Things To Do
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
This is where we got engaged! Japanese garden, home to lovers, influencers, and some kickass bonsai
Vroman's Bookstore
Our favorite bar in Pasadena is actually a bookstore! Vromans is a gorgeous spot and one of the oldest independent bookstores in California. This year they opened a wine bar right next to the graphic novels!
Shojin
This is where we went on our first date (that Molly didn't realize was a date!) They offer some of the best vegan sushi in Los Angeles
World Empanadas LLC
The reason why we go to Burbank. (Also for our friends who live there, but mostly empanadas). We recommend the Creamy Corn (Molly) and Mushroom and Cashew Cheese (Spencer). Don't forget to douse it in chimichurri!
Griffith Observatory
One of our favorite hikes in LA, and one we did not do enough when we lived right at the base! The trail up to the observatory is steep but short, and the views are so worth it. If you hike up through the neighborhood you'll catch a glimpse of the Ennis House--the true star of Blade Runner. And venture deeper into the park to explore the abandoned enclosures of the old LA Zoo.
Geeky Teas & Games
This is for all you nerds out there! Take a cafe, add boardgames, cats, and exquisite scenic design, and you've got one of our favorite spots in LA. Geeky Teas is a woman-run board game cafe with it's own brand of teas, rooms themed after your favorite shows (From Game of Thrones to Twin Peaks) and a cat rescue on-site.
Grand Central Market
If you're looking for a fun time downtown check out LA's oldest open-air market. All the food is fantastic (we especially recommend Ramen Hood!) and it's right across from Angel's Flight, a working funicular streetcar that at 298 feet is the world's shortest railroad.
Din Tai Fung
Since Spencer usually works on Christmas, Spencer and Molly's yuletide tradition has become scarfing down as many soup dumplings as possible at Din Tai Fung--one for each day of Christmas. Don't skimp on the cucumber salad and dan dan noodles! There's one in the mall right across from the venue, one in Glendale, and one in Century City.
Tiki-Ti
An early date spot for us - when Spencer lived by USC and Molly lived in Burbank, we often met in Los Feliz. We liked it so much we moved there together! Tiki-ti is an old-school tiki bar that can only fit about 25 people, so it always has at least 50. Order the Ooga Booga or Blood and Sand for a surprise! Be warned: audience participation is required.
Gracias Madre West Hollywood
Okay, okay, we like to eat! LA has too many good vegan options it's spoiling us. Our favorite memory at Gracias Madre was coming here for brunch immediately after a Malibu hike. Definitely a little more sweaty than the usual WeHo crowd, but we were happy! Everything's good but the potato flautas are especially amazing.
Crossroads Kitchen
Fancy date night favorite. Would give up our first born child for their stuffed squash blossoms.
Cinespia
Every summer we love going to movie nights at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Our tradition has become going to see the Big Lebowski every summer.
Funky Sole
For nearly 5 years we've been going to Funky Sole, our favorite 70s funk and soul dance party. First at the Echo, now it lives on every Saturday at El Cid!
El Matador
If you're going to go to the beach, go to this one! Beautiful rock formations and cool caves to explore.
Joshua Tree National Park
If you're looking for an adventure while you're in town, check out our favorite local camping spot in Joshua Tree National Park. Breathtaking landscape, alien trees, artsy shops and great coffee
626 Night Market
A weekend night market in the summer featuring every kind of street food imaginable from mostly East and South Asian vendors. Lots of inventive new food trends, old-school classics, local artists, and great music. We love coming for the dumplings and onigiri! Bonus - literally across the street from the venue!
Porto's Bakery and Cafe
Two words: potato balls. Everything at Porto's is amazing, from the picture-perfect cakes and pastries to the delicious savory Cuban specialties. We used to go here for breakfast weekends when Molly lived in Burbank. This is definitely more of an omnivore spot, but everything's good. Would also reccomend the cinnamon bun croissants and the mango smoothies. If Burbank's too far, there's also an outpost in Glendale!
Pine and Crane Silverlake
One of our favorite spots for Taiwanese food and a frequent date spot when we lived in Los Feliz. Be sure to check out the cucumber salad, mapo tofu, and incredible dan dan noodles. They also have a sister restaurant, Joy, in Highland Park!