I’m getting SPECIFIC today.
We’re talking about my favorite things do, places to go, & people to see in the Venice area of Los Angeles. I have a general LA guide, but, let’s be real, Los Angeles is HUGE, and being specific is more helpful.
I’ve partnered with Abercrombie to bring y’all today’s Venice guide. How perfect is that?? Abercrombie is THE CLASSIC Southern-California-inspired brand. When I think of Abercrombie, I think of the A&F sweatshirt I lived in back in the day. Now I’m living in this denim situation.
In this post, I’m wearing a pair of paneled light-wash jeans ( on sale right now! ) and an updated basic white tank. I threw a scarf around my pony ( because that’s always a great way to distract from dirty hair ), put my sneakers on, & headed to hang in Venice.
restaurants
The Butcher’s Daughter
for an Instagram-able, healthy brunch. I like the GF french toast. The pizza is also so bomb.
Zinque
for a date night or to catch up with girlfriends over a glass of wine. I ALWAYS get Le Bowl with shrimp. I have Le Bowl delivered via Postmates way too much. Forever favorite.
Gjelina
if you’re down to spend money on some next-level food. The pizza at Gjelina is to-die-for, and the butterscotch pot-du-creme is a must. Get whatever they recommend. It’s worth it. This place is just legendary.
Plant Food & Wine
for a swanky, light meal with friends. The aesthetic of the outdoor area is beautiful & relaxing.
Venice Ale House
I’ve been a fan of this place for a few years. The food is filling, healthy & fresh. Definitely go for brunch or lunch, and grab one of their cocktails ( or fresh coconuts ) while you’re at it.
Tocaya Organica
for a quick lunch. This clean-eating mexican food restaurant is a staple on my most-postmated-restaurants list. I either get the Taco Combo ( with turkey, the barrio fruit bowl + plantain chips as the side, & an iced tea ) or the Street Corn En Fuego bowl.
Abbot’s Neighborhood Pizzaria
for a street-side slice of pizza. Gluten-Free girls, they even have options for you! Greasy pizza ALL AROUND!
Salt & Straw
If there is a line out from of S&S, don’t be alarmed! This place is rather famous for having absolutely incredible ice cream. Worth it.
Lemonade
for when you’re with a group with all different tastes. Lemonade is another one of my go-to’s, because the food is really good & healthy. I always go with my family, because everyone can find something they want.
coffee & cafes
Intelligentsia
for a cup of coffee or tea while you’re working. I like to post up at this place if I need a spot to work from in the Venice area.
Blue Bottle Coffee
for the New Orleans Iced Coffee on a hot day. I’m addicted.
bars & nightlife
Wabi Sabi
for happy hour! It’s one of my favorite spots in Venice for drinks. Get the spicy margarita!
The Lincoln
for a night out that won’t disappoint. There’s something about this place that I really love when I’m a few tequilas in. It’s casual and friendly.
High Rooftop Lounge
to watch the sunset over the ocean with a cocktail in-hand. It’s the only rooftop spot in Venice that gets a view of the sun setting over the ocean and the mountains. Definitely a vibe.
Venice Whaler
for daytime drinks with friends. If I’m day-partying in Venice, the Whaler is the move.
James Beach
James Beach is to Venice what The Bungalow is to Santa Monica, in my opinion. If that makes no sense to you: James Beach is a great place to go if you want a casual spot to party with a group of friends. It’s kind of a classic.
shop the post
health, fitness, & beauty
Equinox
okay, obviously. Equinox has a location in Marina del Rey ( which is basically Venice ), and it was my home-away-from-home when I lived west of the 405.
Studio MDR
has SUCH a cult-following. This pilates reformer class is everyone’s favorite.
Kelley Baker Brows
for the best brows on planet Earth. I get my brows done by Tory Lynn at Kelley Baker, and she’s an angel sent from brow heaven.
shopping
Burro
for the CUTEST gifts, candles, books, etc. I spend way too much money on pretty little things in this store.
Principessa
for on-trend clothes ( think For Love & Lemons, Flynn Skye, Wildfox ) from day dresses to t-shirts. They also have a great shoe and jewelry selection.
Abbot Kinney Blvd
the above two stores are on Abbot Kinney ( though I felt the need to mention them specifically ). You could spend a day perusing the many shops Abbot Kinney has to offer. It’s a staple area in Venice.
LA girls– am I forgetting anything?? Remind me!
I’ll update this list as new things pop up. I LOVE Venice so much. It has such a specific character.
Let me know y’alls’ Venice favorites!!
x