As so many of our San Francisco friends are packing it up for the cheaper housing and exploding scene in Los Angeles, we find ourselves planning more frequents visits.
We recently offered up an in-depth look at the arty and tasty going-on in downtown L.A. Now, we're rounding the corner for a look at the neighboring Arts District, where a bustling lot of galleries, boutiques, creative spaces and loft homes are breathing new life into the area's old industrial buildings and warehouses.
If you are planning a trip to Los Angeles and want to see the hottest emerging art, this is the place to be.
Eat + Drink in Arts District
Art District Brewing Co. Courtesy of Art District Brewing Co
Explore hip bars, urban farm-to-table eateries...and pie.
BARS
The Resident(428 S. Hewitt Street) is a fusing of a bar, beer garden and music venue. Upon walking in, it's no surprise why this place is frequented by designers, architects and artists. The place has free concerts, a falafel wrap to die for, and delish hand-crafted cocktails, like the Naked & Famous with El Silence mezcal, Aperol, yellow chartreuse and lime. // Arts District Brewing Co(828 Traction Ave.) is an urban interpretation of the old school brewery. They brew more than 30 beers onsite including IPA, Pale Ale, light, and dark. There's no kitchen here, but there is a window connected to Fritzi Coop, where you can order take up to eat there. Also to note: there's an entire wall with skee-ball machines, and arcade games.
HOME-GROWN EATS + PIE
Located inside of the Houser & Wirth building, Manuela(907 E 3rd Street), not only has an art collection with original pieces by well-known contemporary artists like Paul McCarthy, Mark Bradford and Raymond Pettibon, but also chickens and a garden where they grow fresh veggies, herbs and fruit. Chef Wes Whitsell combines his Texan roots with SoCal flavors and artisanal techniques like in-house smoking, fermenting, preserving and pickling for a delicious seasonal menu. Favorites include the roasted pumpkin soup and Bloomsdale spinach with sesame vinaigrette, satsuma, almond and crisp parsnip. // Try secret recipes passed down in the family at The Pie Hole (714 Traction Ave). Opened by mother-son duo, Becky Grasley and Matthew Heffner, this intimate space is ideal for a cup of coffee or dirty chai and treat. The menu is updated often with new goodies. For a saccharine delight, try the Mexican chocolate, mom's apple crumble, and the strawberry lavender hand pie. Those looking for something savory can indulge in the chili pot pie or the chicken 'n cornbread pie.
