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The Bootleg Theater

The Bootleg Theater is a year-round venue for live theater, music, and dance performances, and located just to the southwest of Hollywood Boulevard and Echo Park. The Bootleg takes pride in hosting avant-garde theater, emerging artists, and multidisciplinary live experiences that appeal to audiences looking for a non-traditional experience.

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Photo Credit: The Bootleg Theater Facebook

Based in a former 1930s era warehouse, the brickwall performance venue is split into two spaces. A large theater that hosts the majority of performances at the Bootleg. A second smaller stage and bar adjoins the main theater. The Bootleg’s bar, like the performances, tend toward eclectic tastes and niche brews.

A wide variety of music plays at the Bootleg. On July 29th, the bands Big Business and Andy the Doorbum play, bringing a radical and low-fi metal sound to the stage. Lera Lynn plays on September 22nd, pairing indie-rock jams with a beautiful singing voice. And on August 3rd, the loose collective of LA-based musicians Black Windmill plays, featuring the singer/guitarist Axel Ray Steuerwald ushering in the night with a mix of experimental noise, psychedelic guitars, and electronic noise.

Just like their music booking, the Bootleg Theater’s play lineup stretches across all genres. The current offering, Four Chords and a Gun runs through August 14th. Based on the class band The Ramones, Four Chords and a Gun plumbs the depth of musical obsession, friendship, and personal development. LA Weekly writes, “Four Chords and a Gun plays as a hilarious and Oedipally inflected clash of generations, cultures, and ideologies” Four Chords and a Gun is just one example of the eclectic offerings of the Bootleg Theater.

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Photo Credit: The Bootleg Theater Facebook

The Bootleg Theater is run by two separate organizations: The first is the non-profit theater company Rampart Theater Project, Inc. The theatrical programming is funded by grants, ticket sales, and donations both public and private. If you like the Bootleg’s theatrical performances, consider donating! The second organization is the for-profit Bootleg Theater that manages the bar, music programming, and venue.

Whether you’re craving a thrilling performance by professional L.A. actors, or looking to have your mind blown by a cutting-edge musical event, Bootleg Theater is the best in Echo Park.

Real Estate Unlimited has been serving Echo Park’s real estate needs for over thirty years. We’re happy to answer any questions about the Bootleg Theater and other venues in Echo Park.

All About Elysian Park

Los Angeles’ sprawling, sunlit environs are home to stunning parks and nature areas. The Elysian Park neighborhood of Los Angeles takes its name from Elysian Park proper, the ranging green area that surrounds Elysian Park’s quiet suburban streets. Elysian Park is the oldest in Los Angeles – and at 600 square acres, it’s the second-largest in the city. In this post, we’re taking a virtual tour!

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Photo Credit: We Like LA (https://www.welikela.com/free-places-breathtaking-views-los-angeles)

Lay of the Land

The park wraps around the Elysian Park neighborhood to the north. To the east, Elysian Park is bordered by Lincoln Heights. Los Angeles’ vibrant Chinatown neighborhood lies directly south, and the historic Echo Park neighborhood runs southwest, west, and northwest. Elysian Park is less famous than Runyon Canyon Park, but its central location and gorgeous scenery have made it a local hotspot.

Click here to read about more fun things to do in the Elysian Park neighborhood.  

Steeped in Los Angeles History

Elysian Park has played a role in Los Angeles history from the very beginning – at the southwest corner of the park visitors can still see the location where the Portola Expedition first gave the Los Angeles River its name. The first European explorers to see inland parts of Southern California camped in Elysian Park, and you can still find the Portola Trail Campsite at the Meadow Road park entrance.

Local Favorite

Elysian Park is popular with Los Angeles residents because of the array of amenities and pastimes the park includes. In addition to multiple jogging and hiking trails and a wealth of outdoor areas that are perfect for soccer games and capture the flag, Elysian Park incorporates multiple indoor sports facilities.  Check out Elysian Park Recreation Center and the Grace E. Simmons Lodge.

Chavez Ravine Arboretum

On the west side of Stadium Way near the Grace E. Simmons Lodge, the Chez Ravine Arboretum is the first and oldest arboretum in Southern California. This historic nature park was founded in 1893 by the Los Angeles Horticultural Society, and many of its original rare trees are still standing. Today you can see more than a hundred varieties of rare trees from around the world.  Admission to the Arboretum is free of charge.

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Photo Credit: Modern Hiker (https://www.modernhiker.com/2012/01/03/hiking-elysian-park-west-loop)

Angel’s Point Outlook

Angel’s Point offers a breathtaking view of Downtown Los Angeles, with Los Angeles Stadium perfectly in frame. You can reach Angel’s Point from a trailhead at the eastern corner of Elysian Park drive.  The hike leads you on a rolling 2.8 mile uphill walk through lush greenery, including multiple overlook views.  At the 0.4-mile mark, you’ll have a clear view all the way to the San Gabriel Mountains. Consider hiking Angel’s Point in the late afternoon for a premier view of the skyline at sunset.

Click here to read about more scenic outlooks in Elysian Park.  

Picnic Central in Central L.A.

Elysian Park is a wonderful place to plan a summer afternoon picnic. Whether you opt for the Buena Vista Meadow Picnic Area, the Carob Tree Grove Picnic Area, the Ficus Grove Picnic Area, Bishop Canyon, or the Monticello De Leo Politti Picnic Area, you’ll have a spectacular setting for your al fresco meal.  Each area is also convenient to hiking trails, sports fields, and barbecue pits for an authentic Los Angeles asada.

Monticello De Leo Politti Event Area

This outdoor area can be reserved for private parties, so it’s the perfect place to plan a wedding or a party. With easy access along Stadium Way and a clear view of the Los Angeles skyline, Monticello De Leo Politti makes a spectacular venue for your outdoor event.

Whatever you’re interested in, Elysian Park offers a wealth of possibilities for outdoor recreation – and the historic Elysian Park neighborhood is a great place to plan a unique day trip. Whether you’re vacationing in the city or scoping out a new neighborhood, don’t miss a visit to this beautiful Los Angeles park!

Are you interested in learning more about the unique parks and neighborhoods in Los Angeles?  At Real Estate Unlimited, we pride ourselves on our in-depth local knowledge, providing our customers with insider information on neighborhoods throughout the Los Angeles Valley.  Contact us to learn more about emerging neighborhoods in this historic region today!

Discovering Echo Park Lake

Discovering Echo Park Lake

Located just off of the Hollywood Freeway, Echo Park Lake is a refreshing example of the Echo Park neighborhood’s wide offering of exciting opportunities. The Lake is a place to exercise, relax, and enjoy the company of others. Besides the friendly faces and sunny atmosphere, Echo Park Lake offers two pools, a community recreation center, cafe, and a pedal house. Don’t forget to bring the family dog!

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Photo Credit: Black & Veatch

Echo Park Lake is newly renovated, given a fresh face by the city of Los Angeles. By 2006, the lake was heavily polluted and congested, turning what was once a place of scenic community into an eyesore. However, in August 2015 Echo Park Lake reopened having been entirely cleaned and boasting a new built-in wetlands that provides algae maintenance and improves water quality. Echo Park has never been more scenic and clean! Walking commutes or afternoon strolls with the family through the bustling park are more common than ever.

Echo Park’s Recreation Center offers a wide variety of programs for all ages. Examples of the classes on offer include ballet, gymnastics, and a fitness boot camp! The center hosts coed softball and volleyball competitions for those looking for a little friendly competition. For parents with young children (ages 5 – 12) the Recreation Center also offers an after-school program offering homework assistance, sports game, arts and crafts, and more! Those with adolescent children (ages 3 – 5) can enroll their kids in Sunshine Academy at the Echo Park Youth Center for a head-start on their education.

Offering both a shallow pool, and a more traditional deep pool, Echo Park boasts a number of water sports available to any residents of the neighborhood. The Echo Park Pool facility offers team sports including Swim, Water Polo, and Diving, as well as swimming lessons and aquatic aerobics classes. Interested in part-time work, or giving back to your community? Try the adult or junior lifeguard training programs to spice up your summer.

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Photo Credit: L.A. 13th District

For those looking for the traditional Echo Park Lake experience, be sure to check out the Echo Park pedal boat rental facility! For $10 an adult and $5 a child, you can cruise around the beautiful lake in style! Interested in something more with a little more oomph? Rent out a canoe for a few laps of the lake complete with a guide for those with less experience on water. Visitors more interested in a romantic afternoon should try a leisurely half-hour gondola ride for a little taste of the Venetian experience. Feeling peckish? Don’t forget to stop by the Echo Park Cafe, offering a variety of non-alchoholic beverages with full espresso bar, pastries, and both breakfast and lunch dishes.

Be sure to discover Echo Park Lake today!

Echo Park Lake is just one of the many attractions of living in the Echo Park area. If you’re interested in more information about the Echo Park lifestyle, please contact us at Real Estate Unlimited!

Echo Park Dining Guide

Echo Park Dining Guide

Echo Park rests in the beating heart of Los Angeles, and boasts a wide variety of dining options to keep that heart pumping! Echo Park’s taste in food blends a plethora of cultural diversity mixed with trendy new developments. We’ve listed some of the best eateries in this bustling neighborhood so that you can get the best bites possible:

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Photo Credit: Mohawk Blend

Mohawk Blend

Mohawk Blend is located in a 100-year old Vaudeville theater, and the new restaurant and bar aims to appeal to the young, chic crowd. This restaurant offers a full scale beer, cocktail, and wine offering to complement their brick oven pizzas, pub food, and seasonal salads using only California-sourced ingredients. The Fennel Sausage pizza puts classic tomato sauce with house-made fennel pork sausage, imported grana padano, shaved shallots, and oregano. For dinner, try their Mediterranean Platter which includes house made falafel, pita, veggies, red wine vinaigrette, olive tapenade, carrot hummus, and spiced eggplant spread.

The Park

The Park prides itself on a casual, friendly neighborhood environment. With low prices as a major selling point, this restaurant offer classic American cuisine with ethnic components. Try their Smoked Korobuta Pork Shoulder with ancho chile plum relish. Or go for the classic Park Burger, a vegetarian delight with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and mixed greens.

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Photo Credit: Guisados

Guisados

Guisados takes its name from the classic Hispanic street vendor scene. Aimed at tugging on the nostalgic heart strings of Echo Park’s large hispanic population, Guisados serves homestyle braises on handmade corn tortillas made to order with the tagline “Just the way my mom used to make them.” Each taco costs only $2.75! The Steak Picado pairs flank steak with green bell peppers and bacon, while the extremely spicy Chiles Toreados offers habanero, serrano, jalapeno, and thai chiles on black beans.

Elf Cafe

Elf Cafe brands itself as an elegantly vegetarian restaurant, avoiding not only meat products, but any synthetic dishes made to look or taste like meat! Boasting a wide-range of Mediterranean or Moroccan styled dishes, Elf Cafe is a treat for the vegetarians of Echo Park. Elf Cafe’s Fattayer with Saffron and Sauce Africaine is made with puff pastry, and the chef’s weekly filling market vegetables, and the Kofta with Skordalia and Black Quinoa includes seared king oyster mushroom, preserved lemon puree, herbed yogurt, black eyed pease, aleppo baked dates, fried cumin almonds, and marinated shallots.

Button Mash

Button Mash is a bar, arcade, and restaurant – play of classic arcade games while you eat! Button Mash’s cuisine is Asian fusion, featuring fried chicken wings, tofu balls, and cheeseburgers. Try the Spicy Korean Pork Belly Sandwich on a sweet roll with chili powder and gochujag onions.

Masa

Masa of Echo Park prides itself on being a Mom & Pop restaurant serving Chicago-style pizza and comfort food, combining Italian, French, Spanish, Cuban, and Midwestern American cuisine. Built in 1922, the building has operated as a bakery and cafe for over eighty years! Try their classic Chicago deep dish, or the Penne Orleans, featuring blackened chicken breast, spicy arabiatta sauce, crispy mushrooms and shredded parmesan.

Check out these creative and varied eateries in the bustling center of L.A. today!

Echo Park is a exiting blend of new and old cultures, and the perfect place to live in Los Angeles. Since 1980 Real Estate Unlimited has been helping potential homeowners in Echo Park find the property right for them. If you have any questions about Echo Park cuisine, or would like help with your real estate needs, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Fun Things to Do in and Around Elysian Park

If you’re new to Elysian Park, or if you just want to explore new things and places, check out some of the fun things to do in and around Elysian Park in the great city of Los Angeles. Whether you like spending the weekend in nature, shopping for or viewing art, dining, amazing music, or tasting beer, there’s something for everyone.

What to Do in Elysian Park:

Dodger Stadium: Visit Dodger Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Dodgers, and see a Major League Baseball game. Dodger Stadium, also known as Chavez Ravine, was built in 1962. The number of seats makes it the largest stadium in the MLB. You can also take a tour of the stadium, which is the third oldest stadium in the league.

Fun things to do in Elysian Park2

Photo Credit: https://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/la/ballpark/information/

Downtown LA Art Walk: The Downtown LA Art Walk (on Main and Spring) takes place the second Thursday of each month between 6 pm and 10 pm. Art galleries are open to the public, and you can also get drinks, eat dinner, and explore downtown LA at your own pace. Since 2004, the art walk has been encouraging community members and visitors to experience Gallery Row and 50 galleries participate. The event attracts up to 25,000 people each month! Also, check out and sample the many food trucks that show up each month.

Walt Disney Concert Hall: Secure tickets to a concert and visit the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Master Chorale. The Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, is a landmark at 111 South Grand Avenue in downtown LA (near Hope Street). It is a part of the Los Angeles Music Center and seats over 2,200 people. Built in 2003, Lillian Disney donated to the project in the name of Walt Disney. Many donors made this project possible, creating a stainless steel structure with excellent acoustics that spans 3.6 acres.

Fun things to do in Elysian Park

Photo Credit: https://www.archdaily.com/441358/ad-classics-walt-disney-concert-hall-frank-gehry

Elysian Park: Escape from the city life and delve into Elysian Park. Located at 835 Academy Rd, Elysian Park is the second largest park in Los Angeles (covering 600 acres) and the oldest (originating in 1886). You can venture into one of the many hiking trails, which are some of the best places to see amazing views of the LA skyline in Elysian Park, including the West Loop Trail, Wildflower Trail, Angel’s Point Trail, and Portola Trail. Or, you can take it easy and have a barbeque, throw a ball at a baseball field, or have a picnic. While there, visit the Portola Trail Historical Monument, the Chavez Ravine Arboretum, the Victory Memorial Grove, and the Grace E. Simons Lodge and Memorial Sculpture.

Angel City Brewery: If you love craft beer, then you definitely have to taste the brew at Angel City Brewery. Located in the Los Angeles Arts District since 2013, Angel City Brewery is located at the Brewery and Public House. You can also take a tour of the brewery, where outside food is encouraged and food trucks frequent the area. Try every type of beer, including the Angel City IPA, Angel City Pilsner, Angel City Lager, Social IPA, Double IPA, Salted Caramel Gose, and Peach Berliner Weisse,

Real Estate Unlimited has been based in Los Angeles since 1980. We provide excellent customer service and streamline the process of buying and selling a home for our clients. With our experience and familiarity with the Los Angeles area, we are available to help you buy or sell a home in Elysian Park. Feel free to contact us with your questions and to view our home listings.

Best places to see amazing views of LA Skyline in Elysian Park

Need a break from city life? Park your car and head into nature. Enjoy the view from above on the trails at Elysian Park, the oldest park in the city of Los Angeles; you can see the Golden State Freeway, Dodger Stadium, the San Gabriel Mountains, and more from the hilltops.

Elysian Park is a public park in Los Angeles, spanning 600 acres at 835 Academy Rd, and is home to the Grace E. Simons Lodge and Memorial Sculpture, the Portola Trail Historical Monument, and the Chavez Ravine Arboretum. It’s poplar for hiking, biking, and walking trails. You can also hang out at the park to use the BBQs, picnic areas, playground, and baseball fields.

Elysian Park views

Photo Credit: https://www.welikela.com/free-places-breathtaking-views-los-angeles/

Check out the views from these places:

Portola Trail: Get ready for views of Mount Washington, Glassel Park, and Crocodile Rock as you make your way through the Portola Trail in Elysian Park. This trail takes five miles to complete and will guide you from the southwest side of the park to the northwest side. One fifth of the way through this trail, you will hit Buena Vista Point. At this viewing area, you can have a picnic, enjoy the gardens, and take in the meadow. Along the way, you’ll also cross the Elysian Reservoir Grand Point View Area and the Marian Harlow Gardens.

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Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/143552306848894678/

Hiking Elysian Park West Loop: Explore some of the views at the park on this beginner’s level trail. It’s also dog friendly, so be sure to bring your furry friends with you! This trail, starting at Stadium Way and Elysian Park Drive and near Grace E. Simons Lodge, allows you to explore the northwest portion of Elysian Park. You’ll be able to spot the valley and downtown Los Angeles from up there while walking this loop.

Wildflower Trail: This three-mile-long trail will take you to views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Verdugo Mountains. This trail, at 1025 Elysian Park Drive, starts near the Grace E. Simons Lodge. As you make your way, you’ll climb up to 200 feet in elevation. Don’t forget to stop at the garden halfway through the trail, and enjoy the beautiful wildflowers!

Real Estate Unlimited is a real estate agency that specializes in the buying and selling of homes in Los Angeles. Interested in living near Elysian Park and being a part of the community? Feel free to contact us and view home listings in Elysian Park on our website.

Highland Park Event Guide

What’s going on this summer in Highland Park? Read on for events going on in the neighborhood and start marking your calendars! Also, check out Unique Places to Visit in Highland Park as you plan your summer.

Highland Park Farmers Market Get ready for summertime at the Highland Park Farmers Market, located at Ave 57 and Marmion Way. Stop by on Tuesdays between 3 pm and 7 pm to enjoy fresh produce, food made by local vendors, and arts and crafts by local artisans. Don’t forget, there’s also music!

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Photo Credit: https://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Government/municpaldirectory/Pages/Highland-Park.aspx

Live Jazz Speaking of music, stop by La Cuevita bar on Sunday nights between 8 pm and 10 pm (starting July 31st this summer) for some live jazz music. It takes place every Sunday at 5922 N Figueroa Blvd. Music is performed by North East Groove Ensemble. Also, La Cuevita offers Happy Hour every day (between 5 pm and 9 pm) for specials on cocktails and beer. Try the Jalapeno Margarita or The Faust cocktail.

Summer Soda Tasting How loud can you burp? We promise, it’s a relevant question. Mark it in your calendars; the annual Summer Soda Tasting Event at Galco’s Old World Grocery (on York Boulevard) is happening between 5 pm and 8 pm on July 31st. Get ready to taste different soda flavors, from Galco’s 700 different types of soda. The Burp Off Competition is open to contestants between the ages of 6 to 12. There will also be music, and the event supports Friends of the Southwest Museum.

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Photo Credit: https://www.nbclosangeles.com/entertainment/the-scene/Pops-Around-the-Planet-Galcos-Summer-Soda-Tasting-315164841.html

Board Games & Beer Night Love board games, making new friends, and good beer? Stop by the Block Party from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm on Tuesday nights. Win prizes at raffles, listen to music, and enjoy classic games (including Cards Against Humanity, Jenga, Monopoly, and more).

The Artsy Flea Love hunting the flea markets? Make sure the Artsy Flea is on your list this summer. Enjoy it from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays. The flea market is located in Glassell Park at the Van de Kamp Bakery Building (at 2930 Fletcher Ave). There’s over 100 booths to shop at, food to taste, and live music to enjoy. Remember, the parking is free!

Taproom at Eagle Rock Brewery This microbrewery has been around since 2009 and produces great beer. On July 6th from 4 pm to 10 pm, the Eagle Rock Brewery is hosting a celebration in the taproom to kickoff its Yearling Gold Medal Release. This American Sour Red Ale won a gold medal at the 2016 World Beer Cup. While at the brewery, remember to fill a growler to take home.

Pan for Gold! Families, until July 29th, every day but Monday, The Autry in Griffith Park, free for members or included with museum admission for the day, throwback to the 49ers searching for gold in California, guided tours, $10 for adults and $4 for children, children under 3 are free, at the Autry explore American West culture and art, Native American art, Southwest Museum of the American Indian Collection

Highland Park is an up-and-coming community located northeast of downtown Los Angeles. Today, the creative dining, entertainment, and shopping in Highland Park won’t disappoint. Highland Park real estate listings are also available for you to view on the Real Estate Unlimited website. Contact us for more information.

Unique Places to Visit in Highland Park

Known for its innovative culinary tradition and colorful downtown marketplace, Highland Park is a truly original part of the Los Angeles area landscape. We’ve collected a list of lesser-known neighborhood gems. Read on for some insider tips on alternative stops in Highland Park!

Unique Highland Park

Photo credit: Los Angeles Love Affair

Heritage Museum

The Heritage Square Museum is a series of beautifully-maintained Victorian buildings arranged around a central courtyard. Each one is filled with displays related to Los Angeles history and culture during the first hundred years of California’s statehood.  Volunteer docents dress in authentic period costume, and offer guided tours of the exhibits on site.

The Charles Lummis House

Located just across the arroyo from the Heritage Square Museum, the Charles Lummis House is the preserved homestead of Charles F. Lummis, a journalist and cultural historian who founded the Southwest Museum. The house itself was constructed by Navajo builderss, and includes architectural features reminiscent of traditional pueblo and California mission design. Turrets and ornaments give the exterior a castle-like appearance. The Lummis house is free to visit, and you can take a stroll around the garden, which highlights regional flora.

Donut Friend

Vegan food may be associated with colorful salads and crunchy tempeh burgers, but Donut Friend has decided to corner the market on vegan sweet treats. This quirky shop sells vegan donuts in an array of exotic flavors, each color-coded with its own bright icing. With the tagline, “Donuts. Done Differently,” Donut Friend embraces innovative taste combinations like Toasted Marshmallow and Peanut Butter Banana. You can customize your donut with toppings like toasted coconut and tart cherry compote. Stop in to Donut Friend for an inventive take on an American classic.

Los Angeles Police Museum

San Francisco has Alcatraz, and Highland Park has this museum devoted to the history of the LAPD. You can look at a fleet of vintage police vehicles, view uniforms and archival photos, and also check out historical exhibits of famous Hollywood crimes like the Black Dahlia murders and a gripping multimedia presentation of the North Hollywood shootout. Steeped in atmosphere and local history, this museum is a must for anyone looking to step off the beaten path.

Galco’s Soda Pop Stop

Galco’s opened as Galco’s Old World Grocery, an Italian delicatessen. When John Nese took over the store from his father, he decided to branch out into fizzy beverages of all kinds. Galco’s includes local small-batch ginger ale and kombucha, vintage sodas like sarsaparilla and vanilla cream, and a display of imported sodas from south of the border. You can mix up a customized soda at their Soda Creation Station, or order an authentic Italian soda from a selection of flavors like hazelnut and raspberry.

Magnolia House

Highland Park is a trendy spot for local nightlife, so visitors looking for creative cocktails and fresh small plate appetizers are spoiled for choice. Magnolia Park is a standout. The atmosphere is fun and lively, with a convivial clientele and a fantastic Happy Hour menu. Their “Cocktail of the Moment” series includes unique options like an Orange Gin Blossom version of the classic cosmopolitan and the Magnolia House Sangria with blackcurrant syrup. Menu options include Pastrami-Cured Pork Belly and Korean Fried Chicken Wings.

Mount Analog

A vintage store with curatorial flair, Mount Analog specializes in new and used vinyl, cassettes, books, foreign film, clothing, art, and posters. The store doubles as national headquarters for Finders Keepers Records and the exclusive Yankee outlet for the B-Music Collective, a UK label focused on psychedelic music. They also host live music events and pop-up art exhibits, so check their Facebook page for an updated schedule before you visit.

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Photo credit: The True Spoon

Civil Coffee

Serving up artisan espresso drinks with Coava and Heart Roasters coffee beans, Civil Coffee is the perfect place to get away from the crowds on Figueroa Avenue. Pair your coffee with a golden slice of Parisian-style Mushroom Quiche or a plate of creamy Avocado Toast on homemade brioche. Their cold brew selection is a great base for iced drinks on sunny days.

The Hermosillo

The Hermosillo was once known as the Hermosillo Club – the club’s vintage sign still glows over the bar’s front door. Inside, you can see vintage Mexican movie posters over comfy banquette tables and a shuffleboard court for a friendly competition. The relaxed social atmosphere is the perfect setting to sample an impressive menu of local craft beers and regional wines, including bottles from Argentina and Mexico. Bar bite highlights include tangy Fried Pickles and Steamed Pork Buns with spicy yuzu mayo.

Check out these eclectic alternatives for a unique experience in this vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood!

Are you interested in learning more about the rich cultural variety on offer in Highland Park? Real Estate Unlimited can provide you with in-depth information on this and other Los Angeles area neighborhoods. Call us to schedule a consultation today!

Top Highland Park Eateries

Highland Park is famous for its cultural diversity, which means that it offers a wide range of culinary delights to choose from. Whatever you’re hungry for, Highland Park has something to satisfy your palate. We’ve listed some of the best restaurants in this vibrant historical neighborhood, so that you can take your pick!

Highland Park eateries

Photo Credit: Discover Los Angeles (https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/blog/best-restaurants-bars-highland-park)

Good Girl Dinette

The Good Girl is a “farm to noodle” Vietnamese restaurant, so all their ingredients are sourced from local SoCal farms. The dishes themselves are an imaginative twist on Vietnamese home cooking, like the Black Pepper Pork Confit and the Maple Coconut Bread Pudding. If you’re in the mood for a classic Vietnamese dish, you can try “Grandma’s Pho” or sample a hearty Curry Pot Pie with a golden biscuit topping.

Scoops

Ice cream flavors at Scoops are a daily surprise, with creative menu options like Pineapple Kool-Aid, Lemon and Thai Basil and Pistachio Rosewater. They also offer floats, sundaes, and unique toppings like tapioca berries and infused olive oil. Consistently rated high on service and atmosphere, Scoops is the perfect place to snag a cool summer treat.

Fanny’s Restaurant

Fanny’s is a relaxed family-style restaurant specializing in tortas, burritos, tacos, and other Mexican staples. Each dish on the menu is carefully crafted, allowing flavor to take center stage. Their standout Fanny’s Special is a torta made with juicy carne asada and creamy avocado on a soft, toasted roll.

Kitchen Mouse

Kitchen Mouse specializes in “every day food,” simple fare with an emphasis on home-baked cookies and cakes and fresh salads and sandwiches. Their menu is vegan and gluten-free, and each creation on the menu is designed to be healthy, satisfying, and delicious. The Tempeh Reuben and the Avocado TLT are customer favorites.

Sonny’s Hideaway

For a more upscale dining experience, try this supper-club style restaurant. Sonny’s Hideaway has a Mediterranean flair, with entrees like Grilled Octopus and Ricotta Dumplings. Sonny’s also offers a rotating selection of exclusive cocktails like Strawberry Switchblade and Endless Summer – classic concoctions like the Gibson include twists like Japanese scallion instead of the more customary onion.

Maximiliano

Maximilano combines the heartiness of classic Italian with the inspired playfulness of an adventurous chef. You can try traditional fare like the Baked Polenta or the Mushroom Risotto, one of their famous thin-crust pizzas, or handmade pastas like Bombolotti and Tagliatelle.

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Photo credit: LA Weekly (https://www.laweekly.com/restaurants/10-best-restaurants-in-highland-park-5079572)

Metro Balderas

Metro Balderas is famed for its tacos, especially the eight distinct varieties of succulent Mexico-City style carnitas, which the chefs at Metro Balderas slow-cook to perfection. You can also sample delicious antojitos, as well as a unique menu of succulent juices and aguas frescas. Even in a neighborhood known for its stellar taco selection, Metro Balderas is a standout.

Antigua Bread

Antigua Bread is another popular stop among locals, most of all at breakfast time when they serve up heaping platters of fried plantains and black beans. Chilaquiles with Salsa Verde are a customer favorite, but morning menu options include chorizo and egg burritos and steak. Antigua Bread also has a small but tempting selection of baked goods, including soft baked rolls and buttery cookies.

Tropical Fruit and Juices

If you’re in the mood for a refreshing smoothie, Tropical Fruit and Juices has you covered. Order a detox blend packed with superfoods like kale and goji berry, or a decadent chocolaty concoction with cinnamon or peanut butter. In addition to its fresh-squeezed juices, you can also find zesty vampiros – a seasonal tequila-infused variant of sangria – or request a combination of your very own.

Chez Antoine

Creperie by day and brasserie by night, Chez Antoine is the best place in town to find savory crepes.  Their menu highlights classic Parisian combos like their Ham and Gruyere Crepe, but the dessert menu is headed up Crème Brulee Crepe, a sugar-frosted remix of two French desserts. Their dinner menu includes delicacies like escargot and updated treats like their Baby Kale Salad and Rosemary Fries.

If you’re interested in moving to this vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood, Real Estate Unlimited offers a variety of property listings in the area.  Feel free to call us for a consultation today!

Mt. Washington Recreation Activities

Are you living in or visiting Mt. Washington in Los Angeles this summer? Take a look at some recreational activities you add to your list this season! Whether you’re looking for food, culture, nightlife, or the outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

L.A.’s Southwest Museum

Make your day cultural and visit the Southwest Museum of the American Indian. This museum has been around since Charles Fletcher Lummis (an anthropologist) started the Southwest Society and Joseph Scott funded the museum. Originally, the museum was opened in Downtown Los Angeles. The collection features art and artifacts of the Native Americans, of the Spanish Colonial period, and of the Western American genre.

The museum has been in Mt. Washington since 1914 and is run by the Autry National Center. The Southwest Museum is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and stands at 234 Museum Dr, Mt Washington, Los Angeles. To get there, take the Metro Gold Line to the Southwest Museum Station.

Mt Washington recreation

Photo Credit: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/opinion-la/la-ol-los-angeles-needs-an-la-museum-201406050604-story.html

Carlin G. Smith Recreation Center

Located in East Los Angeles, the Carlin G. Smith Recreation Center is a great resource for people living in the community and/or visiting. Located at 511 W. Ave. 46, Los Angeles CA 90065, this recreation center offers a children’s play area, a community room, barbeque pits, basketball courts, and an auditorium.

To learn more, check out the recreation center’s online activity guide for classes, afterschool programs, and other events. Parent’s Night Out happens every second Friday of the month and only costs $10. At this event, children have dinner and do activities while parents have date night. Other available activities include self-defense classes, music lessons, and afterschool programs.

Heidelberg Park

Feeling restless? Take a stroll in the park. Heidelberg Park, at San Rafael Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90065, is overseen by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy. The beautiful landscape features a community succulent garden and examples of the California Walnut Woodland. The steep slopes of the mountains still foster black walnut trees.

Moon Canyon Park

For another option for a stroll in the park, head over to Moon Canyon Park. Located at 300 San Rafael Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90065, this park is the perfect place to find a playground, have a picnic, and explore some walking trails.

Mt Washing recreation 2

Photo Credit: https://www.amoeba.com/blog/2012/05/eric-s-blog/california-fool-s-gold-exploring-mount-washington.html

Verdugo Bar

Looking for a night out this weekend? Drop by Verdugo Bar at 3408 Verdugo Road, Los Angeles CA, 90065. It’s open Monday to Friday from 6 pm to 2 am, and on Saturday to Sunday from 3 pm to 2 am. This craft beer bar is in Glassell Park and offers game nights on the patio, music nights with DJs and themed music, and trivia nights. Enjoy the full bar, the food trucks, and the “To-Go” bottle menu.

LA River Kayak Safari

Do something new this summer and take a trip with the LA River Kayak Safari. Take a short drive to the Elysian Valley from Mt. Washington for this activity. The guides and instructors at LA River Kayak Safari take groups on a trip down the Los Angeles River. This urban river is filled with drinking quality water and is protected by the Clean Water Act. The company offers one easy trip and one other option that is more challenging. There are lazy river sections, as well as Class II rapids. This is a great activity for those looking to learn how to paddle.

Mt Washington recreation 3

Photo Credit: https://www.lariver.org/index.htm

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