Summer Friday Guide: Los Angeles

Grab a coffee: We’re going all over the city for this one: Little Lunch in Venice (get the Coco Cold Brew), Motoring Coffee in West LA, Highly Likely in West Adams, Community Goods in WeHo (you might spot one of the Biebers), Jurassic Magic in mid-city, Neighborhood in WeHo, and Canyon Coffee in Echo Park.

For lunch: I love to power lunch at Sycamore Kitchen, Destroyer, Strings of Life, Mizlala, Superba Food + Bread, or Bub & Grandma’s. If you’re a sandwich stan, try Ggiata, Uncle Paulie’s, Bodega Park, Carla Cafe, or Larchmont Wine & Cheese.

A hidden gem: Oriel in Chinatown. This is the hidden gem to end all hidden gems. It’s a French bistro and natural wine bar with decor that makes you feel like you’re on the inside of a jewelry box. Perfect for date night or to bring your parents when they’re in town.

Happy Hour pick: Bacari! They have this “open bar” special that is equal parts fun and dangerous. Get a deal on oysters and natural wine at Good Clean Fun.

Rainy day activity: See a movie at iPic or Alamo Drafthouse, go to the Hammer Museum, bowl at Highland Park Bowl or the Spare Room, browse the books at Book Soup, drink indoors at Voodoo Vin, get a massage at The NOW, or take a meditation class at Open in Venice.

Sunny day activity: Spend the day in Malibu! Start at the Getty Villa, grab breakfast burritos at Lily’s, and head to Lechuza Beach to eat and take a dip in the water. On the way home, head to the country mart for oysters at Broad Street Oyster Co or Greek food at Taverna Tony. 

Something cultural: There are so many architecturally famous homes to tour in Los Angeles: Eames House, Hollyhock House, Schindler House, and Frank Gehry House.