It's official. Los Angeles is the one place we have lived where we feel like we could settle (and we've moved thirteen times in the last seven years so that's really saying something). The weather can't be beat, the people are friendly, and healthy options abound. I wanted to share a few things I've really loved, in case you're ever in the area.
Short Order
Restaurants
To be honest, with the diet I'm on to heal my stomach in the aftermath of longterm antibiotic use for Lyme Disease, it's hard for me to go out to eat. I generally can be pretty safe with a plain salad (but what fun is that, let's be honest). I do enjoy the atmosphere, though, and love to hit up cafes for a good tea or something when we can. I've eaten at the following places and really enjoyed them.
Short Order - local, organic foods, decent prices, dog-friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Salads, burgers, sandwiches.
Lemonade - Ok I couldn't eat here because of the oils used, but Greg liked a lot it so I wanted to pass it on. It's basically like a health food buffet. Quinoa salads, veggie medleys, a variety of meats. Super casual environment.
Urth Cafe - This is sort of scene-y and great for people watching but not the place to go if you're looking for peace and quiet. Dog friendly outdoor seating area, really good healthy food, prices are questionably high, organic and local foods used.
Shred Juice - Great little (really small!) juice bar with a great vibe (graffiti on the walls, hip hop music playing, tips jar saying "For my Buggati"). Small outdoor area where you can sit with the pup.
Four Cafe - Local and organic foods. Dog friendly small outdoor area. Fantastic service. You order at the front and then find a seat and they'll bring it to you. Free wifi, nice place to get some work done.
Alfred's Coffee - Also sort of scene-y. Dog friendly small outdoor area. Small inside, but great for people watching. Not the place to go for peace and quiet. They do have wi-fi, but I wouldn't recommend going to get work done just because it's kind of small and pretty popular so there's always a lot of people around.
Mendocino Farms - Cool little spot for grabbing lunch. Simple salads and sandwiches. Small outdoor area that's dog friendly.
Boxing in LA
City of Angels Boxing
If you're up for trying something new, I recommend hitting up City of Angels Boxing. My friend Janell invited us to the class and it was awesome. Alex, the owner, is super motivating and delivers super sweaty boxing classes with a backdrop of throwback hip hop tunes. So good.
First ride using Uber
Use Uber!
Getting around
The downside to LA is that you need to drive to most places, and we share one car, so the other day when Greg was golfing, I wanted to get to my hip hop class. I decided to use Uber, this great app that connects you with a driver asap. When you're ready to go, put in your pick up location, tap a car that pops up and wait. You can watch your car on the map as it drives to your location, and when when it gets there, your phone will let you know. You pay through the app and that's that! Easy. You can also decide what kind of car you want depending on fancy you're feelin' - a regular uber car, a large uber car, a black car or an SUV. You can use my Uber code yj9ym and get $30 off your first Uber ride. Redeem it here. (Full disclosure, I get a free ride when you use it through my code, and once you use it, you can invite your friends and get free rides as well.)
People watching at the park
Wearing: nike sneakers (on sale!)
Dogs in LA
I find LA to be pretty dog friendly. I've brought this guy hiking, to stores at The Grove, quite a few restaurants (sitting on the patio), and even the post offices. I've seen people bring their (lap) dogs to the movies and even in Whole Foods (which is kind of gross and to be honest, not sure it's legal), so it's pretty easy to have your pup with you. We like to hit up the local parks and people watch.
Ampersand
Thrifting
Growing up, my mom owned a consignment store so I really love the thrill of hunting through a good second hand shop. Overall in LA, I find the prices to be a bit high for second hand stores, but it's a major city, so I guess that's expected. My favorite below:
Ampersand - This place is small, but has a great selection. The owner seems picky (in a good way!) about what she takes. Everything from Splendid dresses to Celine handbags. Super easy to consign here, if you'd like. No need for an appointment, just bring your stuff in and they'll mail you a check.
Los Angeles
And there you have it! If you're from LA or have been here, I'd love to hear your tips!