I’ve always loved Los Angeles and the relaxed, warm weather lifestyle it offers along with the charm of old California, the classic cars at every turn, and the golden hour sunsets which never disappoint. As a creative, it’s a place that continuously inspires. There’s always a show to go to, a gallery to visit, someone new to meet, and coffee shops to discover, as well as hidden inspiration in the old Hollywood architecture and the way that everyone here seems to be chasing something more.
I tend to spend most of my time in Los Angeles on the East Side, in neighbourhoods like Highland Park, Atwater Village, Silverlake and Echo Park, which are reminiscent to what Ponsonby Road offers. Here are some of my favourite places to discover on the East Side.
Stay
I love staying at Noon on Sunset—it’s what I’d describe as ‘an Airbnb-cross-boutique accommodation’, and located on Sunset Boulevard right between Echo Park and Silverlake. Each room is light and bright with a shared communal kitchen and lounge area. It’s the kind of place which you look forward to heading back to and feels a little bit like home.
Noon on Sunset | 1436 Sunset Blvd
Start The Morning With A Hike
There’s something really special about the early morning light in Los Angeles and the trails from the Los Feliz entrance up to the Griffith Park Observatory are a dreamy way to start the day.
Breakfast At Pollen
Australian owned Pollen in Echo Park is a neighbourhood favourite (and also the perfect place for meetings and getting some work done on the outdoor patio). Their French toast is a winner and they serve up great brew in a cosy, relaxed setting.
Pollen | 2100 Echo Park Avenue
Silverlake Farmers Market
Every Tuesday and Saturday on the corner of Sunset and Edgecliffe Drive, this neighbourhood market is where you can pick up fresh produce, vintage clothing, jewellery and cut flowers. It’s got all the essentials with a side of style and it’s a great place for a stroll with coffee or fresh OJ in hand.
The Now
With their boho-chic interiors and calming atmosphere, this right here is your one-stop shop for a healing therapeutic massage as well as where you can pick up carefully selected apothecary items, dainty jewels and crystals.
The Now | 3329 Sunset Blvd
Shopping
I love the laid back stores and thrift shopping on this side of town. Check out Stories Books & Cafe which is home to both new and used books as well as a bright outdoor patio where you can enjoy your new purchases with an iced coffee in hand.
Stories Books and Cafe | 1716 Sunset Blvd
If you’re in the market for records, Slick City Records is a barber and record store in one which also houses an impressive vintage t-shirt collection.
Slick City Records | 3323 Sunset Blvd
Echo Park has some of the best thrift stores in LA. Spend your day seeking out gems at Sunday’s Best Vintage, Worship, American Superior Used Clothing and Lemon Frogg.
Sunday’s Best Vintage | 1557 Sunset Blvd, Worship | 1104 Mohawk Street, American Superior Used Clothing | 1707 Sunset Blvd, Lemon Frogg | 1202 N Alvarado St, Nico and Bullitt | 2205 Sunset Blvd
Lunch at Sawyer
With a stunning indoor bar and restaurant as well as outdoor patio seating, tuck into dinner at Sawyer or brunch on weekends for farm to table style dining in a beautiful setting.
Sawyer | 3709 Sunset Blvd
For that afternoon coffee visit
Eightfold | 1294 Sunset Blvd, La Colombe | 3900 Sunset Blvd, Intelligentsia | 3922 Sunset Blvd, Dayglow | 3206 Sunset Blvd, Roo | 1523 Griffith Park Blvd
Lunch at Sawyer
I’m going to dub this one the cosiest wine bars in Los Angeles. It’s simple interiors, a menu of local Californian wines and well-versed bartenders make this a great spot for a casual date night.
Bandini | 2150 Sunset Blvd
Another nearby spot for drinks is Bar Calo which is the place for a cheeky cocktail and bites to eat. With a fully stocked bar where they specialise in mescal concoctions, get cosy on their lounge and enjoy the rosy hues of this beautifully designed space.
Lunch at Sawyer
This little spot is tucked away on Sunset with a Mediterranean inspired, organic vegan menu. A perfect little spot for date night or a cosy dinner, Elf is one of those magical little spots where good food and wine come together in utmost harmony.
Elf Cafe | 2135 Sunset Blvd
