Curated City Guides by Your Favorite Designers and Tastemakers.
Los Angeles:
Satsuki Shibuya
Bars & Restaurants
Ichimi Ann
If you're looking for some of the best soba hot or cold in Los Angeles, this is the place to go! Although they have two locations, I think their original shop in Old Torrance is better. It reminds me of a local japanese mom & pop shop — they have a good menu selection & the prices are pretty darn good too. 1618 Cravens Ave
Pizzicotto
I have to admit that I've never been one to ever think that gnocchi was good, but this place proved me wrong. Not only was the gnocchi oh so good, everything else including the opening bread ceremony (also known as the side of bread) was delicious as well! 11758 San Vicente Blvd
Cru
Are you one of those people that think vegan/raw food must taste like rabbit food because there is no meat? If you have ever been curious to adventure to the other side, Cru is the place to take the leap. The flavors and ingredients are so delectable, you'll forget that you're even adventuring into a new territory. If you're a vegan/raw foodie, then heck, you must go! 1521 Griffith Park Ave
Amandine Cafe
This little bakery is always packed with people, but it's definitely worth the wait. Their entrees are pretty good, but the breads/pastries is what will make you come back. I especially love their banana chocolate danish. 12225 Wilshire Blvd
Chado Tea Room
Ever since visiting London, I've fallen in love with the idea of an afternoon tea and no better place to experience it than at Chado Tea Room. Make sure to reserve for their sampler course so that you can try all their different kind of teas! 8422 W 3rd St
Mammoth Bakery
A simple piece of toast with some butter and a cup of tea to start the morning is made perfect with a slice from Mammoth bakery. They also have a taste tantalizing selection of dessert breads to choose from, you'll need to go back a few times to try them all! 1620 W. Redondo Beach Blvd
Gelato Bar
There are some great gelato shops in Los Angeles and many I haven't tried yet, but so far I think my favorite is Gelato Bar in Los Feliz. A small shop with character, each scoop is handmade and rich with flavor. Yum. 1936 Hillhurst Ave
Royal T
A cafe, art gallery space & shop rolled into one, this space is inspired by the maid cafes found in Akihabara, Tokyo. Love the pop-up exhibits/shops that they feature from time to time. 8910 Washington Blvd
Shops
Urbanic Paper Boutique
If you're obsessed about paper as much as I am, then you'll feel like a little kid in a candy store at Urbanic. Beautiful papers, cards, stationeries, little gifts adorn this lovely shop, you'll never want to leave. I know I don't every time I visit. 1644 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Reform School
When I'm looking for an one of a kind/limited edition/handmade item as a gift for an outstanding friend, this is the first place I think of visiting, but when I leave, I usually end up leaving with something for myself instead. 3902 Sunset Blvd
Supplies
Hiromi Paper
Washi and hard to find japanese papers can be found here at this specialty shop. Nestled in Bergamot Station Arts Center, this paper shop houses everything one needs to know about Japanese paper making and art papers. 2525 Michigan Ave
Hennessy + Ingalls Bookstore
Most if not all books that are connected to the creative field (art, fashion, architecture, design, photography, etc.) can be found at this store. Even if you may visit to find a particular book, most likely you'll end up getting lost in there as one book leads to the next. 214 Wilshire Blvd
ETC.
Catalina Bar & Grill
I love live music, but nothing gets me going as much as jazz, especially bossa nova. Take a friend of lover to enjoy a night of good food, drinks and high spirits. 6725 West Sunset Blvd
Hollywood Bowl
A definite must during the summertime, i love coming here to listen to some world music under the stars while enjoy a little picnic and cuddling. So magical. 2301 North Highland Ave