Elise Limbaga, Author at Circa LA

LA’s Breathtaking Beaches & Secret Coves

Memorial Day Weekend is here, so grab your sunscreen and pack your bag – we’re going to the beach! Whether you’re hankering to swim, walk along the shore, catch some waves on your surfboard, explore magical tide pools and sea caves, or just want to relax on the sand, we’ve rounded up some of LA’s most breathtaking beaches and secret coves. Many of Southern California’s most dramatic coastal treasures are located along Pacific Coast Highway, where you’ll find everything from sandy beaches to craggy rock formations, rare ecosystems, and dramatic vistas. If you want to explore more of our stunning coastline, California Beaches has a comprehensive guide including maps, hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.

Paradise Cove Beach Cafe near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Paradise Cove Beach 28128 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

Paradise Cove in Malibu is a public beach in front of the privately-owned Paradise Cove Beach Cafe. Paradise Cove is a great starting point for long beach walks. Heading east you’ll walk below some Malibu mansions, find some private beaches, and eventually end up at Escondido Beach. Heading west you can walk below steep sandstone cliffs all the way to Little Dume Beach and Big Dume Beach in Point Dume State Beach. When you’re ready for some refreshments, enjoy the iconic Southern California experience at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, the quintessential beach restaurant nestled right on the sand in Paradise Cove.

Carbon Beach near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Carbon Beach 22126 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

Also known as Billionaire’s Beach because of the lavish homes owned by famous celebrities and CEO’s right at the water’s edge. Carbon Beach is a south-facing, mile-long beach between the Malibu Pier at Surfrider Beach and Carbon Canyon Road. The water is excellent for swimming, calm with no rocks, and the sand is soft and cozy—perfect to laze out on a sunny afternoon. There are few places in Malibu that aren’t overrun with people, and this is one of them, so enjoy.

Abalone Cove Shoreline Park near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Abalone Cove Shoreline Park 5970 Palos Verdes Dr S Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is a coastal treasure on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in the Los Angeles area. The park contains an ecological preserve and is known for its outstanding tide pools. Trails meander on the bluff out to excellent views from two prominent points. Below these points are three separate coves with beaches and tide pools. Out at the end and right at the base of the points, you’ll discover amazing rock tunnels where waves crash through. Before you go, check out the tide charts. You’ll want to visit these beaches at low tide to take full advantage of the tide pools and tunnels.

Point Dume State Beach near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Point Dume State Beach 29245 Cliffside Drive Malibu, CA 90265

Point Dume is situated at the end of Malibu at a point where a dramatic cliff’s edge juts into the Pacific and drops down to a beautiful crescent-shaped beach. Operated by Los Angeles County, Point Dume State Beach features headlands, cliffs, rocky coves and vast beach access, noted for swimming, surfing, scuba diving and fishing. Point Dume is a perfect place to watch for California gray whales during the December to mid April migration period.

Leo Carillo State Park near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Leo Carrillo State Park 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

Leo Carrillo State Park features a stunning, ecologically diverse 1.5 mile beach perfect for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and beach combing. You’ll also find tide pools, coastal caves and reefs for exploring. The park offers campgrounds shaded by giant sycamores and back-country hiking. The park was named after Leo Carrillo a preservationist, conservationist, and actor, who served on the California Beach and Parks commission for 18 years. Leo’s greatest fame came from his portrayal of Pancho, the sidekick to Duncan Renaldo’s Cisco Kid, an early 1950s TV series.

Malibu Surfrider Beach near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Malibu Surfrider Beach 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

Popularized by surfing movies in the 1950s and 1960s, Surfrider Beach is the place to go for the ideal Southern California surfing experience. Malibu “Surfrider” Beach is part of Malibu Lagoon State Beach, which also comprises the Malibu Lagoon and the Malibu Pier. Malibu Lagoon contains 22 acres of wetlands, gardens, and sandy beach, while Surfrider Beach has almost a mile of ocean frontage with 0.7 acres of property. There is also a saltwater marsh; Adamson House, a National Historic Site housing many Malibu historical artifacts; and the Malibu Lagoon Museum, which allows visitors to walk through the history of the area from the days of the Chumash tribe, to the gentlemen ranchers, and finally to the birth of the surfing era.

El Matador State Beach near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

El Matador State Beach 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

El Matador State Beach is the most popular of the three beaches within Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach. Start at their parking lot on the bluff, with picnic tables that look out over the Pacific Ocean. A trail descends through unique formations on the face of the bluff, then stairs take you down to the beach. Explore north on the beach to discover caves and arches in the rocks. The largest cave faces the ocean at the bottom of a huge flat rock that connects to the base of the bluff. It’s best to visit these natural features at low tide, and pack some water shoes, as the rocks can be difficult to navigate. There are no services or amenities at El Matador, so bring your own beach towels, sunscreen, and picnic gear.

Lechuza Beach near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Lechuza Beach Sea Level Dr. Malibu, CA 90265

Lechuza Beach is a lesser-known public beach in Malibu located below homes at the northern end of Broad Beach Road, near El Matador State Beach. The State Coastal Conservancy granted the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority funds to acquire this spectacular beach property, which features exquisite rock formations, kelp forests, and scenic views. Sorry pet parents, no dogs are allowed on the beach.

Santa Monica State Beach near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Santa Monica State Beach Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, a short drive from Circa, Santa Monica State Beach is an iconic destination that draws visitors from around the globe. Extending over three miles and covering 245 acres of sand, the beach is managed by the City of Santa Monica in cooperation with California State Parks. With few Los Angeles beach options offering both large expanses of beach, bike trails and nearby activities, Santa Monica Beach has something for everyone. The Santa Monica Pier is a local landmark, featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and restaurants. Santa Monica beach is also home to the Original Muscle Beach (not the weightlifting kind, that’s Venice Beach) with gymnastic equipment including parallel bars, rings, swings and ropes available for kids and adults.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Visit Santa Monica

Photo #2: Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

Photo #3: California Beaches

Photo #4: California Beaches

Photo #5: California Beaches

Photo #6: California Beaches

Photo #7: Los Angeles County

Photo #8: California Beaches

Photo #9: Califonria Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority

Photo #10: Santa Monica Travel & Tourism

Discover DTLA’s Eclectic Asian Culinary Scene

Ever since the 19th century, Asian cuisine has played a vibrant role in the LA culinary scene. The unique ingredients, sophisticated kitchen tools, and flavorful preparation methods have inspired generations of chefs and expanded the palates of food lovers across the region. Not far from Circa, you’ll find traditional Asian neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little Tokyo, Historic Filipinotown, Thai Town, Koreatown, and the San Gabriel Valley, brimming with options from elegant eateries to casual street fare. Grand Central Market is home to a number of tempting spots, including Thai, Filipino, Japanese, and Chinese-American dishes. We’ve rounded up some of our DTLA favorites. Check websites for dine-in, takeout and delivery details.

Sticky Rice Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sticky Rice DTLA Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Serving authentic and original Thai street food in LA since 2013, Sticky Rice is a popular destination for “Thai Comfort Food,” dedicated to serving only the best organic, free-range, and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features rice plates, pan fried noodles, Tiger Steak, Hainan Chicken, soups and more.

Holy Basil Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Holy Basil718 South Los Angeles St. Unit A Los Angeles, CA 90014

Operating out of a tiny takeout window inside a Downtown food court, Holy Basil specializes in authentic Bangkok street food. Named one of the Best New Restaurants in Los Angeles by The Infatuation’s 2020 LA Hit List, Holy Basil offers many of the usual Thai menu items, such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Soup, along with more adventurous dishes, all served with a flavor twist that is at once herbaceous, pungent, and unabashedly spicy.

Sesame LA Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sesame LA 936 N. Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Sesame LA is a new mini-mart in Chinatown specializing in Asian pastry staples, as well as small batch and local goods from Pan-Asian makers. Sesame offers fresh produce sourced from local farms, along with prepared foods made by owner Linda Sivrican’s mother. The store also carries snacks, such as candied kumquats, and an array of kitchen utensils.

Hayato Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Hayato ROW DTLA 1320 E 7th St. #126 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Hayato is a Japanese restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine, known as “Washoku.” The restaurant is now open and serving made to order Bento Boxes. Bento in Japan can range from something as simple as white rice with a single umeboshi (pickled fruit) in the center, to extravagant special occasion meals. A typical bento is similar to a teishoku, a type of Japanese meal where all of the dishes in the course are served together as a set. Because Hayato is a kaiseki restaurant specializing in elaborate multi-course meals, their bento reflects a sense of sophistication, both in presentation and ingredients.

Au Lac DTLA Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Au Lac DTLA 710 West 1st St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Au Lac serves flavorful plant-based and vegan creations with Vietnamese roots and fusion flavors. The founder, Mai, sought a holistic approach of treating her difficult health conditions and found that a plant-based diet was key. After a remarkable recovery, she was inspired to combine her love for cooking and helping others by sharing the benefits of a plant-based diet with her delicious, gourmet cuisine. The restaurant serves traditional Vietnamese dishes, from elaborate noodle soups to sautées, grilled dishes and specialty sauces, using only plant-based and health-conscious ingredients.

Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill 1753 S. Hill St. #2 Los Angeles, CA 90015

Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill offers a large selection of its namesake pho bowls, all served with a side of beansprouts, jalapeno, cilantro, and limes. Basil is available upon request. You’ll also find oodles of noodles, dumplings, fried wontons, rice plates, salads, and more.

Shiku Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Shiku Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Shiku is a mom-and-pop Korean restaurant serving homestyle Korean food inspired by the doshirak (lunchboxes) that their mothers would make. Shiku literally means the people you share food with. Shiku is your family, not just the one you were born into but also the family you choose. Open for dine-in. Curbside pickup and delivery are also available.

Sari Sari Store Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Sari Sari Store Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Sari Sari Store is a Filipino concept from James Beard-nominated Chef Margarita Manzke, alongside partner and husband Chef Walter Manzke. In Filipino, “sari sari” translates into “whatever” and is used to describe commonplace stores that sell everything from candy to BBQ skewers. This contemporary take on casual Filipino dining is based around savory rice bowls or “silog,” that pull from Chef Margarita’s Pinoy heritage. Make sure to also try their highly praised sweets, Buko Pie and Halo Halo.

Moon Rabbit Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Moon Rabbit Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Moon Rabbit is an Asian tea and sandwich shop inspired by the great San Gabriel Valley. Specializing in traditional boba teas, bánh mì and katsu sandwiches, Moon Rabbit is brought to you by the beloved Sticky Rice founder, David Tewsart, and team.

China Cafe Asian cuisine near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

China Cafe Grand Central Market 317 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A recognized legacy among vendors, China Cafe opened in 1959 with the same menu and neon signs that have floated over the 22-seat counter since it opened. Now run by Susie and Rinco Cheung, the eatery maintains essentially the same menu now as it always has — a mix of Chinese-American favorites like chow mein and chop suey, plus noodles, fried rice, and the ubiquitous egg foo yeung.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Au Lac DTLA

Photo #2: Sticky Rice DTLA

Photo #3: Holy Basil

Photo #4: Sesame LA

Photo #5: Hayato

Photo #6: Au Lac DTLA

Photo #7: Pho Saigon Noodle & Grill

Photo #8: Shiku

Photo #9: Sari Sari Store

Photo #10: Moon Rabbit

Photo #11: China Cafe

Design Matters: Circa’s Lobbies are Finessed to Impress

Whether you’re a resident or visitor, when you enter the two lobbies at Circa, it’s hard to contain your amazement at the stunning reception and lounge areas. Designed by HansonLA, an architecture, interior, and urban design practice located in downtown Los Angeles, the lobbies’ soaring ceilings and opulent marble finishes exude sophistication and luxury. But perhaps the most striking design elements are the undulating feature walls.

Circa Lobby at Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

HansonLA notes that Circa’s design expression culminates in the sculptural shapes of the feature walls in the two main lobbies. Each wall is a single material pushed to its assembly limits in a merger of digital and hand craftsmanship. This approach carries through the project via a flow of color, pattern and textures.

Hanson LA Circa Lobby at Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The interior design for Circa purposefully integrates the design of the public spaces with that of the 648 living units. The mixed communal and individual organization is made luxurious through the custom application of premier finishes and European fixtures.

HansonLA’s strong principles come together to create comprehensive solutions for their clients, each showcasing conscious and meticulous design, such as the details seen Circa’s lobby wall design. Led by Douglas Hanson, AIA, the award winning design firm has an established reputation for integrating innovative design with the functional and technical requirements of each project. Their design philosophy looks for the synergies of a project and finds focus in its shared interests. The firm values making good use of space, maximizing resources, and drawing personality out of simple forms, creating beauty through familiar materials.

Guggenheim Bilbao Hanson LA near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

About HansonLA

HansonLA has a portfolio of over forty national and international projects that include cultural, commercial, mixed-use, and residential types that range in scale from object to urban campus. It provides comprehensive architectural services, from pre-design and programming, to design and documentation, to construction and project management. It also offers expertise in brand coordination, design research, and master planning. Photo: Douglas Hanson AIA, Project Architect, for the Guggenheim Bilbao by Frank Gehry and Associates.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Circa/Hunter Kerhart

Photo #2: Circa/Hunter Kerhart

Photo #3: HansonLA

Photo #4: Circa/Hunter Kerhart

Photo #5: HansonLA

Curated Picnics & Picture Perfect Parks

We could all use a breath of fresh air these days, and what could be more rejuvenating than a picnic. Sharing a meal al fresco with family and friends is a great way to slow down, relax, and commune with nature. And food just seems to taste better when enjoyed outdoors! If you’re celebrating a special occasion or planning a romantic soirée, consider booking a curated picnic. A professional picnic company will create a custom experience, including location, menu, decor, set up and pack down, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy. Or just grab a pretty picnic basket or insulated backpack, fill it with your favorite goodies, and head out to a local DTLA park. We’ve rounded up some great resources near Circa for you, and all the picnic people in your life.

Hollywood Picnics

Hollywood Picnics is an event company specializing in tailored picnic experiences, Hollywood style. Born of an adventurous heart and a need to offer something different and authentic, they offer a dining experience by creating romantic, moody picnics that will make you feel like you are sitting on a rooftop in Europe or in Central Park. They tailor picnics for any event and have a catalog of locations with views and peace. Through their Hollywood style set ups, they aspire to immerse you in a tranquil and inspiring space where you get the chance to relax, connect, and enjoy the moment with your loved ones. Book your picnic HERE

Party Picnic LA picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Picnic Party LA

Picnic Party LA creates personally curated pop-up picnics for life’s celebrations. Pick the package that best fits your experience and select from their add-ons to take your picnic to the next level. Choose your location, whether at home, by the beach or in the city, and they’ll set up your experience and make sure it’s ready upon arrival. They also check to see if permits are necessary in order to host an event at a particular location. All you do is show up and they do the rest so you can soak in the experience. Picnic Party staff return afterwards to pack and clean at the end of your picnic. Book your perfect picnic HERE

The Picnic Collective

The Picnic Collective specializes in styled, customized picnics for a luxury outdoor social experience. They take care of the set-up and pack down, so all you have to do is arrive with your guests for a care-free, memorable experience. The Picnic Collective rekindles the magical tradition of beautiful handmade picnics as you savor the ceremony of delicious food from a traditional wicker basket, shared in great company in California’s beautiful natural settings. From a romantic dinner for two and group gatherings to bespoke themes or unusual locations, their fine picnic dining experiences use locally-sourced seasonal ingredients that reconnect you to the pure joy of food. Book HERE

Grand Park picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Grand Park, with its majestic views extending from the Music Center to City Hall, provides Angelenos a place where they can come together to celebrate, reflect, and and play. Throughout Grand Park, open spaces are available for casual sitting, leisurely strolling, and dining al fresco. Grand Park has four distinct areas featuring amenities ranging from a restored historic Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain with a new wade-able membrane pool, a small intimate performance lawn, a community terrace planted with drought-tolerant specimen plants, and a grand event lawn.

LA State Historic Park picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Often referred to as the “Central Park of Los Angeles,” the 34-acre green space is situated next to the Chinatown Metro Gold Line stop, at the midpoint of an evolving 52-mile Los Angeles River greenway. Formerly referred to as “the Cornfield” by locals, the park is now home to grassland, orange trees, public art, and a mile-long run/walk trail. Park visitors can wander pathways and enjoy a view of downtown, as well as discover and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of Los Angeles. You can run, walk, ride a bike, have a picnic, fly a kite and even look for urban wildlife, such as birds traveling down the Pacific flyway.

Vista Hermosa Natural Park picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Vista Hermosa Natural Park 100 N Toluca Street Los Angeles, CA 90026

Located at the western gateway to Downtown Los Angeles, 10.5-acre Vista Hermosa Park is an urban natural park that boldly returns the serenity and diversity of nature to the Los Angeles urban core. Operated in collaboration with the Los Angeles Unified School District and the City of Los Angeles, the park features walking trails, streams, meadows, oak savannahs, picnic grounds, and a nature-themed playground amidst native Mediterranean vegetation.

Pottery Barn Picnic Basket picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Providence Woven Picnic Basket

Life’s a picnic! Embrace it with the Providence Woven Picnic Basket, which is finely woven with genuine willow and detailed with faux leather handles. The nautical navy-and-white striped interior makes it perfect for maritime and mainland adventures alike. Ideal for a day date or get together with friends, the basket is fully outfitted for two or four. Buy at Pottery Barn HERE

Frontier Picnic Backpack

With its highly functional design, sleek looks and service for four, the Frontier Picnic Backpack is every adventurer’s dream. Constructed of cationic dyed polyester and 420D polyester with faux nylon webbing, this 2-tiered backpack has adjustable padded straps, a heat sealed cooler on the bottom, and a dry compartment on top. Just fill it up and strap it to your back. Buy at Pottery Barn HERE

DTLA Cheese picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Cheese Grand Central Market Stall A-7 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

DTLA Cheese has introduced The Picnic Pack. This fanciful snackable cheese plate is the perfect thing to take to the park and share with friends. The Picnic Pack includes four cheeses, BobbySue’s candied nuts, corn nuts, cornichons, sweets peps, dried fruit, pear balsamic jam, beurre de baratte, marou mini chocolate bar, and a baguette. All that for $35, with an option to add salami. Available to order online for curbside pickup.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Party Picnic LA

Photo #2: Hollywood Picnics

Photo #3: Picnic Party LA

Photo #4: The Picnic Collective

Photo #5: Grand Park

Photo #6: Los Angeles State Historic Park

Photo #7: Vista Hermosa Natural Park

Photo #8: Providence Woven Picnic Basket

Photo #9: Frontier Picnic Backpack

Photo #10: DTLA Cheese

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Downtown Los Angeles

Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner. Time to round up your crew and head out for some soul satisfying Mexican food, washed done with a frosty Margarita or two, along with a shot of premium tequila or rare mezcal. Not far from Circa, you’ll find El Pueblo de Los Angeles, the birthplace of Los Angeles, which is now a historical monument, home to museums, exhibits, and the world famous Olvera Street marketplace. DTLA is also boasts some of the city’s most iconic and award-winning Mexican restaurants, rooftop oases, and craft cocktail bars, serving everything from traditional cuisine to chef-driven menus. Check website for opening hours, reservations and health & safety guidelines.

Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Olvera Street El Pueblo de Los Angeles 125 Paseo de la Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the birthplace of Los Angeles – El Pueblo de Los Angelest. Founded in 1781, El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (the Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels) is now a historical monument, home to free museums, exhibits, and the world famous Olvera Street marketplace. Olvera Street is now open for shopping and take-out dining. Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe, a historic landmark, offers authentic Mexican cuisine and fresh margaritas made with real fruits including strawberry, mango, cucumber and more.

Las Perlas near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Las Perlas 107 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Las Perlas is happy to announce that they will be reopening for patio service on May 3. The nation’s first mezcal bar, Las Perlas was established in 2010 in the historic Sante Fe building the DTLA Arts District. This Oaxacan style cantina exists as a living tribute to Mexico’s native spirit, mezcal, with the finest selection of more than 400 premium agave spirits in the United States. Las Perlas cocktails arrive garnished with everything from wild hibiscus flowers to the Oaxacan delicacy of spicy, roasted chapulinas, while also offering ice cold Mexican cerveza.

Pez Cantina near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Cinco de Mayo with Trejos Tacos Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Join Pez Cantina for an exclusive event with Trejos Tacos on Thursday, May 6th from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. Ticket Includes Three-Course Meal created by Pez Cantina and Trejos Tacos. There’ll be a Taco Eating Contest judged by Danny Trejos, along with live music, prizes and giveaways. Pez Cantina is a sustainable Coastal Mexican-style restaurant and bar serving the freshest sea-to-land dishes in an oasis-type atmosphere. The menu focuses on dishes from the many distinct regions of Mexico, from Baja, to Oaxaca and the Yucatan Peninsula. A fine-tuned selection of bright and eclectic cocktails, California-focused wine list and craft beers, round out the Pez Cantina menu.

Broken Shaker near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Broken Shaker Freehand Hotel 416 W. 8th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014

An oasis in the heart of Downtown LA, Broken Shaker, located on the Freehand Hotel rooftop pool deck, offers an eclectic menu of handcrafted cocktails and small bites. A James Beard Award finalist and winner of Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award, Broken Shaker serves up delicious cocktails, infused with homemade elixirs and exotic ingredients, bringing the flavors of the beach to the center of the city. Reservations for pool and Broken Shaker are required.

Guerilla Tacos near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Guerilla Tacos 2000 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

From a popular food truck, Guerilla Tacos has evolved to a contemporary restaurant and bar specializing in great margaritas and other craft cocktials, along with world-class dishes inspired by the flavors of the city, made with local ingredients and served on a tortilla. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on their festive outdoor paito. All of the proceeds from select items on May 5 will go to Save the Children.

LA Cha Cha Chá near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Cha Cha Chá 812 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The sister location of Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City, LA Cha Cha Chá recently opened in a chic outdoor rooftop space in the Arts District. The restaurant offers gorgeous views of DTLA and a notable menu by Mexico City-born, LA-raised chef Alejandro Guzman. There are traditional starters like aguachile and ceviche, but also chicharos de sierra with fresh peas, serrano aioli, and crispy potato – a revamped family recipe. Cha Cha Cha ioffers a tacos and tostada menu, along with more substantial dishes like grilled fish, charcoal roasted chicken, and a pork shoulder confit carnitas with braised beans and pico de gallo.

Veranda Al Fresco near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Veranda Al Fresco Hotel Figueroa 939 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Chef AJ McCloud is serving an authentic Mexico City-inspired menu, befitting the tropical vibe at Veranda Al Fresco, DTLA’s urban oasis at Hotel Figueroa. Discover a tasty, simple street taco menu paired with an intriguing selection of craft cocktails. Salud y buen provecho!

Mezcalero near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mezcalero 510 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

The name that says it all. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Mezcalero, a small, laid-back joint in the heart of DTLA. These homey digs present a dizzying selection of mezcal. tequila and other agave spirits, along with craft beer and Mexican street food. The down to earth staff, lead by mixologist Nathan McCullough, loves sharing and shaking up our cocktails while generating a welcoming environment for all. Mezcalero offers daily happy hour specials, Open for dine-in, delivery and takeout. Salud!

Bar Ama near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Bar Amá 118 W 4th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

This Tex Mex hot spot will tingle your tummy with specialities like fideo and borracho beans with cilantro and pork belly, simmering on the stove. Chef Josef Centeno created Bar Amá as his interpretation of the food he was nurtured on by the women who raised him, and the menu reflects that comfortable sense of home. The bar offers a great selection of tequilas and mezcals, along with absinthe, whiskey, gin, beer, wine, and more. Open for pickup, delivery and patio dining.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe

Photo #2: Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe

Photo #3: Las Perlas

Photo #4: Pez Cantina

Photo #5: Broken Shaker

Photo #6: Guerilla Tacos

Photo #7: LA Cha Cha Chá

Photo #8: Veranda Al Fresco

Photo #9: Mezcalero

Photo #10: Bar Amá

That’s Amore: Savor the Flavor of Italy in DTLA

Did you know that downtown Los Angeles was once the epicenter of a thriving Little Italy? LA’s earliest Italian enclave, dating back to the 19th century, was located near the Los Angeles Plaza, at what is now El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. A great place to learn more about this fascinating history is the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles, located in the historic Italian Hall, which was constructed in 1908 to serve as a gathering place for the Italian community.

Italian American Museum of Los Angeles near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Italian American Museum of Los Angeles 644 N Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Just a short distance from Circa, the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles will be reopening soon to the public. But you don’t have to wait to savor the flavor of Italy. From authentic trattorias to handmade organic pasta cucinas, and chef-driven ristorantes, you’ll find some of the best Italian restaurants in DTLA. Now that’s amore! Check websites for reservations and health guidelines.

Bestia Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Bestia 2121 E 7th Pl. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Arts District darling Bestia is open and accepting reservations in accordance with LA city guidelines. Owned and operated by husband and wife Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, the menu features a generous selection of authentic Italian stalwarts such as antipasti, pizzas, pasta, secondi (fish, lamb, steak), finished off with dolci (mascarpone rice pudding, crème fraîche panna cotta, and bar au chocolat bittersweet chocolate budino tart). Buon appetito!

Rossoblu Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Rossoblu City Market South 1124 San Julian St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Rossoblu is open for dining on their heated outdoor patio. The restaurant tells the story of the two places Chef Steve Samson considers home – Los Angeles and Bologna, Italy. The menu features handmade pastas, fresh produce, and an extensive in-house butchery and salumi program. The wine list offers unique Italian and Californian varietals. At its core, Rossoblu is a true family-owned and operated restaurant, with Steve’s wife Dina helming the operations and long time friend and partner Hans Luttmann leading a team that has become family.

The Factory Kitchen Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Factory Kitchen 1300 Factory Pl. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Located in the heart of the DTLA Arts District, The Factory Kitchen is a trattoria in a reclaimed factory space serving traditional Italian fare, including delicate house-made pastas, fresh seafood and focaccinas. The Factory Kitchen is open for outdoor dining on their spacious patio. You may also dine indoors with limited seating. Reserve online at Open Table.

BRERA Ristorante Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

BRERA Ristorante 1331 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

A multi-regional Italian Osteria by Chef Angelo Auriana and Matteo Ferdinandi, BRERA Ristorante is a hybrid of an informal osteria with rather formal cooking in an elegant setting. A concept influenced by the artsy-cool BRERA neighborhood in Milan Italy, it displays Chef Angelo’s personal culinary identity that emphasizes on the importance of the highest quality fresh ingredients and the use of cooking techniques that are meant to highlight their true flavors, presented in a minimalistic way. BRERA is open for outdoor dining. Limited seating is now available indoors and must be reserved on OpenTable.

Maddalena Restaurant Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Maddalena Restaurant 737 Lamar St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

Maddalena Restaurant is a popular trattoria-style restaurant located within the San Antonio Winery in downtown Los Angeles. They offer a variety of freshly made Italian entrées that range from fresh pastas, grilled meats, gourmet salads and sandwiches, along with seasonal wine flights from their winery. Enjoy outdoor dining in their patio garden or inside with limited seating.

Maccheroni Republic Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Maccheroni Republic 332 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Maccheroni Republic specializes in handmade fresh organic pasta, crafted daily in-house using organic flour and organic semolina. In addition to a variety of authentic Italian pasta dishes, the restaurant serves an array of fresh appetizers, salads, sweets, and an extensive wine and beer list. No reservations required. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

Drago Centro Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Drago Centro 525 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Drago Centro is one of downtown LA’s premier dining destination for fans of authentic Italian Sicilian cuisine with an innovative edge and impeccable service, Executive Chef Celestino Drago’s menu is delectably approachable and features a signature selection of innovatory Italian dishes including house-made pastas, savory steaks and elegant desserts. Complemented by managing partner Piero Selvaggio’s extraordinary personalized service and unprecedented wine knowledge, this exclusive team brings satisfaction to any palate, while creating an indelible experience showcasing the essence and magic of Drago Centro’s outdoor dining patio.

Colori Kitchen Italian restaurant near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Colori Kitchen 429 W 8th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Colori Kitchen is a small neighborhood restaurant located in a petite storefront on 8th Street in the Downtown Historic District, offering country-style dining reminiscent of an authentic Italian trattoria. Chef Luigi Barducci Contessi, along with his wife Paola, serve top quality homemade Italian food at affordable prices, adding to people’s dining experience the warmth, and of course a bit of the drama, that only a real Italian family can offer. Open for dine-in with limited space. Walk ins are welcome.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Rossoblu

Photo #2: Italian American Museum of Los Angeles

Photo #3: Bestia

Photo #4: Rossoblu

Photo #5: The Factory Kitchen

Photo #6: BRERA Ristorante

Photo #7: Maddalena Restaurant

Photo #8: Maccheroni Republic

Photo #9: Drago Centro

Photo #10: Colori Kitchen

Artful Inspiration: LA Museums & Cultural Institutions Reopen

Art lovers rejoice. LA’s favorite museums and cultural institutions are welcoming back visitors with new exhibitions and multi-media installations to explore, many just a short distance from Circa. The big news is the immersive Van Gogh exhibition, which opens in late May. We strongly advise you to get your tickets online now, as capacity is limited and demand is high. Please note that most venues require tickets to be purchased in advance. Check websites for health guidelines and other details.

Circa living room with view museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

A vibrant, thought-provoking exhibition can inspire your own personal art collection. Circa’s light-filled residences, with soaring ceilings and breathtaking views, will make you feel like you’re living in your own private gallery.

Circa corner nook museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

A cozy corner can be a great space to display your art, creating an element of drama and surprise.

Circa Bedroom museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Don’t overlook the bedroom when hanging your art. A colorful painting can enhance your space with a distinctive touch.

Atelier des Lumières museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibition Los Angeles

From the creators of the blockbuster exhibit seen by over 2 million visitors in Paris and after a sold-out run in Toronto, the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit makes its mark at a super-secret location in the heart of LA. Lose yourself in 500,000 cubic feet of monumental projections animating Vincent van Gogh’s oeuvre. Wander through entrancing, moving images that highlight brushstrokes, detail, and color – truly illuminating the mind of the genius. The exhibit is designed and conceived by Massimiliano Siccardi, with soundtrack by Luca Longobardi, who both pioneered immersive digital art experiences in France.

LACMA museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LACMA 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036

LACMA is open with with six new exhibitions including a video installation by artist Bill Viola called Slowly Turning Narrative, works by Japanese portrait artist Yoshitomo Nara and an exhibition called Cauleen Smith: Give It Or Leave It, which is made up of film, video, and installations by the L.A. artist. Visitors are required to make a reservation for a timed entry online and undergo an online health screening.

UNCONCEALED by Leticia Maldonado museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

UNCONCEALED by Leticia Maldonado FIGat7th 735 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Bringing a positive ray of light to the city, UNCONCEALED by Leticia Maldonado illuminates FIGat7th through neon shooting stars, twinkling constellations, an etched moon, a hand painted skyline, and suspended neon roses to create daytime and nighttime window displays. Leticia Maldonado is a Los Angeles based multi-media sculptor who uses illuminated glass sculpture as a primary medium, working with the smallest diameter glass available to achieve exacting detail in her work. UNCONCEALED at FIGat7th is free and open to the public.

Hauser & Wirth LA museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Hauser & Wirth LA 917 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Hauser & Wirth LA is now open with a new exhibition The Great American Fact by Amy Sherald, one of America’s defining contemporary portrait artists. The Great American Fact presents five works produced in 2020 that extend the artist’s technical innovations and distinctive visual language. Sherald is acclaimed for paintings of Black Americans at leisure that achieve the authority of landmarks in the grand tradition of social portraiture. Hauser & Wirth is a leading international contemporary and modern art gallery with spaces in Los Angeles, Zurich, London, Somerset, New York, Hong Kong, Gstaad and St. Moritz.

Cakeland LA museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Cakeland The Beauty War 936 Mei Ling Way Los Angeles, CA 90012

Located in the heart of LA’s Chinatown, Cakeland’s The Beauty War is a lush, immersive fine art installation. It is also a mirror maze, and a transcendental, emotional, and mind-expanding beauty experience. The Beauty War is not another food pop-up gallery, but a meaningful personal challenge. The title of the show, The Beauty War, refers to an integration of light and dark natural forces. You will see repeated examples of this light-and-dark integration in the exhibition. There are no clear answers, only suggestions. Draw your own conclusions for the best experience.

ICA LA museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

ICA LA 1717 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Institute of Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (ICA LA) is excited to welcome back visitors by appointment Wednesday through Sunday. On view now is The Inconstant World, featuring nine international artists whose work examines the relationship between perception and abstraction, focusing on visibility and illegibility as artistic strategies. With the body, language, and the experience of time as points of departure, the exhibition engages the limitations of representation and images as sites of interpretation. Opened in September 2017, ICA LA is an epicenter of artistic experimentation and incubator of new ideas in downtown Los Angeles.

Petersen Automotive Museum museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Petersen Automotive Museum 6060 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036

The museum is reopening with three new exhibitions. The main exhibit is Supercars: A Century of Spectacle and Speed made up of about 30 really fast cars, Extreme Conditions featuring vehicles modified with extreme off-road capabilities, and Redefining Performance, a look at Porsche technology in its race cars and production vehicles. Visitors will need to make an appointment and will have two hours to walk through the venue. The Vault will be open with a separate ticket required.

The Autry Museum of the American West museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Autry Museum of the American West 4700 Western Heritage Way Los Angeles, CA 90027

The Autry rides again with the annual exhibition Masters of the American West, which is made up of paintings and sculptures by more than 60 Western artists, and When I Remember I See Red, comprising pieces from 40 Native American artists. The Autry is a museum dedicated to bringing together the stories of all peoples of the American West, connecting the past with the present to inspire our shared future. Advance reservations required.

The Hammer Museum museums and exhibitions near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Hammer Museum 10899 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024

The Hammer Museum is reopening on April 17 and welcoming visitors to their new exhibition Made in L.A. 2020: a version. The fifth iteration of the Hammer’s acclaimed biennial bridges east and west with complementary presentations at the Hammer and The Huntington. The Hammer Museum at UCLA believes in the promise of art and ideas to illuminate our lives and build a more just world by championing the art and artists who challenge us to see the world in a new light. Free advance reservations are available on a first come, first served basis every other Tuesday.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Atelier des Lumières

Photo #2: Circa LA

Photo #3: Circa LA

Photo #4: Circa LA

Photo #5: Atelier des Lumières

Photo #6: LACMA

Photo #7: FIGat7th

Photo #8: Hauser & Wirth LA

Photo #9: Cakeland LA

Photo #10: ICA LA

Photo #11: Petersen Automotive Museum

Photo #12: The Autry Museum of the American West

Photo #13: The Hammer Museum

Discover LA’s Artisanal Wine Country

Did you know that Los Angeles County encompasses six different American Viticultural Areas or AVAs? The AVA on a wine label indicates the specific geographical area a wine comes from and where the grapes are grown. Los Angeles has a storied history of wine-making – in fact, LA was once called the “city of vines.” Commercial winemaking began in downtown Los Angeles in 1833 when Jean-Louis Vignes built his winery near what is now Union Station. Throughout the 19th century, many acres of grapevines grew right where contemporary landmarks now stand, such as the Bradbury Building and Angels Flight, and a number of downtown streets are named after old winemakers. Today you can visit artisanal wineries throughout the region, including Pasadena, Santa Clarita, Bel Air, Malibu, and even DTLA. Check websites for opening hours and health guidelines.

Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Wine lovers rejoice. Circa kitchens, in select residences, come equipped with under-counter wine storage to keep your bottles at the optimal temperature.

Our stylish kitchen island is the perfect spot for you to conduct your own wine tastings at home – with an epic view.

Malibu Family Wines winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Malibu Family Wines 28001 Dorothy Dr. Agoura Hills, CA 91301

Malibu Family Wines specializes in crafting unforgettable experiences around premium wines. With 70,000 vines on the 1,000 acre Semler Family ranch nestled in the hills of Malibu, Malibu Family Wines produces over 12 different varietals between the Semler and Saddlerock brands. Perfectly positioned at the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains, the vineyards are quite unique, and the rocky terrain and steep south facing slopes provide the ideal environment for growing premium wine grapes.

Malibu Wine Hikes winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Malibu Wine Hikes 32111 Mulholland Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

Malibu Wine Hikes promotes getting outdoors and being healthy while learning about vitaculture, enology and local conservation efforts. Hike through the vineyards, see some incredible views, explore Chumash cave paintings and more. The hike covers about 2 miles in total, so make sure you have your walking shoes on and bring a water bottle. Make reservations HERE

Morago Bel Air winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Moraga Bel Air 1070 Moraga Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90049

Moraga Vineyards is one of the most unique wine estates in California. Located at a 550-900 foot elevation in the Santa Monica Mountains in the Los Angeles community of Bel Air, the winery and vineyard is the source of remarkably refined wines that perfectly reflect a union of distinctive terroir and the gentle guidance of focused winemaking. Throughout its history, the wines of Moraga Bel Air have been coveted and highly praised by wine experts such as Robert Parker, Jr. of The Wine Advocate. Since 2013, the winery has been owned by Rupert Murdoch, who has made the property his West Coast home and is committed to carrying on the legacy of producing top quality wine from one of California’s most unique estate wineries.

Old Oak Cellars winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Old Oak Cellars 2620 E Foothill Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91107

Pasadena’s only working winery, family-run Old Oak Cellars brings 20+ years of skilled winemaking traditions to the LA region. Old Oak is dedicated to the creation of award-winning artisan red and white Bordeaux style wines made from vineyards in Northern California’s famous Alexander Valley. After the grapes are harvested, the young wine is then aged and blended to perfection, spending time in stainless steel tanks before heading into a mixture of French, European and American oak barrels. Old Oak’s winemakers spend time getting to know the flavor development of the wines, sometimes blending different varietals for the utmost in flavor and intensity.

Angeleno Wine Company winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Angeleno Wine Company 1646 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

When Jasper Dickson and Amy Luftig Viste founded Angeleno Wine Company in 2019 – the first winery in the city of Los Angeles since Prohibition – they wanted to reconnect with the city’s winemaking tradition, one that many Angelenos know nothing about. With a focus on unique varietals, Angeleno Wine Company aims to push the boundaries of what Southern California wine growing can be, working with small vineyards in the beautiful, remote corners of Los Angeles County such as Agua Dulce and the Antelope Valley. Angeleno Wine Company is open for to-go wine pick-ups and deliveries.

San Antonio Winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

San Antonio Winery 737 Lamar St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

A historical landmark since 1965, San Antonio Winery remains the oldest and largest producing winery in Los Angeles with over 100 years of winemaking, making it an essential component of the city’s cultural and historical landscape. Founded in 1917 by Santo Cambianica, the winery continues to be a family-owned and operated business, with four generations of the Riboli Family. Although the winery experience looks a little different during these unprecedented times, you can expect the same welcoming hospitality, authentic Italian cuisine, and seasonal wine flights to enjoy on their outdoor patio.

Pali Wine Co winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Pali Wine Co. 811 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Take a seat and have a sip on the open patio at Pali Wine Co. in LA’s buzzing Arts District. Founded in 2005 with the intent to produce Burgundy-inspired wines from California’s Central Coast, Pali Wine Co. now consists of three brands with distinct focuses. The original Pali brand focuses on premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sourced primarily from Pali’s own Santa Rita Hills and Sonoma vineyards. The newest brand, Neighborhood Winery, specializes in interesting blends that often push the boundaries of conventional wine flavor profiles. All wines are meticulously crafted at Pali’s Lompoc-based winery under the direction of its long-time winemaker, Aaron Walker.

Agua Dulce Winery near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Agua Dulce Winery 9640 Sierra Hwy. Santa Clarita, CA 91390

If you want to take a fun day trip, Agua Dulce Winery is a 90 acre, family owned and operated winery and vineyard located just 45 minutes north of downtown Los Angeles. Open now for outdoor dining, reserve your seat in advance and select your bottle of locally sourced wine. Wines from Agua Dulce Winery have won multiple medals in several national wine competitions, recognized for their hand-crafted approach to wine making, along with a vineyard blessed with natural soils, climatic and geographic advantages unique to the Sierra Pelona Valley.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Morago Bel Air

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Circa

Photo #4: Malibu Family Wines

Photo #5: Malibu Wine Hiles

Photo #6: Moraga Bel Air

Photo #7: Old Oak Cellars

Photo #8: Angeleno Wine Company

Photo #9: San Antonio Winery

Photo #10: Pali Wine Co.

Photo #11: Agua Dulce Winery

Freshen Up: Where to Shop for Produce in DTLA

Now that the weather is getting warmer, we’re starting to eat different, swapping out wintry comfort foods for lighter, fresher fare. You’ll find a bounty of culinary inspiration nearby Circa, at local farmers markets and shops specializing in delicious produce and artisanal food items. The Southland Farmers’ Market Association is a great resource for discovering what fruits and vegetables are in season in the coming months. Toss yourself a fruit salad dressed with locally-produced honey. Roast up a pan of mixed vegetables, brushed with an excellent olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. Or experiment with steamed mixed greens, spiked with zesty condiments, garlic, and scallions. From Grand Central Market to specialty grocery stores and open air markets, you’ll get a fresh outlook when you shop for produce in DTLA. Check websites for opening hours and health guidelines.

GROW The Produce Shop near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

GROW The Produce Shop 300 S Santa Fe, Ste. C Los Angeles, CA 90013

Billing itself the “Biggest little market in the Arts District,” family-owned GROW specializes in food that is as local, organic and sustainable as possible. In addition to farm fresh fruits and vegetables, they recently partnered with The Bread Lounge to offer deli sandwiches. You’ll also find GROW salads, side dishes, cold pressed juice, soups, and more. Shop in-store or order online for home delivery HERE

The Wall Farmers Market produce near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Wall Farmers Market 766 Wall St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Located in the Los Angeles Flower District, The Wall Farmers Market provides a chef-centric selection of high quality, certified farm fresh produce that benefits and supports California small and mid-sized farms. The Wall Farmers Market helps build the health and overall quality of the community in which we work, live and play in DTLA. Open Saturdays 9am-2pm. Parking structures are located on Maple Street and San Julian Avenue.

7th St Produce Market near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

7th Street Produce Market ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Gather inspiration and fresh ingredients at the 7th Street Produce Market, a five-acre open air market located at ROW DTLA. 7th Street Produce Market is an evolution of the historic LA Terminal Market, celebrating the community of workers that has fueled the city’s vibrant food culture for over 100 years. The market continues to be a major hub for produce distribution across the region. Open to the public Monday – Saturday.

Torres Produce near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Torres Produce Grand Central Market Stall D-7 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A downtown landmark since 1917, Grand Central Market, brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA. If you’re shopping for fresh produce, be sure to visit Torres Produce, a produce stand offering a fresh selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Valeria's Groceries near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Valeria’s Grand Central Market Stall D-6 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Kick your cooking up a notch with some zesty ingredients. Valeria’s specializes in Latin dry goods, offering an extensive selection of dried chilies, spices, and beans, as well as fresh moles, New Mexico pine nuts, dried bacalao, and canned specialties.

Historic Core Farmers Market groceries near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Historic Core Certified Farmers Market 209 W 5th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The Historic Core Farmers Market reflects the incredibly diverse community in the Historic Core. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you’ll find local honey, farm fresh eggs (free range and sprout-fed); breakfast and brunch items; sweet pastries and empanadas; Mediterranean dips and spreads; flowers; dog food and pooch products. Along with fresh local groceries, there’s a selection of prepared food and drinks including fresh juices and lemonade, coffee, tacos, breakfast burritos, pupusas, and much more. Open every Sunday 9am-3pm.

Whole Foods Market produce near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Whole Foods Market 788 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Located beneath the Eighth & Grand residences, this expansive 41,000 square foot Whole Food Market is designed to meet the needs of local residents, professionals and businesses. In addition to fresh produce, groceries, staples, and prepared foods, Whole Foods stocks over 1,000 hand-picked wines. On-site eateries include Downtown LA Juice Bar, Downtown LA Sandwich, Downtown Pizzeria, Downtown Smokehouse, Taqueria, and WFM Coffee Bar. Check online for takeout details. Grocery delivery is available on Amazon Prime.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: GROW The Produce Shop

Photo #2: GROW The Produce Shop

Photo #3: The Wall Farmers Market

Photo #4: 7th Street Produce Market

Photo #5: Torres Produce

Photo #6: Valeria’s

Photo #7: Historic Core BID

Photo #8: Whole Foods Market

Celebrate Spring By Communing with Nature

The 2021 Vernal Equinox is March 20, marking the first day of Spring. Now is the perfect time to get out and commune with nature. According to recent research, experiencing awe in nature has a powerful effect on emotional well-being, including less stress in our daily lives and boosting healthy feelings of compassion and gratitude. One of the most coveted features at Circa is the two-acre private rooftop park and amenity collection, offering residents plenty of greenery and spaces to retreat, gather and entertain. But beyond the comfort of home, we’ve rounded up some wonderful ways to add some awe to your routine, including bird watching trails, a butterfly pavilion, outdoor art installations, and a bounty of spring blooms. We even found some apps to enhance your experience of nature. Check websites for hours, advance ticket sales, and health guidelines.

Descanso Gardens Cherry Blossoms near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens Bloom Boom 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Experience Descanso’s bloom boom! Descanso Gardens celebrates all nature has to offer in the late winter and early spring. Currently blooming you’ll find Descanso’s iconic cherry blossoms, camellias, crabapples, daffodils, tulips, California poppies, and lilacs. Colorful flowers are a sure sign of spring, but not the only one. The birds of Descanso mark spring by making their homes in the garden. As you explore Descanso, look for special areas from the Promenade to the Oak Woodland marked with the Signs of Spring logo. There you will find displays both educational and artistic, including works by artist David Lovejoy. They’ll invite you to explore birds, nests, blooms, and all the signs of spring. Advance tickets required for non-members.

NHM Butterfly Pavilion near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Butterfly Pavilion at NHMLA 900 W Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Butterflies are taking flight at the Natural History Museum. Walk among beautiful butterflies in the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion. This springtime exhibition features hundreds of butterflies, colorful native plants, and plenty of natural light to help you see these creatures shimmer. With lots of flight space and a variety of resting spots, you’ll have one of the best views in Los Angeles of these amazing insects. Enter through the North Entrance and enjoy a stroll through the beautiful Nature Gardens on the way to the Butterfly Pavilion. All guests are required to reserve all tickets in advance for the Butterfly Pavilion and parking.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 W Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018

Need to unwind your mind? Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens was established by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness as a non-profit center dedicated to peace and spirituality. Called a “Spiritual Oasis in the City,” its purpose is to provide a place for people to take time out of their busy lives to visit, reflect, and be rejuvenated by the peace and solace of nature. The centerpiece of the property is an outdoor stone labyrinth, using the same design as the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth. The spectacular Asian-themed meditation garden presents sixteen water features, a koi pond, and intimate seating areas tucked away to reflect, repose, meditate, while a pergola and courtyard gardens offer additional areas to enjoy.

Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary 2900 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Nestled in a wooded canyon with a small stream, the Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary and Trail offers views of many species of birds in their natural habitat. This short hike offers great views and connects to a wider system of trails. The bird community represents most of the rich diversity found in the Santa Monica Mountains. More than 200 species have been recorded over the years, and around 150 are seen every year. From March through June, nearly 70 species may nest, particularly in the many small canyons that drain off the slopes into the Los Angeles River.

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK Featuring Kronos Quartet in Griffith Park

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK is a free, GPS-enabled work of public art that uses music to illuminate the natural environment of L.A.’s Griffith Park. Created by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and sound artist Ellen Reid, the experience is guided by the listener: the path you choose dictates the music you hear, and no two visits will be exactly the same. After downloading the free app and putting on your headphones, you can explore the park, triggering musical cells that are carefully crafted to harmonize with the park’s landscape and attractions. SOUNDWALK can be experienced while following social distancing guidelines and will be available free of charge to park visitors through 2023. Get the free app HERE

South Coast Botanic Garden near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Hide & Seek Art: Meets Nature South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

Embark on an artful adventure at South Coast Botanic Garden and explore 87 acres of lush habitat and manicured gardens. Hiding amid colorful blooms and luscious flowering trees are eight exquisite works of sculpture just waiting to be found at the Garden’s newest exhibit: Hide and Seek: Art Meets Nature. The exhibition features two contemporary pieces owned by South Coast Botanic Garden and six modern works from the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The sculptures have been carefully placed throughout the Garden as a way to encourage nature exploration with an artful game of hide and seek. The Garden’s vast nature space provides an exquisite opportunity for each sculpture to express its own artistic character. The interplay of nature and art will add a whole new level of appreciation for the Garden’s botanical collections.

Desert X near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Desert X DX 2021 Coachella Valley, CA

Ready for a road trip? Desert X is a site-specific exhibition that first took place in Spring 2017. Artists from different parts of the world are invited to create work in response to the unique conditions of the Coachella Valley and project their vision based on the extraordinary natural and social history, matchless spectacle of the geologic epic, radical abstraction of the surrounds, and the singular incursions of humans into the seemingly barren landscape. Free and open to the public, but health and safety guidelines apply. Timed tickets are required at select sites. Download the Desert X app HERE

The Living Desert WildLights of Spring near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Living Desert WildLights of Spring 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is excited to announce that WildLights is returning to the Zoo – with a spring twist! WildLights of Spring will take guests on an illuminated journey around the Zoo with vantages of select animal habitats including the emus of the new Australian Adventures, and new for Spring, a portion of the African Safari loop will be open for guests to see cheetahs, zebras, African wild dogs, and more. Plus, there will be new music for the light zones – including the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and Discovery Center. Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores around a fire, for an additional fee. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Advance reservations required.

iNaturalist App

Do you want to contribute to science? The iNaturalist app allows you to connect with nature and record your observations of the natural world, such as birds, plants, forests, butterflies, marine life, and wild bees. You can share your observations with fellow naturalists, discuss your findings, and create your own projects. Every observation can contribute to biodiversity science, from the rarest butterfly to the most common backyard weed. iNaturalist shares your findings with scientific data repositories like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to help scientists find and use your data. All you have to do is observe. iNaturalist is a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society.

Picture This app nature near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Picture This – Plant Identifier App

Have you ever encountered a beautiful, unknown flower during your walk and wondered what it was? Or do you need advice on how to care for your plants? Simply take a photo of the plant and PictureThis answers all the questions for you. PictureThis® identifies 1,000,000+ plants every day with 98% accuracy – better than most human experts. The app’s revolutionary artificial intelligence engine is constantly learning from experts and specialists – and now it’s all at your fingertips. Picture this plant, and discover a new appreciation for nature.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #2: Descanso Gardens

Photo #3: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Photo #4: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #5: Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Photo #6: Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK

Photo #7: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Desert X

Photo #9: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Photo #10: iNaturalist App

Photo #11: Picture This – Plant Identifier App