese plates. Manchengo topped with a roasted Walnut dipped in honey and washed down with Spanish Pinot Noir is an absolutely delicious way to spend an evening in Burbank."

"Mindful Nest, Burbank. For the truly snarky individuals out there, Mindful Nest might be the shop that's been missing from your life. Filled with inspiring and amusing products, it's the perfect place to pick up a unique gift for almost anyone. Perhaps you need the perfect card to cheer up a friend, or maybe you've got a white elephant party to shop for and nothing else will do except for a bar of filthy beaver soap. At the back of the store, indulge in custom perfumes and scents made for you by the Scentual Mixtress, or sample any number of their KleanSpa line. This shop is a must visit for creative types."

"Doughnut Hut, Burbank. The doughnut is an iconic Los Angeles food group, with thousands of Mom and Pop doughnut shops in every LA neighborhood. Burbank's most architecturally iconic doughnut shop is situated within a primarily residential neighborhood that hasn't changed it's look since it first opened in the 50's. This retro little spot with it's orange picnic tables is the perfect place to stroll and share a sweet treat with the family on a Sunday afternoon. Try the apple fritter, it will be the delicious hero of your day."

"The Blue Pig, Burbank. Driving east on Magnolia boulevard, you're bound to frequently spot the pickup truck stacked tall with swap meet goodies out front of Robert DeFrancesco's vintage and collectible shop the Blue Pig. Named after his favorite tavern in Cape May, New Jersey - Robert turned his lifelong passion for antiquing and picking into a store. He tries to bring in a little bit of everything but has a soft spot for old mechanical pieces. Nestled on the bottom shelf in the back of the store is the world's first pay phone. Drop one of each coin in, and you'll hear three different bell dings so that operators could tell how much you paid. The Blue Pig promises to educate and delight, give it a visit."

"Simmzy's, Burbank. Simmzy's, well known for it's popular gastropubs down in Manhattan Beach and Long Beach, has come inland and brought its delicious burgers and craft beer along. Replacing a longtime boarded-up eyesore, this colorful new spot across the street from the old NBC studios is impeccably designed and decorated with a surf meets southwest motif. Enjoy a beer from their see-through keg coolers behind the bar, and fill up on tasty burger. Simmzy's is the comfortable new pub in town, complete with cornhole on the newly added patio."

"Quenelle, Burbank. Ice cream at Quenelle is so good that you'll be lucky to find standing room in this adorable little parlor. Flavors stick around for as long as one batch lasts, while a handful of favorites are reliable regulars. New intriguing tastes like Minty Melon sorbet are added daily, so theoretically you could have a different flavor everyday for years. Served on a stick, in a cup or a homemade waffle cone, stand-out winners like blueberry pie are unbelievably good. The key-lime pie and apple pie ice cream bars are crunchy cold versions of their tin pan cousins, and to top off your visit - you can enjoy endless taste tests."

"Moore's Deli, Burbank. Situated down the street from Burbank City Hall in Downtown Burbank is a modern deli in a triangular shaped building. Offering up new-age takes on more traditional deli favorites, Moore's is best described as part deli, part gourmet shop, and part coffee house with adjoining creative work space. The well-rounded joint features an whopping 80ft illustrated wall mural and crazy tasty sandwiches sure to delight your taste buds. Every meal comes with Moore's mashed potato salad which for all intensive purposes is worth a potato salad coma. Decorating the counters are gourmet fixings from Fort Greene Farms, named after their Brooklyn neighborhood namesake."

"Baron Hats, Burbank. Legendary hat makers are a rare breed in the 21st century. Few master craftsmen are left to pass down the art of hat making to eager apprentices, but at Baron Hats you can have a hat made by skilled master craftsmen, on century old machines. Mark Mejia is the second owner of Baron Hats, apprenticing and purchasing the business from the legendary Eddy Baron who topped the heads of half a centuries worth of movie stars and musicians. This hatter and his museum of iconic hats is an incredible story. Beyond the hat making, Baron hats can restore, resize or repair grandpa's old fedora. Everyone is welcome at Baron Hats - Hollywood's hat maker of choice."

"Pickwick Bowl, Burbank. Splashy 80's design, two-tone velcro shoes, florescent marble balls and that midwest hometown feel is what you can expect walking into Pickwick Bowl. Part of the Pickwick Gardens Trio, this bowling alley is also attached to a year-round regulation ice rink and banquet gardens. No bowling alley would be complete without an arcade, pro shop and greasy food - all present an accounted for with bonus new age arcade games that put your coordination to a test. Spend a hot day skating around or trying to avoid the gutter balls at Pickwick, it's simple good family fun."

"Half Baked Co., Burbank. Sweet confections inherently come with a bad wrap for being bad for you, but not at Half Baked Co where everything is made with half the bad stuff and twice the good stuff. Come here with your speciality diet restrictions, and leave with a delicious custom made assortment of cakes, cupcakes and macaroons. Don't forget to keep Half Baked Co in mind for that perfectly designed three-tier cake perfectly matched to decor of your choice, this is the personalized confectionary service of your dreams that leaves nothing to be desired. ProTip: Try the Death by Chocolate, it's fudge frosting will leave you wanting more."

"Story Tavern, Burbank. Old world charm meets new world fun at this Downtown Burbank tavern and game hall. With plenty of space to bring a group of friends or challenge your co-workers to a game of cricket, Story Tavern has a little bit of everything. Beer is served by the pitcher for the budget conscious or in a tulip for the selective craft beer palette. For the bacon lover in everyone, come to Story for a bowl of their bacon Macaroni & Cheese. Happy hour is more like happy day with specials happening from opening until 7:30pm every day of the week. This tavern has just the right amount of old world charm and crafty libations."

"Burbank Historical Society, Burbank. Incorporated in 1911, the city of Burbank owes it's name to dentist and original land owner Dr. David Burbank who settled here in the 1860's. In the early twentieth century the entertainment and aviation industries began to take root, building the foundations for the city we know today. At the Burbank Historical Society, the cities early beginnings and industries are captured throughout this large complex of exhibits, preserved historic houses, and community buildings featuring full calendars of arts, culture, sports, theater and creative classes. You can't miss this place, as it has an actual F-104 parked outside on the street."

"Burbank Antiques, Burbank. Ralph Persinger, aka "Mr. Lunchbox", boasts a collection of nearly 3,000 vintage metal lunch boxes from the 50's all the way up through the 90's, many original non-reproduction designs. Together with his wife Kim, they opened Burbank Antiques, which is more like an homage to the last half of the 20th century. Everything from Schwinn service tags to that clear plastic phone popular in the early 90's. You'll also find more vintage vinyl here than most nearby record stores, in addition to vintage advertising from the Mad Men era. Walk out of this place with that truly awesome Clash of the Titans lunch box you never knew you needed."

"Stough Canyon Nature Center, Burbank. The Verdugo Mountains are full of critters who call it's low lying brush home and share their urban space with hikers and mountain bikers. Stough Canyon is one of many trail heads within the Verdugo's, with the Nature Center at the top of Walnut street serving as the educational gateway to the mountains and trails. Learn about the wildlife, flora and fauna at one of the nature centers exhibits, guided hikes and day camps. Or access the trails next to the nature center and pedal up the Stough Canyon grinder."

"Simply Coffee, Burbank. Burbank's Magnolia Park region is a cute walkable portion of the city filled with vintage shops, cafes and sweet shops. Newcomer Simply Coffee has nestled itself just off the main Magnolia drag, giving the neighborhood a lovely little espresso pitstop for an afternoon pick me up. Brewing the usual menu of caffeinated beverages, Simply Coffee pours a great Stumptown Americano best enjoyed on their comfy patio. This dog friendly joint has a lovely rustic style and knows that all you need in life is love...and coffee."

"Rocket Fizz, Burbank. Lollipops, moon-pies, margarita flavored taffy, and just about every other cavity causing sweet from your childhood can be found in a Rocket Fizz. For two quarters you can take a ride in a rocket ship or fill up a bag with over 40 varieties of delicious taffy. Don't forget to sample the Buffalo Wing Soda, or pick up a case of Moon Pies to be that week's winner of the office. This corner candy shop in Magnolia Park will bring back memories and delight the senses."

"Hyaena Gallery, Burbank. There's low brow, and then there's low brow so twisted it's funny. Hyaena Gallery specializes in the weird, macabre and potentially insulting artwork, gifts and decor. Pick up a wax candle bust of your favorite ghoulish character like Edgar Allen Poe or Wednesday Adams, and that perfect antique surgeons kit you've been hoping to find? Hyaena has it. Shop owner Bill Shafer scavenges the depths for new dark artists, as well as tinkers with a few things himself like the "Ye Olde Insult Machine" which he refurbished and tweaked to his unique tastes. No matter your flavor, you are bound to find that totally one-of-a-kind conversation piece for that empty spot on your wall at Hyaena."

"Corner Bar, Burbank. You've never played a more stressful game of Jenga until you test your luck on a wobbly table with a group of inebriated friends. Corner Bar is just the place you go to with your buds for an after dinner libation. With a small collection of board games, karaoke, or trivia on Tuesdays - you can enjoy more than a few laughs at this comfy little dive bar. The bar is stocked, cocktails are well made and the seating is probably too comfortable for a bar. We tried their Kettle One Minted Man, and gave it a two-thumbs up!"

"Racer's Edge, Burbank. Challenge your friends to a race around two and a half miles of track in electric go karts. These less pollutant cousins to your hometown gas powered buckets on wheels can reach speeds upwards of 40mph, which is plenty for high velocity drifts around every corner. Once you get the hang of these miniature indy cars and the track, you're guaranteed to feel like a kid again flying around the turns with reckless abandon."

"Captain Vintage, Burbank. Out of all the vintage shops on Magnolia Boulevard, Captain Vintage is bar far the brightest colored. This uniquely odorous hard to miss blue palace of Star Wars collectibles, typewriters and oddball toys from the last generation has an ample supply of retro Underwoods and brick phones tightly packed on every square inch of shelf space. If you're the type of vintage shopper who likes to dig and unearth that long forgotten gem, Captain Vintage might be your place."

"Basecamp and High Horse Dinette, Burbank. This particular parcel of land nestled amongst residential homes near the LA Riverhas been a revolving door of short-lived cafes for years. That is until the founder of North Hollywood's wildly popular Republic of Pie came in and transformed this struggling corner joint into an incredible coffee shop with HEALTHY food and welcoming design. Their staff pours one of Burbanks best Cortados and if you're in the mood for brunch, do try the Quinoa Eggs Benedict with spinach. MmmmMmmm!"

"Nick's Cafe, Chinatown. We're not just throwing around superlatives here. Coming from the East Coast, we've had our share of great diners. Nick's is as good as it gets. They've been there since 1948 and for good reason. It feels kind of like a time capsule– you get the feeling that things haven't changed much there. Would highly recommend this to anyone looking for some no-nonsense diner food. Breakfast and lunch hours only."

"Chego, Chinatown. Chego is rightfully one of the most well-known food spots in the area, and has always been a lunch staple for us. They're known for their big, delicious, asian-fusion style bowls– our recommendations being the Leafy T, Beefy T, or the Sour Cream Henhouse. If you're not full yet, Scoops and Endorffeine are right around the corner. Warning: If it's really hot outside, it can be a very long walk back to the office after putting down a bowl for lunch."

"Scoops, Chinatown. Scoops is one of our favorite post-lunch guilty pleasures. Located between Chego and Endorffeine, Scoops is a great place to visit after getting your lunch time fix. Known for its unusual flavors like Brown Bread and Black Sesame, Scoops will have something for everyone (including vegans)."

"Old Chinatown Central Plaza, Chinatown. If you close your eyes and try to imagine what Chinatown looks like, you probably conjure an image similar to this plaza. It serves as somewhat of an epicenter for the rest of Chinatown, and is probably the most visually captivating. It hosts several points of interest, everything from gift stores to the almighty Bruce Lee statue. We've written about a few individual plaza destinations as they deserve their own attention, but just walking around here is an event in itself."

"Endorffeine, Chinatown. We feel very lucky to have this in our very own Chinatown. The owners have traveled a long way to be here, and have garnered quite the fanbase in the process. People have been following them around, and for good reason. They just opened up down the street and we couldn't be happier. Full disclosure, we've only really dabbled in their iced drinks since it has been ungodly outside. However, we happen to know that they have quite the menu with some very unique drinks. Note: They're brand new so the address/pin below are for Scoops – they're right next door."

"Ooga Booga, Chinatown. Ooga Booga is our favorite book store. Founded by Wendy Yao, this shop has a wonderfully curated collection of art books & zines, records, clothing, and more. The shop is located on the second floor of a nondescript building off Broadway and the historic Gin Ling Way. Ooga Booga is definitely one of our top recommendations of places to visit in Chinatown."

"Blossom, Chinatown. Blossom is right in the middle of Chinatown's most distinguishable plaza. They usually keep their front windows open, making it a great place to have lunch, enjoy the breeze, and people-watch. We usually go for their pho, but that's not to say the rest of their menu isn't great as well."

"Pho 87, Chinatown. Bottom line: for ten dollars cash, including tip, you can get a very good bowl of pho. Although the significance of "87" remains unknown, their no-frills system leads to a consistently good bowl of pho every time. The decor is comically absurd, with faux marble pillars and a small fish pond under a large television, but it only makes the short wait for your meal more interesting."

"Mexicali, Chinatown. Although its a little off of the main drag, Mexicali is absolutely in our regular lunch rotation (as it is for pretty much anyone that works in the area). Clean, delicious, authentic mexican food; some of the best we've had in LA. For meat eaters, we'd recommend the Vampiro tacos. Forget about it."

"Wonder Bakery, Chinatown. This is a real "locals only" kind of spot. Although we most commonly go there for their Mochi, they have a pretty serious collection of cake and pie options. We've heard reports of people coming here for coffee as well, and have reason to believe that our building manager gets breakfast here quite frequently. As far as we're concerned, this is a real pillar in the Old Chinatown plaza and worth a visit."

"The Framing House Design, Chinatown. This is a bit of a secret spot in Chinatown. The Framing House Design is a small frame shop on Broadway. They do quality custom framing for really affordable prices. The only downside is it seems like more people are finding out about them, so they appear to be getting busier and busier (we're not helping). Side note: they do not allow pictures inside, so they were very nice for letting us take some."

"Ramen Champ, Chinatown. Ramen Champ was originally opened by Eggslut's Alvin Cailan. After a brief hiatus, it looks like Ramen Champ is coming back with a new owner, Yoshimasa Kasai. We liked Ramen Champ when it first opened but have even higher hopes given Kasai's experience and reputation. Everything we've had there has been great."

"Realm, Chinatown. Well, this isn't really about Realm, but about what it used to be– Hong Kong Cafe. Even though its long gone, we figured we'd write about it since it's pretty cool. Located within the Old Chinatown Central Plaza, this space hosted some of LA's first punk shows in the late 70's/early 80's. Bands like Black Flag, Germs, The Circle Jerks, and X would play here. Although it's just a gift shop now, it's great to walk in and think about what it may have been like to stand there almost 40 years ago."

"Gigo's Cafe and Deli, Chinatown. Many Yelpers claim this small, unassuming restaurant has the best Phò in LA. Whether or not this is true, the Vietnamese fare is all tasty and the family who runs the place is very friendly. They are cash only but most meals are under seven dollars. Be sure to order the spring rolls."

"Phillipe The Original, Chinatown. We would be remiss not to mention Phillipe's as a true pillar of Chinatown's offerings. Phillipe's has been there since the early 1900's and has a reputation as one of the most notable restaurants in LA. If you're into meat sandwiches, and meat sandwiches dipped in meat gravy, then this is really your spot. They lay claim to the invention of the "french dipped" process, which has since become a commonly adopted tradition. It feels very old fashioned inside, and I really doubt it has changed much over the years."

"The Little Jewel Of New Orleans, Chinatown. This place really is a little jewel. It almost seems out of place–an authentic, New Orleans-style deli that really does justice to some southern classics. This also falls under the category of "hard to walk back to work after eating", at least if you get giant po-boys like we do."

"Chimney Coffee House, Chinatown. Chimney is pretty new to our lives, but are a welcome addition. The thing you should really know is that both their coffee AND food is awesome. You could come here, get an amazing lunch, grab an iced coffee to go, and you'll be really happy. It's over in the more industrial area of Chinatown that seems to be developing recently. Glad to have them in the neighborhood."

"Arcana: Books on the Arts, Culver City. This is for the serious book lover. Located inside of the Helms Bakery District, Arcana is an outstanding shop selling books on the Arts. They carry rarities in Photography, Fashion, Art, Design, Music, and Architecture. The staff is awesome, and always helpful. Shopping tip – don’t take pictures of the books to find online later, you’ll get yelled at, and probably won’t find it online anyway. Trust us, we know from experience. Another tip – follow their Instagram for the “book of the day”, it’s a great way to brush up on some culture."

"Guerilla Tacos, Culver City. We are serious about Guerrilla Tacos. This taco truck has been making moves since 2012. Most of the week they are posted inSilverlake or in DTLA's Arts District. On Wednesday's they park outside of Cognoscenti Coffee. We have a weekly calendar reminder set at noon in the studio. We do not play around when it comes to sweet potato tacos, and pork shoulder quesadillas. Get there early to avoid a sold out menu."

"Bar Nine, Culver City. A local coffee roaster and cafe, set inan airy space with drum roasters andan open environmentthat gives you a peak into theircoffee roasting operation. In addition tocoffee, they've gota small food menu –and it’s all good, especially the daily toasts. They also offer workshops and coffee education for those interested in broadening their coffeehorizons."

"Paul Loya Gallery, Culver City. Paul Loya Gallery is a hidden gem on La Cienega Blvd, tucked behind Luis De Jesus Los Angeles. The all white exterior jumps out at you with assistance from the variety of colored planters hanging out by the entrance. This is a unique and contemporary gallery space that features established, emerging, local, and international talent. We always have a good time hanging out here. We suggest checking out their next show, you won't be disappointed."

"HD Buttercup, Culver City. When you think about Culver City, you think about two things – studios and furniture. HD Buttercup is the go to for furniture in the historic Helms Bakery District. It’s over 150,000 square feet, and filled with anything you can think of from industrial, to modern, and vintage furniture. Even if you don’t need anything new for the house, it’s a nice place to wander around for a while. There’s also a cool Helms Bakery museum on the inside that’s worth checking out, bread delivery truck and all."

"Eric Owen Moss Buildings – Hayden Tract, Culver City. Celebrating design is a daily activity at Rapt, so we like to step back from what we're doing and admire the work of others. In the 1980's this area was half vacant and the Samitaur Smiths were purchasing everything they could. Eric Owen Moss, local architect and Director of Southern California Institute of Architecture, was called upon to help the Samitaur Smiths generate social change through architecture. It started with one building and now there are 30. These buildings are home to some of the most creative and innovative companies in Culver City. There are tons of maps to download that show you each building and where it's located. We highly suggest cruising around to witness this artistry in person. Be sure to take your camera."

"Rolling Greens, Culver City. Welcome to plant paradise! What HD Buttercup is to furniture, Rolling Greens is to plants. It’s hands down one of the best nurseries in the city. It’s become our go to for our indoor & outdoor greenery needs. We’re pretty sure if you’re looking for it, they will have it. But even if you're not planning on buying, the relaxing atmosphere and outdoor areas alone warrant a visit."

"Make Out, Culver City. Make Out is a vegetarian spot that’s new to the neighborhood. It’s in downtown Culver City, right across from the Culver Hotel. Matthew Kenney, plant based chef and cookbook author, is the owner of this hip eatery. When you combine MAtthew and KEnney you get “MAKE”. It’s catered to the takeaway lunch crowd, so that’s where the “OUT” comes in. Most of the menu is pre-made, but other salads and smoothies can be made to order. If you’re really trying to step your health game up, you can stop by on the weekend for some yoga. Namaste."

"The Culver Hotel, Culver City. This historic hotel has been around since the early 1900’s. Once owned by Charlie Chaplin, it was built a few years after MGM, the first major film studio, was formed. The first two floors were home to Harry Culver’s office, and his statue still sits outside of the front door. There’s live jazz in the lounge and food is served in the restaurant daily, but we usually opt for happy hour in the outdoor patio."

"The Coolhaus Shop, Culver City. Our minds were blown the first time we tried the Coolhaus Truck. They’ve since opened this brick & mortar in the middle of the Culver's Arts District. You can grab a “cool house” Farchitecture (Food + Architecture) cookie sandwich or a simple scoop of their unique ice cream. The countless cookie/ice cream combos can be a little overwhelming, but trust us, you’ll enjoy whatever choice you make. If you’re not in LA, don’t worry. These bad boys are now packaged and sold nationwide in most markets."

"Bar & Garden, Culver City. The selection at Bar & Garden is impeccable. This local liquor store sells natural & artisan wine, beer, and some non-alcoholic beverages. The staff is super friendly and knowledgable–you can tell they're reallypassionate about what they do. It’s a great place to pick up a gift on the way to a house-warming or a bottle for dinner. Sign up for their newsletter to be the first to know about their cocktail classes and tastings."

"Ballona Creek Bike Path, Culver City. Ballona Creek is considered one of the best bike paths in Los Angeles. This six mile bike path stretches from Culver City to Playa del Rey. Once you make it to Playa del Rey, you’ll hit The Strand aka Marvin Braude Bike Trail. On that trail you can go north, towards Santa Monica, or south, towards Torrance. There are amazing views in every direction. This path is also nice for a good run, if that’s your workout of choice."

"Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Culver City. If you’ve ever heard someone mention the Culver City Stairs, this is where they are located. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is a California State Park that’s a must for anyone living nearby or visiting the area. In addition to the stairs, which can get pretty crowded at times, there are multiple trails to hike. If you’re not up for a workout, you can always drive to the top and park in the $6 lot to enjoy an expansiveview of the city."

"Akasha, Culver City. Akasha is cafe, restaurant, and bar hybrid in the historic Hull Building. The front portion is a cafe in the morning – serving Intelligentsia Coffee, pastries, and a full breakfast menu. The restaurant opens during lunch with an edited menu until dinner. They’ve also got a full bar that’s great for after work gatherings. The selection here is great, we’ve never been disappointed."

"Sage Vegan Bistro, Culver City. Sage is an organic, plant based eatery with a few locations in the LA area. The founder was raised vegan on an NY farm, so the creation came from her love of gardening, food, and cooking. We never bother sitting inside, unless we have to, the patio is pretty large and accommodating. We recommend trying the brunch menu; the tempeh sausage Florentine is the best. If you’re not in the mood for a real meal, you can always stop in to grab one of their 25 beers on tap or a scoop of KindKreme, which is their smallbatch dairy free ice cream."

"Coffee Commissary, Culver City. We love the boom of coffee shops opening in the area, and Coffee Commissary is the latest addition. Technically located in the Palms area, this is the third location to open in LA and has everything you would expect from a new cafe. It has a nice open space with lots of indoor/outdoor seating. They serve beans from multiple single-origin roasters and make a mean Cubano."

"Coffee Commissary, Culver City. We love the boom of coffee shops opening in the area, and Coffee Commissary is the latest addition. Technically located in the Palms area, this is the third location to open in LA and has everything you would expect from a new cafe. It has a nice open space with lots of indoor/outdoor seating. They serve beans from multiple single-origin roasters and make a mean Cubano."

"Thinkspace Gallery, Culver City. Thinkspace is our go-to for talented, young, and emerging artists. You’re bound to stumble upon some interesting artwork. The consistency is unrivaled. Most of the artist who show here are still on the rise, so the prices tend to be lower than other galleries on the block."

"Samosa House East, Culver City. Samosa House is the most consistent Indian cuisine in the area. This is the smaller of the two locations. Samosa House West, which is about ten minutes down the road, islarger and has a market attached to it. The samosas and garlic naan are our favorite. It's great for a quick, affordable, and flavorful lunch. But note,it’s completely vegetarian, so don’t be fooled by the “chicken.”"

"New School of Cooking Cafe, Culver City. We've been fans of New School of Cooking since day one. It's attached to the New School of Culinary School – great for recreational cooks wanting to learn new techniques or professionals looking to tighten up their skills. It's a no brainer for a morning coffee–they serve Stumptown–and apastry or fresh baked bread. It's not just for breakfastthough, come back in the afternoon for a solid lunch menu."

"Honor Fraser Gallery, Culver City. Honor Fraser, a former fashion model and art dealer, decided it was time to open her own space not too long ago – we're happy she did. It's a simple setup that is easy to move through. The gallery represents artists like Kenny Scharf and Kaz Oshiro. It's well curated and never ceases to amaze us."

"EK Valley Restaurant, Culver City. The one thing California has that no other state in the USA can match is Mexican food. EK Valley is the place to go for Mexican in Culver City. It feels like you're walking into someone's home, and it might as well be, because this food has that home cooked vibe. The prices are affordable and the menu is simple. Don't be afraid to ask for extra salsa with your chips, you'll need it."

"Cognoscenti Coffee, Culver City. Cognoscenti started as a pop up inside of Eagle Rock’s Proof Bakery. They opened this standalone cafe a few years back in the center of Culver City’s Arts District. They’re known for their revolving selection of beans and tasty Proof Bakery pastries. If you’re looking for a low-key place to get some work done or a mid day break, this is your spot."

"The Museum of Jurassic Technology, Culver City. Founded by husband and wife,David and Diana Wilson in 1988, this "museum" is more cabinet of curiosities, housing collections that span the arts, anthropology, science, philosophy, ethnography and history,presented in a dimly litlabyrinthine manner that speaks to the natural history museums of yore. There's miniature collections, old films, a Russian-style tea room, and numerous works you wont find in any traditional museum. Whethertongue-in-cheek or completelysincere, this place is fascinating enough to warrant two hours of your time and $8 from your wallet."

"Platform, Culver City. We find ourselves at Platform multiple times throughout the day. Just a couple blocks from the studio, you can find usgrabbing a latte most morningsat Blue Bottle Coffee, picking up lunch at Loqui,indulging in an afternoon ice cream treat at Van Leeuwen,browsing ephemera at Poketo or testing a new scent at Aesop. This beautifully landscaped consortium of hip boutiques and cafes is great for a quick bit of respite, great people watching or a quick stroll."

"Plank 47, Del Rey. Plank 47 is one of those pizza joints that every neighborhood should have - laid back, inviting, and staffed by good people. I stumbled across Plank 47 as I was scouting other locales for OTG and was immediately drawn in thanks to its diverse menu and relaxed decor. A great option for a long lunch on a Friday afternoon or quick takeout on your way home from a long day of work."

"Pepe's Thrifty, Del Rey. Pepe's Thrifty is a gold mine for home decor treasure hunters. With items stacked floor-to-ceiling as far (and high) as they eye can see, there is something for everyone who walks through the door and enters the maze of vintage furniture, paintings, books, appliances, and pretty much anything else you can imagine."

"Mateo's Ice Cream, Del Rey. What makes Del Rey (and all of Los Angeles) such an inviting destination is its cultural diversity. Businesses like Mateo's offer a much-welcomed break from the mass-produced, cookie-cutter ice cream parlor chains that are all too common throughout California. I can highly recommend the coconut bar, with many more flavors to be tested soon."

"Good Dirt, Del Rey. Owner and instructor Lina Alvarez hails from Medellin, Columbia and graduated from the University of Georgia where she earned her BA in Studio Art with a concentration in Ceramics. Good Dirt LA is Lina's studio, classroom, and shop which serves as a tribute to the art and craft of handmade objects. Beautifully refined bowls, plates, and cups exist alongside children's fanciful explorations in this wonderfully comfortable and inviting space."

"Central Park, Del Rey. Amid the office and residential developments of Playa Vista lies Central Park, an oasis to the adjacent office development that defines the immediate area, but doesn't define the lifestyle of the locals. Featuring soccer fields, volleyball courts, walking paths, playgrounds, and plenty of open space, Central Park provides the necessary green space to run free."

"Hotcakes Bakes, Del Rey. Hotcakes Bakes was launched in 2005 by Elfie Weiss whose French roots were responsible for her pursuit of pastry making and an early career in entertainment. Featuring cupcakes, cakes, and a number of amazing pastries, Hotcakes Bakes creates some of the most delectable sweets Los Angeles (or France) has experienced."

"Urban Outfitters, Downtown La. Lured inside by the type on the historic marquee and mesmerized by the high open wood-truss ceiling populated with theater lighting, this is the first time we find it difficult to shop in an Urban Outfitters. City revitalization attracted Urban Outfitters to rehab the 10,000 square foot Rialto Theatre, originally built in 1917. The brick wall in the back of the store is painted white and plays movies during store hours in tribute to the theater theme. The constantly changing marquee messages are awesome."

"Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels Complex, Downtown La. The contemporary design of the space inside the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is amazing, but we love the outdoor areas of the complex so much more. Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo designed the main structure (third largest cathedral in the world) and serves as a great backdrop to an alfresco square surrounded by gardens, a fountain, a shop, an eatery, and a playground. A walkway framed by etched angel windows overlooking the 101 freeway completes our religious devotion to Los Angeles."

"TASTE Food Hall, Downtown La. Okay, I know what you're thinking. This is curated for designers, so why are we including a mall food court? Well, TASTE is a chef-driven collection of California favorites, most of which started in Los Angeles; like Sprinkles, Oleego, Loteria, Indus by Saffron, Pazzo Gelato and more. It's the perfect spot to catch a quick bite of some of the city's hot spots without needing to make a reservation. TASTE also has a California-style outdoor dining patio where one can sit in the fresh air, enjoy a meal and glass of wine under sunny skies and still be close to a Target."

"Grand Park, Downtown La. Downtown's city central park spans 12 acres and contains multiple performance, garden and intimate play areas across three city blocks stretching from The Music Center to City Hall. Dotted with pink seating, funny signage and encouraging messages for runners on the sidewalks, the overall vibe of the park is casual and hip, and makes for memorable brand messages for a public park. For large and small events, it's really the park for everyone."

"Blue Ribbon Garden, Downtown La. Quiet in the city. As rare as that is, we find it in the Blue Ribbon Garden, a hidden place of zen on the rooftop of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. We enjoy strolling through the garden to gather our thoughts and admire the beauty of the lush landscaping juxtaposed against Frank Gehry's sculptural steel architecture. A nice find is the Lillian Disney Memorial Fountain, which sits in the middle of the garden and pays tribute to Lillian's love for Delft porcelain and roses. The metal type in donor names adorning the marble floor is an elegant signage touch."

"The Stocking Frame, Downtown La. While a week-long camping getaway might not be our idea of relaxation, an evening-long glamping meal is. Enter The Stocking Frame. Complete with an indoor patio and sailboat, cozy spots to sit near urban campfires, shuffleboard, a rustic menu, lovely wood dining tables, and a full bar. The restaurant has more luxuries than a campground, and bathrooms. And it's not a far hike for us either."

"Pitchoun Bakery & Café, Downtown La. One can't help to notice that the comforts of an authentic French boulangerie and patisserie is within walking distance, especially if the script logomark has an exclamation mark at the end of it. It demands hungry eyes, n'est-ce pas? The menu at Pitchoun is nicely laid out and they've got a whole lot of traditional salads, as well as Parisian breads and pastries, both sweet and savory. The sandwiches really help to support our high-carb days."

"Philz Coffee, Downtown La. This coffee chain arrived from NorCal and we are damned impressed with the selection. The set up is more similar to a bar than a coffee shop, which already scores points with us. The baristas are stationed along a coffee bar with their own espresso machine stations, and brew drinks like bartenders, guiding you through the coffee cocktail menu. We had a Mint Mojito Iced Coffee, which was surprisingly good. And, no hangover either."

"Cicada Club & Restaurant, Downtown La. Cicada is a glamorous, art deco supper club built into the 1928 avant-garde space of the Alexander & Oviatt Haberdashery. From the chandeliers to the upstairs bar, the design is original from when the Oviatt building was first built, and even the entrance doors are the original Lalique Angel Doors adorned with the Alexander & Oviatt crest. The club features big band acts themed from the 1920s to 1950s. We don't frequent it often, but it is the place to go when you want to get your Mad Men on and have some fun."

"Upstairs Bar at the Ace Hotel, Downtown La. Perched atop the Ace Hotel which resides in the historic United Artists Theater and Tower on Broadway (built in 1927), is a Moroccan-themed drinking nest complemented with wood furniture, seat pillows, a great cocktail menu and a gorgeous view of the city skyline. Upstairs Bar is chill spot to grab a beverage and indulge in a bit of conversation with other designers in the early afternoon before the flock of hipsters fly in."

"Om Nom Organics, Downtown La. We adore stopping into this teeny market for a healthy snack and a smoothie. I always feel better knowing my sweet tooth is satisfied by something here that I won't give me a guilty complex afterwards. They've got all the popular organic goodies, plus the market's specialty fare and a great juice selection. The Om Nom Signature is my favorite with banana, kale, cinnamon, maca, almond milk and coconut water."

"Two Boots, Downtown La. We order Two Boots Pizza for our [[Whisky Type workshop](http://type-ed.com/catalog/workshop-2-whisky-type/)](http://type-ed.com/catalog/workshop-2-whisky-type/), because what goes better with a dram and a typography critique? Pizza that tastes like New Orleans does. This Cajun-Italian transport from NYC sits in a small fixture on Broadway and does us good with the Bayou Beast; shrimp, crawfish, andouille, jalapeño and mozzarella. Now, if they'd just create a bread pudding pizza..."

"Two Boots, Downtown La. We order Two Boots Pizza for our [[Whisky Type workshop](http://type-ed.com/catalog/workshop-2-whisky-type/)](http://type-ed.com/catalog/workshop-2-whisky-type/), because what goes better with a dram and a typography critique? Pizza that tastes like New Orleans does. This Cajun-Italian transport from NYC sits in a small fixture on Broadway and does us good with the Bayou Beast; shrimp, crawfish, andouille, jalapeño and mozzarella. Now, if they'd just create a bread pudding pizza..."

"Hotel Figueroa, Downtown La. This quirky 1926 Spanish-Mediterranean ​hotel feels more like a Moroccan movie set from an old B-movie than anything else. Throughout the Fig Street Café, the Nomad Bar and the Veranda Bar with a view of the pool brings relaxation into focus amid the growing skyscrapers of the city in the background, and ornate decor adds coziness and compliments its sultry atmosphere. The Hotel Figueroa provides us a nice respite from the touristy neighborhood of South Park and the hustle and bustle of Staples Center and L.A. Live just outside its walls."

"Barrel Down, Downtown La. Craft beer dominates over 35 taps on the bar at this comfortable and modern American beer hall, along with a cold-press coffee and kombucha selection. The rotating craft beers on tap at Barrel Down compliment the unique bar food served with a healthy twist, like cauliflower popcorn and apple cider brussel sprouts. We prefer the drunken mussels served in potatoes, bacon and beer, of course."

"Terroni, Downtown La. Typography is seen everywhere within the architecture of this restaurant, which might be why we have such an affinity for Terroni. Large or small, signage becomes a pleasure to read in wood, steel or metal in many materials and forms. Or maybe we love Terroni because of the Maccheroncini Geppetto (homemade rigatoni with dandelions, spicy italian sausage and fontina), I know... to die for. Either way, this is a great spot that's off the beaten South Beach diet."

"Terroni, Downtown La. Typography is seen everywhere within the architecture of this restaurant, which might be why we have such an affinity for Terroni. Large or small, signage becomes a pleasure to read in wood, steel or metal in many materials and forms. Or maybe we love Terroni because of the Maccheroncini Geppetto (homemade rigatoni with dandelions, spicy italian sausage and fontina), I know... to die for. Either way, this is a great spot that's off the beaten South Beach diet."

"Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Downtown La. While the ongoing theme of Downtown L.A. may seem to be historic, this building is the most historic of all the historic. Opened in 1923, this hotel has served celebrities, presidents and dignitaries and was one of the first homes to the Academy Award Ceremony for the Oscars. It's also made a few cameos in our favorite episodes of Mad Men. Mainly, we just love the architecture. Covered in frescoes, murals tapestries, columns and oak-paneled walls (which we wish could talk), this hotel, bar and event center is a place we frequent to step back into history."

"WeWork Fine Arts Building, Downtown La. A relative newcomer to the coworking scene in Downtown L.A., but quite experienced everywhere else (with 56 locations in 17 cities), WeWork has built out a beautiful space spanning five floors in the historic Fine Arts Building. With a new 120-person capacity event space on the 12th floor, scores of conference rooms, multiple private office spaces with a view of 7th Street and unlimited doughnuts, a designer is bound to get some work done here."

"The Original Pantry Cafe, Downtown La. The Original Pantry Cafe has been around since 1924, but seems old because their site is designed in Flash. That's okay, once you get there, you'll see why people line up around the building for a mediocre breakfast at three in the morning. Open 24 hours continuously since 1924, once you get in, you're transported back to the 1920's once you sit down and take a bite. It's an L.A. institution. The food is greasy but perfect for those late nights (or early mornings). And like Los Angeles itself, you'll see that the cafe is nothing spectacular, it's mostly famous for being famous."

"Bottega Louie, Downtown La. Bottega Louie is a feast for the eyes, the stomach, and the wallet. It's like a visual candy store for designers, and well literally, a candy store for everyone else. With confections, baked goods and gifts covered in the identity, packaging suite and merchandising Creative Director [Leah Faust](http://www.lfn.company/) developed, it's hard not to resist purchasing pastel boxes of sugar covered in swashes and flourishes. Design makes a difference, and in this case, transforms culinary objects into gifts that keep on giving."

"Library Bar, Downtown La. We love books and we love drinks, which makes the Library Bar the perfect place to, well, just the perfect place. Dim lighting makes it a little too dark to read, but just enough for relaxed conversation. We love the hand-lettered menu, which changes often. Our favorite part is that this place is small and cozy, and the drinks are well-made. The nights here finish off in a great ending, much like our favorite novels."

"Public School 213, Downtown La. Life lessons are best learned through the fundamentals of food and drinks taught at Public School 213. This gastropub is a frequent stop of ours for burgers and beer after a hard day of ping pong at The Standard. A designer's life is not easy, so during recess (aka Happy Hour) we typically get educated about classic cocktails and catch the game."

"Central Library, Downtown La. The Los Angeles Central Library is vast, not only with books, but with culture. Readings, events and exhibitions keep us on our toes with well-attended speaking events, classes and workshops. This gem is a great example of Beaux-Arts architecture, constructed in 1926. Be sure to set aside some time to wander through all seven levels of book collections. It's the center of our city's library network, which is one of the largest publicly funded library systems in the world with over six million volumes. So, it's pretty much everything you might want to know about life, in one building."

"Mas Malo, Downtown La. When you crave a salsa flight and some tasty margaritas, head to Mas Malo. Unlike it's namesake, it's not terrible at all, actually it's quite delicioso. The dimly lit-restaurant is set in the historic former Brock & Company jewelry store built in 1923. And their happy hour is a great excuse to start enjoying tequila as early as 3pm (does anyone really need an excuse?). Don't leave without enjoying a tasting in their the tequila vault located at the back of the restaurant. Just don't have so much that you get locked in."

"Faith & Flower, Downtown La. Faith & Flower is one of our favorite dinner spots. With influences from Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Mediterranean, we think there'll be unexpected surprise waiting for you on their constantly changing menu. Cocktails are just as creative and alluring. Be sure to request the Russian-style absinthe service and you'll see why this place is winning all the awards as of late."

"Window of the Sky, Eagle Rock. Window of the Sky is a healing space for treatments in acupuncture, herbal medicine, flower essences and aroma acu-point therapy. It’s also a natural products shop for healing and ritual. Non-toxic, natural remedies like hand-picked potions, herbal tinctures and essential oils could tie you over until your next energetic healing, but it could be argued that so could the special antiques and candles. The shop will also carry vintage Mexican / Native American silver jewelry, Sophie Buhai jewelry, Persephenie skincare, Shoyeido incense, Sun Potion transformational super foods, Trillium soap and mysterious wonders from Hall of Spells."

"Milkfarm, Eagle Rock. Milkfarm specializes in cheese, lots of cheese, and they have the passion to show for it. Let them show you the ways while they feed you samples. There is no doubt you’ll gain a deeper appreciation and up the ante on your soon-to-be-famous cheese plates. Independent producers of charcuterie, jams, fresh baked bread, olives and cornichons are also available and are sourced mainly in California if not specifically Los Angeles. This is where you want to come before your next party or picnic since they do the legwork for you. Have a sandwich or a cheese and charcuterie board along with a glass of wine if you decide to dine in."

"Little Beast Restaurant, Eagle Rock. In a charming 1911 craftsman bungalow on the far end of Colorado is local favorite, Little Beast. It’s as much refined as it is laid back, making for an ideal gathering spot for dinner and drinks with friends. American gourmet comfort food is served in the main house, on the relaxed front porch, at the coziest little bar or, the best in our opinion, under the back patio’s twinkle lights. After his position as Chateau Marmont’s sous chef, Chef Sean Lowenthal was intent to create an honest, neighborhood restaurant with a seasonal menu; a place where you could feel comfortable bringing your kids or a date, and that didn’t entail making a trek west. Happy Hour: Small plates half off. Wine $5. Beer $4."

"Eagle Rock Italian Bakery & Deli, Eagle Rock. Eagle Rock Italian Bakery has that no-nonsense Italian attitude that gets you in and out - most times not so quickly, but we let that easily slide - with cookies, cakes, bread and incredible sandwiches for a price that strays far below the LA norm. Pick a number and choose your selects while you wait, but the cannoli are a unanimous favorite. We chose a variety of desserts to fit in a cake box for a deal at $19. You’ll find Italian pantry items like olive oil, San Marzano tomatoes and pasta so you can also do a little shopping before your number’s up."

"All Star Bowling Center, Eagle Rock. When your friend’s mailman’s metal band has a show at the bowling alley (true story), well, the mailman gets automatic bonus points, but All Star Bowling Center really scores. A live show at the bowling alley might seem kitsch, but it’s real. The decor is more or less frozen in time in every shade of green and ’retro feel’ here might just mean rough around the edges. What might lack in luster (broken A/C, chipped balls, dull lanes) makes up for it with inexpensive prices and a surplus of fun at your disposal - perfect for parties. Karaoke, pool tables, a video arcade, a “cozy and romantic” cocktail lounge pretty much spell out a big night of glitz. So don’t say we didn’t offer the hot tip."

"Eagle Rock Brewery, Eagle Rock. Driving down Roswell Street might feel like the wrong way to an award winning microbrewery oasis, but overlook Eagle Rock Brewery’s out of the way location and how it’s technically in Glassel Park because once you’ve spotted the warehouse and have ducked inside, it’s a taproom world of “Beer for the People”. Enter the first brewhouse to be based within LA in decades since opening in 2009 and take the free weekend tour, a score for craft beer enthusiasts. There’s a spirited feel here with propaganda-inspired names (like Populist, Revolution and Manifesto), board games aplenty and weekend food trucks parked outside. $5-6 pints. $8 for a 4 beer flight."

"Casa Bianca Pizza Pie, Eagle Rock. If any one place puts Eagle Rock on the map, it’s the mom and pop pizza pie legend Casa Bianca. Family owned since 1955, it’s quintessentially comfort Italian with red-checkered tablecloths, wafts of roasted garlic and a warm glow from the multi-colored twinkle lights. It wouldn’t be a stretch to recreate that classic The Lady and the Tramp spaghetti scene here, but start with antipasto and absolutely order a pizza. The portions are huge, the crust is thin, it’s closed on Sunday (and Monday!) and there’s typically a line out the door and that’s probably just the way mama wants it. Make a reservation and come hungry."

"Acorn, Eagle Rock. Acorn is part gardening shop and part boutique offering, as they mention, “useful and beautiful things that make our lives a little happier.” I’m on board with that; it also makes finding a gift easy. These lifestyle goods and trinkets from local and small lines blend well with a charming selection of indoor and outdoor plants. Their back garden is also worth a peek whether you’re on the hunt for outdoor furniture, pots and plants or you just want a little bit of tranquility."

"Top Knot, Eagle Rock. Top Knot is the go-to spot for Eagle Rock vintage since opening summer 2015. This boutique has kicked aside the idiosyncrasies of typical vintage nightmares and has made finding a well-worn t-shirt and faded jeans easy. No musty smells. No thicks layers of dust and the sneezing that goes with it. No claustrophobia-inducing hoarding that makes it impossible to sift through the racks (a.k.a. no fire hazards). Instead, TK has set up a wonderfully edited boutique that just happens to carry vintage - owner Natalie picks vintage as if it were headed straight for her own closet. Points here for her great eye, reasonable prices and well sorted, color-organized racks."

"The Oinkster, Eagle Rock. In the A-frame shell of a former fast food restaurant, chef Andre Guerrero’s Oinkster interprets classic American fare with an updated “slow fast food” ethos. Quality ingredients and serious prep time - pulled pork smoked for twelve hours and pastrami house-cured for two weeks - give a thoughtful approach to quick-fire behemoth creations like The Royale which brings together a Nebraska angus cheeseburger with bacon, chili, pastrami, dill pickles, lettuce, tomato and homemade thousand island dressing. Yes, come hungry. Other house made sauces, like garlic aioli and chipotle ketchup, punch up the double cooked Belgian fries. California brewed beers wash it all down. Weekday happy hour food and beer specials."

"Max City BBQ, Eagle Rock. What started as a catering business became a Kickstarter restaurant success in 2014, and for good reason. As they say, “Barbecue doesn’t have to be bad for you. It just has to be delicious.” Oh, and it is. Southern smoked aromas of dry rub barbecue transport you to a simpler time of Americana classics: Mason jars full of iced tea, wavy crusted fruit pies that could only be freshly made by hand, warm baked beans, warmer corn bread muffins and, of course, the tender brisket, flavorful pulled pork and wood-smoked baby back rib feasts. Pull up a stool at this cozy corner’s bar for local beers on draft as you watch the game."

"Found Coffee, Eagle Rock. Found Coffee is surprisingly one of Eagle Rock’s few independent coffee spots and must definitely be the only one to have a parking lot. The modern and open space with floor to ceiling windows is filled with rustic styling and turquoise accents except for the sunny yellow La Marzocco espresso machine taking center stage. It’s the big smiley face of espresso machines that starts your day off right with Demitasse roasted espresso. Creme Caramel LA pastries, San Francisco’s T-We blended teas and Found merchandise, like clever canvas cup sleeves, are also available. Free WiFi."

"Eagle Rock Brewery Public House, Eagle Rock. Every neighborhood needs a public house. We’re not biased, right? The Eagle Rock Brewery owners also wanted a gathering place where their beers could accompany considered dishes for brunch, lunch, tweener (that in between time when some restaurants close for dinner prep - a.k.a. happy hour) and dinner. This one has good food and, naturally, a good selection of Eagle Rock Brewery’s craft beer. But it’s not all the usual gastropub fare. The menu has a classic Southern influence mixed with touches of Asian and California style foods. The roll-up, floor to ceiling garage door also isn’t pub-like, but it is California and drinking a beer with a little sunshine and good food goes a long way."

"Colorado Donuts, Eagle Rock. You’ve got a (small or big) wad of cash and you’re looking to hit the sweet tooth jackpot. Enter Colorado Donuts. Your only sugar worry in the world is having a little bit of restraint over their untamed selection. Wild ones may include rainbow hued, cereal-covered donuts, cinnamon Cronuts, the obligatory bacon donut and donut ice cream sandwiches. So after you’ve whittled your selection down to a dozen and thought your jackpot heaven was all in the box, know that they also sell Lotto tickets. Why not double the win? Plus, check in on Yelp and get a free donut."

"CaCao Mexicatessen, Eagle Rock. Great Mexican food. It’s easily one of California’s top five attributes; prized is an understatement. So when family-owned restaurant CaCao Mexicatessan started serving up Baja California inspired Mexican dishes with attention to quality ingredients and a more foodie approach, we were ready. Carnitas de Pato: duck confit tacos with handmade tortilla, avocado, vinegar onions and radishes - yes. Mission Fig Mole Poblano: free range chicken with mole and Marcona almonds - also yes. Other favorites include Korean style BBQ short rib tacos and mole fries. Open for breakfast on the weekend. Lunch specials as well as happy hour Tuesday through Friday."

"The Faculty, East Hollywood. There's a great little strip, hidden away behind LACC on Heliotrope and the Faculty is the token college bar, albeit a grown up sophisticated college bar, that has taken up residence there. Cozy, dark interior with a great selection of ever changing brews and menu items this spot is worth coming back to."

"Scoops, East Hollywood. Every neighborhood should have an ice creamery- East Hollywood is pretty lucky that we got a Scoops. Come here often, the flavors change frequently, and with combos like roasted sesame and kabocha you'll actually want to. Try Brown Bread, it's the only flavor they keep permanently on the menu."

"The Kitchen, East Hollywood. Simple, American comfort foods. The vibe is relaxed, the patio is comfortable, and the food is well priced and consistent. A great spot to bring out of towners to on day one as an intro to the LA food scene in the area, or for hungover brunches when you don't feel like making a lot of decisions."

"Freestlye Photo, East Hollywood. Places to get film, actual film, developed are becoming harder and harder to find. Thankfully in East Hollywood we have Freestyle, a one stop shop for all your analog needs. They do it all, from supplies to workshops, and even large format printing."

"El Unico Taquerio Pollo, East Hollywood. Few things fill my heart like this place does. With so much of LA trying to be fancy and new, this El Unico Taquerio Pollo stays true. The price I can always afford for the food I always want."

"Vista Theater, East Hollywood. The Vista is a movie theater for people who love the act of going to the movies. Built in 1923,it retains much of it's golden-age-of-Hollywood charm and architecture. There's something about a big red curtain being pulled aside on the theaters only screen to kick off a flick that makes the experience that much more enjoyable. The extra leg room and cozy seats help too."

"Vinny's Barber Shop, East Hollywood. Excluding those with long hair, guys should get their hair cut often. This works as long as a haircut isn't $45 a pop. There is also something eternal about the barbershop vibe and Vinny's does it right. Schedule ahead of time online and get hooked up by one of their expert barbers. Beers and conversations about motorcycles and the local punk scene come gratis."

"Barnsdall Art Park, East Hollywood. Home to the Hollyhock House, the park and the aforementioned house were the brainchild of Aline Barnsdall and Frank Lloyd Wright (both two individuals worth losing a few hours to on Wikipedia). The park sports some of the best (free) views of the surrounding Los Angeles skyline and is markedly less crowded than the more touristy Griffith Park. While the park is great for a cheap date idea, the house is also worth the price of admission and the occasional event or art exhibit are also worth making time for."

"Nonplus Ultra, East Hollywood. There's no official website for this under the underground music venue. In fact even finding it is half the battle (I think it's somewhere down an alley behind a Carniceria on Virgil right across from Smog Cutter). However this scrappy little venue attracts some of the biggest local and national bands including Thee Oh Sees, Part Time, and Vinyl Williams. Your best bet for a scoop on who's playing is to scour your social media site of choice, or ask the guys at Vinny's next time you get a shape up."

"Cafecito Organico, East Hollywood. I live next door, literally. When I was looking for an apartment in the area, this coffee shop let me know I found the right apartment. The coffee is always great and the people are far less pretentious than what your typical LA coffee shop holds. They won't serve you if you are on your phone. The back area is an somewhat of an oasis; plants everywhere, reclaimed wooden walls and furniture, "fire places" when it's cold. Come here to zone out or to get some work done."

"The Virgil, East Hollywood. You have drunks on one side, then you have drunks telling jokes on the other. The Virgil hosts comedy nights, DJ's, and random events on the "A" side of the bar (Kristen Schaal, Demetri Martin, and Aziz Ansari to name a few) which are usually worth checking out. "B" side serves well crafted drinks in a very relaxed environment. It never get's insanely packed, being one of the reasons I love it. This is a place to really start or wind down your night."

"Pa-Ord Noodle, East Hollywood. This is my LA. You could easily walk right by and not know what you are missing. You could also walk in, look around, then leave because you don't understand how delicious this experience could be. This is my go to when I need some noodles and we all need noodles in our lives. What sets this place apart from the myriad other options in Thai town is the broth- it's not your typical wimpy watery beef broth, it's bold and packed with flavor. Finally the price point seals the deal: a #2 Boat Noodle, Spicy, Beef, with #2 noodles will set you back only $6.50."

"Virgil & Clinton Taco Stand, East Hollywood. If one food really represents LA more than anything, it would be the street taco. It doesn't matter if it comes from a stand, a truck, or appears randomly along the road, it will be good. Are you drunk? Then it's time for tacos. Are you just getting off work? Then it's time for tacos. Did you just have some tacos but you are still hungry? Then it's time for tacos. Tip: Get the tacos con queso, few places do them quite like this."

"The Park, Echo Park. We can't get enough of The Park! They have some of the best salads in the neighborhood, so its definitely one our our go to lunch spots. It's a comfy, neighborhood joint with a talented chef who creates american/bistro style food. Their seasonal menus which include some amazing weekly specials speak to the creativity and talent of chef Josh. Tip: We LOVE the buffalo chicken salad! It's a studio favorite."

"El Prado, Echo Park. El Prado is Echo Park's dark classy bar where you can find beer, wine, snacks, and records. The records are a huge part of what makes it great as it sets the atmosphere for the night. Each bartender chooses their favorite picks from a back house collection that grows overtime. The beer and wine selection is picked extremely well for the price point and their staff is really great. With a small back patio and two nooks up front it's a nice place to go early and catch a spot for a small group."

"Tamales Alberto, Echo Park. Tamales Alberto has been around since 1997. They started selling tamales out of the back of a bakery and then moved into this Echo Park location.There are many places to get tamales in LA but none quite with the diverse selection, flavor, or quality from their family recipes.Priced very well, the tamales are offered in around a dozen different types of fillings...From chicken with green sauce to cheese & jalapeno to even blackberry. Also offered are vegan and vegetarian style tamales."

"Ms. Donuts, Echo Park. Ms Donuts is the old school donut shop of Echo Park. It's got all the standards and more. The staff is very nice and the prices on point. The hours can be misleading and sometimes it looks closed late at night but there's a side window where a gentleman will help you even around 4am."

"1642 Beer and Wine, Echo Park. Cozy bar that serves a great selection of beer and wine. The dark interior, booths, and candle lit tables pair with an amazing playlist of tropical, jazz, and vintage reggae to make the atmosphere really comfortable. Thursday happy hour boasts free tamales (from neighbor Tamales Alberto) for each drink you purchase."

"Bar Bandini, Echo Park. Named after local writer John Fante’s protagonist Arturo Bandini, here is a dark and moody neighborhood bar with an impressive selection of craft beers and wines on tap. If you get there early, you’ll likely find one of the three friendly founders Joshua Weinstein, Michael Lippman, and Jason Piggott behind the long, slate bar, quelling curious palettes with a taste of the goods. Bar Bandini has a sense of familiarity about it. It’s more mature than its neighboring counterparts, and its rustic interior carries the weight of longevity and stories told. Take a date or fly solo, you're in good hands."

"Otherwild, Echo Park. Otherwild describes itself as a studio, store, community center, workshop and event space, and it really does fit all those niches, without watering anything down. Walking into the space, founder Rachel's vision is keenly felt. Stop by for great home goods, clothing and accessories, books and magazines, and body products. You're very unlikely to leave empty-handed."

"Escueleto, Echo Park. An Oakland transplant just like its next-door neighbor, Ali Golden (both shops have flagship locations in the Bay area), Escueleto is an immaculately curated jewelry and home goods shop that feels impossible to leave. Beautiful ceramic pieces, framed illustration, and raw gemstones fill the shelves and spill onto the floor. It's perfect for a special occasion gift, or a new piece of statement jewelry that you'll wear for years to come."

"Ali Golden, Echo Park. The Oakland staple Ali Golden just recently opened its doors in Echo Park. From versatile and long-lasting bags, to closet staple linen dresses, tops and jackets, to statement sweaters by Micaela Greg and great personal jewelry pieces, this shop is an incredible addition to the neighborhood."

"Dinette, Echo Park. This unexpected sidewalk cafe framed in a deep blue, sparkles amidst the adjacent storefronts on this bustling stretch of Sunset Blvd. Metal chairs and tables are sprinkled beneath the storefront’s awning. The pretty French and American pastries displayed in the walk-up window will no doubt tempt your sweet tooth. If you’re in a savory mood, the eggs on toast, mini quiches, and avocado toast are just a few of the gems on the menu. If you’re feeling somewhere in-between, go for the waffles which are topped with bacon and a poached egg, or choose from a fun selection of sandwiches and salads. Fancy espresso and coffee to boot."

"Sunset Beer Company, Echo Park. Tucked away in the corner of a strip mall, this craft beer shop and taproom is easy to miss. With 12 rotating taps and close to 1000 bottled varieties of local and international beers, this is not a place to miss! The friendly and knowledgeable bartenders add to the spirt of the eclectic crowd that ranges from young to old, locals to newbies. Pick up a slice of pizza from the spot next door to go with your beer, or nestle up with your sweetie in the lounge with a glass of wine and your favorite board game."

"Cookbook, Echo Park. If you’re on your way to a dinner party and need fancy cheese and olives in a pinch—this is the place! A lesson in European minimalism, this 500 square-foot neighborhood market offers a hand-picked selection of the finest ingredients one might need to complete any recipe. The market stocks everything from the essentials like milk and eggs, to locally farmed produce, baguettes from Bread Lounge, and a beautiful selection of cheeses. Marta Teegan and Robert Stelzner, the couple behind the green grocer, choose their vendors mindfully, allotting their minimal shelf space solely to vendors who are environmentally and socially responsible. Their deli section features prepared foods made from recipes found in a curated selection of cookbooks also for sale. All this, and a butcher counter!"

"Valerie, Echo Park. Self-taught baker and confectioner Valerie Gordon opened this little neighborhood cafe in 2013. Though chocolates and jams are Valerie’s specialty, this third location introduces savory, “French-Californian” fare. From soft scrambled eggs to colorful salads, the menu is inspired by the recipes Valerie makes for her family at home. Whatever your fancy, cozy up on the charming patio with a cup of tea and a book, and call it an afternoon. And don’t forget to pick up an Echo Park mug and box of chocolates on your way out!"

"Guisado's, Echo Park. Founded in Boyle Heights 5 years ago by father-son duo Armando De La Torre Sr. and Jr, Guisados has since taken the Echo Park taco scene by storm. The sampler plate is a great way to get acquainted with the menu. Some of our favorite tacos include the Mole Poblano, Tinga Chicken, and Chicharron. One of our secret favorite menu items? The quesadilla! Even if you don’t normally order quesadillas, do it here! Don’t forget to get a Horchata, Agua Fresca or Armando Palmero (Arnold Palmer!) to wash it all down."

"826LA Time Travel Mart, Echo Park. Founded by author Dave Eggers, 826 is a national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting creative writing skills in elementary to high school-aged students. Each outpost features a supplemental storefront to raise funds for programming & publications. Pop into this unassuming mart on Sunset if you're in need of some quizzical curiosities. Everything from dinosaur eggs to robot milk, the Time Travel Mart has you covered from this era to the next."

"Dodger Stadium, Echo Park. The third oldest Major League ballpark in the U.S., Dodger Stadium may not be the most polished of its counterparts, but it maintains a sense of nostalgia that can’t be beat. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, cold beer, Dodger Dogs, and hilltop views of Los Angeles make a winning trifecta for a good time. If $20 parking isn’t your thing, a shuttle runs from Union Station to the stadium before and after every game. Opt for seats in Left Field Pavilion if you like a little extra jest with your baseball games."

"Secret Stairways, Echo Park. While LA’s sprawl comes with its cons (read: traffic), it also makes discovering new, hidden spots a frequent occurrence. One such gem is the network of public stairways freckled throughout the city. Back in the 20’s, these stairways were built for easy access from trolley car routes to the steep hillside communities around LA. Echo Park boasts some of its best, including the Baxter Street Stairs–the steepest stairway in all of Los Angeles. If you’re the ambitious type, check out the Big Parade LA–an annual two-day walk that hits up 80 of the public stairways in the city. Led by some LA history buffs, even the native Angeleno will learn a thing or two."

"Ostrich Farm, Echo Park. Ostrich Farm is a casual neighborhood restaurant right off sunset. The menu holds a great list of ever changing small plates and starters such as mussels, flatbreads, pork rillettes, and pork/veal meatballs. For those more hungry the braised beef pot pie or half roast chicken are staple menu items. A long white marble bar hugs the right side of the room and is perfect for one/two people to beat the waitlist on most nights. A warm atmosphere at night and bright sunlit room during the day it's a great spot for both dates and families. They serve breakfast and lunch till 2 and dinner 5 till close but are closed on Mondays.Photos: Lauren Moore"

"La Paz Mexican Restaurant, El Segundo. You can get a good feel for a Mexican restaurant by how hot their homemade salsa is, but wouldn't you rather take our word for it? Your mouth won't be en fuego but it is quite picante and they serve it with their endless basket of crisp tortilla chips. The plates come fresh out of the oven, so hot you can't touch 'em. Don't be fooled by this family-owned restaurant's modest appearance; this is some of the best Mexican food in town."

"The Standard Station, El Segundo. Here's an Inception-esque scenario for you: The Standard Station lives on Standard Street, named after the late Standard Oil for which El Segundo got its name for being the home of 'the 2nd' Standard Oil refinery. This pub is flanked by Standard Oil memorabilia and has that quaint scent of nostalgia that El Segundo residents go crazy for. Great drinks and a stacked menu along with oodles of HD TVs for your sports spectating needs."

"The Original Rinaldi's, El Segundo. I think that it's safe to assume that for most of us, when it comes to sandwiches, 'more' is more. That's why you absolutely must try a sub at Rinaldi's. These things are packed to the gills with Boar's Head meats. A combo deal will yield an endless soda and a bag of chips that you can choose from an overwhelming selection. Come by and try the famous Godfather sub, or my favorite, The Mailman."

"Old Town Music Hall, El Segundo. It's the home of the Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ! There's no other experience quite like a matinée or evening at the Old Town Music Hall. Whether you're there for a silent film or a 'talkie', you'll get to enjoy watching Bill Field perform pipe organ mastery against a backdrop of blacklight-illuminated musical innards doing their thing. You'll be surely singing along!"

"Wendy's Place, El Segundo. You'll get a plateful at Wendy's but you'll have to wait in line for it. On a weekend, you'll often see a hungry group gathered out front of the cafe waiting to feast on their country-styled American breakfasts. It's closed on Mondays and at 2pm every other day but you can get an early start there at 6am! Enjoy the warm, cozy feel of this El Segundo institution and dine among some of the most loyal clientele you'll ever know."

"Tyler's Surfboards, El Segundo. Tyler is a native El Segundo resident who has carved (literally) a reputation for himself in the surfboard shaping world. His surfboards are hand-crafted with love and shipped everywhere--even to the far corners of the world. Visitors come from near and far to Tyler's stylish retail shop in El Segundo to gawk at his latest creations and browse through their selection of surf apparel and wetsuits, or just to chew the fat with Tyler himself."

"The Tavern on Main, El Segundo. This is "Mayberry's" bar, through and through. Serving up cold brews and delicious bar fare since 2002, The Tavern has more recently given itself a major facelift and space upgrade. It still feels like the classic American bar you'd expect to find in Philly...but that might just be all the Eagles paraphernalia. Grab a burger and a beer and catch a game or two."

"Studio Antiques, El Segundo. Laurence and Sally Martin are local celebrities who founded their antiques shop in 1987. These days, you can find this eccentric couple on shows like "Storage Wars" & "Baggage Battles." Studio Antiques is a direct importer of World Wide antique furniture & collectibles, carrying every style imaginable from Victorian, Arts & Crafts, Art Deco to Mid Century Modern."

"South Bay Customs, El Segundo. Walking into South Bay Customs from off the street is a trip. You're transported immediately into a whacked out world of tchotchkes and whatnots that flank what may be one of the more interesting locations in town. They specialize in designing and building hand crafted motorcycles as well as producing live music events and art shows throughout the year."

"Smoky Hollow Studios, El Segundo. Established in 2012, this 7200 square foot studio is located in El Segundo's warehouse district just a few blocks from the ocean. A complete remodel revealed concrete floors, original exposed wood rafters, and one pretty little patio, making it the perfect spot to host events, shoots & gatherings."

"Recreation Park, El Segundo. Walk your dog, pick up a game of basketball, watch a high school baseball game, practice your swing in a batting cage, or play a round of tennis. With a residents-only membership card, you can reserve a tennis or racquet ball court, check out recreation equipment, and reserve a picnic table for a family bbq. It's a park and a half and hosts several community events throughout the year, including its well-known 4th of July celebration."

"The Powder Room, El Segundo. El Segundites need not leave the 90245 to pursue the perfect haircut in a couture setting. The girls at The Powder Room know how to make their guests feel at home and their 5-star Yelp rating reflects pure customer satisfaction. Its adorable curbside appeal will surely reel you in for a hot oil or moisture treatment, blowout, a cut and/or color. Or just restock on your quality salon goods here."

"El Segundo Brew Co, El Segundo. Los Angeles has finally jumped on the craft beer wagon and El Segundo is speeding ahead of the game. Created by ex corporate employee and El Segundo lifer, Rob Croxall, along with Library Alehouse cicerone, Thomas Kelley, ESBC has had a whirlwind success with its Blue House Pale Ale and Blue House Citra Pale. What started out as one guy's kitchen experiment is now an El Segundo institution. While bottled and distributed, ESBC beers are best enjoyed at the tasting room on Main Street. Now bigger and better than ever!"

"El Segundo Farmers Market, El Segundo. El Segundo is the kind of place where, if there's an event of a certain significance, the whole town shows up. Thursdays on Main Street is no exception. On this day, vendors of all sorts set up shop offering a bevy of farm fresh and organic produce, packaged gourmet food, hand crafted jewelry and soaps, and more. Nothing feels more townie than coming out for this wholesome farmers' market."

"Blue Butterfly, El Segundo. Named after El Segundo's blue butterfly sanctuary, this quaint cafe has all the good stuff you'd want from a neighborhood coffee shop: delicious coffee, artisanal tea selection, fresh bagels, baked goods, and even some outdoor seating. It fits in alongside all of the other mom and pop Main Street establishments, offering free wifi to its customers who often stay put for a long while."

"The Strand at ES Beach, El Segundo. In the wise words of Taylor Swift, "haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate..." Okay, so El Segundo isn't technically a 'beach city' (no resident of ES can claim 'beachside property'), but we have a beach! So hate all you want, but while you visit our stretch of beach, make sure to visit the new cafe and enjoy the scenery."

"Dough Boys Donuts, El Segundo. Bruce may not know your name but you'll know his after only one visit to this local gem. "Hey Bruce," you'll hear from one of Dough Boys regulars; an LAX worker buying his daily scratcher or an Airport cop coming by for his 3rd cup of coffee. I come for the glazed buttermilks and the coffee Bruce lets me pour myself. I'm proud to know the guy, and though I'm not as much a regular as the other Joes, he knows me---maybe not by name but for sure, by face. What else can you expect from a guy with this many friends? Also, best donuts in town...and sandwiches, egg rolls, and ice cream!"

"Richmond Bar and Grill, El Segundo. This family-owned and operated gem lives in one of El Segundo's oldest buildings on a street that makes up ES's "Old Town". Come for their ridiculously delicious homemade potato chips, loaded sandwiches, or their award-winning 4-alarm chili and stay for a craft beer or two. Richmond Bar & Grill has been serving the local blue collar community for 35 years. Do you wanna go where everybody knows your name? This is the place!"

"Rosewood Tavern, Fairfax District. Enjoy a unique Scotch and excellent food after work in this old school looking pub that kicks it up notch. You'd expect mediocre burgers and chicken strips, but don't count on it. Trust the menu, trust your bartender, and indulge."

"Escuela Taqueria, Fairfax District. Most people will tell you the best tacos are off of a grimy truck... and they're right. But if you're in the mood for something a bit cleaner and amazingly delicious, these are the best tacos around (and perhaps the best Salsa ever). Try the crispy fish and anything they recommend (even if it sounds weird). And snag an aqua fresca."

"New Beverly Cinema, Fairfax District. A historic place for Los Angeles, showing truly artistic and independent pictures. They've got midnight showings, experimental stuff, and throwbacks that you forgot about. It's a staple in LA, for a city that's almost forgotten about the real history of film."

"Blick Art Supplies, Fairfax District. A classic art supply shop for LA with everything from canvases and paint, to wrapping paper and awesome pens. The staff is knowledgable and helpful, and they even do a good job with custom framing. Check out the many papers and odd tools you never knew you needed."

"Heath Ceramics, Fairfax District. The first location outside of their home in Sausalito for the now-famous ceramics shop. Putting outthe finest quality in dish-ware and tile for fine restaurants and discriminating peeps alike. The brick & mortar store has been here as long as we can remember, and it's a lovely space. Head in to be inspired and you might even drop a few hundred on some new cups."

"Sycamore Kitchen, Fairfax District. Grab a quiche, sandwich, soup, or just a sticky bun. Then sit on the sunny patio and pretend to be working. Afterwards, walk La Brea and its many furniture stores, then check out American Rag for the cool kids clothing."

"Honest Beauty, Fairfax District. Right now, this is the first and only store for the mega-brand, Honest. They make environmentally consciousness baby and cleaning products affordable and wonderful, now they're doing the same for makeup and beauty. This small store has excellent staff to guide you through all the safe, non-toxic, and gorgeous products, and it's in the Grove, so catch a flick or buy a new iPhone afterwards. Tell them Jessica sent you."

"Canter's Deli, Fairfax District. Sure, you could join for the white-hair special at 5pm, but this place shines late night after some drinking in Hollywood. Grab a matzoh ball soup, or pastrami sandwich and try to spot some aspiring or washed-up celebs. Then grab a road rugalach on your way out. Open 24 hours!"

"Jonathan Wright & Co, Fairfax District. Here's an adorable example of old school stationary and cards done right. They do custom letterpress and invites in-house, but you can also just cruise through for a quick gift or card for that someone special."

"Shaky Alibi, Fairfax District. A great gem that most people ignore, either because they go to Starbucks, or because they don't eat sugar. However, this is the perfect place for an afternoon meeting or quiet work session... while enjoying a coffee and a delicious waffle (savory or sweet). Try the ham and cheese or any of the sweet ones."

"Rolling Greens, Fairfax District. One of the most beautiful ways to shop for plants and various home thingies. In an old auto mechanic's shop, this place is picture perfect. The place to go to add some green to your home, buy a gift, or just get inspired."

"Pan Pacific Park, Fairfax District. A very underrated public park, and a great cross-section of the neighborhood. In the same day you can see Mexican families BBQing, Hassidic Jews on the playground, old dudes playing softball, beautiful ladies doing crossfit, and hipsters picnicking with tacos from "Escuela" across the street (which we recommend)... all enjoying the perfect LA weather. It's got a great playground, grassy areas, rec center, and workout activities scattered around."

"Ahead Stereo, Fairfax District. Every guy (and some girls) love this place and wishes he can afford the rad stuff they have. It will make you want to spend a few grand on a tube amp and über modern turntable, then sit in your living room on the floor and break out the Floyd. In a world of crappy earbuds, at least someone takes the time to up the audio game."