A pedestrian's guide to Franklin Ave. between Bronson and Tamarind
By George Ducker, Special to Metromix
Couched beneath the Hollywood Hills, this dense block of shops and watering holes is one of our favorite walkable stretches—if just for the relaxed vibe and tight-knit microcosm of folks it attracts. From groggy neighborhood eccentrics to B-list actors looking to keep a low profile, this block may seem at first glance like our very own Pitcairn Island. Parking can be tough, however, and don’t even think about trying your luck at the Mayfair Market: They’ll tow you faster than you can say Upright Citizens Brigade.
Like a baby Hearst Castle, Scientology’s Celebrity Center casts a long shadow across the block. But they entice with a Sunday brunch sweet enough to invite your mother to. You won’t need any “clearance” to get inside, and who knows—maybe you’ll trip over little Suri.
Only in L.A.: A coffeehouse that doesn't serve coffee. Only espresso here, served up to recovering goths, Hollywood floozies and other assorted neighborhood peeps. The cranked music matches the surging, caffeine-fueled energy of the clientele. Check out the tiny forest in the back room. Seriously.
A neighborhood joint where chicken is always the special of the day and cocktails are every bit as important as the main course. Throw in a birdcage with go-go dancers after midnight, and you’ve got a scene brimming with chirpy singles.
High-quality offbeat comedy at proletariat-friendly ticket prices (usually $5). Reserve a spot ahead of time, or plan on queuing up. With noted funnypeople such as Zach Galifianakis, Sarah Silverman and Michael Cera popping in unannounced, we figure a little line-waiting is worth it.
Trinkets, clothes and accessories. An exciting find for the womenfolk, this is precisely the kind of store that will turn many men glass-eyed with boredom.
Once you get used to the dust, you'll notice the dizzying selection of books and records, almost all of them in stellar condition. While the LP prices might be a tad high—they've got to compete with Amoeba, after all—their books are the best bargain in the city.
