Insider Tips: Unique Pasadena Experiences Near LA
Vlad M
I’ve completely lost faith in men. Today, I asked myself: What am I doing wrong? When men invite me on dates, we go to cafes, restaurants, stroll around the city, drink coffee, play tennis, go to the movies, visit museums. We talk, we laugh — the meetings are always fun. But there’s no intimacy. I don’t go to their place, and I don’t invite them to mine. We spend time in neutral spaces. I don’t burden them with expectations like “a man should…” So, what’s wrong? I don’t get it. What do you men want? Honestly, I feel like telling you all to just fuck off!
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Los Angeles Fun Events
The Singles Party @ Mama Shelter Date: Wednesday, September 18th Time: 7 PM - 10 PM Age: 21+ Join us for a relaxed and fun evening at Mama Shelter, a vibrant and eclectic spot in the heart of Hollywood, where over 100 local singles are gathering to mingle, laugh, and connect. It's the perfect opportunity to meet new people in a laid-back, friendly setting. Highlights of the Evening: Meet Local Singles: A great chance to mix and chat with a diverse group of singles from around Los Angeles. Unique Venue: Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Mama Shelter, renowned for its lively decor, rooftop views, and fantastic drinks. Easy-going Fun: No pressure, just a night of casual conversations and the chance to make new friends or find a potential date. Tasty Drinks: Savor delicious cocktails crafted by expert bartenders. Good Music: Background tunes to set the mood for a pleasant evening. Dress Code: Smart casual - come as you are, but feel free to dress to impress! Tickets: Grab your ticket soon – space is limited.
Food Baby
Used jetlag to our advantage today to line up before the opening of FONDRY, easily one of the best bakeries in LA, including some of the very best croissants. 👶🏽🥐 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽 They proudly introduce two new offerings: - Brown Butter Financier 🧈 - The Hazelnut 🌰 Enjoy 😋
Rachael Brandon
Influenced to try Community Goods while in LA and so glad I did. Hopefully we’ll see them back in Miami for another pop-up soon 👀 Hands down one of the best iced matcha lattes - added their vanilla syrup + oat milk. The sliders were so pillowy and much lighter than I expected (thankfully) and the sauces!!! Herb Aioli and a sweet and sour hot sauce. The pistachio toast though, was just the cherry on top! Think Nutella but pistachio no chocolate, fresh nuts and honey on a rustic bread. Chefs kiss ✨ I got there super early on a weekday just after opening to avoid any famed hour long lines and had a lovely #slowmorning on their patio 🍵
Secret Los Angeles
Fulfill your cravings at Grand Central Market! Nothing beats soaking up the city vibes like going out to eat, right? While Los Angeles offers dining options for every taste, from Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks, you don’t need to explore the whole city to find them. At Grand Central Market, you’ll find countless affordable choices, from seafood to tacos. Almost every one of the more than 35 vendors has menu items priced below $15, making it one of the best cheap activities in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the place can be packed, so it’s best to go early and be patient.
Secret Los Angeles
Hike your way up to the Hollywood Sign Whether you’re looking for a way to work out, explore nature, or simply enjoy stunning sunset views over the city, a quick hike to the Hollywood Sign is always a great idea. If you’re already familiar with the area or prefer to make plans on your own, just lace up your sneakers and head up there, which is free. If you enjoy socializing with others and you’re new in town, you might want to book a ticket to join a group hike.
Los Angeles Fun Events
Hiking + Speed Dating - Baldwin Hills (Ages 30+) Join our group hike where we will rotate hikers through a series of 1:1 speed dates on the trail! Date: Saturday, July 6th Time: 10 AM: Meet at Boneyard Dog Park on Duquesne for a warm welcome and check-in to speed dating program (no downloads required!, but you will need a smartphone!) 10:30 AM: We will explain how we will be using the speed dating program and introduce you to your first date before we begin the hike. - 10:35AM - 1:30PM : Our hike will commence, as we climb to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, you will be paired 1:1 for dates, along with breaks and mixing/mingling.
See also
Top Anonymous Recommendations in Fairfax - Discover Trending Suggestions & Local Reviews Near LA
Los Angeles4 everybody
Jiro Style Ramen, right here in Los Angie. At Tsujita Annex in West LA, Jiro-style ramen is a specialty that aligns with the authentic features of this style. Tsujita Annex is known for its rich, flavorful ramen and adheres closely to the traditional Jiro-style with its robust broth, substantial portions of toppings, and emphasis on a hearty, satisfying meal. The restaurant’s approach to Jiro-style ramen aims to capture the essence of the original while catering to the local palate. — Jiro-style ramen is a distinct type of ramen that originates from Ramen Jiro, a famous ramen shop in Tokyo, Japan. It’s characterized by its hearty, rich, and indulgent style. The key features of Jiro-style ramen include a thick, flavorful broth, a heavy dose of garlic, a significant amount of bean sprouts, and a generous portion of fatty pork. The noodles are usually thick and chewy, and the dish is often topped with extra slices of pork and sometimes a raw egg.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Here’s a reminder to go dancing in LA, it’s an experience. SIP Boba Lounge! Why? Bc people here are talented. Like, just got off the stage performing with Beyoncé talented and show up to dance floors for a night out just like everyone else. It always end up being such an impromptu show, all levels all talents and random fun for everyone!
Secret Los Angeles
Blipsy This K-town gem is the OG arcade bar in Los Angeles, seamlessly blending childhood nostalgia with adult entertainment in a dimly lit setting, focused on ’80s classics. If gaming isn’t your scene, groove to nightly tunes from live DJs spanning ’70s rock to hip-hop. Enjoy a variety of libations, but remember to bring cash—it’s cash only at this arcade hotspot.
Secret Los Angeles
HI TOPS As one of L.A.’s busiest gay sports bars, this outpost not only offers the neighborhood another LGBTQ+ venue but also serves as a great spot to catch a game. While it’s not primarily known for sports viewing, the numerous flat-screen TVs on the walls provide the option. Additionally, they host weekday Happy Hour from 4-7 pm, featuring discounted wine, beer, and well drinks. For those seeking mental stimulation, Monday trivia nights are quite popular.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Exciting news! Just discovered a hidden gem – Trail Canyon in LA County! 🌟 It’s not your average hiking spot; here, you can immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty for free. 🌲 Imagine trekking through rugged canyons, listening to the gentle whispers of the wind, and feeling the thrill of conquering challenging terrain. 💧 It’s an adventurer’s paradise! Can’t wait to explore this scenic trail with you! 🤩
Secret Los Angeles
Leo’s Tacos Truck Late night food truck tacos are practically in their own culinary category in L.A., and Leo’s makes some of the best of the best. What started as a humble taco truck on Brea and Venice Boulevards has turned into a local chain with eleven locations, most of which are open until 2 or 3am on weekends. By far the most popular order is the tacos al pastor, but you’ll find a great selection of Mexican street food including quesadillas, sopes, and tortas. Hours: 6pm-2:30am Friday-Saturday, 6pm-1:30am Sunday-Thursday
Secret Los Angeles
Roscoe’s Hollywood Harlem native Herb Hudson opened this Hollywood staple in 1975, and their tasty soul food has been enjoyed by generations of Angelenos and celebrities including Shaquille O’Neil, Stevie Wonder, and Barack Obama. The menu goes beyond the staple chicken and waffles to include classics like corn bread, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy. The Hollywood location is open until 4am on weekend nights, but you’ll find a handful of other Roscoe’s outposts in L.A. that are serving food until midnight.
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Gluten Free Girls LA
Wild Acai deserving of a spot on this feed for being one of the best smoothies I’ve had in a long time. I got the “Popeye Energy” w açaí, banana, spinach, zinc and coconut milk. I also asked for strawberries and pineapple to be added (they charged VERY little extra for this). The 16oz was as filling as a full meal. No complaints here.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Enchant LA! Sometimes pretty places aren’t equally tasty but I would say this place has both down. I got to dress and have some sweet quality time over good korean flavors (kim chi pasta & bulgogi quesadillas were really good!) 🌸Garden Style Brunch&Bar🌸 ☕Modern Asian Fusion🥂Wine🍸Cocktail Kept things light w a citrus shrimp salad but then indulged in other great menu items. We went for lunch but it’s good for dinner dates tooooo 🤓
citygirlvibes
Nothing like a sweet ending to dinner at Madeo Ristorante 🍰🥧🍨 Alfio and Elvira built the Madeo legacy as a tribute to their family, filled with home-cooked memories and endless celebrations. A piece of their hometown Forte dei Marmi lives on in their hearts and in our menus forever. ❤️🇮🇹
Secret Los Angeles
Grab a sweet or savory slice at Quarter Sheets Quarter Sheets in Echo Park serves up unique savory and sweet slices. Chefs Hannah Ziskin and Aaron Lindell create a menu that feels like an elevated, adult version of a fun kids’ birthday party. Their pizza and cake offerings have earned them “Best Restaurant” rankings from the New York Times and Los Angeles Times in 2023, plus a spot in the California Michelin Guide. Try their creative pizzas with toppings like Funyuns or shrimp cocktail, and don’t miss Ziskin’s gourmet slab cakes. Staff favorites include their Bar Pie and Vodka Pesto. And yes, expect a line when you get there!
Gluten Free Girls LA
Kitchen Mouse - the small bakery around the corner from the main restaurant has TONS of gluten free sweets, pastries, bagels and to go food (gf lentil shepards pie and gf lasagna etc). They offer vegan options like just egg or regular egg as it’s a vegetarian restaurant. In the past, I have tried the gluten-free bagels (amazing), gluten-free coffee cake and cookies (also amazing). Today I got the French berry pastry -the vanilla custard was AMAZING. The crust was a great texture but was more like a sugar cookie formed as a tart than a butter tart. I would definitely recommend trying it if you like custard and sugar cookies.
The Restaurant Guide
Donna’s LA: Upgraded Italian American classics in a fun, flower-bombed room in Echo Park. Donna’s is inspired by an east coast, red sauce joint. The menu is made up of those Italian-American classics that you expect, but done really well with California ingredients. Here at Donna’s we’re loud and lively, with warm and familiar service. We’ll remind you what comfort feels like. And you’ll have the best night out (since the last time you were here).
Los Angeles4 everybody
The nations largest hawker stall = Smorgasburg LA! I like to come here bc it’s always summer vibes and you get all of LA’s most viral food trucks in one place. Gives a major platform to small businesses and gives me a unique experience every time. I come for food, beverages, local artistry and sun. Bring water and hats for sun protection bc it’s a large parking lot and all the asphalt makes it hot there ☀️ 🧢 🧴 💦
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DTLA Insider
🍔 What do you get when Fine dining x Fast Food in a no frills diner style environment in Downtown L.A? Rita's deluxe is one of the hands down best burgers your taste buds will ever experience! “Rita’s deluxe burger..tastes like an animal style double double got jacked doing crossfit and put on bacon and chopped cherry peppers as accessories”. And always fried in beef tallow, always crispy and always delicious 🤤
The Restaurant Guide
Leona’s sushi house LA: Michelin Guide ‘23! Choose between the charming sushi bar, the high-ceiling dining room facing Ventura Boulevard, or center patio lounge to enjoy Japanese Peruvian food with an Italian touch. Influencers and foodies alike are raving about Leona’s. Their Michelin-recognized cuisine and crafted cocktails are a must-try. Take your dining experience to the next level. 🌟🥩🍣
Happening in DTLA
RECOLLECT LADIES NIGHT in LA! Get ready for an unforgettable night with a full female lineup in the heart of downtown Los Angeles! Thursday, July 18 Time: 11 PM - 4 AM Music Genres: House / Minimal / UKG Ladies Free All Night See you there!
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Broken Shaker is an elevated oasis in the heart of Downtown LA, located on top of the lovely Freehand Los Angeles. Colorful, bright and buzzing, the rooftop comes surrounded with amazing and panoramic views over the Los Angeles skyline and the downtown area. Open from noon to midnight, this is a venue to enjoy both sunny poolside hours, as well as fun filled evenings under the LA stars. As a winner of Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award, it should be no surprise that Broken Shaker serves up delicious cocktails. While dips in the refreshing rooftop pool is reserved for guests staying at the hotel, anyone is welcome up to the rooftop for an abundance of drinks, vibes and views.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Chinese in West Hollywood! Modernized Dim Sum fa sho 😋 🥟 Ok, I have one traditional place for dim sum and it is in the SGV, it’s meant to family time and Sunday Breakfast. Soooo, West Hollywood + Dim Sum for dinner never went together in my mind. Buutttttt, BAO DIM SUM HOUSE reinvented that. And I am here for it bc it’s actually good. Shiu Mai (we got chicken) was very hefty, Har Gow was shrimp filled with a light wrap, sauces on the table were on point and other items like Spare Ribs were prepared very traditionally. Now, if you live in LA proper, you don’t always have to go to the valley for your dim sum fix 😋 🥟
DTLA Insider
🍹 The First-Ever completely non-alcoholic cocktail lounge in L.A. STAY. Zero Proof Bar | 📍 Chinatown Was named one of the top 11 Best New Bars of 2024 by Bon Appetit Magazine. It is such an HONOR to be listed with the best of the best in the country and to be the only completely non-alcoholic bar on the list.
DTLA Insider
🔥 Some of the best damn Tacos in L.A! MidEast Tacos is what you get when you cross Middle Eastern x Mexican food. 1. Papas 2. Steak Burrito 3. Falafel Taco 4. Shrimp Taco 5. Chicken Quesadilla They don’t call it ‘The Home of The Falafel Taco’ for no reason 👊🏽
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Happening in DTLA
The Sexy Sundress, Linen & Cigar Day Party LA Get ready to show off your sexiest sundress or linen outfit while enjoying a day party with cigars, good vibes, and great company! Welcome to The Sexy Sundress, Linen & Cigar Day Party! Join us at La Casita DTLA inside Hotel Fig for a day filled with style, relaxation, and good vibes. Bust out your sexiest sundress or coolest linen outfit, and don't forget your favorite cigar to enjoy. It's the perfect opportunity to mingle, dance, and unwind in a vibrant atmosphere. Let's make this day one to remember! See you there! Saturday, July 13
DTLA Insider
🔥 Stumbled upon a little hidden gem of a 🇲🇽 restaurant today and am still 🤯…. Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez🌶🔥 • Tortas Ahogadas, Carne En Su Jugo + more • Michelin Bib Gourmand • 5 STARS 🌟 on Yelp Come and try our delicious Molcajete and pair with our tasty Michelada 🍹with your choice of beer 🍺. 🍴 Have You??
Discovering Pasadena: Unveiling Local Experiences Near LA
Dive into Pasadena's Culinary Scene
Pasadena’s food culture is an intriguing blend of historic charm and modern innovation, creating delightful culinary experiences. Start your journey at Old Pasadena, where a variety of fine dining and casual eateries await. Don't miss Union Restaurant for its mouth-watering New American dishes made from local ingredients. If you're into international flavors, Maestro's offers an elevated Mexican dining experience that's raved by locals. For those who enjoy a more laid-back setting, Pie 'n Burger is an iconic spot for its classic American comfort food.
Looking for a trending experience among locals? Head to Lincoln on Fair Oaks Avenue. This cozy eatery, set in a converted industrial building, offers a delightful brunch with house-baked goods and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The native recommendations include their avocado toast and lasting cup of coffee, promising a satisfying start to your day.
Explore the Rich Nightlife of Pasadena
The nightlife in Pasadena thrives with an array of venues promising a memorable night out. For a blend of elegance and excitement, check out The Rose, a live music venue that regularly features both legendary and contemporary artists. Want something exclusive? The Blind Donkey, known for its extensive whiskey selection, provides an intimate gathering spot. Their locally-inspired cocktails are a must-try for any visitor looking to socialize and soak up the local atmosphere.
Old Towne Pub, tucked away in an alley off Raymond Avenue, provides another hidden nightlife gem. This spot not only oozes character but also offers live music and a welcoming atmosphere that's beloved by residents and trendsetters alike. Don’t forget to join the friendly locals for a game of pool and discover why it’s touted as one of Pasadena’s best-kept secrets.
Uncover Inspirational Cultural Experiences
The cultural fabric of Pasadena is dense with history and art, making for some significant experiences. The Norton Simon Museum houses a remarkable collection of European Renaissance paintings and Southeast Asian artworks. Locals will tell you that visiting on a weekday afternoon avoids the crowds for a more personal experience. For those attuned to contemporary art, the Pasadena Museum of California Art (PMCA) often showcases thought-provoking local talent.
Hidden charmer alert: The Gamble House, a masterpiece of American Arts and Crafts architecture, offers insights not just into historic Pasadena but also into the aesthetics that have shaped the region. Follow the guided tours to delve deep into the nuances that make this house a beacon of architectural brilliance.
Thrilling Exploration Spots in Nature
For the adventurous souls, Pasadena provides a gateway to several exploration spots and natural experiences. Eaton Canyon Natural Area zings with opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and unparalleled scenic beauty. Early morning hikes here are the trending choice among local fitness enthusiasts. Another local tip is to explore the Arroyo Seco, home to the beautiful Devil’s Gate Dam and a network of trails that are perfect for biking or leisurely strolls.
Don’t overlook the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens. More than just a library, this sprawling estate features a Japanese garden, a desert garden, and other uniquely themed areas. Pro tip: Residents recommend visiting on free monthly admission days to fully enjoy this serene oasis without the hefty price tag.
Engage with Local Socializing Hotspots
Socializing in Pasadena brings out the vibrant side of the city. Make your way to Jones Coffee Roasters for a caffeine fix and the latest community chatter, or to Amara Chocolate & Coffee for a mix of artisanal chocolates and Venezuelan-inspired drinks. Locals love these spots not just for their offerings but also for their warm, welcoming vibes that make strangers feel like friends.
If you're in the mood for a relaxed evening, The Cellar, located beneath The Panda Inn, offers an intimate setting replete with fine wines and small plates. For something more exuberant, Pasadena's Pasadena Farmers' Market stands out as a lively venue to interact with local artisans, farmers, and residents who are more than willing to share the latest local hacks and secrets.
Unique Local Insights and Hidden Gems
For a delve into seldom-seen surprises, the Pasadena area has some intriguing hidden gems. The Fork in the Road, a whimsical street sculpture where Pasadena Avenue forks into St. John Avenue, is a quirky photo op and a great conversation starter among locals. Lanterman House, a lesser-known historic house museum, provides insight into early 20th-century living and is often less crowded than other local attractions.
Need a breather? Arlington Garden is another local favorite, a public garden that offers a tranquil retreat with Mediterranean-style landscaping. Its relatively hidden nature makes it a perfect spot for some quiet reflection or a charming picnic. Residents swear by its seasonal blooms as a therapeutic backdrop for de-stressing and recharging.