Restaurants we like:
(Where the photo above was taken) A romantic West Hollywood hide-away offering Mediterranean-inspired, farm-to-table cuisine in a charming courtyard. Kat and Kevin celebrated their 0.5-year "anniversary" here.
A stylish Santa Monica spot where most dishes come from the wood-fired oven. Kat's favorite is the duck. Kat and Kevin both love the chicken liver mousse (scroll down for a picture we took). Kudos to Kat's friend Pinzhuang for introducing this restaurant! Many anniversaries and birthdays were celebrated here.
Vibrant and approachable Italian-American comfort food by a top chef duo; great for a lively group. We love the spicy fusilli.
New York-style pizza done in LA, casual and crowd-friendly - perfect for a relaxed meal with friends
Persian granny food/country cooking in a natural wine bar.
Michelin Guide Rated casual Mexican seafood counter featuring local and sustainable seafood. A must-try!
Road to Seoul ($$): All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ staple - fun for groups and late nights.
Hae Jang Chon Korean BBQ ($$): Sizzling table-grilled meats with the signature stone grill
Hip farm-to-table restaurant in a former hardware store serving New American fare & cocktails.
Sonoratown ($): Legendary flour-tortilla tacos and chivis - tiny shop, huge flavor.
Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator ($$):
Brewery-restaurant with house beers and pub-friendly plates. Kevin is a loyal member here :)
Brunch standby: French toast, scrambles, and coffee done right.
Grand, sun-drenched bakery by day and elegant French-inspired dinner by night. Go early if you are going for brunch.
Beloved taco truck: al pastor and asada that hit the spot after hours.
(If you are traveling to LA, we recommend that you check Google Maps, Yelp, Resy/Open Table for reservations to avoid waiting or not getting a table)
Since you're in LA...
You might as well experience the most LA essentials: stop by the famously extra Erewhon for the fancy smoothies, and then balance it out with a stroll to Community Goods (GO SUPER EARLY) for great coffee, pastries, and very photogenic minimalism.
The Getty Center
A hilltop art museum with stunning modern architecture, peaceful gardens, and one of the best panoramic views of Los Angeles.
The Getty Villa
A Malibu Roman-villa-inspired museum overlooking the ocean, showcasing ancient Greek and Roman art in a gorgeous courtyard setting. Kevin and Kat had one of their earlier dates here.
LACMA
An iconic contemporary art museum, home to the famous Urban Light lamp posts and rotating world-class exhibitions.
Petersen Automotive Museum
A sleek, modern museum celebrating automotive history and design, from classic cars to futuristic supercars.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
A behind-the-scenes look at real working sets, soundstages, props, and iconic filming locations from hit shows and movies - perfect for film and TV lovers.
Topgolf El Segundo
A lively golf-plus-lounge experience with hitting bays, food, and drinks. Great for casual fun, even if you don't golf.
Griffith Observatory
An iconic hilltop landmark with exhibits, telescopes, and sweeping city views -- especially magical at sunset and at night. Take a short hike up - you will see the Hollywood sign and an amazing view.
Manhattan Beach
A relaxed, upscale beach town with a beautiful pier, soft sand, and great spots to walk, shop, or grab brunch by the water.
A bright, open-air mall with luxury boutiques, casual favorites, rooftop dining, and a gorgeous outdoor vibe.
A lively shopping and entertainment complex with great stores, restaurants, and the famous dancing fountain.
The go-to strip for vintage finds, trendy streetwear, and weekend people-watching.
A charming, walkable street lined with indie shops, cafes, and boutiques that feel distinctly local.