[…] the only architecture I find worthy in this sprawling city. With only a hop and skip and a jump to charming Larchmont Village, it ;ooks like we’re here to stay…at least for what will certainly feel like only a […]
The Best of Larchmont Village, A Neighborhood Gem in LA
Whenever anyone asks me what neighborhood I love the most in LA, it is without question the neighborhood where I live and work—Hancock Park / Larchmont Village. As long as I call myself an Angeleno, I hope I never have to leave this side of town. Bordering Hollywood, Hancock Park, and Korea Town, historic Larchmont Village is within walking distance of my house, and until quarantine, my office, The Storied Group, and is one of the most charming neighorhoods in LA.
While it had grown tremendously in the last few years—gaining larger high-end brands like Diptique and Blue Mercury—due to COVID, some shops and restaurants have closed (Le Pain Quotidian, etc.), but there are still great independent boutiques and a Farmers’ Market every Sunday morning from 10am-2pm (COVID has meant long lines to get in due to limited capacity). Though Larchmont Village is considered the south end of the street, it’s been expanding further towards Melrose with the opening of Cafe Gratitude a few years ago. If you’re looking to treat yourself, it’s worth nothing that this is the best massage I’ve had in Los Angeles, though they are currently closed due to COVID.
For any out-of-towners, put this on your list for a local experience, and scroll down to see my favorite spots to eat, drink + shop:
But First, Coffee:
Coffee + Food – this is only a few blocks from my office on the north end of Larchmont, and I often stop for a morning coffee or quick takeaway lunch. They also have the BEST banana bread evah. *Limited outdoor dining
Go Get Em Tiger – If you’re into fancy lattes with homemade almond milk, this is the place! It is a true coffee “bar” where you order at the counter like you would a cocktail. It will set you back about as much too, but well worth it. *Takeout only
Groundwork Coffee Co – If you don’t want to wait in line at Go Get Em Tiger, they have amazzzzing coffee too! *Limited outdoor dining
Cakes & Ice-Cream:
Salt & Straw – A Portland transplant known for their unique flavor combinations like Rice Shrimp Sushi with Lime and Stumptown Coffee & Compartes Love Nuts.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – The newest addition to Larchmont, Jeni was one of the first of the artisanal ice cream shops using whole ingredients and no synthetic flavors.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery LA – This bakery can accomodate most food allergies including gluten, wheat and dairy. I have stopped by many times to accommodate vegan friends. It’s also insanely adorable.
Wine + Cheese:
Larchmont Wine + Cheese – While you go here for the obvious, the secret is hidden in the back. They make sandwiches until the homemade bread runs out. Go early as there is always a line.
Shop:
Buck Mason – This just opened in the old Larchmont Bungalow space and they have a great curated selection of high-quality men’s classics.
Larchmont Beauty – Hands down the best beauty supply store in Los Angeles. From high-end skincare like Natura Bisse to every hair product imaginable, it’s a beauty lover’s paradise.
Pickett Fences – This adorable boutique just expanded and carries adorable gifts and cards as well as a great selection of clothing perfect for the California girl.
Blue Mercury – If you can’t find it at Larchmont Beauty, you are sure to find it here. A broad selection of high end makeup, skincare and hair products.
Eat:
Le Petit Greek – I have been coming to this restaurant since I first moved to LA. Authentic Greek cuisine with a great sidewalk patio. We are regulars here. Sadly as of recently, due to soaring rents on Larchmont, they had to close half of their restaurant and go back to the way it was when they opened 15 years ago (hence the Petit). Go support this neighborhood gem! *Outdoor dining
Vernetti – A beautiful little Italian spot where you can sit on the sidewalk with a glass of vino, or stay for lunch or dinner. *Outdoor dining
Village Pizzeria – The closest you’re going to get to New York style pizza in Los Angeles. *Open for takeout during quarantine.
Sam’s Bagels – The closest you’re going to get to a New York bagel. See a trend here? *Takeout only
Kreation – If you’re in the mood for a $14 smoothie or water infused with CBD, this is the place! And who isn’t right?!
Cafe Gratitude – Located on the Melrose end of Larchmont, this popular vegan restaurant is one of the trendiest spots in town, but the food is also great (if you’re in the mood for something healthy). *Takeout only
Good Goose Cafe – Affordable, high-quality Thai restaurant with fresh ingredients. *Takeout only
Meet you on Larchmont!
Photos of me by Ashley Burns
PS. The ultimate guide to Silver Lake
Best neighborhoods Los Angeles diptique Guide to Hollywood Hancock Park Larchmont Beauty Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles Larchmont Bungalow Larchmont Farmers' Market Larchmont Village Le Petit Greek Most expensive neighborhoods Los Angeles Picket Fences Vernetti What to do in Hollywood
It all sounds lovely and amazing! I’d just change “beware, it’s vegan,” to “wonderfully, it’s vegan!”
Hahahaha!
Thank heaven! While I enjoy vegan baked goods, LA is flooded with them and you’re looked at with disdain if you want the real original thing! So nice to know where to find full fat, full wheat baked goods!
Hahaha! I’m so with you!!
You say “beware this place is vegan, I believe cake is made out of flour and water”….flour and water are both vegan. I believe you mean to say gluten free, which is not the same as vegan. Erin McKenna’s is an allergen free bakery.