Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Valenti
CASABLANCA
If you are out in Venice, plan a cozy date in Casablanca or Group dining. Old-fashioned ambiance (a homage to Bogie’s Casablanca from top to bottom, need I say more?), delicious Cali-Mexican food, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to kill time…it encapsulates what I love about dinner Loving going out in LA My favorite order is their signature seafood brasero served in a grand hot terrine, along with a plethora of margaritas served from their well-stocked mobile cart. — Lauren Valenti
Bavel
Booking here is tricky, but worth it wait. Nestled in the Arts District, Bavel pays homage to its owner’s Middle Eastern roots in a rustic, multi-room space. From first courses to nightcaps, if you can get in, you can’t go wrong. — Eliseé Browchuk
Honey Hi
It’s lunch time, I go often Honey Hi (like the song of Fleetwood Mac), a small roadside cafe in Echo Park, is health-conscious, yet hearty and full-on offerings to explore. I usually go for the fig jam and sourdough toast, or the miso bowl with the addictive ginger sauce, paired with one of their unique spiced drinks like dragon fruit lemonade. — Lauren Valenti
Salt & Straw
Admittedly, I really Too bad I have a sweet tooth, so my first trip to Salt & Straw doubled in one day. Handmade yogurt is always the perfect way to cool down before heading back to the beach. — Cassandra PintroGjelina
Gjelina is the reason people change their minds about being in LA Order pizza. Naturally, this Abbot Kinney staple has leavened dough in true California fashion. Don’t forget to order a dozen oysters and a side of grilled vegetables. Believe me, this is the norm. — Eliseé BrowchukChifa
Humberto Leon’s family restaurant in Eagle Rock is mine Favorite meal in LA. The dan dan noodles are so delicious, I wish it was brought to New York! — Steff YotkaCraig’s
Judge Judy, Ellen DeGeneres, John Legend and Chrissy Do Teigen have something in common? They all dined at Craig’s on the same night as I did – it’s an A-list restaurant in Hollywood. Can’t make a reservation? You might be lucky enough to find a seat at the bar. Although I can’t guarantee Judge Judy will be there. — Molly BarsteinWhere to shop
Courtesy of Eliseé Browchuk
Flowerboy project
Dried and fresh flower bouquets greet you at the entrance of the Flowerboy Project on Lincoln Avenue. Order a specialty latte and a donut before exploring their eclectic selection of local and imported goods. From home decor to fine jewelry, there’s something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind boutique. — Eliseé BrowchukDries Van Noten
Dries Van Noten Los Angeles This is Me On his first stop in Los Angeles, he created a gorgeous setting complete with an archive, selling antiques from his past collection. Impossible to visit and not buy something. — Steff Yotka, Global Director, Social Media Brentwood Country Market
Half Food Half grocer, half bookstore, half post office, half interior design destination, and half home of fine jewelry, this multi-boutique complex is not your average country market. Home to retailers such as Christian Louboutin, goop and Doen, Brentwood Country Market offers a wide range of high-end goods in a casual setting where you’re more likely to spot a celebrity mom or model after get off work. — Eliseé BrowchukHappy Isles
Antique store items dating back to I hope like that. Call me vintage but aughts are not classified as vintage. Thankfully, Los Angeles (and its old Hollywood roots) understand this and the city’s vintage shops, vintage is vintage! At the top of my shopping list is Happy Isles. Located in Beverly Hills, this is a curated place where 1980 ball gowns intertwine with 1980 pointed shoulders Together Blazer and I are in heaven. — Lilah RamziThe way we dress
Looking for the Mugler mini from80 clothes? A Halston dress from 25? A Christian Dior suit from 25? The Way We Wore is one of the best retro experiences in America. Incredible options allow tailors to time travel. — Ian Malone
Goodies
Goodies has marble, ceramic or just what you need Wood solutions for all home furnishing needs. This specialty store on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica lets you truly enjoy shopping for your kitchen needs. Did I mention that everything goes under $25? — Eliseé BrowchukBode Store
Although Emily Bode’s Brooklyn based, brand Feel at home in California. Patterned, patchwork, and hand-embroidered pieces are perfect for the City of Angels. The recently opened West Coast flagship store offers the entire current collection as well as exclusive pieces. The Bode is a closet must-have for any cool boy (or girl). — Ian Malone
The Webster
department store elevates retail to The height of the experimental Los Angeles location. 11,11 Sq Ft This The building, designed by Sir David Adjaye, is wrapped in iconic pink concrete. Carefully selected garments in a futuristic setting will satisfy the most discerning customer and inspire the most jaded sophistication. — Ian Malone
Bodega
masquerading as your everyday quickie , a concept store that showcases some of the most sought-after streetwear labels. Among the off-brand cleaning supplies and produce displayed as props, you’ll find creations by CVFF finalists Reese Cooper, Junya Watanabe, Engineered Garments and Comme des Garçons. — Eliseé BrowchukWhat to do
Views from Cinespia
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Valenti
Cinespia1980
I am at One of the most memorable experiences in Los Angeles is a trip to Hollywood Forever to see Cinespia’s curated outdoor screenings of everything from classics to delightful in-depth cuts. From hiking with picnic supplies (always with more booze and blankets than you think you need) to finding a spot in the open field, it’s a very communal, very LA experience. Be sure to get there in time to watch the magnificent sunset! — Lauren Valenti
Griffith Observatory
this won’t be A trip to Los Angeles without going to Griffith Observatory. Not only was it the venue for Adele’s “One Night Only” performance last year, but it also has one of the best views in Los Angeles. It’s also a romantic spot; if you’re traveling with someone special, it’s a great place to take them for picture-perfect moments. — Julie Tong
The Comedy Store
This three-room institution has a history The first stand-up comedy club since. It saw all the greats like Robin Williams, Jay Leno, David Letterman and Bob Saget before their glory days, and went on to feature some of the best comics from around the country. If you’re lucky, an industry legend might pop up and surprise you. — Eliseé BrowchukMurphy’s Ranch
Santa has an abandoned Nazi camp Mo Nika, this is a fun way to incorporate a piece of history into your workout. It really is a workout; the hike involves a flight of stairs that feels like forever. Elsewhere, the rest of the infrastructure was covered in graffiti and overgrown greenery. Built in the 70 years by Nazi sympathizers seeking refuge in the Pacific Palisades, Murphy’s Ranch is good for a hike, or at least a google. — Lilah RamziLos Angeles County Museum of Art
If you are looking for For immersive art restorations, look no further; LACMA houses some of the most experiential modern art the sunny state has to offer. But if you don’t arrive early, your only experience may be a long line of impatient onlookers. — Cassandra PintroThe Spa at The West Hollywood EDITION
unknown at the time My, the spa at the West Hollywood EDITION was where I got my last massage before it closed due to the pandemic. Luckily, it also happened to be one of the best spa treatments I’ve ever had, which sort of sets me up for the next time 25 months. The CBD+ Sticks and Stones massage is relaxing, includes a hydrating lip and eye mask, and feels proper “LA Wellness” in its vibe. The spa itself is a creamy oasis of tranquility, calm, and far from the hustle and bustle of the Sunset Strip. When I visit during awards season, I plan to pre-order the EDITION Custom Facial, which promises to be red-carpet ready and the longest treatment I can find on the menu. Any excuse to stay! – Laura Patterson, Senior Experience Director 198019801980
