In “5 Things,” I’ll ask some of my favorite bloggers in cities all over the country to share insider travel tips on where to eat, shop, stay, and play in their neighborhoods (plus, what to pack to make the adventure complete). This week, Kate Miss of For Me, For You takes us on a tour of her LA.
5 Things: Los Angeles (East edition)
Kate Miss of For Me, For You
My name is Kate Miss and I’m a graphic designer and jewelry designer. I live with my husband and our dog and cat in a little neighborhood in Los Angeles called Hermon—a tiny pocket surrounded by Highland Park, South Pasadena, and Montecito Heights. We’ve lived in Los Angeles almost four years now and so far, this side of town is my favorite. What I love most about it is how close we are to nature—hikes, the beach, and short drives is all it takes to get us away from it all.
EAT:
Grand Central Market, 317 South Broadway, (213) 624-2378
Located in ever-changing downtown LA, this 97-year-old “food court” reminds this Seattle native a lot of Pike Place Market. Though it’s been around for ages, it’s currently experiencing a renaissance with hip new vendors stationed alongside old staples. While you could easily pop in and focus on one vendor, it’s fun to break your meal into different samplings if you have the time. My favorites: anything with a biscuit at Eggslut (prepare yourself for quite a line); Thai street food at Sticky Rice; a bagel with pastrami, egg, and cheese at Wexler’s; and an iced shaken—not stirred—macadamia nut latte at G&B.
SHOP:
Individual Medley, 3176 Glendale Boulevard, (323) 665-5344
I’ve been visiting and selling my jewelry at this wonderful store in Atwater Village since they first opened, and I never get tired of popping in to see what pretty things they have. They have a really great aesthetic that blends camping vibes with everything a cool Angelino (who wears a hat and a jumpsuit effortlessly) would buy. They also have a good price point and the friendliest owners in town. It’s a great place to pick up a souvenir!
STAY:
The Line, 3515 Wilshire Boulevard, (213) 381-7411
LA doesn’t have the most affordable hotels ever, but newcomer hotel The Line often has really great deals because they’re still new in town and have lots of rooms to fill. It’s situated centrally in Koreatown—right off of a subway line (yes, we have a subway, and yes, I use it often!). The hotel is beautiful and modern with great views and everything you need on-site. (And, it’s surrounded by amazing food.)
PLAY:
El Matador State Beach, 32100 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu
Hands down my favorite beach, El Matador can be a bit of a drive depending on where you’re staying—but it’s worth it. It isn’t a typical expanse of open sand in front of a giant parking lot–instead, think caves and rocks and an intimate setting. I highly recommend going on a weekday as it can get crowded on weekends—or, just try to get there early. There’s a tiny parking lot with a small fee or you can park on the street. I also recommend driving down a ways to Neptune’s Net for fish and chips before or after.
PACK:
Sunglasses, $380
Hat, $54
1. Sunglasses are a must! A hat (also available at Individual Medley!) isn’t a bad idea either. It’s not called the Sunshine State for nothing.
2. Download the Uber and Curb apps to have on-hand for taking cabs, which is helpful if you’re going to be drinking or just don’t want to deal with driving. If you are driving, download Waze—an app that helps you find the best way through the good ol’ nasty LA traffic (which is not an exaggerated cliché).
Thank you so much, Kate! I remember so well when Kate moved from New York to Los Angeles, and have so appreciated seeing the city (our once-upon-a-time home) through her eyes—and lens—since. Thank you to Shoko Wanger for her help with this series.
P.S. More Five Things. A West Los Angeles travelogue. And some favorite LA shops.
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