LA Guide: Los Feliz // 7.25.14

From one place to the next: I think it's appropriate to put out this little guide to Los Feliz as I move into my new home in San Francisco. I swear I brought some of the LA sun or SF is just trying warm me up before it dumps it's full force of fog on me. Either way, no complaints. I've already gone on a couple adventures to embrace the neighborhood. Walking is the best way to learn the pulse of a city and I can't wait to discover more of San Francisco's hidden treasures. I'll be sure to share any gems! But let's travel back down south. Los Feliz is quieter than Hollywood, but full of local charm. During my last stint of unemployment, I spent many hours exploring its nooks and crannies. One perk of ruling your own schedule!

Here's how my picture perfect day in Los Feliz would go...

First stop is breakfast at Square One Dining. There may be a wait, but the staff is the nicest and will even bring you a cup of coffee to take the edge off hunger or impatience. Everything on the menu sounds amazing, but I recommend the eggs benedict and fresh squeezed juice. Although, my one regret is not trying the bourbon-pecan french toast. Someone please let me live vicariously through you!

Avoid the inevitable food coma and head to N Vermont and Hillhurst Ave (cross street Franklin) for a lovely neighborhood walk. Check out vintage threads at Cherry Picked, Pop Killer, or Squaresville. Peruse books at the awesome indie bookstore, Skylight Books. If you're into magazines, they have an awesome selection imported from around the world. For quirky gifts, take a look around Co-op 28 or Spitfire Girl. Then, get your record fix at High Fidelity. Their store design is wonderfully minimalistic for a vinyl shop. This area has too many trendy, local businesses to list, so I'll let you do the rest of the discovering. That's half the fun anyway. Before you wear yourself out walking, take a break for lunch at The Alcove. Most of the tables are placed outside, which is perfect soaking in the LA weather. It's kind of magical, like you're eating in a mini forest. Just tune out the street. Order the fruit and cheese plate. It is heavenly. Definitely big enough for two, but also understandable if you don't want to share any of the delicious morsels. Don't forget to save room for a piece of one of their homemade cakes... if you can make a decision about which one to choose. It's a tough one. In case you want to go back for round 2 of the day, during the summer they even show movies with dinner.

After lunch, head up to Griffith Park. Try out Shakespeare in the Park or explore the Old LA Zoo remains. A little creepy, but the best adult playground. If you're not afraid to get a little dirty, you'll contort yourself through all sorts of passages and uncover interesting, picture-worthy graffiti. Then drive a little further up to catch the sunset at Griffith Observatory. Learn a little astronomy and take in the breathtaking view of Downtown LA. Smog willing that is.

Come back out of nature and grab a deliciously spicy pizza at Lucifers Pizza or try one of the many Thai restaurants. My favorites are Ruen Par and Thai Patio and the taro sticky rice at Bhan Kanom is addicting. It's so sweet, but oh so good. For an upscale dinner, romance the night with a French affair at Figaro or book dinner and a show at The Rockwell. The Baz Luhrmann production blew me away. No matter where you are in the venue, you experience a little piece of the action as the actors interact throughout the space.

(Photo found here)

Depending on your style and time of year, you can spend your night in a variety of ways. Movie lover? Drive over to the beautiful Vista Theater. It plays one movie, usually the newest release, but the vintage detailing transports you back to another time. Music lover? Check the Greek Theater schedule or find some indie tunes at one of the local bars. Harvard & Stone has their entertainment nailed down, even if their line management leaves a lot to be desired. Find yourself at The Dresden and you'll watch Marty and Elayne, from the movie Swingers, sing and entertain. Or, my personal Los Feliz favorite, end your night with a classy glass of wine and dessert at Covell. They'll help you find the right vintage for your tastebuds. I tried 3 or 4 personally selected tastings before I found "the one". With moody lighting and unique decor, it's the perfect setting for a laid back evening of tipsy conversation.

(Photo found here)

And no tour of Los Feliz is complete without a slice of pie from House of Pies! Don't let the dingy diner appearance fool you. Their pecan pie is to die for. Oh and it's open 24/7 to indulge your cravings at any hour they may strike.

<3 Taylor