PASSPORT: LOS ANGELES

written by

CYLIA BITTON

In the early 1920s, movie stars and studio moguls began building mansions in the former bean fields of Los Angeles, and it’s been synonymous with glamour ever since. It’s a company town, to be sure, but if you hit the right places you’d never know it.

People unfamiliar with the real LA tend to dismiss it as the land of Bentleys and Botox, but as Mark Twain put it, “all generalizations are false — including this one.” To really experience the city, you need to explore LA’s outer regions, each one heaving with collectible antiques, vibrant music scenes, ethnic cuisines, contemporary art, and true California style. LA might look like a monoculture, but it isn’t. From the gated boulevards of Beverly Hills to the resurgent streets of Echo Park, to the mayhem of West Hollywood, it holds something for everyone. It’s a magnet for optimists of every persuasion, hungry for all that life has to offer.

MELROSE AVE

The Window

6825 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of THE WINDOW.

Originally a Ford dealership, this charming shop is a must-visit for furniture collectors.

Denmark 50

7974 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046 — Photo courtesy of NEW MONARCHY.

This spacious showroom offers a wide selection of pieces by top Danish designers, and on-site restoration services.

Reform Gallery

6819 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of MARCO ANNUNZIATA.

Owner Gerard O’Brien specializes in impeccably restored mid-century West Coast classics and handcrafted furnishings.

Galerie Half

6911 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of GALERIE HALF.

Offering a mix of 20th century design, European antiques, and artifacts, it’s a favorite among afficianados.

Lon Hamaekers

6912 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of LON HAMAEKERS.

Hamaeker’s tightly edited stock of antiques and fine art objects changes often, and is always worth seeing.

Object

6910 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of DAN ARNOLD.

German ceramics, mid-century serving trays and objects by master metalsmith Carl Aubock.

Thanks for the Memories

8319 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES.

One of the most incredible 20th century furniture and design galleries in the country, offering pristine examples of mid-century American furniture and collectibles, from sofas to bar tools.

BEVERLY BLVD

Nickey Kehoe

7221 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 — Photo courtesy of TIMOTHY RAGAN.

This homey retail store stocks vintage finds, private-label products, and a selection of handpicked goods from around the globe.

Orange

8111 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 — Photo courtesy of ORANGE.

The meticulously curated Orange showcases a striking and diverse array of vintage light fixtures, gaming tables, and mirrors.

Birdie

8312 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 — Photo courtesy of BIRDIE.

An eclectic mix of art and objects, wall decor, seating, tables, and lighting.

GARDE

7418 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 — Photo courtesy of GARDE.

The latest addition to Beverly Blvd’s thriving design scene. Owner Scotti Sitz, who’s worked with fashion brands like Calvin Klein and Armani, opened Garde to showcase works that weren’t available in LA.

Emmerson Troop

8111 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 — Photo courtesy of EMMERSON TROOP.

Offering an impressive range of mid-century furniture, fixtures, and one-of-a-kind pieces for the discerning collector.

LA CIENEGA

Lee Stanton

769 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of LEE STANTON and JONATHAN BECKERMAN.

Owner Lee Stanton is L.A.’s top purveyor of stylish 17th, 18th and 19th century British and European antiques.

Off the Wall Antiques

737 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of OTW ANTIQUES.

A gallery filled with rare collectibles, fixtures, and furniture that looks like it just came off a movie set. Because it did.

Downtown 20

719 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of DOWNTOWN.

Opened in 1996 by Robert Willson and David Serrano, it’s known for its high energy and imaginative mix of designs and finishes.

Galerie XX

665 North La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of GALERIE XX.

One of the best selections of mid-century furniture and decorative arts in LA.

N. HIGHLAND AVE

JF Chen

941 N Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of JF CHEN.

This 34,000-square foot gallery and showroom houses numerous museum-quality collections. Chen’s furniture, lighting, accessories, and art are always ahead of trends.

Blackman Cruz

836 N Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 — Photo courtesy of LENDON FLANAGAN.

A haven for collectors and designers seeking offbeat curiosities; anything from a 1940s NYC subway sign to 18th century patio furniture.

LOS ANGELES

Hinoki & The Bird

10 Century Drive Los Angeles, CA 90067.

Photo courtesy of DYLAN + JENI

Hinoki & The Bird, the latest restaurant from Chef David Myers, has an Asian-inspired menu featuring small plates and creative cocktails. The space itself is accented with exposed wooden beams, gray slate and mid-century furniture.

RARE by Drai’s

8720 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069.

Photo courtesy of RARE BY DRAI’S

Movie producer and nightlife developer Victor Drai’s French-inspired steakhouse is perfectly situated on Sunset. Word has it they’ll soon be opening a speak-easy themed lounge in the basement.

Son of a Gun

8370 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048.

Photo courtesy of SON OF GUN

The rotating seafood menu at Son of a Gun is the polar opposite of Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s other restaurant, Animal. The small, nautical-themed space does a great job of conducting the raw energy of LA’s sizzling dining scene.

Petty Cash Taqueria

7360 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

Photo courtesy of PETTY CASH & RYAN TANAKA

The attentive employees at this authentic Mexican taqueria serve up expertly-prepared tacos and quesadillas, refreshing ceviches, and an impressive take on nachos. Give shuffleboard a shot after downing a few “Banana Hammocks.”

Picca

9575 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035.

Photo courtesy of CATHY DANH

Chef Ricardo Zarate’s Picca presents an exciting new take on Peruvian food. The atmostphere is constantly abuzz, and the churros are unforgettable.

Joan’s on Third

8350 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048.

Photo courtesy of JOAN’S ON THIRD

Joan’s On Third is an LA institution, plain and simple. This brightly-lit culinary emporium includes a staggering array of fresh salads and pastas, a gourmet bakery, and a cheese counter. Take a load off in the outdoor seating area and people-watch while you eat.

Sqirl

720 N Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029.

Photo courtesy of SQIRL

The line might be long, but Jessica Koslow’s Sqirl is worth the wait. Satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh- made organic jam on toasted brioche, or keep things light with a bowl of brown rice mixed with pesto, feta, San Marzano tomatoes, and a poached egg.

The Sycamore Kitchen

143 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

Photo courtesy of HOWARD WISE

Using almost exclusively homemade ingredients, this casual bakery and cafe caters to the breakfast and lunch crowd with pastries, sandwiches, and Stumptown coffee. Order at the register inside, then take a seat on the outdoor patio.

Dirty Laundry

1725 N Hudson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

Photo courtesy of FRANK ISHMAN

The Houston brothers take LA’s sexiest bar underground. A dimly lit debaucherie, you better know the password if you want to get down.

No Vacancy

1727 N Hudson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

Photo courtesy of FRANK ISHMAN

Passing the red ropes outside No Vacancy is actually your ticket back in time to the early 1900s. Located in a restored Victorian home and outfitted with dark wood paneling, sexy burlesque acts and pre-Prohibition era cocktails emit an old Hollywood vibe. Café seating spills out onto a patio-style courtyard lit by fireplaces and old postal lamps.

The Spare Room

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

Photo courtesy of JIMMY COHRSSEN

Bowling alleys are typically the opposite of chic, but The Spare Room, created by nightlife ambassadors Med Abrous and Marc Rose, is changing the game. This stylish venue on the mezzanine of the Hollywood Roosevelt feels like a neighborhood hangout. Custom-designed oxford bowling shoes, a gaming parlor and vintage-inspired lanes seal the deal.

Sayers Club

1645 Wilcox Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

Photo courtesy of SAYERS CLUB

Tucked away on Wilcox, the only evidence of an ultra-hip lounge are the scenesters and music guru’s lined up outside. Once cleared by the doorman, Sayers is a throwback speakeasy with exposed brick, lush drapes and an illuminated bar. Leather couches border the room and face the main stage where unannounced musical acts perform nightly.

General Quarters

153 S La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

Photo courtesy of JULIAN ROCA

General Quarters is an all-inclusive store offering carefully selected pieces that cater to the urban outdoorsman’s lifestyle. Brands include Shades of Grey, Gant Rugger and Filson. Once you are fully stocked, head to the back and get a haircut in their full-service barbershop.

Unis

138 S La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036 — Photo courtesy of UNIS.

For the perfect chino or plaid button-down, come to Unis. Designer Eunice Lee has a talent for crafting basic wardrobe essentials for everyday wear, focusing on fabric and fit.

Union

110 S La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036 — Photo courtesy of UNION.

Union offers a selection of premium goods, carrying brands that are hard to find in other LA stores. Their concept is simple; walk the line of fashion and function and offer clothing with subtle fashion sensibilities.>

Just One Eye

7000 Romaine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90038.

Photo courtesy of JUST ONE EYE

This boutique, showroom, gallery and shop is housed in Howard Hughes’s former Hollywood headquarters. Just One Eye is known for displaying world-class art, with works from Damien Hirst and Takashi Murakami. The store offers an array of luxury brands, like Rodarte and Proenza Schouler, and many of the lines carried here are exclusive to Just One Eye.

Wittmore

8236 W 3rd Street,Los Angeles, CA 90048.

Photo courtesy of DAVID ROSS and WITTMORE brand release

In Wittmore, Paul Witt has created a modern and approachable culture-current store for men. Offering clean, smartly-edited clothing and accessories from brands with a global perspective, the store aims to cater to the professional man who doesn’t wear a suit to work everyday, and who appreciates quality design with a unique twist.

Mohawk Man

4011 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029.

Photo courtesy of ANDREW LEE

From the masterminds who brought you Mohawk General Store comes Mohawk Man, an exclusive men’s boutique and art gallery two doors down from their original Silver Lake store. This new shop carries a globally-sourced selection of men’s apparel and accessories, showcasing brands such as Our Legacy, Engineered Garments, Aspei, and Gitman Brothers Vintage.

Maxfield LA

8825 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Photo courtesy of MAXFIELD

This iconic LA shop, with its concrete exterior, ultra-luxe clothing and rare vintage pieces, is a work of art in itself and cannot be missed.

Craig Evans Watch

731 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of MAN OF THE WORLD.

Specializing in magnificent period pieces, estate jewelry and watches, this is a special place for antique collectors and people who enjoy and watch afficianados alike.

Wanna Buy a Watch

8465 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90069 — Photo courtesy of WANNA BUY A WATCH

Thanks to its vast and diverse collection of beautifully-restored watches, WBAW? has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most popular vintage watch stores in America.

Scent Bar

7405 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 — Photo courtesy of LUCKY SCENT.

Scent Bar has the intimacy of a wine bar without the formality, making it the perfect space to sample and enjoy rare fragrances. Sit for a while and discover your soulmate scent.

Baxter Finley Barber Shop

515 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90048 — Photo courtesy of BAXTER FINLEY & PAUL and WILLIAMS.

When Baxter of California opened their impressively retro barbershop in Los Angeles, they created the perfect way to experience the lifestyle of the brand and its products. It’s like going on a grooming journey. Try an old-fashioned hot-towel shave as you lay back in one of their beautifully restored vintage chairs.

Weidman Galleries

8272 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046 — Photo courtesy of WEIDMAN GALLERIES.

The Weidman Gallery is LA’s premier source for quality custom framing, original vintage movie and advertising posters. In 1990, the gallery expanded its inventory to house one of LA’s largest collections.

OK Store

8303 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90048 — Photo courtesy of OK

The perfect gift-finding store, OK features an eclectic collection of beautifully-crafted home goods that includes glassware, tableware and barware, jewelry, ceramics, frames, noguchi paper lamps, and an impressive collection of books on art, architecture and fashion.

Kayne Griffin Corcoran Gallery

1201 S La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90019.

Photo courtesy of LEE MANNIN and ROBERT WEDEMEYER

The Kayne Griffin Corcoran gallery integrates major permanent elements conceived by acclaimed artist James Turrell, including a Skyspace (a breathtaking illumination of skylights) and the courtyard environment. The 1940s vine-covered property is comprised of an existing 10,000 ft2 space and a 5,000 ft2 exterior courtyard.

The Sunset Marquis

1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, CA 90069.

Photo courtesy of THE SUNSET MARQUIS

The Sunset Marquis has been a home away from home to many of Hollywood’s elite—mainly rock star legends — since 1963. Today, the hotel remains exquisitely private, with a recording studio that has produced Grammy Award-winning records. 2013 marked the hotel’s 50th anniversary and, to celebrate, they launched the highly-anticipated restaurant Cavatina. Maintaining an atmosphere of exclusivity is the key to the Sunset Marquis appeal — a quintessential discreet oasis, close to the city’s raucous scene.

The Beverly Hills Hotel

9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Photo courtesy of THE BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

Also known as “The Pink Palace”, The Berverly Hills Hotel is a world-renowned landmark building. Lavish rooms and secluded bungalows combine modern amenities with Hollywood-classic decor to make it a home away from home for celebrity guests, including politicians, actors, and members of the world’s royal families.

Four Seasons Hotel

300 S Doheny Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90048.

Photo courtesy of THE FOUR SEASONS

Located in the center of LA, this world-class, luxury hotel has calculated every detail to ensure guest are thoroughly spoiled. Take a limo service to Rodeo Drive, indulge and revive at the hotel’s spa, eat at the two critically-acclaimed restaurants, swim in the pool, or enjoy the bar scene that thrives until the early morning hours. The choice is entirely yours.

Private Beverly Hills

www.privatebeverlyhills.com – 310.2733311.

Photo courtesy of PRIVATE BEVERLY HILLS.

Private Beverly Hills is a discreet luxury real estate rental and acquisition service. Focusing on location, lifestyle and provenance, PBH sources and secures private and off-market estates in Southern California on behalf of their clientele. Comprehensive due diligence takes care of the property details, while a concierge ensures a warm welcome to everyone you need to know in Beverly Hills.