This city of angels may seem overwhelmingly expansive at first, but it's all about knowing where to go. Nuggets of culture, food, and the arts are around every corner in addition to the astounding nature that surrounds this sprawling metropolis. A true melting pot, expand your horizons and try new things while in this city, and never forget to enjoy that perfect weather.
The Pikey is both your daytime stop for casual, bright beautiful lunch dishes as well as late night pints and perfect fish and chips. To call this place a British Pub pays the highest compliment to British Pubs. Using local, seasonal produce this menu is top-notch (from the team behind The Spotted Pig in NY's West Village), and the ambiance of the the bar area will invite you to stay for another round with its dark wood and warm lighting. This is a spot that suits every need.
7617 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HAPPY HOUR: 4PM- 7PM DAILY HOURS: 11:45AM- 2AM DAILY (Kitchen closes at 1:30AM) thepikeyla.com
Greenblatt's
Greenblatt's is the East Coast deli fix you've been craving, With heaping portions, these sandwiches (king of which is their hot pastrami) are nothing short of perfect. Their matzo ball soup is similarly write-home-about good. Sit upstairs in the spacious, quiet dining room area with comfortable booths and an old, wooden atmosphere of a Hollywood past or take your food to go for a picnic. If you're so inclined, Greenblatt's also offers a top-notch wine selection so treat yourself to a pricey bottle along with your sandwiches, especially if there is a picnic involved...
8017 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: 10AM- 2AM DAILY greenblattsdeli.com
El Carmen
Throw a stone in LA and you will hit an amazing Mexican restaurant, but El Carmen will always have a special place in my heart. This sexy, red-lit, hole-in-the-wall boasts spectacularly simple, straightforward tacos full of incredibly deep, complex flavors. With tremendous margaritas to boot (their house pineapple and mango infused tequila is particularly divine), this casual but sexy spot will more than satisfy that need for killer Mexican food while on the West Coast.
8138 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 5PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Sat 5PM- 2AM Sun 7PM- 2AM elcarmenla.com
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle Bar
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle Bar is hands down the best ramen I've ever had in my life. The only competing bowl would be from across the street at their sister restaurant, Tsujita Annex. Specializing in tsukemen, very similar to ramen, this is served in two bowels, one of cold, chewy perfect noodles and the other with tsukemen broth, simmered here for a full 60 hours. It is thicker and richer than its Ramen cousin and the deep pork flavor is absolutely second to none. Indulge in some sake, and I promise one of the best meals of your life. Be ready for a wait, though. Wildly popular and tiny, this place can have a 45 minute wait most nights.
2057 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 HOURS: 11AM- 2AM DAILY tsujita-la.com
Tsujita Annex
Tsujita Annex is worth a separate trip. Why? The broth. It's the broth's difference that made the Annex necessary to open directly across the street. Here it is simmered down pork bone and fat and soy and is even heartier than its sister across the street, with a slightly peppery, divine aftertaste. Noodles at the Annex are also thicker, though just as chewy and perfect. They really are different enough and sensational enough to each be worth their own trip.
2050 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 HOURS: 11AM- 11:30PM DAILY tsujita-la.com
P.S.....If the lines are long and the wait is substantial, Karaoke Bleu, a few doors down from the Annex offers a great Happy Hour Monday through Thursday, and a casual setting to down a drink and kill some time before your ramen. Beware the karaoke, as can be deduced from the name, but with these drink specials, it is 100% worth it.
2064 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Thurs 7PM- 9PM HOURS: 7PM- 2AM karaokebleu.com
Pizzaria Mozza
Pizzeria Mozza is the brainchild of superstar baker and chef Nancy Silverton. Not fussy, straightforward, and always uncompromising, the simple menu here is flawless. Frank Bruni of The Times raved “[the crust is] soft chewy in spots, crisply charred in others, ever so faintly sweet, even more faintly sour.” “Both tender and crackling crisp on the bottom, blistered and smoky from the wood-burning oven." This pizza is not to be missed while you are in Los Angeles. Pair it with some excellent wines from their list, and you are off to a fun, casual, high-quality evening.
641 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 HOURS: 12PM- 12AM DAILY la.pizzeriamozza.com
Chi SPACCA
At Chi SPACCA it is all about the meat. This is another Nancy Silverton joint, and Chi SPACCA works on perfecting Italian meat curing in house, in addition to much larger cuts of meat that it braises, roasts, and grills to utter perfection. This is a fine place to get a smattering of small plates to share or to go big and get one of their entree dishes like Roasted Half Rack of Lamb with black garlic and dijon or their Dry Aged Black Angus Porterhouse. I know that this is special occasion fare, but, if you ever wanted to dish out some money on a quality meal, this is a great place to do just that.
6610 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 6PM- 10PM Fri 6PM- 11PM Sat 5PM- 11PM chispacca.com Sun 5PM- 10PM
Father's Office
Father's Office is all about the burger, and damn is it ever a good burger. Chef San Yoon uses California's freshest ingredients to build a burger that is juicy, flavorful, with textures galore. Toss in 36 rotating taps, including some stellar local craft brews, and this is a fantastic restaurant to come with your company- especially at the end of a long week of rehearsal or performances.
3229 Helms Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 5PM - 1AM Fri- Sat 12PM- 2AM Sun 12PM- 2AM fathersoffice.com
Dan Sung Sa
Want some Korean food? Los Angeles' Koreatown is the greatest epicenter for Korean food in America, and well worth a visit. Dan Sung Sa is a no-nonsense, windowless joint, tightly-quartered with the steam and the smell of cooking thick in the air, but that's part of its beauty. Many items on the menu are served on skewers, from rice cakes to gingko nuts to frog legs, or there are big plate items like grilled chickens' feet and eels. Their legendary sweet and spicy chicken wings must be tried, and their rice wine was the perfect addition to....really anything off this solid Korean menu. So bring a group and splurge on a handful of plates. These are true share-ables.
3317 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020 HOURS: 4PM- 2AM
Gjelina
In beautiful downtown Venice Beach, stroll up to Gjelina and cross your fingers to snag a spot at this tight-seated excellent little restaurant. An affordable farm-to-table joint serving up extraordinary dishes (in particular their wood-fired pizzas and veggies), the "cool" factor here may be intimidating at first but breath deep, order abundantly, and enjoy yourself here with incredible dishes plus a wine and beer menu that's as solid as they come.
Golden State has another West Coast burger that I want to give a hearty thumbs up to. This terribly unassuming spot on Fairfax Ave is not out to impress you with anything other than their burger, their fries, and their craft beer list. Order from the counter and snag a seat to enjoy this absolutely perfect cheeseburger alongside a West Coast IPA or two,
426 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 HOURS: Tues- Sat 12PM- 10PM Sun- Mon 12PM- 9PM thegoldenstatecafe.com
Sugarfish
You're on the West Coast. You should have sushi. However, good sushi ain't no small (or cheap!) thing, so I'm here to recommend to you the lunch "Trust Me" prix fixe option at Sugar Fish for a much-needed sushi fix while working in L.A. This $27 option includes an Edamame Appetizer and then 7 sushi courses, so that you can sample the freshest items the chef has to offer. This wildly popular L.A. sushi restaurant now has a number of locations, but each one is devoted to the same bright, clean decor and premier sushi quality every single time, so come at lunch and indulge in some true brain food.
600 W 7th St #150, Los Angeles, CA 90017 HOURS: Mon- Sat 11:30AM- 10PM Sun 12PM- 9PM 101 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 6115 Sunset Blvd #170, Los Angeles, CA 90028 HOURS: Mon- Sat 11:30AM- 10PM HOURS: Mon- Sat 11:30AM- 10PM Sun 12PM- 9PM Sun 12PM- 9PM sugarfishsushi.com
Gracias Madre
A vegetarian friend dragged me to Gracias Madre one afternoon for lunch, and, boy, am I glad she did. With ingredients sourced from local farmers and recipes learned and honed in Mexico, Executive Chef Chandra Gilbert's plant-based, vegetarian Mexican restaurant is a breath of fresh air. Employing wild creativity with the preparation of vegetables and plants, this innovative menu is thrilling, and their cocktails selection is also worth a sample or two. Also, during Happy Hour, everything on the menu is $6! So swing on through on a weekday during the day and go to town.
8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 3PM- 6PM HOURS: Mon- Fri 11AM- 11PM Sat- Sun 10AM- 11PM graciasmadreweho.com
Guisados
Guisados is a small family of Los Angeles taco joints that has gained a loyal following over the years and for good reason. These tacos are fresh, simple, and bursting with heat and flavor. The handmade tortillas are the basis of everything, and from there I recommend their Mole Poblano (shredded chicken breast in a nutty Poblano style Mole served with sour cream, quest fresco, red onion, and dried chile) and their Bistek en Salsa Roja (flank steak simmered with red bell pepper and tomatoes served with chile de arbor and avocado above black beans) in particular. But, really, your best bet the first time you go is to get their taco sampler and give them all a try.
2100 East Cesar E Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 10:30AM- 8PM Fri 10:30AM- 9PM Sat 9AM- 9PM Sun 9AM- 5PM 541 S Spring St #101, Los Angeles, CA 900131261 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 9AM- 11PM HOURS: Mon- Thurs 10:30AM- 10PM Fri- Sat 9AM- 1:30AM Fri 10:30AM- 11PM Sun 9AM- 9PM Sat 9AM- 11PM Sun 9AM- 5PM 8935 Santa Monica Blvd, W Hollywood, CA 90069312 N San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, CA 91502 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 11AM- 12AM HOURS: Mon- Sat 9AM- 9PM Fri- Sat 11AM- 2AM Sun 9AM- 7PM Sun 11AM- 8PM guisados.co
L&E Oyster Bar
This delightful oyster bar allows you to soak up some of that gorgeous California evening air on its second story deck. It's worth a trip even outside of their Happy Hour, but why not take advantage of tit between 5PM and 7PM? Available upstairs only on weekdays enjoy drink specials like $4 beers and $10 plates of delicacies like beet-cured salmon.
1637 Silver Lake Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 5PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Thurs 5PM- 10PM Fri 5PM- 11PM Sat 10AM- 2PM, 5PM- 11PM Sun 10AM- 2PM, 5PM- 9PM leoysterbar.com
Beachwood Cafe
Beachwood Cafe is tucked away in Beachwood Canyon and offers incredible brunch, coffee, craft brews, and a mind-blowing burger (clearly LA offers a number of those), so this cozy little hide-away has your breakfast AND lunch needs covered, Plus this location provides a much needed escape from the bustle of the city.
2695 N Beachwood Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 HOURS: 8AM- 4PM DAILY http://beachwoodcafe.com
Baco Mercat
Inspired by flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean, North Africa, Southern Europe, and Asia, Chef Josef Centeno's Baco Mercat restaurant in downtown LA was named after his signature dish- the Baco. A flatbread sandwich that was originally topped with crispy pork belly and beef carnitas with caraway pepper sauce and salbitxada, the restaurant now offers a plethora of different sauces and toppings for their Baco bread, and, with a Happy Hour that features $5 draft beers and cocktails, that might be the perfect time to swing by this sexy spot. 408 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Thurs 5:30PM- 7PM (bar and patio only) HOURS: Mon- Thurs 11:30AM- 2:30PM; 5:30PM- 11PM Fri- Sat 11:30AM- 3PM; 5:30PM- 12AM Sun 11:30AM- 3PM; 5:30PM- 10PM bacomercat.com
Philippe's The Original
Philippe's The Original is where the French Dip all began. Founded in 1908 by Philippe Mathieu, legend has it that in 1918, a sandwich on french bread was dropped into the pan of hot meat juices, but the customer said he wanted it anyway. The next day that same customer returned with some friends, and they all wanted to try this meat sandwich dipped in roasted juices. Philippe's has had a place in the hearts of locals ever since, and provides a perfect trip for something special straight from the source.
1001 North Alameda, Los Angeles, CA 90012 HOURS: 6AM- 10PM DAILY philippes.com
A-Frame
The brainchild of chef Roy Choi (father of the Kogi food trucks), this revamped I-Hop (yeah, recognized that building's shape now?) is now A-Frame, a wildly flavorful and inventive Asian restaurant with strong Hawaiian influences that has been delighting customers since it opened about 5 years ago. Communal tables add to the warm, welcoming spirit here, and this is an ideal place to order with a group and share. Menu highlights include their Crackling Beer Can Chicken (which comes in an All-You-Can-Eat option), Street Corn with gochujang mayo, lime, and cotija, or a Barramundi with herbs, fresno chili, sesame, crushed fried leeks, in a citrus-curry broth, or wing by for their "Laua" Hour and enjoy $4 beer, $6 wine, $8 cocktails as well as deals on small plates.
12565 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066 HAPPY HOUR: 5PM-7 PM DAILY Fri- Sat 10PM- close, too HOURS: Mon- Thurs 5PM- 10PM Fri 5PM- 11PM Sat 10AM- 3:30PM; 5PM- 11PM Sun 10AM- 3:30PM; 5PM- 10PM aframela.com
Langer's Deli
Some Los Angelens who saw my above rave about Greenblatt's are probably wondering why Langer's didn't get a shout-out. Well, here it is. Offering their pastrami sandwich (#19 with cole slaw, russian dressing, and swiss on double-baked rye bread) since 1947, this beloved legend of a place is still obsessing over the small stuff and keeping their Pastrami special up to par for every single person who walks in the door.
704 S Alvarado St, Los Angeles, CA 90057 HOURS: Mon- Sat 8AM- 4PM Sun CLOSED langersdeli.com
In-N-Out Burger
So. In-N-Out. I had to give them a shout out. Chances are very, VERY good that you've heard of this West Coast wonder before, but I needed to put it on the list as it is a late-night food option that needs to stay on the table when working in Southern California. Do it animal-style or go home, and don't forget that you will always regret not getting a double after you've finished.
Various Locations HOURS: Sun- Thurs 10:30AM - 1AM Fri- Sat 10:30AM- 1:30AM locations.in-n-out.com
Pink's Hot Dogs
Beloved by locals and celebrities alike, Pink's Hot Dogs has been a fixture in the Los Angeles community since 1939, and the secret is in the hot dogs themselves. Famous for their classic "snap" when you bite into them, Pink's hot dogs are then topped off with bold layers of toppings like their El Mandril Dog (a jalapeño dog with grilled onions, guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, and bacon) or their Planet Hollywood Dog (Polish sausage with grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, bacon, and nacho cheese.) Outposts have been established in other states like Connecticut and New York, but visit their home base in Hollywood for the full Pink's experience.
709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 HOURS: Sun- Thurs 9:30AM- 2AM Fri- Sat 9:30AM- 3AM pinkshollywood.com
Electric Owl
Chef Ernesto Uchimura of Umami Burger fame is the mastermind behind Electric Owl where excellent hand-made pastas are served alongside killer burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. The fried chicken here (which packs quite a bit of satisfying heat) was absolutely perfect, and, paired with a delicious local craft beer or refreshing cocktail, you can soak up the fun, frenzied atmoshere of this small (often packed) West Hollywood joint.
1451 N Gardner St, West Hollywood, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 11:30AM- 3PM; 4:20PM- 11PM Fri- Sat 10AM- 3PM; 4:20PM- 12AM Sun 10AM- 3PM; 4:20PM- 11PM electricowl.la
Best Fish Taco in Ensenada
Best Fish Taco in Ensenada is really and truly the name of this special spot. They're very up front with everything here, including their hand-painted menu which lists just three things: FISH $1.95 SHRIMP $2.50 DRINK $1.00. Yup. These delicious tacos are made even better by the array of salsas and topping available to spice up your crispy fried fish with super spicy mango or pineapple salsa or a fascinating radish salsa with an acidic, citrusy flavor profile. When the weather is fine, take your tacos outside and enjoy them on the beautiful patio area.
1650 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 HOURS: Mon- Sun 11AM- 10PM bestfishtacoinensenada.com
Bludso's Bar & Que
Kevin Bludso spent his childhood summers in Texas, working for his family in the BBQ business, and he finally fulfilled his family heritage in 2008 when Kevin opened Bludso's BBQ right in the heart of Compton. Bludso's quickly became LA's favorite BBQ, and now you can visit Kevin's bar and restaurant on La Brea Boulevard or even his outpost in Melbourne, Australia!
609 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 HOURS: Mon- Fri 11:30AM- 3PM; 5PM- 10PM Sat 12PM- 10PM Sun 12PM- 8PM barandque.com
NIGHT + MARKET Weho
33 year-old Kris Yenbamroong, the chef and owner of NIGHT + MARKET, was brought up in his family's Thai restaurant, Talesai, in Los Angeles. Even today, sprinkled across his eclectic menu you will see dishes that were his grandmother's specialties and on the original Talesai menus he grew up with. NIGHT + MARKET is decidedly a young person's restaurant, however. The playful, bright interior with classic rock tunes blaring couples nicely with the intense cocktails they serve here as well as the highlight of the place: the bright, flavorful, spicy Thai dishes that Yenbamroong serves up. A larb dish here (with sticky rice, try coconut!) is a must. Keep an eye out for the Daily Specials as well, and indulge in their fried chicken sandwich. It's garnered more awards than they have room to show on their walls. This imaginative place is ideal to bring a friend and share a few plates (with a couple rounds of drinks on the side.)
9043 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 HOURS: Mon CLOSED Tues- Thurs 11:30AM- 2:30PM; 5PM- 10:30PM Fri- Sun 5PM- 10:30PM http://www.nightmarketla.com
Plan Check Kitchen + Bar
351 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 900361111 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90017 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 11:30AM- 10PM HOURS: Mon 12PM- 9PM Fri- Sat 11:30AM- 11PM Tues- Thurs 12PM- 10PM Sun 11AM- 10PM Fri- Sat 12PM- 11PM Sun 11AM- 9PM
1800 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 1401 Ocean Ave #104, Santa Monica, CA 90401 HOURS: Mon- Wed 11:30AM- 10PM HOURS: Sun- Thurs 11AM- 10PM Thurs 11:30AM- 11PM Fri- Sat 11AM- 11PM Fri- Sat 11:30AM- 12AM Sun 11AM- 10PM plancheck.com
COFFEE:
Enigma Coffee
Enigma Coffee is a tiny but adorable newcomer in the quiet neighborhood of West Hollywood. Set along Sunset Blvd and down the road from Sam French's beautiful bookstore outpost, swing by Sam French and pick up a play, new or classic, and take it along to Enigma where the tables are few but the atmosphere is chill.
7801 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Fri 6:30AM - 6PM Sat- Sun 6:30AM- 7PM
Blackwood Coffee Bar
Blackwood Coffee Bar on Sunset Boulevard delivers you outdoor or indoor seating options for any mood. Sit back at this calm, bright, airy coffee house and breath easy. The creativity of their caffeine cocontions are second to none here including their Morning Wood (I know) drink made with house cold brew, espresso, milk, cinnamon, and toasted pecans or their Lavender Honey Latte with house-made honey lavender syrup. Their breakfast sandwiches at absolutely delicious as well, and very very popular. (You'll see everyone around you getting one and the peer pressure will be on!) So, invite a friend or bring a book and indulge in this relaxing haven.
3407, 7509 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Fri 7AM- 5PM Sat 7AM- 4PM Sun 8AM- 4PM blackwoodcoffeebar.com
Melrose Umbrella Co.
Melrose Umbrella Co gets two more shoutouts later in this blog for their excellent Happy Hour as well as their spot-on cocktails, but during the morning and afternoon hours this hip spot is also a coffee house! With lots of great seating options including intimate booths, spacious benches, as well as their trendy bar, snag a spot and then head over to their coffee window to order up your cappuccino or nitro cold brew. They use Verve Street Level for their espresso beans, Ritual Coffee for their coffee, and Intelligentsia Black Cat espresso for their nitro cold brew. (And if the conversation goes on awhile maybe grab an afternoon cocktail for dessert??) 7465 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: 9AM- 2AM DAILY melroseumbrellaco.com
Blvd Cafecito
Burbank is cool. And Blvd Cafecito is just another example of why. This teensy coffee and espresso bar doesn't offer many tables to sit and linger at, but, on Burbank's sexy Magnolia Boulevard, you should take your coffee to go anyhow. These coffee drinks are the real deal, made with care and attention and in a chill, pleasant environment where the art on the walls from local artists gets sold and pamphlets for local theatre productions are strewn on the counter.
3210 W Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505 HOURS: Mon- Sat 7AM- 7PM Sun 7AM- 6PM cafe-inspector.com
Romancing the Bean Cafe
If Blvd Cafecito is Magnolia Boulevard's answer for a to-go cup, Romancing the Bean Cafe is your sit and stay awhile place. With copious tables and large windows for pleasant people-watching, bring your work and stay awhile at this oasis with free wifi and freshly baked pastries if you get peckish.
3413 W Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505 HOURS: Mon- Sat 7AM- 7PM Sun 8AM- 6PM romancingthebeancafe.com
CAFE IF
CAFE IF is an adorable, little, off-the-beaten-path coffee spot that will make you sigh with relief. The small, cement-floored digs with trendy lighting fixtures and a large window feels like the perfect spot to focus and get some good reading or work done. The coffee here is delicious to boot. Try one of their more creative Daily Specials for something new and unexpected!
7962 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Fri 7:30AM- 6:30PM Sat- Sun 8:30AM- 6:30PM cafeif.co
BREAKFAST:
Blu Jam Cafe
There's a reason Blu Jam Cafe has four locations in L.A. all in addition to their location in Japan. This brunch joint perfectly combines locally-sourced fresh ingredients with breakfast comfort food staples. Look for lots of vegetarian and vegan options without any compromise on flavor, and the french toast is to die for. No reservations, though, you've been warned.
7371 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: 8AM- 4PM DAILY
El Camino Shopping Center, 23311 Mulholland Dr, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 HOURS: 8AM- 4PM DAILY https://www.blujamcafe.com
The Griddle Cafe
The Griddle Cafe is truly all about the flapjacks. Come here for jaw-droppingly large portions of adventurous, delicious pancake recipes that will make you desperately wish you could finish the entire, mammoth portion, but rest assured that most don't and take the sucker home with you for brilliant leftovers the next day. This buzzy West Hollywood staple deserves at least one brunch trip during your time in L.A.
7916 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Fri 7AM- 4PM Sat- Sun 8AM- 4PM thegriddlecafe.com
Blackwood Coffee Bar
Blackwood Coffee House got a shout out above for their wonderful coffee drinks, but here's the mention they deserve for their sandwiches and toasts and other snacks. Using local and seasonal produce, these creations are absolutely delicious and affordable to boot. It's true that this place is very much a coffeeshop and not a restaurant proper, but this bright environment is a beautiful option for a breakfast or lunch hang out. I highly recommend The Original with soft scrambled egg, avocado, chives, cheddar, spicy aioli on toasted brioche with an option to add organic bacon as well as their Ricotta Toast with Fruit with house whipped ricotta, berry compote, fresh berries, orange zest on brioche toast.
3407, 7509 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Fri 7AM- 5PM Sat 7AM- 4PM blackwoodcoffeebar.com Sun 8AM- 4PM
BRUNCH:
Wolf
Special shout out here to the beautiful Sena Rich for taking me to incredible Melrose spot. Wolf brunch was nothing less than exquisite, and it was impossibly difficult to choose from this excellent brunch menu. However, I would have an equally hard time not going back and ordering what I got again. Their Chicken and Waffle entree with buttermilk, maple whip, and house made hot sauce was just divine. Sena's Eggs Benedict also looked incredible. Working with small, local farmers, I imagine everything they serve at this rustic but elegant little restaurant is done with upmost care and maximum flavor, so go for Brunch but maybe come back for Dinner later in the week...
7661 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Sat- 10AM- 10PM Sun 10AM- 3PM Mon- Fri 5PM- 10PM wolfdiningla.com
HAPPY HOURS:
El Carmen
Throw a stone in LA and you will hit an amazing Mexican restaurant, but El Carmen will always have a special place in my heart. This sexy, red-light, hole-in-the-wall boasts spectacularly simple, straightforward tacos full of incredibly deep, complex, fulfilling flavors. With tremendous margaritas to boot (their house pineapple and mango infused tequila is particularly divine), this casual but sexy spot will more than satisfying that need for killer Mexican food while on the West Coast, AND on weekdays, you can enjoy this special place at even better prices: $5 marguerites, $2 guac, $6 combo platters with two tacos, rice and beans (and these rice and beans are the real deal.)
8138 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 HAPPY HOUR: 5PM- 7PM (Mon-Fri) HOURS: Mon- Sat 5PM- 2AM Sun 7PM- 2AM elcarmenla.com
The Pikey
The Pikey got a shout out above, but now I'm back to tell you about their Happy Hour. For drinks, this exceptional British Gastropub offers $4 Peronis, $5 house wine, $5 well drinks, and a $7 Moscow mule. For snacks they have their Thrice-Cooked Chips with worstershire aioli and seat salt ($6), Deviled Eggs ($3), Crispy Brussel Sprouts with fig balsamic, pickled peppers, and parmesan regiano ($9) as well as a number of other options at the bar and in the bar area.
7617 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HAPPY HOUR: 4PM- 7PM DAILY HOURS: 11:45AM- 2AM DAILY (Kitchen closes at 1:30AM) thepikeyla.com
The Edmon
The Edmon is a sleek Hollywood haunt has a classy vibe, but don't let that keep you away during Happy Hour. With $6 to $9 small plates including steak sliders and baby hot fried chicken, wash these delicious Happy Hour snacks down with $7 cocktails, $5 beer, and $10 glasses of wine Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m.
5168 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 HAPPY HOUR: Tues- Sat 5PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Thurs 5PM- 12AM Fri 5PM- 1AM Sat- Sun CLOSED theedmon.com
Citizen
With exceptional $7 food options during Happy Hour like a Short Rib Taco with avocado puree, pickled onion, chipotle crema and a Halibut Ceviche with cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and tortilla chips, Citizen has a loyal following of Happy Hourers who flock to this excellent Beverly Hills spot. Tack on $8 wine and $7 well cocktails in addition to other drink specials, and you'll be well on your way to a perfect start to any evening. (Their Happy Hour is even available on Saturdays!)
184 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 HAPPY HOUR: Mon 2:30PM- 10PM Tues- Fri 2:30PM- 7PM Sat 5PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Fri 12PM- 10PM Sat 5PM- 10PM Sun CLOSED citizenbeverlyhills.com
Electric Owl
Electric Owl gets a shout out above for its food menu, but here is their much deserved mention for Happy Hour. Offering $6 cocktails (including a tequila concoction that packs a punch) as well as house wine and beer, pair these delicious and affordable glasses with $4.20 bits like their House Sliders or their Fried Chicken served up with a dipping sauce. The chicken is the same moist, perfectly fried chunks that they use on their brilliant fried chicken sandwich from their regular menu so its a clear winner for me. Arrive early if you can as this is a very popular Happy Hour (especially on weekends) and know that their bar area is partly open-air so it is ideal for one of those perfect California evenings.
1451 N Gardner St, West Hollywood, CA 90046 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Sun 4:20PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Thurs 11:30AM- 3PM; 4:20PM- 11PM Fri- Sat 10AM- 3PM; 4:20PM- 12AM Sun 10AM- 3PM; 4:20PM- 11PM electricowl.la
Snake Pit Alehouse Whiskey Bar & Kitchen
Snake Pit Alehouse is an oasis of affordable beverages in a no-frills environment you might long for on Melrose. This fun, friendly bar boasts an excellent jukebox, easy going bartenders, and great beers on tap in addition to their extraordinary whiskey selection. This spot is ideal for a group of friends or a nightcap after a fancy dinner in the neighborhood.
7529 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HAPPY HOUR: 3PM- 8PM DAILY HOURS: Mon 5PM- 2AM Tues- Fri 1PM- 2AM Sat- Sun 12PM- 2AM snakepitalehouse.com
Melrose Umbrella Co.
Melrose Umbrella Co. can get a little loud on weekends, but this sexy, high-ceilinged bar is popular for good reason. The cocktails here are absolutely and totally delicious. In the morning/afternoon this spot is also a casual coffee, espresso joint, but, in the evening, the lights dim and you are transported to a cocktail-lovers dreamland. All the more reason to come on a weekday during Happy Hour so that you can sample what this place has to offer at affordable prices. Their Maid Outfit cocktail with vodka or gin, lime, cucumber, and mint is only $8 and their House Old-Fashioned made with their house whiskey blend, demerara sugar, angostura, and sour cherry bitters is only $9. They love Old Fashioneds here in general with five different renditions of the classic cocktail on their regular menu. Their "Bites" menu, available from 10AM to 1AM, features small plates of comfort food done beautifully like their Afterschool Special Lunchbox with a pimento grilled cheese and chilled tomato soup or their Bagel & Lox Lunchbox with a house-made everything bagel, gin & dill cured salmon, chips, plus drink of your choice!
7465 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 12PM- 7PM HOURS: 9AM- 2AM DAILY melroseumbrellaco.com
Spitz LA
Spitz LA is a hip, trendy bar and restaurant that boasts Mediterranean street food and a great selection of craft beer. On weekdays between 3pm and 6pm swing by to enjoy their "Not Unhappy Hour" with $2-off select taps, $6 house sangria, and $7 house wines, and the sangrias here are absolutely top notch- perfect for a hot afternoon. Pair those drink specials with $6.50 Berliner or Street Cart Fries topped with all kinds of fixin's or $3 Fried Pita Strips with Hummus, and this is an ideal spot for an afternoon hang with a small group.
Little TokyoStudio City 371 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 3737 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91604 HAPPY HOUR: Mon-Fri 3PM- 7PM HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 3PM- 7PM HOURS: Sun- Thurs 11AM- 11PM HOURS: Mon- Sun 11AM- 10PM Fri- Sat 11AM- 1AM
Los Feliz 1725 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 3PM- 7PM HOURS: Sun- Wed 11AM- 10PM Thurs 11AM- 11PM Fri- Sat 11AM- 12AM eatatspitz.com
Marche Wine Bar
Marche Wine Bar in Burbank is where you should go on a Monday night. Especially on a date. This adorable, high quality wine bar is ambiently lit with red bank tables in the back and a long, elegant bar up front, and on Monday nights they do Happy Hour all night long. They have a Happy Hour the rest of the week as well between 4PM and 7PM, but why not come in the evening on a Monday and take advantage of some great deals on truly incredible, thoughtfully selected glasses of wine.
3206 W Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505 HAPPY HOUR: Mon ALL NIGHT Tues- Sun 5PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Thurs 5PM- 10PM Fri 4PM- 11PM Sat 3PM- 11PM Sun 5PM- 9PM marchewinebar.com
BARS:
La Descarga
Alright, there will be a number of speakeasies in L.A. so bear with me. First, make an online reservation for La Descarga and then check out their Dress Code rules online. These rules should be thought of as fun, not restrictive. Gather up a handfull of friends and make a night of it. This incredible Cuban speakeasy is filled with live music, salsa dancing, a cigar room, as well as a number of bars servings up exceptional cocktails that will cool you down after the dance floor, and, if you're more of a wallflower, it will be a great time for you, too, I promise.
1159 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039 HOURS: Tues- Sat 8PM- 2AM Sun- Mon CLOSED ladescargala.com
The Prince
The Prince is a unique and historic bar in Koreatown. Part piano bar, part old-school red leather couch joint, part affordable, casual local spot far away from the hipsters of the speakeasies. The Prince is famous for their Korean deep-fried chicken, but their drinks and general ambiance is what I would recommend most highly as a top of the evening sip or a nightcap when dining out in Koreatown.
3198 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005 HOURS: 4PM- 2AM DAILY http://theprincela.com
Castaway Burbank
Perched high atop a hill in Burbank, Castaway Burbank offers wrap-around, breathtaking views of the valley. Littered with fire pits and couches as well lounge chairs and proper dining tables, the outdoor deck of this restaurant is its crown jewel, and, although dinner here is notably delicious, I've placed Castaway in the "Bars" section because it's a magical place to bring a small group of friends, stake a claim on a couple couches on the deck area (that don't have waiter service-always double-check), head in and order from the bar, and soak up a sunset in front of a firepit with delicious beer, cocktails, or a glass from their expertly manicured wine list. This remote spot is relaxing, classy, and absolutely stunning.
1250 E Harvard Rd, Burbank, CA 91501 HOURS: Mon- Thurs 4PM- 11PM Fri 4PM- 12AM Sat 11AM- 12AM Sun 11AM- 11PM castawayburbank.com
The Varnish
The Varnish in downtown Los Angeles is a speakeasy housed inside a refurbished storage room in Los Angeles’ oldest public house, Cole’s French Dip Sandwich, and, since opening its doors in 2009, this tiny bar has becoming an award-winning craft cocktail joint. Everything here is tiny and golden- the booths, the tables, the drinks. There was a live band the night I went, playing cool jazz softly in the background and adding to the glow that generally pervades this spot. Snuggle up in an intimate booth and chat with your waiter about what cocktail might tickle your fancy.
118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 HOURS: 7PM- 2AM DAILY thevarnishbar.com
Ye Olde Kings Head
Ye Olde Kings Head in Santa Monica, just blocks from the beach, is a classic pub with a ton of heart. Known as an "Ambassador for all things British" this pub has over 40 years of loyalty to its community, and you want to come here for some day drinking with darts and a Happy Hour draft beer or three.
116 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401 HAPPY HOUR: Mon- Fri 4PM-7PM HOURS: Mon- Wed 9AM- 10PM Thurs 9AM- 10:30PM Fri 9AM- 11PM Sat- Sun 8AM- 11PM yeoldekingshead.com
Urban Press Winery
Urban Press Winery in downtown Burbank is where the grapes are fermented and bottled, but the grapes used for these wines are originally grown and harvested in Sonoma, California by vintner Giovanni D'Andrea. The delicious bottles produced at Urban Press make it very, very much worth a visit. Enjoy a tasting with the knowledgeable team they have working behind the bar areas (there are a few, inside and outside.) Then settle on a glass you adore and choose a seat at either a small table indoors (where you might be lucky enough to have some live music to entertain you) or head out to the back deck for a laid back, casual atmosphere at one of their long benches. You might even be lucky enough to have a food truck pull up. This tiny gem is definitely worth a trip. 316 N San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, CA 91502 HOURS: Sun- Wed 12PM- 9PM Thurs 12PM- 10PM Fri 12PM- 1AM Sat 12PM- 12AM urbanpresswinery.com
Good Luck Bar
1514 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 HOURS: Mon- Fri 7PM- 2AM Sat- Sun 8PM- 2AM goodluckbarla.com
No Vacancy
No Vacany is a bar in a house. In a house. This multi-room wonderland has a few bars, some live burlesque shows, an outdoor patio deck and walled in garden area, a dress code, delicious craft cocktails, and a crowd of some of the most attractive people you have ever seen in your life. This is a special occasion place, but very well worth it. Come early and snag a spot because as the night drags on this becomes a hoppin' joint- full and rowdy and fun.
1727 N Hudson Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 HOURS: Tues- Sat 8PM- 2AM Sun- Mon CLOSED novacancyla.com
Adults Only
Adults Only is a speakeasy located behind.... you guessed it, an adult film store. This spacious Hollywood bar has a long layout with carpets and wood paneled walls decked out with posters from Golden Era films. They do screenings here as well, so keep an eye out for those, but my advice is to come here early, snag a game or two at the pool table prominently located on the raised level at the end of the place and enjoy a few cocktails from these down-to-earth, personable bartenders.
7065 1/2 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028 HOURS: 7PM- 2AM adultsonlybar.la
Tiki-Ti
4427 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 HOURS: Sun- Tues CLOSED Wed- Sat 4PM- 2AM tiki-ti.com
Jumbo's Clown Room
Jumbo's Clown Room is a burlesque club and Los Angeles institution since the 1970's. There is just no bar quite like this anywhere. After you've had a few drinks elsewhere, swing by for a rollicking good time where the rock and roll music is loud and phenomenal and the pole dancers look like real women. The bar itself is affordable and casual, and this place is, quite simply, a ton of fun.
5153 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 HOURS: Mon- Sun 4PM- 12AM jumbos.com
Melrose Umbrella Co.
Melrose Umbrella Co. gets a second shout out following the one it got above in the Happy Hour section. This bar can get a little loud on weekends but for good reason. The cocktails here are absolutely and totally delicious. In the morning/afternoon this spot is also a casual coffee, espresso joint, but, in the evening, the lights dim and you are transported to a cocktail-lovers dreamland. They particularly love Old Fashioneds here with five different renditions of the classic cocktail on their regular menu. Their "Bites" menu, available from 10AM to 1AM, features small plates of comfort food done beautifully like their Afterschool Special Lunchbox with a pimento grilled cheese and chilled tomato soup or their Bagel & Lox Lunchbox with a house-made everything bagel, gin & dill cured salmon, chips, plus drink of your choice! 7465 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: 9AM- 2AM DAILY melroseumbrellaco.com
Barney's Beanery
Hahaha my boyfriend was worried when he took me here to end a date night that LA locals might snub their nose to my putting it on this site, but, what the hell, I'm going to because with, five locations in LA, Barney's Beanery is popular for a reason. This friendly, rock-music, Christmas-tree-light-adorned beer hall is a casual escape for a pre-game drink or a nightcap. Affordable prices, affable staff, and loose customers means you can sit back and enjoy your beer or whiskey in this lively, unpretentious atmosphere.
BurbankWestwood 250 N 1st St, Burbank, CA 91502 1037 Broxton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024 HOURS: Mon- Fri 11:30AM- 2AM HOURS: Mon- Sun 10AM- 1AM Sat- Sun 9AM- 2AM
West Hollywood 8447 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 HOURS: Mon- Fri 11AM- 2AM Sat- Sun 9AM- 2AM barneysbeanery.com
El Compadre
Known for their famous "Flaming Margarita", El Compadre is a wildly popular locals joint where the margaritas teach other margaritas how to be a margarita. Perfectly made and perfectly paired with anything on this delicious menu (even just their chips and fresh, house made salsa with just enough peppery kick to keep it absolutely delicious), there's no need to necessarily light yours on fire, but then again why not? The bar area isn't huge, and gets very popular around prime dinner hours (so beware), but this sexy restaurant with red leather upholstered booths and dimmed lighting is also ideal for four friends down to share big plates of food as well as round after round of tequila drinks.
7408 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Sun 11AM- 2AM
1449 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 HOURS: Mon- Sun 11AM- 9:30PM elcompadrerestaurant.com
Marche Wine Bar
3206 W Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505 HAPPY HOUR: Mon ALL NIGHT Tues- Sun 4PM- 7PM HOURS: Mon- Thurs 5PM- 10PM Fri 4PM- 11PM Sat 3PM- 11PM Sun 5PM- 9PM marchewinebar.com
OTHER:
The Magic Castle
I promise, The Magic Castle is unlike anywhere you have ever been before. Unfortunately, getting in requires an invite from an active member BUT we're in the performing arts, so ask around. Text your friends and chances are good you will find a hookup. Then, pull out your fancy pants, this spot has a strict dress code, that you'll LOVE adhering to, truly. It will make the whole experience all the more special. The Castle houses multiple performing arts spaces in a gorgeous, ornate mansion with bars and secret little rooms with magic card tables scattered throughout. Just grab a pamphlet of the evenings performances, stand in line for the ones that peak your interest, drink in hand, and enjoy tremendous magicians from all over the world showing off for EACH OTHER of all things (so imagine how decidedly incredible they are with a house full of insiders watching.) This place really is deeply special, and you will see magic there that will stun you. It is more than worth a long and special evening out.
7001 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 HOURS: 5PM- 2AM DAILY magiccastle.com
Griffith Observatory
You may have recently seen this space featured in a little known indie called LaLa Land, but the Griffith Observatory is an iconic LA landmark for a reason. An art deco structure that was erected in 1935, this stunning complex boasts incredible views of the City of Angels at any time of day as well as a planetarium inside that will knock your socks off. Admission to the building and grounds is always free, so there's no excuse to not visit this special spot.
Griffith Park, 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 HOURS: Mon CLOSED Tues- Fri 12PM- 10PM Sat- Sun 10AM- 10PM griffithobservatory.org
The Getty
Nothing can properly prepare you for The Getty. This mammoth structure is absolutely nothing less than breathtaking, both in scope and in sheer architectural beauty. The fact that it is stuffed with tremendous works of art from all over the world almost begins to feel like an afterthought. You cannot go here for just one afternoon. This grand museum deserves a few days of your time to soak it in and breath deep. Admission is free and parking is $15 or $10 after 3PM.
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049 HOURS: Mon CLOSED Tues- Fri 10AM- 5:30PM Sat 10AM- 9PM Sun 10AM- 5:30PM getty.edu
Samuel French Bookstore
The Samuel French Bookstore in West Hollywood is an oasis for theatre people. Packed not only with every script under the sun, but with a back area full of chairs, complimentary coffee, and quiet, this hospitable bookstore is a community hub where plays are shared, explored, and dug into. Bring them your business. You'll be glad you did.
7623 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 HOURS: Mon- Sat 10AM- 6PM Sun 10AM- 5PM samuelfrench.com
Temescal Canyon
Offering a huge variety of hikes that vary both in difficulty and length (from 2.6 miles to 5.25 miles), Temescal Canyon is a gorgeous place to get out of the house and the car and do what all performers rave about doing in LA: hiking. The Trailhead at Temescal Gateway Park is located at the top of Temescal Canyon Road at the intersection with Sunset Boulevard. Free parking is available along Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Blvd, but parking inside the park is $7.
Magnolia Park, Burbank (Magnolia Blvd between Hollywood Way and Catalina) LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH 6PM- 9PM http://www.ladiesnightoutburbank.com
DAY TRIPS:
Malibu...
I'm embarrassed to say it but Malibu Barbie is my first and earliest impression of this part of the world. It gave me the sense of bright pink- attired girls sitting beachside with nothing to do but drive around in convertibles and pop bubble gum. No really- Malibu Barbie was the richest and most self-absorbed Barbie of them all- but this completely stunning area of the country couldn't be further from this first impression of mine. Malibu is natural beauty at its highest, from rough beaches to green rolling hills. You will have too much to do and see in one day, so plan to spend a few exploratory trips here while working in Los Angeles.
Matador Beach
Matador Beach feels like it's the beach that locals adore and hope only a few others discover. This beautiful, scenic, rough patch of coastline is the kind of beach that scares off the beach volleyball types and welcomes those who like to wander, soak up the sea air and cool breeze, and escape.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area 32350 El Matador Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265 HOURS: 8AM- 8PM DAILY parks.ca.gov
Malibu Seafood Shack
Malibu Seafood Shack is a casual stop off the side of Route 1 that offers everything from the sea. They fry it, grill it, stick on a sandwich, or over some lettuce. You can get lobster, crab, scallops, oysters, shrimp, tuna, squid, halibut, seabags, swordfish, mussels, clams, and all of these creatures have been plucked fresh out of the sea and done up as simply as possible. Pair with an IPA or a white wine at an outdoor picnic table and enjoy. This spot embraces the natural beauty all around and knows all it needs to do is serve you the sea.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 25653 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 HOURS: 11AM- 8PM DAILY malibuseafood.com
Malibu Wines
Getting to Malibu Wines will lead you past rolling hills of green and lush vineyards. Malibu's wine country may be small, but they found one of the most picturesque locations on earth. Malibu Wines is a sprawling collection of chairs and tables and swings on the side of a hill offering tasting flights of local wines from $14 to $16 as well as bottles starting at $28. So, find a spot in the afternoon or reserve a spot in the evening (especially in the summer time and on weekends when it can get quite popular) and enjoy live music on the weekends as well! They even welcome outside food if you want to pack a picnic for the trip! This gorgeous spot deserves a visit while working in Southern California.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 31740 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 HOURS: Sun- Thurs 11AM- 7PM Fri- Sat 11AM- 9PM malibuwines.com
The Malibu Cafe
The Malibu Cafe hosts tons of weddings throughout the year, and it will immediately become apparent why. These picturesque grounds wind about, offering a number of different nooks and crannies for exploration from the beautiful deck area to the foot bridge over the stream to the large outdoor games available on the green. This family owned spot has been around for generations, and it will offer a perfect getaway for a group. Enjoy the local wine and beer and grab a snack as well before your life-size chess game begins.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area 327 Latigo Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265 HOURS: Mon CLOSED Tues- Sat 11:30AM- 10PM Sun 10AM- 10PM themalibucafe.com
Duke's Malibu
Duke's Malibu is the type of spot where even if that rum cocktail has a little too much sugar, it just doesn't matter. This spot is all about the view. The view at Duke's Malibu, with its floor to ceiling windows right on the Pacific Ocean offers you a chance to soak up a sunset with a beer, wine, or a cocktail in hand at their casual, friendly bar setting. They also proudly feature local wines and even show you where in Malibu wine country your glass comes from, but the Duke's Mai Tai is a personal favorite of mine. Even if a tad ridiculous in its Island Cocktail appearance, it just always hits the spot.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 HOURS: Mon 3PM- 9PM Tues- Fri 11:30AM- 9PM Sat- Sun 10AM- 9PM dukesmalibu.com
The Old Place Malibu
The Old Place Malibu is the kind of nook you're almost surprised has a website, but thank goodness it does because reservations at this little treasure are a must. Plan ahead and find a night during your rehearsal process to head up with some company members. Located in an old country store/ post office and featuring a limited and ever changing menu, I highly recommend the specials on any given night as this place specializes in what is local and very much in season. Expect bold flavors (they LOVE cooking over an open flame here) and an abundance of meat specials. This tiny little restaurant with a warm, local clientele will win your heart.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 29983 Mulholland Hwy, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 HOURS: Thurs- Fri 4PM- 10PM Thurs and Fri Sat- Sun 9AM- 10PM oldplacecornell.com
Cornell Winery and Tasting Room
Cornell Winery and Tasting Room, located directly next door to The Old Place, must be part of any trip to The Old Place. They will tell you they promote all wines between "Monterey and L.A.", and this tasting room is a love letter to California wines from lesser known regions of the state. Expect a friendly, easy-going, slow paced tasting that will take you all around the state with intimate knowledge of the vineyards and winemakers involved in the making of each bottle. The love and care that is so apparent in this gorgeous space will make it the perfect pre-game for your dinner experience next door.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 29975 Mulholland Hwy, Agoura, CA 91301 HOURS: Thurs- Sun 12PM- 6PM cornellwinery.com