One of our favorite corners in LA. Not only is Culver City where we set up Velvet headquarters, but also one of our flagship stores is in PLATFORM, an open-air spot that’s perfect for browsing, eating and shopping. This part of LA is also right in the middle of old school Hollywood culture (MGM studios built their lots here back in 1924) so the architecture is a beautiful mix of old and new. Add to that the easy distance from the ocean and Culver City is everything we love about Southern California. Here’s where we go when we’re off duty:
Loqui Tacos / Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
LOQUI—Everyone in Los Angeles has their favorite taco spots, and this one is definitely in our top five. Their salsa is always fresh and different, their tortillas are made from scratch (even the flour), and it’s an easy, delicious lunch spot. We also recommend ending your shopping day here with some chips, salsa and cerveza.
VAN LEEUWEN—It’s a good thing and also a bad thing that we’re right down the street from this ice cream spot. Family-owned and always using fresh ingredients, this is where you stop for a decadent treat. Don’t even get us started on their honeycomb ice cream scooped into a handmade waffle cone.
Hayden Wine + Oyster Bar Chef Ari
HAYDEN WINE + OYSTER BAR —The name says it all, and we love this oyster-slinging wine bar (their happy hour between 5 and 7pm is the best). If it’s too early for a glass of pinot, try their all-day menu of waffles, tartine sandwiches and salads.
TENOVERTEN—Redefining the traditional take on the salon experience, tenoverten offers a clean, unique space, and these guys really understand the simple pleasure of a manicure and pedicure. Their Quickie Dry Mani is the best if you need to pull it together in minimal time.
Poketo Interior
POKETO—This place is at the top of our gift-giving list. Owned by husband and wife team, Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung, this store has something for everyone—from unusual baby-shower finds, to brass pens for him and perfume for her. They also host regular crafty workshops, which is the perfect way to spend a Sunday.
ARCANA BOOKS—Situated within the former Helms Bakery complex (now home to the Helms Design Center) this not-to-be-missed bookstore specializes in hard-to-find art, photography, fashion, architecture, and design tomes. Their COFFEE TABLE BOOK SELECTION is unparalleled.
Bar and Garden / Destroyer Restaurant
DESTROYER—If you’re an early riser, this Scandi food spot serves up our favorite breakfast (we’re partial to the rye bread and jam combo, as well as the avocado confit on toast). The minimal, clean design pairs perfectly with this plant-based cuisine. Another reason to go early? Parking is a bit tricky in this Culver City hub and it gets crowded.
BAR & GARDEN—Everything you need to stock up your at-home bar, and these guys also do super fun tastings and events at least a couple of times a week. With shelves full of quirky, interesting wines and spirits, as well as super knowledgeable staff, it’s our go-to for tipple. Cheers!