Los Angeles is a city with many names. It is the land of sunshine. It is Hollywood. It is also sometimes referred to as the antithesis of New York. But for those who are living in the city itself, it is something far simpler. LA is a place of community. It is a refuge for artists and outsiders. Teeming with culture, new ideas, and sunny affection, Los Angeles is a place where anything is possible.
It is, therefore, not entirely unsurprising that we had decided to lay down roots in LA. Relocating from Hong Kong to Los Angeles back in 2023, LANG Founder Kayla Wong had always dreamed of setting up her own shop, a place where she could let her creativity run wild and provide a platform for creators within categories that hit close to home for herself: Asian and queer-founded businesses.
“LA has a creative energy that is unique to the city, it is the ultimate playground for anyone looking to bring their artistic visions to life,” Kayla says of LA. Fast forward to 2025 and LANG has celebrated its 1-Year Anniversary and also opened its flagship location in the heart of Chinatown Los Angeles. Nestled within the Central Plaza, we are lucky to be surrounded by historical shops and new visionaries alike.
As an homage to the bright city of Los Angeles, Kayla has put together her LA City Guide of places to eat, stay and visit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s something on this list for everyone. From quintessential Californian eateries, to farmer markets for relaxing weekend mornings, discover the best that LA has to offer. Read on to see the full guide.
TO EAT
Fig Tree
The quintessential LA experience - enjoy delicious Californian food with a beautiful view of the beach or people watch as passersby on bicycles and skateboards zoom by on the Venice Boardwalk. Keep an eye out for their special wood fire nights for mouth watering dishes that come straight off an outdoor grill!
431, Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
Thank You Coffee
One of my favorite coffee spots in Downtown LA. It is not only a coffee shop but you can also pick up cute gifts and trinkets! My favorite item to get is their Dodgers milk on their special menu, you can add either espresso or matcha to it! I won’t tell you what it is, you’ll just have to try it!
938 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Pasta e Pasta by Allegro
The best Japanese style pasta I’ve ever had. Perfectly al dente spaghetti with flavorful sauce. My wife and I will go almost every month and we take all our friends that come to town. My personal favorite is the Japanese style with mushroom and bacon but you really can’t go wrong with any of their dishes.
432 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Sushi Sasabune
Sharing one of my best kept secrets. An underrated restaurant that serves quality sushi. They have a sign that says they do not serve any special rolls and focuses on using high quality ingredients. A great spot for a simple date night!
11917 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
BCD Tofu House
I’ve been going to this spot since I was in college and it is in my opinion the best place to get sundubu jjigae! It has become a ritual of some sorts that every time my sister is in town it is a must for us to make a trip there. Might I also add that it stays open until 3am, so it is also a the perfect spot for a post party snack!
3575 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
TO STAY
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
One of the most aesthetically pleasing hotels I’ve ever visited. California chic where every corner is a photo op. Great service and don’t forget to try the food at the Palma - my go-to is their Plant burger or Black Garlic Caesar.
700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Kodo Hotel
A boutique hotel located in the heart of Downtown LA’s arts district, if you prefer a minimal space this is the spot for you. They also have a great Japanese restaurant and cafe that serves ceremonial grade matcha.
710 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90021
TO VISIT
Eames Foundation
When in LA it is a must to visit iconic houses. The Eames Foundation is one of a group of case study houses that have been preserved for the public to visit and to learn about LA’s architectural accomplishments.
203 Chautauqua Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
The Stahl House
If you are more into taking in the views of LA this is a must. Also part of the case study houses, this modernist house is designed by architect Pierre Koeing that has magnificent 180 views of LA. Move through it and picture yourself as the lead in a Hollywood movie.
1635 Woods Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90069
The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
My go-to museum spot in LA that is always putting up thought provoking and interactive exhibitions conveniently located in one of my favorite areas- Little Tokyo.
250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Mar Vista Farmers Market
When my wife and I first moved to LA, one of our missions was to go to as many farmers markets as possible to figure out which was our favorite. Hands down the Mar Vista one is the most fun and has the most variety of fresh produce and cooked foods. It is also a great place for people watching and just good vibes for a Sunday morning!
12198 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Rose Bowl Flea Market
The best place to find one of a kind vintage pieces that range from clothing to furniture to trinkets and things that you never thought you needed. You know what they say, one man's junk is another's treasure. Make sure to go early and pace yourself! It is a huge market that can take hours to get through, so just go with the flow and have fun!
1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103