LOS ANGELES (noun): According to Urban Dictionary it is "the only place in the world where a person can be seen flipping someone off with one hand, talking on a cell phone, reading the newspaper and drinking a latte, all while doing 90 in the right lane of the freeway." Clearly the drivers of Los Angeles belong in a zoo or in jail with Lindsay Lohan. Yet, despite the the plethora of freeways that zig zag through the city filled with the countries worst drivers, there is something about LA that attracts millions of people each year. Maybe it is the idea of fame that romances the traveler, or maybe it is the one-of-a kind shops, restaurants, and attractions. Whatever it is, there seems to be something for everybody.
Here are a few places that are my must-see places every time I come home to visit.
1. Galae Thai on Barham Blvd. is the perfect place to take that special someone or a good friend to catch up. I recommend going for the happy hour from 3-7 where there are $5 appetizers and drink specials. The patio seating is by far the best seating and is great on a summer night. Although the restaurant is never crowded, it has by far the best Thai food in Los Angeles and their food looks and tastes like it came straight out of a magazine! They even oragami the paper on your straws to make them look like roses, so precious!
2. Aroma Cafe on Tujunga is an amazing place to go to for brunch or to grab a cup of tea and read a book outside. If you forget your book, there is even a cute little bookstore right next to it called Portrait of a Bookstore! If you're a tea loving freak like I am, they have a huge selection of organic loose-leaf teas or if you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth craving they have delicious imported chocolates and other sweets. If you're going there to eat, I highly recommend the grilled Atlantic salmon salad or the caprese press. It is often very crowded, but it is well worth the wait. The outdoor seating is the way to go if you want a peaceful relaxing place to enjoy your meal or coffee.
3. Timmy Nolan's Tavern on Riverside is the best place to go to grab a drink with a friend or bring your man. If you like beer they have a huge selection of imported beers from all over the world. Their bartender Steven, who is also one of the owners is absolutely amazing!!! He knows everything you want to know about the beer your drinking, from where it is brewed down to the nitty gritty process of how it was brewed. I highly recommend the Old Speckeled Hen Cream Ale from England or the Green Flash West Coast IPA from San Diego.
4. Runyon Canyon off of Mulholland Drive is a great place to walk off those drinks from last night or catch a view of the Los Angeles skyline. From time to time you'll often spot a familiar celeb face with their pooch. Previously spotted are Lauren Conrad, Jessica Biel, Adam Brody, Ryan Phillipe, & Channing Tatum. It is an extremely dog-friendly place, but obey the leash laws because the Rangers can be lurking waiting to give you a ticket for not having your furry friend on a leash in the designated areas. If you're an early riser they sometimes have sunrise yoga down towards the southern entrance. Its a great place to be seen & get those buns in shape ;)
Here are some picks by Emily Darling:
1. The Wood Spoon on 9th in downtown is another great date place. While you're here you should stop by Banksy's legendary graffitti on 9th and Broadway. They have delicious Brazilian food and chic decor! Guys, this is definitely a place to take that special lady!
2. The Bodhi Tree Bookstore on Melrose is unique bookstore for the book-lover. They have a wide variety of unique books that you probably won't find in your average bookstore.
The Must-Have of the Week comes from the LA based Jewelery company Wednesday
Inspiration owned by Natasha Carr-Ottaviano and Marley Engebretsen. It is a necklace with a real maple leaf dipped in 24k gold and is absolutely to die for!!! All jewelery can be purchased online and they even are offering free shipping, so get it while its hott!!Until Next Time Los Angeles,
Love,
Kara Anne
