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Undergoing a transformation from run-down historic strip to youthful enclave, Downtown L.A.’s Main Street is finally starting to look like a center of town again. So whether your evening lineup entails a glass of wine or a tall can of cheap brew, make this block your warm-up stop. Alas, the streets aren’t lined with cash—but you can secure a great night for a song.
One of Pharmaka’s main objectives is to create a “culturally sustainable community in Downtown Los Angeles.” In collaboration with the Lamp Community, its current exhibition features both haunting and hopeful works of art by the commonly neglected mentally ill inhabitants of skid row.
Teeming with nostalgia for Roaring 20s fashion, this store combines the atmosphere of an old Parisian boutique (minus the mothballs) with a new-age twist. Stop by to see designs far too classy to be considered costumes, and say hello to the stores feline mascots, Freya and Loki.
For all the wonderful art and architecture in Downtown L.A., its surprising there are so few shops for artists to stock up on supplies. One of South Mains newest additions, Raw Materials offers quality gear at the affordable prices, all in a district blooming with creativity.
Fresh ingredients, cheap prices, and bright and upbeat interiors seem to be the formula for success for L.A. Vietnamese restaurants, and Blossom is no exception. Fill up on a budget before getting loaded on tall cans of Schlitz at Bar 107 down the street (107 W. 4th St., 213-625-7382).
Old Bank DVD is a reminder of the charms of the ol independent video store. Thanks to a friendly staff of film buffs and an impressive collection of classic, foreign and indie films organized by director, you can forget Internet rentals and chain stores. One visit here and youll be a loyal customer.
This quaint, laid-back patio cafe offers fresh, affordable meals morning, noon and night. Fancy some French toast and a latte in the a.m., or tasty panini such as the Bird (with Dijon chicken and pancetta) in the afternoon? Look no further. Be sure to check out the wine bar’s happy hour, when selections are $2 off.
