City Spotlight: Los Angeles

by Erynn

photo by imkejia

I grew up in the suburbs of Los Angeles (Norwalk, Torrance, and Cerritos to be exact). While I love living in New York now, the West Coast will always be a part of me. When I visit my family in California, these are a few of my go-to spots in LA.

M Street Kitchen

Formally known as La Grande Orange in Santa Monica, M Street is just a few blocks away from the beach and super Californian with a mix of organic, seasonal, and fresh foods. If I ever moved back to LA, Santa Monica is where I’d make my home. I love the beachy vibe and great shopping.

Urth Caffe

I can’t resist the latte art. Warning: a bit pricey and can be crowded. Various locations all over and near LA: Santa Monica, Melrose Avenue, Beverly Hills, Pasadena, and more.

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The Griffith Observatory

I like to get here early for easy parking. There are a few hiking trails nearby that are quick and easy work-outs to great views of the entire LA basin and the Hollywood sign. Afterwards, have a picnic outside and explore the planetarium. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Koreatown

It takes up multiple city blocks in the Mid-Wilshire district of the city. And here you will find some of the world’s best Korean food, night clubs, and karaoke bars. Click here to watch Anthony Bourdain’s review of K-Town.

In-N-Out

New Yorkers love to debate about who has the best hamburger. In my opinion California has everyone beat with In-N-Out. Everything on their menu is fresh, never frozen. The prices are cheap. And the secret menu is the best. (HuffPost reveals what it is here.)

But I haven’t lived in LA for over 10 years. So I’m probably not the best source of recommendations. Melissa Magsaysay’s new book CITY OF STYLE: Exploring Los Angeles Fashion, from Bohemian to Rock is an updated tribute to LA style and it features her inspirations, a little LA history, and her favorite places to shop.