EAT
Cliff’s Edge in Silver Lake is great for its breezy outdoor patio, where you can enjoy moreish fare that really highlights fresh and local produce. Grand Central Market, a downtown landmark since 1917, is where you can sample the likes of Filipino comfort food and hearty fish stews. For something more novel, head to the Santa Monica Food Truck Lot to try everything from mouthwatering tacos to lavish lobster rolls.
DRINK
Experience something new with Good Times at Davey Wayne’s, a ’70s-style speakeasy bar that has you entering through a fridge door. Try their Dark Passion, made with a base of black-tea-infused cognac and mixed with fresh, fruity flavours. For something a little more laid-back, Tiki-Ti in Los Feliz is an ornate tiki-themed bar that serves amazing cocktails.
EXPLORE
Park at the north entrance of Runyon Canyon for an easy hike to the lookout over the city, plus get a picture up close with the iconic Hollywood sign. From scenic beauty and high-adventure activities to wildlife-spotting and fantastic places for relaxing, Santa Catalina Island has it all. If you feel like there’s just too much to see and can’t pick, try the hop-on, hop-off city sightseeing buses.
SHOP
The Rose Bowl Flea Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month with an amazing array of vintage and boutique clothing, jewellery, homeware and furniture. General admission begins at 9am for US$9 (S$12.20) per person. Bibliophiles will particularly enjoy The Last Bookstore – a former bank that’s now filled with old and new books, both on the shelves and even made into sculptures.
TIPS
A car will definitely be a part of your LA experience. Whether you’re renting one or calling an Uber, riding on the freeways is an essential part of any visit. You’ll have a decent chance of spotting celebrities at SunLife Organics in Malibu (I’ve seen four there so far). But do be respectful – the shopping centre is a paparazzi-free zone.
Singapore Airlines flies to Los Angeles daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
Illustration by Fosie Portillo
SEE ALSO: Neighbourhood spotlight: Los Feliz, Los Angeles
This article was originally published in the February 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine