Los Angeles In Pictures

I just spent some amazing time in Los Angeles and wanted to share some pictures. There’s alot of people who don’t like LA, but I honestly think it gets a bad wrap. There is so much to love about this city other than the fantastic weather. It’s a wonderfully artistic city with some amazing scenery. Plus, there’s healthy, organic food options all around! I spent more time in Venice, Santa Monica, and Culver City than I ever had before, and pretty much fell in love with Venice. It’s so much more than a sketchy, touristy boardwalk area. Venice has amazing restaurants, shopping, and gorgeous canals; definitely take a stroll down Abbott Kinney for some window shopping and people watching. I’ll play tour guide for a sec and list some of the places I visited.

1. Book Soup – 8818 West Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood

A book lover’s dream on the sunset strip. This place is a bit of an LA institution with all kinds of readings and signings constantly happening. Visit and support independent bookstores!

2. Real Food Daily – 414 N. La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood

Organic, vegan cuisine which tastes amazing? What more could you ask for??

3. Urth Cafe – 2327 Main Street, Santa Monica

My love. I am addicted to Urth Cafe. Organic coffee drinks, chai smoothies, and healthy meals all in one. I’m a devoted fan of the hummus plate, tomato and rice soup, and english tea lattes. If you feel like being sinful, the pumpkin pie and blueberry cheesecake are simply to die for. The Santa Monica location is my favorite because there’s alot of seating, it’s not too overwhelmingly crowded (but it’s crowded!) and it’s a block from the beach. There are also locations in Beverly Hills, Downtown, and West Hollywood.

4. The Getty Villa – 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

A simply wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon. Amazing views, gorgeous grounds, ancient art, and honestly their cafe was pretty darn good. I highly recommend the mediterranean plate and fresh baked bread with spiced apple butter. Best part of all? Admission is free, except for the parking.

5. The Venice Canals –  Start around the intersection of South Venice Blvd and Dell Ave.

If you feel like taking a relaxing walk around some gorgeous homes, come to the canals. With sidewalks lining both sides of the canals and picturesque bridges, it’s a wonderful place for some girl talk and strolling. Perhaps with chai tea in hand.

6. Shutters on the Beach – 1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica

I’ve actually never been inside here, but the building is gorgeous. A hotel/spa/restaurant which backs right up to the Santa Monica boardwalk and beach. I’ve heard great things about their brunch, and the view from the rooms is amazing. Pricey, but amazing.

7. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – Everywhere, Los Angeles

I am in love with The Coffee Bean. It’s so much better than Starbucks because their coffee isn’t quite as strong. Plus, they have super yummy steel cut oatmeal in the mornings which you can get with berries and granola for only around 200 calories. They also have amazing tea lattes, which is a new favorite of mine. Plus, they sell frozen yogurt. Eat your heart out, Starbucks.

I also highly recommend the sale racks at the Beverly Center Macy’s for stocking up on some affordable Southern California style. At least, that’s what I did!

So sad to be gone, can’t wait to go back soon!