Considering it’s on the edge of one of L.A.’s ritziest neighborhoods, the area around 26th Street and San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood is surprisingly casual and down-to-earth. The Brentwood Country Mart, which anchors this strip, is like a Westside analogue to the Original Farmers Market at 3rd Street and Fairfax Avenue (which the BCM was modeled after). Don’t be surprised if you spot a few incognito celebs.
This chic boutique from the folks behind Urban Outfitters caters to women in search of intelligence, creativity and individuality. Free People has a spacious, airy feel and a friendly, helpful staff. The collections are refined, carefully chosen and flattering to the female frame.
This cozy candy emporium is tiny and crammed with its bountiful wares. The walls are lined with bulbous glass jars full of the usual penny candy delightsSwedish fish, licorice, Tootsie Rollsbut the front cases of chocolate confections definitely steal the spotlight. Try the dark-chocolate-covered marzipan: Its decadent enough to make you spend some extra time at the gym the next day.
The name is a bit of a misnomer: While this large space at one corner of the Brentwood Country Mart does indeed have a scrumptious bakery counter, it also has an enormous selection of self-serve salads and hot foods along with some pleasant indoor seating. The ambiance might be more suburban than city, but it's always good to under-promise and over-deliver. .
Talk about maximizing spacethis shop, about the size of a large bedroom, has colorful toys popping out of every nook and cranny. With model cars, figurines, stuffed animals, games, puzzles, dolls, replicas and every play item in between, theres something here to hold the interest of every child (and probably a few adults).
This newly opened bookshop is the third outpost for Diesel (no relation to the jeans), which originated in Oakland and has a sister store in Malibu. The high-ceilinged space is filled with new and used paperbacks and hardcovers, and the store hosts regular author events and book groups. Next time you’re looking for a good read, browse the stacks or check the staff’s recommendations.
If you've built up an appetite looking at books, toys, candy and clothing, or if you need to fill up in preparation for an afternoon of shopping, grab a Barney's burger at the little window and enjoy it at one of the outdoor tables. Those avoiding red meat can choose from chicken, turkey and veggie options.
