Los Angeles has a way of remaking itself every few years, but if you’ve been here long enough, you learn to find the stillness between the changes. I’ve been based in LA for almost two decades now, mostly on the East Side, and over time, I’ve watched my favorite corners of it evolve into something more layered, more textured. Some places disappear. Some reappear in new clothing. And some stay exactly as they are, like soft secrets. Here’s my take on where to go, what to seek, and how to fall in love with the city. — Gloria Noto

When I Want to Eat Beautifully

These are my standbys—where the lighting is good, the produce is glowing, and the vibe feels both local and layered.

Botanica (Silver Lake) – for daytime dates, and night time alfresco, produce-forward plates, and their pantry section you’ll want to take home.

Honey Hi (Echo Park) – A delicious cafe by my dear friend Kacie - casual, nourishing, and always hits when you want to feel better and taste something special.

Figueroa Bistrot (Highland Park) – an old-school French bistro that’s been around forever. It feels transported, moody, and dependable in the best way. Dont go for the food, go for the vibe. 

Sam’s Place (Highland Park) – neighborhood bar that feels like an LA local’s secret, with just enough atmosphere and great conversation energy. Honestly some of the best food in LA - bold I know. 

The Ruby Fruit (in Silverlake) - A queer owned wine bar with amazing food, great vibes, and a beautiful natural wine selection

Pace (Laurel Canyon)
A tucked-away canyon hideaway with an intimate, woodsy vibe and a clientele that includes a lot of "you’d never guess" musicians.

When I Actually Shop

I don’t shop often, but when I do, I go for places that feel like their own little worlds.

NOTO Botanics (Highland Park) – my own concept store, where skincare meets ritual, and you can find pieces I’ve made and curated—candles, books, tees, tools for the senses.

Sleeper (Echo Park) – a vintage shop with excellent curation—where the racks feel like the editor’s closet of your dreams. It used to be my secret, now more people know about it :).

Mohawk General Store (Silver Lake) – for that effortlessly styled, fashion-insider moment. 

When I Want to Be Inspired

These are the places that wake up the part of me that wants to make something.

The ICA LA (Downtown) – forward-thinking contemporary art in a space that doesn’t feel too precious.

In Sheep’s Clothing (East Hollywood) – intimate venue with sonic experimentation, live sets, and rotating performances that always feel like a discovery.

Untitled Love (Echo Park) – one of those rare bookstores that feels like a private collection. Beautifully curated titles in art, fashion, culture, and thought. You never leave empty-handed—or uninspired.

The Hollywood Farmers Market - Everything you can imagine wanting is there. From bread, to farms, to makers, to whatever. Bring a basket and go early.

The Schindler House (West Hollywood)
Architectural pilgrimage. Early modernism, lush gardens, rotating exhibitions. Feels secret and sacred.

Elysian Park (Echo Park)
Less curated than Griffith. More local. Feels like a secret picnic or a low-key outdoor nap spot.

Just for Pleasure

I love walking the Silverlake Reservoir. It's a fun place to people watch but also to get a good 2 mile walk in.

Taking a stroll along the LA river in frog town after a glass of wine at Justine's Wine Bar.

Sitting outside at Barra Santos in Cypress Park with a tonic and some fish on toast

Driving up to Mulholland Drive with the windows down in summer during sunset and watch the city light up

Seeing an outdoor film at the Hollywood Forever