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My favorite thing about living in LA, besides the food, is the beautiful topography and unique scenic vistas. Depending on the area you’re in, you might feel like you’re in Europe or South America. A prime example of this is the lush, hilly areas of the East Side with one-story houses, which remind me of Mexico City, and the Downtown Area, which has been used as a NY backdrop for countless movies and TV shows.
Whether it’s a hotel, a restaurant, or a fitness studio, recreating the same ambiance and charm you would find in the old continent is feasible albeit not easy, since many of these places are not widely known to the public. But hey, that’s what I’m here for.
This post is also meant to quiet naysayers who mistakenly believe LA is a one-dimensional city. I grew up in Spain and have travelled around the world and during my time in LA, I’ve had several deja vu moments.
Are you ready to take your European vacation minus the long haul from LAX? Buckle up and get ready for the LA European tour.
Burlington Arcade
This place is the perfect mini replica of one of London’s most iconic shopping destinations: Burlington Arcade! In London, the arcade features an array of jewelry stores and designer boutiques. The Pasadena version has a few stores and eateries, but don’t expect it to be as big as the London counterpart. I love how they took it to the next level by adding the iconic red telephone booth!
If you want to grab a bite there, I recommend stopping by Float Coffee: amazing coffee and great brunch options. Not to mention that you’ll be eating inside the arcade!
Don’t forget to check out Contessa Italian Foods. , which is located inside the arcade as well.
Paris Pilates
3110 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
This might be the cutest Pilates studio I’ve ever been to in LA! The concept is genius: chic Parisian apartment in the middle of LA meets Instagram. The owner of the studio, Jenny Williams, lived in Paris and dreamt of having a place that would transport her to the historic Marais neighborhood in Paris every time she walked in, and boy, did she nail it!
When I went there, I had an amazing workout. Even the music they played was French modern upbeat and hip-hop! Go to their playlist here. If you live in LA or you’re visiting and you want to get your workout in, Paris Pilates’ impeccable nod to the Parisian theme will transport you to France in a heartbeat.
Malaga Cove Shopping Plaza
Palos Verdes
Rancho Palos Verdes, best known as Palos Verdes or PV for locals, was the homeland to Native Americans, Portuguese, Mexicans and Spaniards between the 1500s and 1800s. Although the predominant architecture of Palos Verdes is Mediterranean Revival style, very typical in Southern California, the Malaga Cove Plaza is very reminiscent of the shopping area in one of Madrid’s most affluent neighborhoods: La Moraleja.
With its brick archways, fountain, restaurants and convenient stores, every time I’m in Palos Verdes and I drive by this specific area, it transports me back to Madrid. I didn’t grow up in La Moraleja but I have been there many times.
Yelllow Vase
51 Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Tucked away in Malaga Cove, there’s this charming European-inspired cafe. The prices at Yellow Vase are steep because you’re paying for the atmosphere.
Long Beach Naples Island
Skip Venice Beach and head straight down to Naples Island in Long Beach. If you are not familiar with Long Beach, it is the US city with the 4th largest population of Italian-Americans. Enjoy a nice meal at Cafe Gazelle or any other Italian restaurant in Long Beach (read my guide here) and take a walk along the beautiful canals of Naples Island.
Do you want to take your European experience up a notch? Book a reservation on The Gondola Getaway (yes, you didn’t read that wrong) to truly experience the beauty of the Naples Island Canals. Like it says on the website, riding on the gondola will be “a Venetian adventure through the canals of Naples Island”. No shade, but I think this place surpasses Venice Beach by a long shot. It’s less touristy, the water is much cleaner (you can even kayak along the canals), and it’s much bigger than the canals of Venice Beach. I saw these gondola rides while walking along the walkways and they looked amazing!! They’re also really big and the gondoliers even wear striped shirts to match the Italian theme. Whether you want to bring your special one, your friends, or even take yourself on a solo date, The Gondola Getaway is the closest you’ll get to Venice, Italy.
Do you need further proof to see that the gondoliers are not just going through the motions when rowing the gondolas?
Excerpt from their website
“To help facilitate the authenticity, we train a team to take to Venezia each year to row and race with the Venetians. We are the only American team to do so for the past 33 years. Our gondoliers bring back with them stories and experiences that they are able to add to the soul of the Gondola Getaway”
Pasadena
Pasadena City Hall
The first time I went to Pasadena City Hall, I immediately thought of Southern Spain with its Spanish Baroque-style dome. The City Hall was designed by John Bakewell & Arthur Brown, who were influenced by the early Renaissance style of 16th century Italian architect Andrea Palladio. Needless to say, every time I walk under the archways, it feels like I’ve just been teletransported to Spain.
I randomly found this picture on Instagram! It’s crazy that it was taken in Malaga yet it could easily pass for somewhere in LA. It never ceases to amaze me how uniquely diverse LA is.
Cara Hotel
1730 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cara opened in June 2020 and has quickly ranked as one of LA’s trendy spots. I’ve been to so many trendy restaurants and rooftops in LA where the food leaves a lot to be desired. Cara’s excellent menu options, including their drinks, will keep you coming back for more. Whether you want to enjoy a casual breakfast or a girl’s night out with your friends, Cara’s immaculate decor will spark your European wanderlust. The attention to detail that went into the design of this hotel is truly impressive. The dine-in patio is very similar to Le Patio at the famous Hotel de Paris in Monaco. Palm trees in the French Riviera are very iconic just like they are in LA.
St. Vincent Court
Downtown LA
This picturesque quaint little alley could easily pass as a European street, but it’s actually located in the bustling jewelry district of Downtown LA. Awesome, right?!
The alley boasts a mixture of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants, a French bakery and a traditional barber shop. It’s also adjacent to the jewelry center, which is HUGE. If you plan on going, grab a bite at St. Vincent’s Deli! From reading all the Yelp reviews, I could see that it was favorably ranked, and even local Middle Easterners praise their doners. Even though DTLA is being revamped with luxury high-rise buildings, superb restaurants and rooftops, some areas are still a little bit sketchy, so keep your wits about you.
Alpine Village
833 W Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90502
I kicked myself so hard for not having been to this gem before. Right off the 110-freeway on the Torrance city limit, is this German paradise.
Alpine Village Market prides themselves on being LA’s finest sausage shop. There’s also a deli, a bakery, and a restaurant inside! So many European brands that I grew up on took me back to Madrid, like Kinder Bueno and Chupa Chups. There are a few items that are pricey, which is understandable since everything is imported, but other items such as their chocolates, tins of sardines and other canned goods are reasonably priced. If you love sauerkraut and pickles, they have massive jars of both. Regarding the sausages, I’ve never seen so many kinds of sausages in one place, but I guess that’s Germany for you! I went to the deli and picked up a pack of chicken herb sausage, which is similar to the one they sell at Trader Joe’s. It was $8 but honestly, they’re double the size of the ones they sell at Trader Joe’s and they better!
Outside of the German market, you will find a replica of a quaint German village. I was surprised by the variety of businesses. Among them are a vintage cosmetic store, a wedding chapel, a clock repair shop and a travel agency.
I went on a weekday two hours before they closed, so everything was pretty dead. I can only imagine how festive this place gets on Oktoberfest. From the parking lot, you will see the Alpine Village Restaurant, where they used to host large parties with a buffet, but apparently the food was not that good. Even a German native wrote her disapproval of the food, and they closed it down permanently in February 2020.
Another German deli worth checking out is Schreiner’s Fine Sausages in Montrose.
Little Italy
638 S Beacon St, San Pedro, CA 90731
Most of you reading this will be shocked to know that LA has its own Little Italy. San Pedro has the 4th largest population of Italian-Americans in the US. This working-class city used to be the magnet of European immigrants back in the 1800’s, specifically Italians and Croatians. In 2018, Downtown San Pedro was commemorated with a Little Italy sign.
While this section of San Pedro bears no resemblance to Italy, you will find two restaurants that will make for an authentic Italian experience. For more information on Little Italy Los Angeles, visit the official website.
They DMed me on Instagram! This is what they said:
“Looking through your article, I noticed that you said Long Beach has the 4th largest population of Italians in CA. Actually, it’s San Pedro that has the largest (approx 40,000) of Italian descent! That’s why San Pedro was chosen for Little Italy. There are many multi generational Italian families here!” – @LittleItalyOfLA @LittleItalyofLAassociation (New username).
I also asked them about their favorite Italian restaurants in LA! All the links to these places are down below. I cannot thank @LittleItalyOfLA @LittleItalyofLAassociation enough for this list and for elevating this post to the next level! I’ve only been to Raffaello’s. FYI, all these places are located in San Pedro!
La Siciliana
347 W 6th St, San Pedro, CA 90731
Raffaello Ristorante
400 S Pacific Ave, San Pedro, CA 90731
To this day, I haven’t been to a place that was so authentic and true to the Italian culture. Eating there was like being in a restaurant in Italy: the family-sized portions, the waiters speaking Italian, the outdated decor, the freshness of the food…I really felt like I was dining at a restaurant in Rome. READ MY REVIEW HERE
Buono’s Pizzeria Authentic Italian Pizzeria
222 W 6th Street R-1, San Pedro, CA 90731
There is a second location in Long Beach.
La Bocca Felice
598-568 South Centre St, San Pedro, CA 90731
While I was walking through this part of San Pedro, I came across La Bocca Felice, a bustling Italian restaurant. Founded by Chef Nima Karimi in 2020, La Bocca Felice offers traditional Italian food, including seafood cuisine from all 20 regions of Italy. Iranian-born but raised in Norway, Nima said in an interview with randomlenghtnews.com that he’s been cooking Italian food for over 20 years. He used to be the chef at Avenue Italy in Palos Verdes and Matteo’s Pizza in San Pedro.
Besides their homemade pastas and pizzas, their tiramisu is also made on the premises.
A1 Imported Groceries & Deli
348 W 8th St, San Pedro, CA 9
They don’t have a website or Instagram.
“A-1 Imported Groceries opened in 1947 on 8th St in San Pedro, CA. This Italian market and deli specializes in sandwiches, but also has pasta dishes. The exterior features a river rock entrance wall, a plastic sign that likely dates to the 1960s and an awning trimmed with siding in the colors of the Italian flag. The interior is a small crowded grocery store with wood paneled walls and a long vintage glass deli case filled with meats, cheeses, olives and various Italian” – @lunabeat
That sandwich tho!! 😍😍
Laguna Beach
I used to watch the MTV show Laguna Beach constantly whenever I went to Mexico City. We had cable TV there so MTV was on at all times: MTV Cribs, Punk’d… those were the golden days. Laguna Beach was the start of my love of California: beautiful beaches; high schoolers that looked straight out of an Abercrombie ad; and the idyllic sunsets that created this idealized version of what it would be like to live in Southern California. Newsflash: Laguna Beach is a bubble! Even the cast members refer to Laguna as such. As beautiful as it is, I don’t know if I’d actually live there, but I love visiting it and the feelings of nostalgia I get will never get old.
Now that I live in LA, Laguna Beach’s theme song “Come Clean” by Hilary Duff is more evocative. When my mom first visited Laguna, she said it reminded her of her Ibiza and Marbella.
Here are a few places in Laguna that will satisfy your European wanderlust:
Capri Laguna
1441 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
White beachfront condos are ubiquitous in the South of Spain and Capri Hotel magnificently recreates the Southern Spanish essence with the white washed facade. Although you will see some Greek elements throughout the hotel, like white statues and a small Greek archway, the pictures instantly transported me to Spain.
I didn’t stay, but I went there and met with the manager, Nick, who was kind enough to show me around and even let me check out one of the rooms!
The hotel amenities include private beach access, a heated pool and an ample terrace on the second floor. When I was little, I vacationed in Huelva two years in a row and I remember walking the narrow stairs along the white walls to go up to our apartment. I definitely had a deja vu moment there.
This hotel is so uniquely different from all the modern concrete beachfront hotel facades you will find in Laguna. Capri Laguna is not that big, but the white-glove treatment you will get from the staff alongside the stunning waterfront vistas combined with the European-inspired decor, makes Capri Hotel a pseudo European getaway.
Did you know that Laguna Beach is one of the very few places in Southern California to have crystal clear water? When I first went there, the coves and the bluffs instantly reminded me of the ones you’ll find around the Balearic Islands in Spain like Majorca and Menorca.
Majorca:
Laguna:
Please remember that a lot of factors come into play for the water to be this turquoise blue color: sun, calm winds, small waves, etc. So if you go there and it doesn’t’ look like this, don’t be disappointed, you just didn’t get lucky.
Do not forget to go to Victorian Beach and take a picture by the mystical pirate tower!
For more information on places to go in Laguna, check out Lauren Conrad’s guide to Laguna Beach on her website.
Royal Palms Beach Park (San Pedro)
This place reminds me of the “paseo maritimos”, also known as beach promenades, that you come across if you go to any coastal town in Spain: benches, concrete pathways and palm-tree lined boulevards. I know you can easily find these in Santa Monica, but this specific beach has an uncanny resemblance, most likely due to its proximity to the water.
Chateau Marmont
8221 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
I have been to the Chateau Marmont quite a few times. Although it’s not my ideal go-to spot, given its immense popularity among celebrities and the no-photo policy, the place is a truly breathtaking piece of art. Once you step in, it doesn’t feel like you’re in the middle of LA, but rather in a private French chateau.
Like I said, the place mainly caters to celebrities and production events. Most Oscar after-parties are hosted here. If you’re not from LA, the Chateau Marmont has been a celebrity hotspot for decades since it opened back in 1930. It was the place where celebrities could go wild without being seen, making it the ideal hideout in LA. It also had its moment in the mid-2000’s during the heyday of celebrity pop culture with Lindsay Lohan, who briefly lived there and was later banned over her unpaid bill.
It’s hard to sum up the Chateau Marmont in just a few paragraphs, but if you’ve never been to it, it’s a definite must, and if you’re not familiar with it, it’s imperative to do your research on this historic LA landmark. I’ve eaten twice on the restaurant patio. The food is decent and the portions are surprisingly substantial. I agree that the food is overpriced, but after all, you’re paying for the location.
You have to make reservations. No walk-ins allowed.
Many places have popped up over the last few years like The Nice Guy and Catch. With this being said, the Chateau Marmont doesn’t hold the same value as it once did for paparazzis, so it’s probably past its prime. I believe they have become a little more lax on the no-photo policy and you may be allowed to snap photos inside, but don’t quote me on that. The place that seems to have taken the spot as the perfect celebrity hideout is the members-only club, San Vicente Bungalow in West Hollywood.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
“This National Historic Landmark allows guests to experience the enchantment of a European castle with The Inn’s one-of-a-kind architecture.” — historichotels.org
The property opened in the late 1800s, but it didn’t become a full-service hotel until the early 1900s. The architecture draws from many historical design periods that are typical in Spain, especially Moorish Revival Architecture.
If you go to the Spanish countryside, to this day, you will find castles that were built by the Moors in the 11th century. The Mission Inn transported me to the Spanish city of Toledo, which is famous for its medieval architecture.
I used to spend summers in a little town called Molina de Aragon. Many elements — the dimly-lit rooms, the wood accents and the old furniture — reminded me of some old-school Castilian restaurants located in the Spanish countryside.
I probably could have ventured further into the hotel, but I felt like an interloper, so I just stuck to the patio. It was really nice and I can only imagine how beautiful this place must get at night with all the lights.
I thought that the patio and the restaurants constituted the entirety of the hotel, but that could not be further from the truth. The hotel has an impressive number of wings, hidden passageways and tunnels that will truly make for a magical experience! If you want to get a feel for what it’s like being a Disney princess in a castle, just go to the Mission Inn.
Notable guests of The Mission Inn include Bette Davis, John F Kennedy and Theodore Roosevelt, among others.
Greystone Mansion
905 Loma Vista Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Tudor houses have a special charm that take you to an English country manor. The style originated from England in the late 15th century and you can find so many of these in LA, specifically in Hancock Park and Beverly Hills. The most famous one in LA is the historic Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills.
This 55-room mansion sits on 18.3 acres of land and has been the backdrop to many movies and TV shows like The Bodyguard, The Social Network and X MEN.
Stroll through the manicured gardens, enjoy the city views and relax to the sound of the multiple water fountains you will come across. It will take you at least an hour to walk through the entire grounds so make sure to bring sturdy shoes! Sometimes they hold tours inside the mansion for $20. If you’ve ever wanted to walk on a mansion property, but never had the chance, Greystone Mansion might be the only place to do so without getting in trouble. There’s also wedding photoshoots going on there all the time. The mansion reminds me of Oheka Castle in Huntington, NY, where Taylor Swift shot her Blank Space music video. Remember that one?
Phone pictures are fine, but no professional photography is allowed unless you have a permit. Admission is free!
Skypark at Santa’s Village
Less than two hours from LA, you can immerse yourself in the ultimate Winter Wonderland theme park in the tiny town of Lake Arrowhead nestled in the mountains of San Bernardino County. During the Christmas season, this place gets into the Holiday spirit with lights, Christmas characters, and activities that include a Polar Express train ride, Santa’s workshop, ice skating, and more unique and immersive experiences!
Skypark at Santa’s Village reminds me of the German fairytale Hansel & Gretel with the real life gingerbread house. They also sell fresh gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa. Santa’s Village is open during selected days throughout the year but obviously their busiest time is the winter season. The admission price changes according to the season. I also don’t think the option to meet Santa is available during summer months.
Separately from Santa’s Village, there’s a mountain bike park with trails open all-year round.
Getty Villa
17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Yet another taste of Europe in LA can easily be found at the Getty Villa, a landmark museum that specializes in the study of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. Get lost in the majestic gardens, and marvel at the ancient Greek and Roman art while breathing in the ocean breeze from the Pacific Ocean, which it’s just minutes away. There are two Gettys: this one, the Getty Villa, located in Malibu, and the other, the Getty Museum, in Bel Air. The Getty Villa is actually a replica of a luxurious villa called Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, Italy.
Admission is free, parking is $15.
El Cid
4212 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Flamenco originated in Andalucia and it’s deeply rooted in the gypsy culture. Flamenco shows are usually held on tavern-restaurants, where dancers and guitarists perform on tablaos (floorboards). It’s a beautiful art form and if you ever go to Spain, I recommend you to see one. But if you can’t, don’t worry! El Cid on Sunset has you covered.
“Originally opened in 1962, El Cid has long been Los Angeles’ premiere destination for traditional flamenco dancing and authentic Spanish tapas. The historic venue features numerous patios and a central location on West Sunset Boulevard in the heart of the Silver Lake neighborhood. Unpretentious and atmospheric, the iconic restaurant and bar offers guests a new experience.”
Shakespeare Bridge
Franklin Hills, Los Feliz
I’m a sucker for Gothic architecture. The Shakespeare Bridge was built in 1926 in the Franklin Hills area of LA. It is beautiful, but the only caveat is that you drive through it in less than 5 seconds and it’s not pedestrian-friendly as it’s very narrow. Despite this, it’s definitely worth a visit. The bridge overlooks the luscious green hills of LA with their ubiquitous palm trees.
Avalon, Santa Catalina Island
The photos of Avalon genuinely remind me of one of Spain’s Mediterranean islands. Santa Catalina is located 22 miles southwest of Los Angeles and is part of California’s Channel Islands.
There is a wide array of fun things to like cycling, kayaking and zip lining. There are no cars on the island, so your only way around is by golf cart or bike! Upon further investigation, I found out that the food is not that good and is, to no surprise, overpriced. But don’t let this be a deterrent!
There are round trips by boat that depart daily for Avalon from San Pedro or Long Beach for $74 round-trip. Since it’s an island, the food and vacation activities will be more expensive.
If you want to do a tour, book your desired activity on Catalinatours.com
Solvang
From my post “A Summer In California: The Best Day Trips From LA + Things To Do In LA”.
You may not go to Europe this summer, but you can easily fake it by visiting Solvang. This charming town is designed to be a pastiche of old Danish villages. I remember my first time there in December of 2017, when it was beautifully decked out for Christmas. I had the time of my life walking through this fairytale town with its authentic Danish bakeries and beautiful windmills. I ate at one of the restaurants that offered Danish food and it was delicious. If you want to go for the more local route, I recommend eating at Industrial Eats in Buellton, followed by a delicious pastry in Solvang while taking in the visually delightful Danish style architecture.
There are many Scandinavian restaurants in Solvang to choose from, but if you love a good traditional German sausage and would like to taste various types, head over to Copenhagen Garden House. In addition to the overwhelming amount of sausages to choose from, there are beers and sauces galore.
What to do:
Check out the mini horses at the Quick Silver Ranch (temporarily closed due to COVID-19)
Feed an ostrich and emu at the Ostrich Farm in Buellton!
Get lost in The Book Loft! This independent bookstore has been in business since 1970! It has a wide selection of new books on the first floor and used books on the second floor. It states on Yelp that they get visitors from all over the world, including those from Scandinavian countries in search of antiquarian books.
I was reading Weetzie Bat by Francesca Lia, a book about LA written in the late 80’s and she mentioned this place called Pea Soup Andersen’s Restaurant in Buellton. Apparently they have the best pea soup, which they have been serving to travelers for over 40 years! Another highly recommended place is The Hitching Post II.
If you’re a wine lover, I suggest planning a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley. Its amazing vineyards, wineries and hotels make for a nice getaway in the mountains.
Satisfy your taste buds at Bob’s Well Bread in Ballard to experience delightful handcrafted artisanal bread! It’s only a 6 minute drive from Solvang.
Note: Although Solvang is a two hour-drive from LA, it’s perfectly doable in one day! I’ve driven up there many many times to spend the day. Just make sure to leave early!
Capitola Beach
Santa Cruz, Central California
There is no denying the beauty of Central and Northern California and how the lifestyles differ so much much from Southern California. At Capitola Wharf, you can find these pastel buildings along the shoreline, reminiscent of an idyllic European village on the Mediterranean. Book a room at the Capitola Venetian Hotel for a delightful weekend getaway! It’s a very walkable area where you will find restaurants and cafes.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
5300 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130
“Our Mediterranean estate channels Tuscany under the California sun. Set alongside Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, our spacious luxury San Diego hotel rooms and suites partially overlook the lush golf course and manicured gardens. All 249 luxurious guest rooms are unique and distinctive, with exquisite details and architecture inspired by 1920s icon Addison Mizner. The ambience is an exotic blend of Spanish, Portuguese, Moroccan and Venetian styles.” – Website
Bicyclette – New restaurant!!
9575 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035
“Bicyclette is the newest Parisian-inspired restaurant from Chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke. This cozy, subterranean spot in the old Sotto space in Beverlywood is a traditional French bistro in every sense of the word. Unlike their other restaurants, the focus here is on French home-style cooking; simple, heavy dishes like caramelized onion tarte tatin, crusty baguettes topped with sardines, and beef short ribs served with golden potato mousseline that are so tender, you can slice through them with a butter knife. They will feature the best of Paris’s iconic bistro culture, inspired by California’s fresh, local produce.” – @wheresthebuzzla
I can’t wait to try it!!
République
624 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
This restaurant is all about the outstanding French Medieval theme. It’s as if you were inside a castle.
I brought my mom here when she was visiting and she absolutely loved it. The pastries are amazing, however, I was not impressed by the savory plates, like the Kimchi fried rice or the salmon toast. Their brunch menu items like their French Toast are solid, but I wouldn’t say they’re one-of-a-kind.
Bocaccio’s Italian Restaurant
Westlake Village
32123 Lindero Canyon Rd #110, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Seventeen minutes north of Calabasas, you can experience fine dining by a gorgeous lake at Bocaccio’s. You will not exactly be in Lake Como, but the stunning views along with Bocaccio’s Italian and other European menu items make this a very popular spot for wedding venues and couple anniversary dinners. Since Boccacio is not widely advertised in LA guides, it is considered a gem by its patrons thanks to the tranquility and tourist-free crowd. It is probably the most romantic spot in LA and it’s perfect for those who are looking for a scenic restaurant. Although Westlake Village is super far and borders Ventura County, it is part of the City of Los Angeles, which just proves the astonishing size of LA.
Also in Westlake Village:
Spa Relais
4700 Lakeview Canyon Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361
“Whether for an hour or an entire day, we invite you to experience the luxury of self-care and relaxation at Spa Relais. Surrounded by the beauty of the landscape and tucked away in the northern foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, our boutique spa immerses you in a European lifestyle embracing what the French call, “joie de vivre,” the joy of living. Harnessing the healing benefits of herbs, flowers, oils and minerals from the vine, sea and air, we offer custom treatments that speak to each of our guests’ individual needs. Relax your mind, restore your peace and revive your spirit at Spa Relais.” – Website
Roma Market
918 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104
Roma Italian Deli is the best one-stop shop for Italian goods in LA. Rosario Mazzeo, 81, who moved to LA from Italy in the 1950’s, is the owner of this beloved business which has been a mainstay in Pasadena since 1959. There, you will find imported-Italian products such as cheeses, cured meats, pastas and wines. However, the star of the show at Roma is Rosario’s famous sandwich, also known as “sandwich”, which he started making by request of a hungry customer. Upon walking into the establishment, you will see him sitting and watching you as you walk in and pick up one of his scrumptious sandwiches, which come in pink envelopes.
It was so good and reminded me of the sandwiches I used to have back in Spain growing up as a kid. The ingredients were flavorful and exceptionally soft — even the bread was not chewy! And this is coming from someone who is extremely picky with bread. It had the perfect balance between firm and soft. Unlike many sandwich and bagel joints I’ve been to in LA, where I’ve had sore gums for the next day, biting into this sandwich was super easy on my gums.
Another element that instantly brought me back to Europe was the fresh fruit outside in rectangular produce bins, and the butcher slicing the cold cured meats, something that you hardly see in the US anymore.
For more information, please read this caption from Rosario’s interview with @dylanandjeni.
Saso
37 S El Molino Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
The Spanish Colonial architecture of the Pasadena Playhouse Courtyard could easily pass off as the “Old Town” of any city in Spain.
Founded by American chef Dominique Crisp, this seafood restaurant draws its menu inspiration from three coastal regions: the Basque Country (Spain), the Pacific Northwest (Dominique is from Oregon), and Los Angeles.
After graduating from high school, Dominique lived in Forcalquier, a small town in the South of France, where he finessed his cooking skills and he collected his French influence. “Saso” is a play on the Basque word “Itsaso” for ocean. This centric seafood restaurant mainly offers food from the Basque Country with a French-flair. It doesn’t stop there — they also have soft Spanish guitar music playing in the background!
Cafe Beujolais
1712 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
This is probably the most authentic French restaurant in LA. All the waiters are French. From the intimate ambience to the exquisite food, you are bound to have a unique French eating experience here.
I ordered the Le Magret De Canard Au Miel Et Citron, which is oven-baked duck breast in honey lemon sweet and sour sauce. It was another level of goodness. When I went there, my dad ordered something else, but the winner was for sure my dish.
Other French restaurants in LA:
La Poubelle Bistro – (5907 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028) I’ve never been there, but given the location, there’s almost always a celebrity there.
Loupiotte Kitchen (1726 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027) – I remember having breakfast there in 2020 before the pandemic hit!! The food was amazing.
Figaro Bistrot (1802 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027) This cafe recreates the Parisian atmosphere to a tee. From the outdoor French bistro chairs to the interior decor, Figaro Cafe is the perfect place for a French breakfast. There are always people dining outside every time I drive by.
Creamy Spoon French Bistro (106 N Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91206)
“Creamy Spoon French Bistro by Chef Josette brings you an authentic taste of France right here in the heart of Glendale.” – Website
Le Petit Trois – Hollywood and Studio City. Read my review here.
The best omelette you will ever have:
Café Stella – ( 3932 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029)Read my review here.
Simonette Restaurant
3927 Van Buren Pl, Culver City, CA 90232
Meet In Paris French Bistro
9727 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
“Meet in Paris brings the Paris bistro to Culver City, serving classic French comfort food in a relaxed style. We want our customers to feel at home. Every aspect of the restaurant is crafted to leave our guests with a sense of satisfaction and well-being. We serve generous portions of full-flavored, hearty food. Our dishes are made from the highest-quality ingredients, presented in an elegant yet simple style that honors our French roots and expresses our passion for consistent excellence and creativity.” MeetInParisLA.com
Speaking of French cafes, there used to be a super cool French-themed restaurant called La Conversation, which was a neighborhood staple in West Hollywood. I went there a few times and it was one of the few places in LA that had the most authentic French-themed decor. The announcement of their closure in 2018 caused a great deal of sadness.
I will write an LA croissant guide this year so stay tuned!! Subscribe to my blog to stay up-to-date with the latest posts and get a notification when my LA croissant guide is live on the blog. Below are a few places to indulge in delicious, authentic, homemade croissants. If you close your eyes while chewing on the croissant, you might even feel like you’re in Paris.
Lou French On The Block
4007 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91505
Lou moved from Paris to LA in 2016 with his wife Karima and opened this bakery, which is one of the very few places in LA where you’ll be able to find authentic French pastries. Their almond croissant is considered to be the best one in LA. It’s a challenge to get it because you have to pre-order it online and they’re closed Monday through Thursday.
Pitchoun Bakery
545 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 DTLA
8500 Beverly Blvd #103, Los Angeles, CA 90048 BEVERLY CENTER
The owners are French!
Other bakeries:
Bianca Bakery
Bianca Bakery is a high-end bakery and restaurant dedicated to Italian, French, and Argentinian cuisine.
Gianni Vietina, his brother Nicola, and their father Alfio have run the prestigious Madeo Ristorante in Beverly Hills since it opened in 1985. In 2019, they partnered with Argentinian pastry chef Federico Fernandez and opened Bianca Bakery in Culver City.
Besides their food, Bianca offers a wide selection of pastries and organic bread, the most famous of which is their sourdough bread. The restaurant is not cheap but you’ll be getting topnotch quality food by prestigious chefs.
Regarding the croissants, Mona G shared on Yelp: “The croissant melts in your mouth”.
On the website restaurantij.com, someone said:
“I really think Bianca has the best pastries in Los Angeles. I take my pastries very very seriously and I don’t review restaurants very frequently. That said, I’ve eaten their pastries numerous times, every time they’re the best I’ve had in LA. They deserve awards.”
LA Chouquette
7350 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
The founder, Elodie, was born and raised in Paris and moved to NY 15 years ago before relocating to LA. Her croissants have also been approved by French customers, so you know they’ve got to be good.
There are so many more croissant places that I can’t wait to share with you!
Danish food
Open Face Foodshop
5577 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Experience authentic Danish food at its best. Read my full review here.
German food
Rasselbock Kitchen & Beer Garden
3817 Grand View Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066 CULVER CITY
4020 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807, LONG BEACH
Read my review here
More places:
Mondo Coffee
9559 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Papa Cristo’s Greek Grill
2771 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
“For more than 60 years, C & K Importing Company has been serving the Greek community on the same corner at 2771 West Pico Boulevard. Sam Chrys opened the market in 1948 with intentions to bring the foods and wines of Greece to Los Angeles. He did so by importing all products from Greece while still maintaining a low price to his valued customers and friends.”
Also, don’t forget to check out GEORGE’S GREEK CAFE in Long Beach!!
Other places:
Go to Fiore Market Café for the best sandwiches. Read my review here. The ambiance is very reminiscent of the South of France!
1000 Fremont Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Nicole’s Market & Café
921 Meridian Ave unit b, South Pasadena, CA 91030
“A small family-owned French market and cafe in the South Pasadena. In addition to serving a breakfast and lunch menu that will satisfy your craving for smoked salmon omelettes, croquet madames, Nicoise salad, toasted goat cheese salad, ham and cheese baguettes and other delights, Nicole’s market offers a wide selection of gourmet and unique products for all of us newly made home chefs.” –
@jessetorresca
Gjusta Bakery
320 Sunset Ave, Venice, CA 90291
This place is a staple in Venice. Stay tuned for Venice Beach food guide. 🙂
“Gjusta began in fall 2014 as a commissary kitchen providing bread and pantry items for our restaurants Gjelina and GTA, but quickly grew to be much more. Gjusta is a California deli, bakery, café, and market created to serve fresh, seasonal food to our community. Our menu, space, and offerings change as we go, evolving with the seasons and the needs of our neighborhood. Gjusta sources nearly all of its fresh produce directly from SoCal farmers and most of the meat and seafood from local ranchers, fishermen, and co-ops.” – Website
Do you have a favorite place in LA that feels like a European vacation?
