While one’s immediate association with Los Angeles may be the glitz and glam of Hollywood, those who are in-the-know are privy to the city’s beautiful beaches, hiking trails, incredible restaurants, unique boutiques—and more than half a million women-owned businesses. As of 2018, there were more than 544,000 women-owned businesses in the Greater Los Angeles area (bringing in more than a third of LA County’s revenue), the second-highest number of women-owned businesses following New York. Whether you’re craving artisan ice cream or looking for a vintage shop to peruse, use this city guide as your reference point for where to eat, drink, and shop female-founded businesses in Los Angeles—it’s the ultimate way to exercise your purchasing power right now. (Please use the jump links below and throughout to navigate seamlessly.)
Where to Eat / Where to Drink / Where to Shop / What to Do
Where to Eat
Breakfast & Brunch
Amara Kitchen / Highland Park
Nestled in the Garvanza district of Highland Park, this adorable cafe is a neighborhood favorite. Founded by LA-native Paola Guasp, who is both owner and chef of the restaurant, Amara Kitchen’s vegetarian-focused menu sets out to “make food that makes you feel as good as it tastes.” If you visit, I recommend the purple eggs and one (or three) of their infamous chocolate chip cookies.
Bianca Bakery / Culver City
If you’re planning to check out the selection of curated storefronts in Platform’s boutique shopping experience, don’t forget to stop in for a cup of tea to sip while you shop, or enjoy a delicious fresh baked good in the sunny courtyard between stops. Founded in 2019 by Gianni and Nicola Vietina of Madeo Ristorante in Beverly Hills, Bianca Bakery also offer an Italian-inspired brunch menu, if you’re in need of some more serious shopping fuel.
Botanica / Silver Lake
Founders Heather Sperling and Emily Fiffer are two friends who had spent a lot of time collaborating in the kitchen and writing about good food. Together, they created Botanica, a little slice of Silver Lake to make our lives more delicious. You’ll find only the freshest, most sustainable ingredients here; and each Mediterranean plate will be sure to impress.
Homestate Tacos / Little Armenia and Highland Park
Originally from Austin, Texas, Briana Valdez brought the love of Texas-style breakfast tacos to Los Angeles (and we are thankful for it every day). Her authentic breakfast tacos are considered a local staple, as evidenced by the long lines every weekend. Recently extending their hours until 10 p.m., you can now enjoy breakfast tacos any time of day—with a beer or frozen margarita in hand.
Honey Hi / Echo Park
Looking to start your day with a fresh, nutrient-dense, and gluten-free meal? If you’re on the east side, give Honey Hi, started by two college best friends, Caitlin Sullivan and Kacie Carter, a try. You won’t regret it.
Republique / La Brea
Los Angeles suddenly feels distant as you step inside the romantic, airy space of Republique. Inspired by the family garden of owners and chefs Margarita and Walter Manzke, you will feel transported to another country. Marvel at their impressive collection of impeccably-baked goods in the morning, or plan a weeknight meal to celebrate a special occasion
The Sycamore Kitchen / La Brea
Whether you’re in the mood for a savory or sweet breakfast, The Sycamore Kitchen is a must-visit before checking out La Brea’s many shops and offerings. Founders Karen and Quinn Hatfield met working in Wolfgang Pucks’ highly-acclaimed Spago restaurant in Los Angeles. Together, they created a Fairfax staple—you can’t make a wrong decision with their menu!
Tacos Villa Corona / Atwater Village
Don’t be fooled by their dated website, this hole-in-the-wall taco spot (founded by the late Maria Flores, her son David, and daughter Felicia in 1993) is a cult favorite in east LA—it was even featured by Anthony Bourdain. I recommend the papas burrito with spinach.
Tavern / Brentwood
Tavern’s brunch offers a smattering of seasonal ingredient-packed plates, including dishes like butter-crumbed eggs with parmesan, polenta and arugula, or Scottish oatmeal with dried fruit compote. The James Beard award-winning chef, Suzanne Goin, and James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Restaurateur, Caroline Styne, opened the restaurant together in 2009.
Valerie / Echo Park
Founded in 2004 by chocolatier Valerie Gordon and partner Stan Weightman Jr., this quaint tea house and cafe feels tucked away but is only a short walk from the main strip in Echo Park. The kale salad with black sesame and pickled daikon tastes like it came straight from the garden. If you’re more in the mood for eggs, their soft scramble is perfect paired with their impressive list of teas.
Zoe Food Party / Highland Park
Zoe Food Party is a pop-up you don’t want to miss. Imagine a rainbow of fresh produce exploding from an egg-packed pita pocket. You can find founder, chef, and self-proclaimed “pita party queen” Zoe Komarin every Wednesday at Collage Coffee in Highland Park, but make sure to get there before she runs out!
Lunch
Border Grill / Downtown
The Mexico City-inspired murals that line these walls match the bright, fresh flavors of Border Grill. Founders and chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger opened their doors in 1985, creating a program called “Good for the Planet, Good for You” with the opportunity to choose meals made with at least 80 percent plant-based ingredients. This is a great spot to take a group of friends with different dietary preferences—they have something for everyone, but I recommend starting with the plantain empanadas!
Forage / Silver Lake
This tiny cafeteria in the heart of Silver Lake may be small, but it offers a rotating menu that keeps you coming back to try more and more. Based on ingredients that the chef sources locally, the menu features a few daily staples, including a mac n’ cheese that’s definitely worth trying.
Kitchen Mouse / Highland Park
This local neighborhood favorite happens to also offer up an entirely vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu. Erica Daking started Kitchen Mouse in 2012 as a small catering business out of her home, which has now become a healthy staple in the heart of Highland Park. It’s the perfect option for those with dietary restrictions. The kitchen is entirely gluten and dairy-free, but you’d never know it in regard to taste.
Milo + Olive / Santa Monica
This market bakery and pizzeria, started by married duo Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb (the team behind Rustic Canyon), uses local ingredients from farms with sustainable practices. Indulge in their fresh pasta or pizza with a large glass of wine.
Nong La / La Brea
Siblings Elaine and Victor Phuong opened their doors in 2012, with the goal to honor their mother’s cooking and family recipes. If you’re craving traditional Vietnamese cuisine like pho, bun, or báhn mì, Nong La is the perfect option. Their dishes are clean, light, and thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients.
Wax Paper / Chinatown and Frogtown
Noteworthy sandwiches are strangely hard to come by in a city with such an impressive variety of options. Wax Paper is the exception. Started by Lauren and Peter Lemos in 2015, each sandwich is quirkily named after your favorite NPR host, and they’re all delicious. Check their Instagram to make sure they haven’t run out of bread before you visit—and prepare to dream of sandwiches next time you hear Ira Glass delivering the news.
Dinner
A.O.C. Wine Bar / West Hollywood
This wine bar and restaurant created by award-winning Los Angeles female power team, Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, is sure to please. If you can, find a spot in front of the fireplace for the coziest way to wind down at the end of a long day.
Bestia / Downtown
Born from the vision of wife-and-husband duo Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis in 2012, Bestia features an impressive variety of classic Italian dishes handcrafted from scratch using the finest ingredients. Their pasta, wood-fired pizza, and even their meticulously made-in-house charcuterie are well worth the hype.
The Butcher’s Daughter / Venice
Take any devoted meat-eater to this plant-based destination in full confidence they’ll thank you after cleaning their plate. Founder Heather Tierney started The Butcher’s Daughter through her love of healthy food and impeccable design. With plenty of hearty dishes that feature the freshest ingredients, enjoy the bustling, energetic atmosphere then head back out to walk down Abbot Kinney (to make room for more spaghetti squash carbonara, of course).
Cassia / Santa Monica
A unique marriage between Southeast Asia and California, Cassia presents a fresh, flavorful take on ancestral seafood and noodle dishes, sourcing the best quality ingredients from local farmers. A member of the Rustic Canyon Family, Cassia is a partnership between wife-and-husband teams Kim and Bryant Ng, and Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb.
Chi Spacca / Fairfax
I’ll let the description speak for itself: Chi Spacca is “an Italian steakhouse on steroids.” Nancy Silverton is a name that needs no introduction in the LA food scene, and this spot is a meat eater’s paradise.
Jar / Beverly Grove
Jar, started by Suzanne Tracht in 2001 with the help of her longtime chef Preech Narkthong, is a Michelin Star American chophouse adored by LA’s most beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning restaurant critic, the late great Jonathan Gold. Need I say more?
Joan’s on Third / Beverly Grove and Studio City
A 3rd street staple since 1995, Joan’s on Third put this area on the map. Founder and chef Joan McNamara is the curator of all things you see when you walk in. The menu is impressive, teeming with seasonal, local favorites.
Kismet / Los Feliz
Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson swapped coasts, coming to Los Angeles from New York to open Kismet back in 2016, the perfect intersection of traditional Mediterranean cuisine and fresh, modern Californian flavors. The plates are meant to be shared, so I recommend trying a handful of items when you visit.
M. Georgina / Downtown
Melissa Perello, a highly-acclaimed chef from San Francisco (and owner of both Frances and Octavia in the Bay Area) opened M. Georgina in downtown Los Angeles in late 2019. Their menu boasts items like spaghetti aglio e olio with lacinato kale, confit garlic, and marash chile, as well as a grilled squid ink pita.
N/Naka / Westdale
Chef Niki Nakayama opened N/Naka with the intention to work with only the freshest seasonal ingredients—and to create a meal that is not only delicious, but engaging as well. For a fancy night out, treat yourself to their seasonally-chosen 13-course menu that includes a vegetarian option. It’s sure to be a one-of-a-kind meal.
Parsnip / Glassell Park
This seasonally-inspired Romanian cafe somehow accomplishes the impossible: it brings clean, healthy ingredients to comfort food. Opened by Anca Caliman, Parsnip’s paprikash is enough on its own, but I also recommend springing for her polenta-filled dumplings.
Pine and Crane + Joy / Silver Lake and Highland Park
An instant-favorite when it opened in 2014, Pine and Crane serves a menu of Taiwanese-Chinese dishes that beg you to return for more. With the success of their first restaurant, founders Vivian Ku and Moonlynn Tsai opened a second location, Joy, in Highland Park in 2019. Everything on the menu is packed with flavor, plus they have a beer/wine list that will pair well with anything you order.
Pizzeria Mozza / Fairfax
Nancy Silverton is an LA icon, and so is the pizza you’ll find at Mozza. You can stick with classic combinations like Margherita or Bianca, but you can also try new, interesting concoctions like Meyer lemon, tomato, fried capers, Fresno chiles, and fried parsley.
Osteria Mozza / Fairfax
Another Nancy Silverton favorite, Osteria Mozza is a pasta lover’s dream. Per usual with any of her spots, you can’t go wrong.
Ostrich Farm / Echo Park
An Echo Park favorite, Ostrich Farm presents simple, classic American heritage fare cooked over a wood-fired grill. Married couple Jaime Turrey and Brooke Fruchtman opened the 50-seat staple in late 2014. Their produce is locally sourced, some ingredients coming even from their own rooftop garden.
Perch / Downtown
Chef Coly Den Haan and her business partner Rachel Thomas opened up this rooftop spot in 2011 and we’ve been enjoying the sprawling downtown views ever since. After walking into the historic downtown LA building, you take an elevator 15 stories up to visit the restaurant. If you climb one more story to the roof, you’ll find stunning views with a cocktail while you wait for your table below.
Specialty
Colossus Bread + Pastry / San Pedro
Founded by Kristin Colazas Rodriguez, a Long Beach-native with experience as a pastry chef and bread baker in both Los Angeles and San Francisco, this family-owned bakery smells as good as it tastes.
Cool Haus / Culver City
What do you do when you don’t feel represented in the dessert industry? You open your own business. That’s exactly what Natasha Case and Freya Estreller did when they founded Cool Haus in 2009. This female-lead team has created perfectly unique ice cream sandwiches, which you can now find just about anywhere in LA. But if you’re in Culver City and in the mood for a savory-meets-sweet treat, make sure to stop by their flagship.
Magpie’s Softserve / Los Feliz and Highland Park
Rose and Warren Schwartz came up with the idea for Magpie’s after a nostalgic trip to Dairy Queen. They opened the doors to their “chef-y dairy queen,” featuring made-from-scratch soft serve back in 2016. Their flavors are not only unique—with combos like “corn almond” and “yuzu honey”—but they even have options for the lactose-sensitive. Their second location opens in Highland Park in late October 2020.
Moon Juice / West Hollywood and Venice
Amanda Chantal Bacon was inspired to open Moon Juice after resolving an autoimmune condition through diet and lifestyle changes. She took the knowledge she gained from her research and brought it to fruition in 2011, opening her one-stop-shop for healthy elixirs that help you inside and out. Cool down with a nutrient-rich juice and add a splash of beauty dust to give your skin a pick me up.
Sweet Rose Creamery / Venice and Brentwood
This neighborhood ice cream shop, opened by Zoe Nathan, Colby Goff, Shiho Yoshikawa, and Josh Leb in 2010, uses local and organic ingredients from regenerative farms. Stop in and try a scoop of their unique flavors like “sweet potato sesame brittle”!
Salt & Straw / Venice, Beverly Hills, Downtown, and Studio City
Originally founded in Portland, Oregon by Kim Malek in 2011, Salt & Straw has established a serious presence in LA. They source their cream from the fifth-generation, family-owned Scott Brothers Dairy where cows are grass-fed and never given hormones or antibiotics.
Where to Eat / Where to Drink / Where to Shop / What to Do
Where to Drink
Coffee & Tea
Canyon Coffee / Online Only
You might spot Ally Walsh and Casey Wojtalewicz, the couple behind Canyon Coffee, around town, but you’ll also find their coffee in just about every storefront in the city. Started from their Santa Monica apartment, their love of coffee and making the perfect cup grew to be such an important ritual in their lives that they decided to create Canyon Coffee in 2016. Their delicious roasted beans and minimal branding have truly taken over LA. You can order your beans online or pick up a cup from your local coffee shop.
Café De Leche / Highland Park and Altadena
Anya and Matthew Schodorf founded Café de Leche in 2008. Their inspiration—and the name—came from Anya’s mother, a Nicaraguan native. Café De Leche serves up their very own small-batch coffee in the shop, but you can also take a bag home as well. A Highland Park favorite since 2008, they just expanded into a new space with a beautiful outdoor patio in Altadena.
Café Santo / Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Downtown
You can find this mobile espresso bar, started by couple Marlon Gonzalez and Pilar Castañeda, at the Silver Lake and Echo Park farmers markets, as well as at the California Market Center in Downtown LA. I recommend their Oaxacan Mocha, a delicious nod to their Mexican heritage.
Kindness & Mischief / Highland Park
A coffee shop that doesn’t charge extra for milk alternatives? Yes, please. If you’re planning on visiting the main stretch of Figeuroa, make sure to stop in for a cup and a smile from the friendly staff at Kindness & Mischief, founded by Monique “Mo” Maravilla, who has been in the Highland Park neighborhood since she was three years old.
Proof Bakery / Atwater Village
Chef and owner Na Young Ma opened Proof in 2010 with a tempting pastry case that extends nearly the full length of the cafe. I recommend caving into the temptation. Everything is to die for and will pair well with their delicious coffee and tea options.
Rubies + Diamonds / Hollywood
Founded by a mother/daughter duo Jean Shim and Elia Min in 2016, Rubies + Diamonds is a coffee shop (not a jewelry store) in Hollywood. Using some of the latest brewing technology like nitrogen infusions, where a transparent gas is added to a keg of a particular beverage (like matcha) to yield a foamy, rich hot drink, this is a coffee house with creativity and innovation at its core.
Woodcat / Echo Park
Walking into Woodcat is like walking into a friend’s house—everyone who works there is kind and inviting. Opened in 2014 by couple Janine and Saadat Awan, whose friendly faces you’ll see if you stop by, Woodcat is truly a neighborhood gem (and the coffee is great too).
Cocktails & Wine
Bar Calo / Echo Park
Just down the street from Ostrich Farm, a restaurant in the same family from Jaime Turrey and Brooke Fruchtman, Bar Calo sits in a small Echo Park strip mall. The emphasis here is mezcal; you can sip it neat or mixed in seasonal cocktails. The entire menu is México-inspired, and I highly recommend ordering a side of their roasted garlic guacamole with plantain chips to munch on with your drink of choice.
Bar Flores / Echo Park
Tucked away above the shops on the main strip of Sunset in Echo Park, you’ll find Bar Flores. One flight of stairs from the street, the room opens up to a bright, colorful bar full of natural light (and a sizable back patio surrounded by cacti and flowers). Owner Karla Flores-Mercado’s goal when opening Bar Flores (with an all-female bartender team) was to create a space where everyone feels welcome. She has definitely achieved that goal!
Bar Franca / Downtown
If you’re on the hunt for a quality cocktail, look no further than Bar Franca, founded by Rachel Thomas, who has a background in opening popular bars in LA (she helped with both Perch and The Must). The walls are filled with beautiful wallpaper and line-style illustrations that match the fun names on the drink menu.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar / Venice
If you’re looking for a wine shop where you can work with your laptop, then transition to a happy hour spot with friends, Esters is the place to be. This spot is a member of the Rustic Canyon Family, a partnership between Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb, and the group’s Wine Director Kathryn Coker and her husband Tug. They thought about how you’ll need good food to soak up the wine too, so you won’t even have to leave in between.
Genever / Rampart Village
At Genever, you’ll find a gin-focused menu that includes hand-made syrups and shrubs in a variety of inventive signature cocktails. Founders Roselma Salama, Christine Sumiller, and Patricia Perez, who have known each other since their days together at UCLA, started this gin-centric spot in 2018. Their current menu includes drink names inspired by women nominated for awards in the film industry this year.
Vinovore / Silver Lake
Coly Den Haan (a name you’ve seen multiple times on this list) started Vinovore with Dean Harada in 2017. It’s the only wine shop in LA that focuses its entire inventory on women winemakers. Their selection is incredible, plus, each wine is organized by a colored sticker to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Where to Eat / Where to Drink / What to Do
Where to Shop
Boutiques
Big Bud Press / Echo Park
This colorful and ethically made clothing company was started by co-founders Lacey Micallef and Philip Seastrom in 2015. You’ll find an array of colorful pieces that are both size-inclusive and unisex—I dare you to try walking into one of their storefronts without smiling!
Blockshop Textiles / Atwater Village
You’ve probably seen their beautiful designs out in the wild, especially if you’re in LA. Sisters Hopie and Lily Stockman celebrate the tradition of Indian hand block printing by supporting local makers in Bagru, India. Their designs are Bauhaus-inspired and have gained worldwide popularity since they started in 2013. Visit their secret Atwater location to see for yourself!
Christy Dawn / Venice
If you’re looking for a dress that tailor-made for the California climate, Christy Dawn should be your first stop. The namesake brand was started by Christy Dawn Baskauskas in 2013. All their pieces are sustainably and ethically made using deadstock vintage fabric, meaning you’ll find plenty of timeless, rare, and classic items.
Des Kohan / La Brea
At Des Kohan, you’ll discover a mix of owner Desiree Kohan’s two loves: high fashion and nature. Fittingly, she gives a portion of her proceeds to The Jane Goodall Institute, so you can feel good when you indulge here.
Dôen / Brentwood
When you walk into this Brentwood shop, you’ll be greeted by bright white walls, woven baskets, and flowing, feminine dresses. Here, you’ll find the epitome of the California color palette: muted floral patterns and neutral tones, courtesy of California sisters Margaret and Katherine Kleveland, who founded Dôen in early 2016.
Esquelito / Echo Park and Los Feliz
Lauren Wolf, the woman behind Esquelito, is known for her unique engagement rings using ethically-mined diamonds. Along with her own jewelry creations, you’ll find an impressive selection of handcrafted jewelry, art, and home decor.
FLOCK /Downtown LA
Pamela Hunter of Shelter.Co and Ceren Lee of Oddbird started FLOCK in an effort to share their sustainability-forward ideas with the world. Here, you’ll find cozy items for the home, like handmade weighted blankets and traditional Turkish textiles.
Folia Collective / Eagle Rock
This is the place to go for plant lovers. Folia is like walking into a houseplant jungle, but don’t be afraid if you don’t have a green thumb! Danae Horst started Folia out of her love for plants and, seeing what they can do in the lives of others, she recently published her first book Houseplants for All. The staff is incredibly helpful and will tell you everything you need to know about what will work best in your home.
Freda Salvador / Culver City
Frēda Salvador was founded by best friends Cristina Palomo Nelson and Megan Papay in 2012. Designed by the duo in California and handcrafted in Spain, their beautiful styles will level up your everyday shoe game.
Galerie LA / Downtown
Galerie LA is a destination for checking out an impressive curation of emerging sustainable brands. Founded by Dechel Mckillian in 2016, her team is committed to sourcing the best sustainable and ethical pieces while keeping fashion front and center.
General Store / Venice
The first General Store opened in 2009 as a collaboration between wife-and-husband duo Serena Mitnik-Miller and Mason St. Peter. They brought the store to LA in 2012 with friends Hannah Henderson and John Moore. You’ll find an array of ceramics and other small wares made by local artists, thoughtfully sourced vintage apparel, and California-inspired home goods.
Individual Medley / Atwater Village
Married team Monica Navarro and Justin Boyes opened the doors to this neighborhood favorite in 2012. Individual Medley is a great spot to pop in and grab a gift for a loved one, but you’ll likely leave with something for yourself as well.
Janessa Leoné / Culver City
In Los Angeles, you’re going to need some protection from the sun. Enter Janessa Leoné who founded her namesake brand in 2013, and whose designs will convince you to take home one of her timeless hats (she even has packable options if you’re here for a visit!).
Jenni Kayne / West Hollywood
Jenni Kayne, who founded her brand when she was 19 years old, has been seamlessly bringing together fashion and comfort since 2003. Both her apparel and home selection feature cozy, neutral items that are both timeless and high quality.
Just One Eye / Hollywood
Walking into Just One Eye will feel like walking into a high fashion art exhibit, which was the goal of French founder Paola Russo, who has been stocking luxury fashion brands, jewelry, art, and home decor since 2012.
Lake / Silver Lake
Just a hop and skip away from the Silver Lake Reservoir, you’ll find clothing, apothecary items, and home goods at this boutique founded by Melissa Lovoy in 2001. She brings much of her inspiration from her design background at Parsons in New York, with many of the brands featured being local and small businesses—you’ll feel good when you purchase here.
LOQ / Glassell Park
Founders Keren Longkumer and Valerie Quant met in 2011 while they were both studying footwear design here in LA. Together, they founded LOQ in 2015. At their new spot in Glassell Park, every item in the shop has been beautifully curated, with shoes and bags that look like works of art.
Merci Milo / Highland Park
If you walk into Merci Milo, you will immediately feel like a kid again. Caroline Rodrigues founded the shop in 2015, with inspiration from her daughter Milo, to feature a unique set of handmade toys that are meant to last. I highly suggest giving them a visit if you have any children in your life (or honestly, even if you don’t).
Midland Shop / Silver Lake and Culver City
Have you attended any of LA’s famous craft fairs? That’s a lot like giving Midland a visit. Founded by best friends Paige Appel and Kelly Harris, who founded and sold the company Bash Please in 2016, they shifted their focus to a shop dedicated to supporting local artisans.
Mixed Business / Silver Lake
Rhianna Tycholis of Mixed Business has serious talent when it comes to curating the perfect blend of vintage and new in her Silver Lake shop. After designing clothing in New York before moving to LA, she decided to dedicate her career to creating fashion with a small footprint, designing a sustainable in-house line, OR, which she created with Oanh of This Repair Shop using deadstock fabric found here in Los Angeles.
Mohawk General Store / Silver Lake
Are you a fan of luxury fashion? Look no further. Mohawk General Store, a Silver Lake favorite founded by wife-and-husband team Bo and Kevin Carney in 2008, has one of the best selections in East LA.
Nickey Kehoe / La Brea
You’ll want to carve out a few hours of your day if you plan to visit Nickey Kehoe, a Beverly Blvd staple started by Amy Kehoe and Todd Nickey in 2004. You’ll likely be inspired to decorate your entire home with the worldly selection of items both new and old.
Nonna / Highland Park
You’ll be drawn to unexpected, classic pieces at Nonna in Highland Park. You may find yourself trying something on and not wanting to take it off.
Paige / Brentwood, Malibu, Santa Monica, The Grove
Paige Adams-Geller, founder of Paige, is one of few female founders in the denim industry. As evidenced by the brand’s growth since opening in 2004, the denim is beautifully made. Stop in for a pair you’ll want to wear every day.
Parachute / Silver Lake and Venice
If you’re looking for high-quality bedding made with natural fibers, head to one of Parachute’s SoCal shops in Silver Lake or Venice. Founded by Ariel Kaye as an online-only, direct-to-consumer brand in 2014, Parachute has expanded to several storefronts, the first being in Venice.
Poketo / Downtown
Stop by Poketo for a bit of inspiration and imagination. The shop, a carefully curated design favorite founded by wife-and-husband team Angie Myung and Ted Vadakan in 2003, is full of functional, design-conscious items that will make get your creative juices flowing.
Prelude & Dawn / Highland Park
The scent alone will pull you off of the street and into Prelude & Dawn, opened by Alison Ables in 2016 after a stint in Joshua Tree working on music composition. You might visit to check out their vintage clothing selection, but you won’t leave without incense or a candle.
Prism Boutique / Long Beach and Culver City
Prism Boutique is the ultimate cheerleader for women-owned brands. Dayna Mance opened the first store in Long Beach in 2013, recently opening a second location in Culver City. They have a little bit of everything, so carve out a good chunk of time to spend looking around.
Rudy Jude / Venice
Founder Julia O’Rourke creates clothing for kids and adults alike that are meant to be worn and loved. When clothing is durable enough for a hike, yet fashionable enough to wear out on the town, you know you’ll keep it forever.
Shaina Mote / Highland Park
This newly-opened shop in Highland Park is full of timeless staples. With a background in fast-fashion, LA-based designer Shaina Mote launched her namesake company in 2012 after making the shift toward sustainability. It’s worth a visit just to see and feel the thoughtful fabric and design choices she makes.
The Plus Bus / Highland Park
Created in 2015 by Jen Wilder and Marcy Guevara-Prete as a way to clean out their full closets, the Plus Bus features an impressive selection of plus size clothing, both new and secondhand. Stop by and see what they have in store, or make an appointment for an in-store styling session.
Violet Grey / Melrose
Visit Violet Grey and know you’re going to take home a product that has been tested over and over again. Originally launched as a beauty site in 2013 by founder Cassandra Grey, Violet Grey is a brand to trust when it comes to all things beauty and skincare.
Weepah Way / Highland Park
Constance Baker brought her love for affordable vintage to her shop Weepah Way, a favorite in Highland Park, in 2014. You’ll find a mix of beautifully curated vintage clothing and imported textiles for the home. Stop by and find a one-of-a-kind piece to add to your collection.
Whimsy and Row / Venice
Sustainably and ethically made, all of the clothing you’ll find at Whimsy and Row is made from locally-sourced deadstock fabric here in Los Angeles. Founder Rachel Temko has been passionate about sustainability since her days in fashion school, bringing this eco-friendly shop to fruition in 2014. She is known for her wide-leg pant, but you’ll likely find a handful of pieces you’ll want to take home with you.
Sustainability Shops
No Tox Life / Atwater Village
No Tox Life was founded by talented mother-daughter duo Sandee Ferman and Callie Milford in 2013, after experimenting with non-toxic skincare for decades in an effort to create all-natural, toxin-free, and vegan body care that is also zero-waste. They’ve expanded their line to include more home products, with their dishwashing block being a consistent favorite.
Otherwild / Los Feliz
Otherwild is one part boutique, one part zero-waste general store from graphic designer Rachel Berks. On the boutique end, you’ll find pieces from artists and designers that are ethically and sustainably made. The general store includes zero-waste accessories and a station with refillable teas, home, and body products.
Recontained / Venice
Recontained is a refill station dedicated to providing personal care and home cleaning products that are safe, cruelty-free, and mostly vegan. Founded by Tonia Soteros and Britt Kagan, this Abbott Kinney gem donates a portion of their proceeds to clean up plastic pollution.
Sustain LA / Highland Park
You can find just about any refillable item you may need at Sustain LA. Started by Leslie Van Keuren Campbell as a one-stop refill spot that you could find at LA-based farmer’s markets, she opened a storefront in Highland Park in 2019. They have a wide variety of bath, cleaning, and laundry supplies; as well as bulk ingredients for DIY projects. They also provide a zero-waste rental program for events, so keep them in mind for your next gathering.
Tare Grocery / Highland Park
This package-free grocery store is helping its customers avoid single-use plastic with more than 400 refillable bulk goods including nuts, herbs, spice, flours, superfoods, oils, dried fruit, snacks, chocolate, tea, coffee, and even honey. The shop’s co-founder, Lauren Macrino, started Tare with her husband to reinvent the grocery experience with organic, non-GMO, and clean products that minimize waste. You can shop online or visit the shop on York Blvd.
Wild Terra / Highland Park
Danielle Noe is a community herbalist and founder behind Wild Terra, a shop on the walkable Figueuroa street of Highland Park, with an impressive selection of loose leaf teas, herbs, spices, and other bulk ingredients for all of your zero-waste DIY dreams. The staff is friendly and helpful; and they often include educational events in the evenings.
Where to Eat / Where to Drink / Where to Shop
What to Do
Mind, Body, & Wellness
Blackbird House / Culver City
This shared workspace has a mission to garner a community focused on diversity for women of color and allies. Founded by Bridgid Coulter, Blackbird House has private offices, shared workspaces, a classroom, a podcast studio, a meditation room, a fitness room, and an event space all available for use. While they wait out COVID, you can join them virtually to access a variety of live-streamed classes and conversations.
Blue J Skincare / Glendale
Treat yourself to a relaxing facial by Jessica Wright at Blue J Skincare, a prestigious CIDESCO-licensed esthetician who only uses non-toxic, natural products. You’ll leave feeling like a new person with beautiful skin and a huge release of daily stress from her calming practices and natural products.
Bunny’s / Highland Park
Give your brows and lashes a little love with a visit to Bunny’s, founded by Natalie Grace Sweet and Megan McDaniel in 2019. They are dedicated to using high-quality products that are never tested on animals.
Erika Bloom Pilates / Brentwood
Visit Erika Bloom for a well-rounded approach to holistic health. She offers pilates, yoga, acupuncture, bodywork, and holistic health counseling. Her sessions are tailored to help individuals improve based on their personal goals.
Everybody Gym / Glassel Park
Everybody has created a safe, inclusive gym environment that is open to, well, everybody. Funders Sam Rypinski and Lake Sharp met in a business class and started talking about their passion for intersectional feminist business practices. In 2017, Everybody Gym opened its doors with a locker room and sauna that are gender-inclusive.
Iris + West / La Brea
Amanda Robinson of Iris + West stands behind the “makeup-less makeup” look and her lash services help her clients achieve just that. If you’re looking to save yourself time in the morning, spend an hour with Amanda.
Kinship Yoga / Highland Park
No matter how advanced you are—or not—you will find a yoga and aerial class at Kinship for you. Started by Sally Jean Rankin and situated on Figueroa in Highland Park, this spot is worth a visit (especially with their $49 special for one month of unlimited classes).
Loom / Mid-Wilshire
Started by Erica Chidi Cohen and Quinn Lundberg, LOOM is dedicated to educating and empowering individuals on everything from periods and sex to LGBTQAI+ resources and parenting. Though they opened the Loom headquarters in Mid-Wilshire, they will soon be re-launching their company over on their website.
Olive and June / Beverly Hills, Pasadena, Santa Monica
Sarah Gibson Tuttle started Olive and June in Beverly Hills, inspired by her obsession for the perfect manicure in a salon atmosphere that feels bright, airy, and cozy at the same time.
Surya Spa / Brentwood
Founded in 1999 by internationally acclaimed Ayurvedic doctor, herbalist, and chef, Martha Soffer, Surya Spa will nourish and detoxify. Martha offers one-on-one consultations and treatments that are catered to your own personal journey.
The Class / Brentwood and Venice
Taryn Toomey started her fitness method and practice after finishing yoga teacher training and studying with a shamanic healer in 2013. The workouts here focus on repetitive calisthenics and plyometrics that strengthen both the body and the mind. You’ll leave feeling stronger after every class.
The Now Massage / Santa Monica
Amy Krofchick’s goal was to make the world of luxury massage more accessible, so she launched The Now in 2015. Recharge with a fully customizable massage, or a quick 25 minutes massages if you need some relaxation on a busy day.
The Raven Spa / Los Feliz
Step into The Raven Spa and immediately feel as if you’ve been transported to another country. Christina Stratton brought this beautiful city retreat into LA in 2004, where you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage or sign up for a heart-expanding yoga class.
The Thing We Do / Downtown
Skincare aficionado and world-renowned medical aesthetic provider, Vanessa Lee, started The Things We Do in 2018. Expect help and guidance for your skincare journey, whatever end goal you have in mind.
Yogala / Echo Park
After a decade of practicing yoga, Samantha Garrison opened Yogala Studios on the east side of LA in 2011, a neighborhood favorite that offers a wide variety of yoga classes. Expect to leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Arts & Culture
The Broad / Downtown
If you’re planning a visit to downtown LA, carve out some time for The Broad, founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad in 2015. General admission is free and its collection of contemporary art is impressive.
Galvak / Downtown
Galvak is a contemporary art gallery with a focus on women and LGBTQ artists. The gallery, opened by Sarah Galvak in 2005, represents around 20 artists at a time, so I recommend visiting to see the ever-changing roster more than once.
Hauser Wirth & Schimmel / Arts District
Zurich-based Hauser & Wirth was founded in 1992 by Iwan Wirth, Manuela Wirth, and Ursula Hauser. In March 2016, they opened their doors in the Arts District of LA, where you’ll find more than just an art gallery. Manuella, a restaurant focused on seasonal fare (they even have a chicken coop!) will have you enjoying the architecture and open-air air courtyard just as much as the art.
The Loft at Liz’s / South La Brea
Founder Liz Gordon has been showcasing art in her loft gallery since 2004. Often featuring work by both emerging and established artists in works of all mediums, it’s not uncommon to find live performances, music, and culinary art alongside the pieces shown in the gallery.
Night Gallery / Downtown
A visit to this unpretentious gallery is open to all. Founded in 2010 by artist Davida Nemeroff, the focus here is to take a relaxing walk and enjoy learning about the emerging artists featured.
OCHI Projects / Mid City
Pauli Ochi splits her time between OCHI Projects in LA and family-owned OCHI Gallery in Idaho. At OCHI Projects, you’ll find a blend of emerging and mid-career artists, many of whom are located in Los Angeles. There’s a new show every five to seven weeks, so mark your calendars!
Tappan Collective / Fashion District
Chelsea Neman Nassib launched her collective in 2012 as a way to connect emerging artists with art collectors around the world. A great way to discover emerging artists from the comfort of your home, Tappan has created an easy way to navigate through their online gallery and add to your own personal art collection.
Still Life Ceramics / Downtown
If you love shopping for unique ceramics or you want to expand your knowledge and make your own, Still Life Ceramics is worth a visit. Ana Henton and Mel Keedle brought the Still Life Ceramics studio into Downtown Los Angeles in the spring of 2018, even offering a rosé and clay class where you’re rewarded at the end of the class with a glass of wine. Cheers to that!
