downtownlosangeles Archives - Page 13 of 20

Digital Productivity Tools For Working At Home

Working from home at Circa has its perks. No more morning commutes. You can play your own music whenever you want, and sneak off for Netflix breaks in between Zoom calls. Professional wardrobe is optional and snacks are de rigueur. But we humans also long for structure, to give form and function to our days, and reward us when our work is done. HERE are some great ideas from Wired to help you with your work at home lifestyle. Even if you’re not working from home, you can boost your efficiency, stay focused, and have some fun with these digital productivity tools & tips.

Venture Harbour UK technology company - Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Serene

Don’t let distractions hold you back! Serene is a macOS app that gives you productivity superpowers by layering three proven techniques to boost focus. When you enter a session, Serene shields you from distractions by blocking distracting apps & websites. Serene can also silence your phone, control Philips Hue lights, update your Slack status and more, to help you create your optimal deep work environment. Serene was created by Venture Harbour, one of the UK’s fastest-growing technology companies, achieving 22nd in the 2019 Deloitte Technology Fast 50.

Forest

Grow your own forest, stay focused daily, and turn hard work into a lush woodland. Forest is a productivity app that helps people beat their phone addiction and manage their time in a way that’s good for the environment. Users can earn credits by not using their cell phones and plant real trees around the world with the credits. Forest team partners with a tree-planting organization, Trees for the Future, to plant real trees on Earth. When users spend virtual coins they earn in Forest on planting real trees, Forest team donates to their partner and creates planting orders. To date, Forest has planted 877,750 trees. Visit their sponsor page HERE

iPassword app - Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

1Password

Spending more time online means more passwords. If you’re having trouble keeping track, you need a password manager. 1Password is the easiest way to store and use strong passwords by allowing you to keep all your passwords in one encrypted database – protected by one password. This saves you time when you forget your passwords and need to retrieve them, and also allows you to use various passwords for different accounts so you don’t compromise on security. You can also use 1Password to safely make payments online. More info HERE

Quip

Keep your business running securely while working from home. Quip is Salesforce’s productivity platform that combines collaborative documents, spreadsheets, and chat in one place so distributed teams can work together seamlessly. Quip replace email and information silos with real-time productivity tools that connect teams and accelerate the pace of business. Even if you aren’t in the same place, you can stay on the same page. Quip is secure out-of-the-box – all your data is encrypted, auditable, and controlled. Quip offers tutorials to get you started, and customizable templates to meet your specific needs. Quip is available online or as an app.

Slack

Slack brings the team together, wherever you are, by bringing all your communication together. Teamwork in Slack happens in channels — a single place for messaging, tools and files — helping everyone save time and collaborate together. With all of your communication and tools in one place, remote teams will stay productive no matter where you’re working from. You can hit deadlines, review documents, make comments and generate approvals. Slack is available for desktop and mobile. Here’s a useful guide for anyone new to Slack. Slack also provides great tips for working at home.

Micosoft To Do app - Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Microsoft To Do: Lists Tasks & Reminders

Got something on your mind? Get Microsoft To Do. Whether you want to increase your productivity, decrease your stress levels, or just free up some mental space, Microsoft To Do makes it easy to plan your day and manage your life. With Microsoft To Do, you can stay focused with My Day, a personalized daily planner with suggested tasks; get your lists anywhere, on any device; share lists and assign tasks with your friends, family, colleagues, and classmates; personalize your lists with bold and colorful backgrounds; and much more.

WhatsApp

Keep in touch with the groups of people that matter the most, like your family or coworkers. With group chats, you can share messages, photos, and videos with up to 256 people at once. You can also name your group, mute or customize notifications, and more. WhatsApp uses your phone’s Internet connection to send messages so you can avoid SMS fees. WhatsApp messages and calls are secured with end-to-end encryption, meaning that no third party including WhatsApp can read or listen to them. WhatsApp just introduced new business features with QR codes to make it easier to start a chat with a business and catalog what they have to offer.

Webex app - Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Cisco WebEx Meetings

Looking for an alternative to Zoom? Video conferencing is as simple and seamless as meeting in person. With the WebEx mobile app, you can meet absolutely anywhere. Hosting is easy and joining is easier—simply click on your link to join. You can even learn about the people you’re meeting for the first time, with instant access to participants’ background and company. You can share your screen so everyone can view your document, spreadsheet, or application. Hosts can record the meeting so others can get up to speed later. Everyone you invite can join your online meeting no matter how they’re connecting, even guests.

Trello

Trello is a simple, easy-to-use project management app for collaborative teams. The platform is based on the Kanban board philosophy, a visual layout that originates from Japan. Essentially, tasks are added and organized on “to-do,” “going” and “done” statuses, which helps teams keep track of progress. Tasks can be grouped into boards and cards, which can contain multiple tasks in themselves. Individual tasks can be assigned to groups or team members with deadlines and checklists.

Airtable

Part spreadsheet, part database, and entirely flexible, Airtable allows teams to organize their work, their way. Airtable is built around the spreadsheet format and this is great news if your team is used to managing projects on tools like Excel. Airtable’s interface operates like a spreadsheet, but it’s far more intuitive and includes all kinds of functionality that’s either not available in Excel or more complex. Airtable Blocks give you a creative palette of app-like functionality that you can mix and match to create the perfect workflow for your team. Airtable also provides templates to get you and your team started.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: DoLA

Photo #2: Venture Harbour

Photo #3: Forest

Photo #4: IPassword

Photo #5: Quip

Photo #6: Slack

Photo #7: Microsoft To Do

Photo #8: WhatsApp

Photo #9: Cisco WebEx Meetings

Photo #10: Trello

Photo #11: Airtable

Arts & Crafts Shops in Downtown LA

Fall is in the air and the holidays are around the corner. Time to get crafty with fun DIY projects and festive seasonal decor to animate your home and energize your routine. Try your hand at ceramics. Go crazy for quilting. Experiment with paper mache, learn origami, or even make your own soap and candles. Grab a sketch pad and jot down whatever inspires you. DTLA is a creative hub for artists, artisans and makers of all persuasions, and arts & craft resources abound near Circa. Check websites for store hours, curbside pick up and delivery options.

Still Life Ceramics near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Still Life Ceramics ROW DTLA 767 S Alameda St #198 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Learn ceramics skills from the masters! Still Life Studio’s outdoor ceramics classes are being held through September on ROW DTLA’s M2 Deck. Ana Henton and Mel Keedle are co-founders of Still Life Ceramics in Downtown Los Angeles and Still Life Studio in Santa Monica. Still Life Ceramics is a boutique production studio and workshop that generates a production line of functional housewares and a yearly art collection. Have fun creating your own pottery and gain inspiring insights about form, color and functionality. Check their workshop schedule HERE

Raw Materials Art Supplies near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Raw Materials Art Supplies 645 S Los Angeles St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Raw Materials Art Supplies is an independent art supply store in the heart Downtown Los Angeles. Hunkered down in a bright, minimalist space, Raw Materials stocks thousands of art supplies, tools, and materials at every-day low prices, including many top brands of paints, stretched canvas, and brushes. They are open for curbside pickup and local delivery, but not in-store shopping. Place your order online and they will contact you when it is ready.

The Original Los Angeles Flower Market near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

The Original Los Angeles Flower Market 754 Wall St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Located in the heart of the Los Angeles Flower District, The Original Los Angeles Flower Market is an expansive indoor floral marketplace that’s open to both the trade and the general public. Virtually every in-season, commercially sold variety of cut flower is available from growers all over the globe. You’ll also find everything from balloons to baskets and decor items to add that perfect accent piece. See hours of operation for more information.

Moskatels near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Moskatels 733 San Julian St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Located in The Original Flower Market, Moskatels is a vast warehouse store offering a large variety of art supplies, crafting materials & party decorations. Moskatels has been a division of Michaels Arts & Crafts since 1987 and they carry some of the same products as the Michaels Craft Stores, They also offer an array of artificial flowers, floral supplies, framing, ceramic vases, woven baskets, accent pieces, and holiday-themed items.

Artist & Craftsman Supply near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Artist & Craftsman Supply 1917-1921 E 7th St Los Angeles, CA 90021

An employee-owned company, Artist & Craftsman Supply has been providing artists and crafters with excellent materials at competitive prices since first opening in Yarmouth, Maine in 1985. Shop for everything from paint to paper mache, and supplies for beading, jewelry, candle making, soap making, stencils and more. Call ahead for store hours (213) 955-9055.

Architect's Corner near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Architect’s Corner 1324 S Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Architects Corner is an architectural modeling supply store serving professionals, academics and consumers. They carry a wide array of art and hobby supplies and tools to meet the needs of all types of artists from traditional to digital. You’ll also find an an impressive selection of architecture books that will look great on your Zoom background bookshelf.

Fabric Hotel near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Fabric Hotel 848 Wall St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Fabric Hotel is a family owned and operated fabric store and quilt shop in downtown Los Angeles. With 25 years of experience in local and global sourcing, they have picked the best connections and importers in the industry to select fabrics that are high quality and affordable. Offerings include a wide variety of 100% cotton prints for quilting and craft, along with batik, polar fleece print, flannel, velvet, fashion fabric, and more. Online orders are processed in 1-2 business days.

Throw Clay LA 1006 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, Throw Clay LA is a space to learn, inspire and create the art and craft of pottery. From the novice looking to throw their first pot, to the experienced hobbyist hoping to create a complete set of dinnerware, and on to the advanced potter intending to open their first Etsy shop, Throw Clay LA exists to encourage the creative spirit. Founded by potter John Prescott, their vision is to offer a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood studio – a creative way to get out and get involved with friends, neighbors and co-workers. Pottery is an art form in which you see immediate results. Beginners successfully craft their own dish-ware, cactus planters, or handmade gifts. Advanced potters demonstrate and share further skills while exploring artistic possibilities with their monthly membership.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Still Life Ceramics

Photo #2: Still Life Ceramics

Photo #3: Raw Materials Art Supplies

Photo #4: The Original Los Angeles Flower Market

Photo #5: Moskatels

Photo #6: Artist & Craftsman Supply

Photo #7: Architect’s Corner

Photo #8: Fabric Hotel

Photo #9: Throw Clay LA

dineL.A. is Back – Delicious DTLA Eateries to Try Now

dineL.A. Restaurant Week is back. From now until September 18, DTLA eateries are offering scrumptious specials for patio dining, takeout and delivery. Whether you’re a die-hard carnivore or prefer your meal vegetarian, vegan or gluten free, you’ll find flavorful choices to please every palate. Supporting our local restaurants is a fantastic way to keep Downtown LA vibrant and thriving! And dineL.A. provides a convenient way to expand your restaurant repertoire or rediscover your favorites. Here are some of our picks. Complete dineL.A. Restaurant Week list THIS WAY

10e 811 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

10e is offering reservations for al fresco dining and curbside pickup. 10e brings cutting edge culinary creativity and a refreshingly hip attitude to the historic and architecturally stunning Fine Arts Building. The diverse menu mixes authentic Armenian cuisine with modern Mediterranean influences and exotic flavors. Choices include a wide variety of halal grilled kebabs, vegetarian dishes, gluten free plates, seafood, and chef’s specials. They also offer handcrafted cocktails and Lebanese wine and beer to pair with the inspired Armenian dishes.

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 your dining experience the warmth, and of course a bit of the drama, that only a real Italian family can offer. Available for takeout and delivery.

Bacari West Adams 2308 S Union Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90007

Situated in LA’s West Adams neighborhood, Bacari offers Mediterranean and Italian-inspired small plates. Menu items include a delectable array of interesting salads, pastas, seafood, vegetable dishes, pizzas, and sweets. Craft cocktails, wine and beer complement your meal. Bacari is offering patio dining, takeout and delivery.

Zinqué DTLA 939 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

Zinqué is a high design, low-key neighborhood restaurant with French-inspired dishes, small plates and a uniquely curated wine and beer selection. Small bites include Castelvetrano Olives, Marcona Almonds, Fries mayo sriracha, and Pâté de Campagne. You can also order full plates such as quiche, lasagna, burgers, steak frites, smoked salmon, and more. Zinqué is open for outdoor dining, takeout and delivery.

Pikunico Fried Chicken 767 S Alameda St. Suite 122, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Pikunico serves free range, gluten free Japanese fried chicken and more, with locally-sourced ingredients. Choose from crunchy fried chicken pieces, sandwiches, or bowls, along with healthy sides such as roasted beet salad, seaweed & cucumber salad, and Pikunico slaw. Pikunico was founded by Japanese-born Chef Kuniki Yagi, who started her LA career working with Chef David Myers of Sona, one of the few Los Angeles restaurants to ever receive a Michelin star.

The Rooftop at The Wayfarer 813 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Revel on the outdoor rooftop veranda at The Wayfarer Hotel in the heart of DTLA. Enjoy killer cocktails with views to match. Cool off by the water while the mixologist gets creative with the next round. Menu items range from savory starters to full on dinner dishes such as marinated baby lamb chops and bacon-wrapped sea scallops. Finish your meal with sweet indulgences such warm chocolate chip cookies or beignets.

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse 800 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Just minutes away from Circa, Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse pays homage to gaucho traditions and their Southern Brazilian roots. The dineL.A. menu features two dinners for $65 to-go. Choose two fire-roasted meats, two fresh salads, three traditional Brazilian sides, and one dessert per person, served with Pão de Queijo and Chimichurri sauce.

HATCH Yakitori + Bar THE BLOC 700 W 7th St Suite G600 Los Angeles, CA 90017

Join HATCH Yakitori + Bar for outdoor dining in THE BLOC open-air plaza right in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. HATCH is a modern Japanese grill that celebrates yakitori, a fresh raw bar and creative plates. Traditional Japanese cooking is fused with bold Californian flavors to deliver new takes on classic dishes. The skewers are grilled over binchotan charcoal and they only use premium locally-source ingredients, such as organic Jidori chicken. They also offer a specialty cocktail program highlighting their Japanese roots, a curated sake list, and rare Japanese whiskies.

THE DECK 𝗯𝘆 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰t Sheraton Grand 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

District is offering farm-to-table fare and inspired cocktails at their all new rooftop lounge, THE DECK by District. District strives to make use of the extraordinary foods grown sustainably by our local farmers, and also seeks out unparalleled ideas from food purveyors around the world. For District, farm to table means products that are created on a small scale by farmer-artisans who are strangers to compromise, and have, through passion and invention, further dimensionalized the culinary arts.

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 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 and luxury to any palate. Enjoy the magic of Drago Centro’s new outdoor dining patio. Takeout and delivery are also available.

Engine Co. No. 28 644 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Engine No 28 is offering 50% off wine with dineL.A. orders. Housed in a beautifully restored 1912 firehouse, Engine Co. No. 28, has been putting out appetite fires since 1989 with classic American dishes inspired by the regional cooking of firehouses across the country. The menu features a signature Meatloaf, New York Steak, Southern-style pan-fried chicken, crab cakes, Cobb salad, and Firehouse chili. Call for dineL.A. reservations at 213-624-6996. Outdoor patio dining, takeout and delivery are available.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: The Rooftop at The Wayfayer

Photo #2: 10e

Photo #3: Bacari West Adams

Photo #4: Zinqué DTLA

Photo #5: The Rooftop at The Wayfayer

Photo #6: Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

Photo #7: HATCH Yakitori + Bar

Photo #8: THE DECK 𝗯𝘆 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰t

Photo #9: Drago Centro

Photo #10: Engine Co. No. 28

Discover LA’s Amazing Murals & Street Art

Los Angeles is renowned as one of the most exciting places in the world for street art. Incredible murals and art walls appear all around the city, and many have become permanent, treasured fixtures. Artists have found their canvas on buildings, walls, freeway barriers, and even LA River storm drains, enriching our public art scene and attracting street art fans from around the world. Many of the most significant artworks are in Downtown Los Angeles near Circa. Whether you’re an art lover looking for new neighborhoods to explore or just want to snap some fresh content for your social feed, get out there and discover LA’s amazing murals and street art.

Kobe Bryant Murals

The City of Los Angeles recently came out in droves to pay their respects to sports legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant on Kobe Bryant Day August 24, 2020. Figueroa St. between Olympic and MLK will soon be Kobe Bryant Blvd. In celebration of his life, there are dozens of amazing Kobe Bryant murals located in Downtown Los Angeles and the Arts District near Staples Center. You can view a MAP of all Kobe mural locations and follow along at Instagram.com/KobeMural Pictured: Mural by Los Angeles-based visual artist AISEBORN at 1348 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90015.

Kobe Mural by Jonas Never 1337 Lebanon St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Nearby the Staples Center, Los Angeles sports muralist Jonas Never created a Kobe Bryant mural to honor the star’s NBA career in 2016. Following the news of the accident, fans gathered at the Downtown Los Angeles mural along the 1300 block of Lebanon Street. Hundreds of people have written down their tributes on post-its and hung them bellow the iconic mural. The artwork features Kobe doing his iconic Mamba yell along with “Los Angeles Culture” styled as the Lakers’ logo.

Kent Twitchell Ed Ruscha Monument American Hotel 303 S. Hewitt St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

A veritable legend in the L.A. mural scene is Kent Twitchell, who is internationally famous for his realistic multi-storied mural portraits. He’s been painting across the city for decades, although some of his most beloved pieces have been erased over the years, such as his original portrait of the artist Ed Ruscha. Fortunately, Twitchell had the chance to do an updated version of Ed Ruscha Monument on the side of the American Hotel in the Arts District. One of his moet iconic works, Harbor Freeway Overture, a depiction of three Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra musicians, is located on the Citiicorp Plaza parking structure at 8th St. and the Harbor Freeway.

Street Art @The Bloc 700 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Explore the street art at The Bloc while social distancing and rocking your masks. You’ll have plenty of great opportunities to perk up your social media feed as you pose with colorful murals featuring the work of WRDSMTH, Antigirl, Colette Miller, and more. Hashtag #bestofdtla to enter-to-win a $1,000 giveaway! Pictured is a dramatic 30-foot mural by Robert Vargas with photo by @vero.parga

Arts District Dog Park 1004 E 4th Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

Here’s the chance to see some amazing LA murals while taking your pooch on a well-deserved trip to the park. True to its creative surroundings, The Arts District Dog Park is punctuated with colorful murals by LA artist Septerhed. Featured on ABC7 LA, KTLA, WKBW Buffalo, and more, Septerhead is an LA-based artist specializing in murals, illustrations, paintings, live painting and other wave lengths. The park includes a dog water fountain, separate small dog area, shade trees, benches for humans, a community bulletin board, pooper-scoopers, and trash bins. Not run or supported by the City of Los Angeles, this volunteer-run park is a true example of community spirit.

Leo Limón LA River Catz

For 35 plus years East LA-born artist Leo Limón has been painting the Los Angeles River cat faces on the storm-drain covers in a beloved project known as the LA River Catz. In the 70s, Limón developed an interest in the arts and discovered a prime, neglected canvas in the L.A. River’s storm drains. His detailed paintings of cat faces represent his love for the unique flora and fauna of our urban river. With help from the city, Leo hired youth from different high schools, not only working with them to paint over 30 feline faces, but also working to reduce violence and other challenges facing his young assistants. Cats were chosen because the storm drains themselves look like a cat\’s face with the sealing hinges appearing as pointy ears and the doors themselves being a circular shape like a face. Limon is involved with groups whose efforts are to revive the Los Angeles River as a historic region, cultural art enclave and tourist destination.

Guide to LA Arts District Murals

Discover Los Angeles has a great guide to the Downtown LA Arts District Murals. Please note that the walls are in a constant state of flux and some artworks are more permanent than others. Murals give way to the elements, their colors fading with time. Some are obliterated as walls are taken over by new artists. The Arts District you see when you visit one summer may not be the one you see the following year. The lesson here is to always take photos! Pictured is Bloom by Hueman, an Oakland based painter and street artist.

The Mural Conservancy of Los Angeles

The Mural Conservancy of Los Angeles (MCLA) was created by a coalition of artists, public art advocates, city of Los Angeles and state of California public officials, and restoration specialists. MCLA built long-term programs to retain mural arts as a part of Los Angeles’ cultural legacy and establish murals as a significant part of our city’s cultural heritage. MCLA maintains a free database of Los Angeles’ Mural History linking artists, murals and neighborhoods. The MCLA website allows submissions of murals created recently in Los Angeles, forming an ever growing archive joining the historic with the new. Pictured is a mural by Vyal at The Container Yard arts center 800 East 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013. Vyal is one of the most identifiable graffiti artists on the West Coast.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Harbor Freeway Overture/Kent Twitchell

Photo #2: Kobe Mural/AISEBORN

Photo #3: Kobe Mural/Jonas Never

Photo #4: Kent Twitchell/Ed Ruscha Monument

Photo #5: The Bloc/Photo cred: @vero.parga Mural by: @therobertvargas

Photo #6: Arts District Dog Park/Septerhed

Photo #7: Leo Limón LA River Catz

Photo #8: Bloom by Hueman/Discover Los Angeles

Photo #9: MCLA/Vyal/The Container Yard

Explore Beautiful Botanical Gardens

Looking for a refreshing respite from the summer heat? The Los Angeles area is home to some of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens, many just a short distance from Circa apartments. These foliage-filled natural retreats present a vast array of native flora and fauna, as well as spectacular species from all corners of the globe. You might just meet a peacock, commune with the koi, or even encounter a resident turtle! Some botanical gardens require advance ticket purchase – check their websites for details. Watch for visitor guidelines at all locations.

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden 270 Arlington Dr. Pasadena, CA 91105

The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden was created by Kinzuchi Fujii for Charles and Ellamae Storrier Stearns in 1935. Fujii designed and built Japanese landscapes across Southern California in the first half of the 20th century. The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden is his only remaining garden and the only intact example of a major Japanese-style garden created before World War II for a residence in Southern California. This pond-style stroll garden features a fifteen-foot waterfall and a formal teahouse on approximately two acres of land. The garden is considered by many to be a masterwork and it demonstrates the adaptability of Japanese culture in modern America.

Arlington Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Arlington Garden 275 Arlington Dr. Pasadena, CA 91105

Pasadena’s only dedicated free public garden, Arlington Garden is a three- acre community-built Mediterranean garden in the heart of Pasadena on Caltrans-owned land. The site is leased to the City of Pasadena and entrusted by the city to Arlington Garden in Pasadena, a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation. The garden includes thousands of California-native plants such as poppies, sunflowers, cactus and succulents, orchards of orange and olive trees, and many more species. Arlington Garden is not only friendly to people and pets, but also serves as a refuge for Pasadena’s native fauna. Birds, bees and butterflies are particularly abundant and can be seen throughout the year. Arlington Garden is open every day except Tuesday. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden UCLA 707 Tiverton Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90095

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a living museum that maintains one of the most important living botanical collections in the U.S. Over 3,000 types of plants grow in the garden and a wide range of environments are found within its borders, from the dry desert and Mediterranean sections on the eastern end to the shaded, lush interior. A stream and series of ponds run through the center of the garden, which is home to koi and turtles.

South Coast Botanic Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

Unique from the start, South Coast Botanic Garden is one of the world’s first botanical gardens to be developed as a masterpiece of creative land reclamation and environment improvement. The mission of South Coast Botanic Garden is to serve the community by providing a unique horticultural and wildlife habitat experience, and to represent a model of excellence for land reclamation and sustainability. This continuing experiment in land reclamation has drawn horticulturists from all over the world, including Prince Charles of England, to study the feasibility of similar projects. Today the garden is host to over 200,000 plants, and numerous wildlife residents, including hedgehogs and peafowl.

Exposition Park Rose Garden 701 State Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90037

The Exposition Park Rose Garden is a historic 7-acre sunken garden located in Exposition Park in Los Angeles. It has been called “one of the city’s best-kept secrets” and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. You’ll discover green spaces scattered around the USC-adjacent property, but the most charming section lies in the lovely Rose Garden.

Huntington Botanical Gardens near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Huntington Botanical Gardens 1151 Oxford Road San Marino, CA 91108

Huntington Botanical Gardens is offering Huntington Evening Strolls! Beat the heat of the day and enjoy a leisurely evening walk through the gardens Friday – Sunday from 4:30–7 p.m. through Labor day. Advance tickets are required. In 1903 Henry E. Huntington purchased the San Marino Ranch, a working ranch with citrus groves, nut and fruit orchards, alfalfa crops, a small herd of cows, and poultry. Today, the estate is home to 16 spectacular themed gardens spread across 120 acres, including Desert Garden, Camellia & Rose Gardens, Japanese Garden, Jungle Garden, Herb Garden and more. The Huntington has reopened most of its 130 acres of gardens, with new safety measures in place, but the galleries remain closed. All visitors, including Members must reserve tickets online in advance.

LA Arboretum near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

LA Arboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave Arcadia, CA 91007

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a unique 127-acre botanical garden and historical site located in what was once the heart of the historic Rancho Santa Anita in the city of Arcadia. Did you know The Arboretum is also an official wildlife sanctuary? In addition to the famous peafowl, visitors will see species of resident and migratory birds, aquatic creatures, and numerous species of small reptiles and mammals. Tickets are now limited to preserve safe distancing and all indoor spaces are closed. Members are required to reserve free tickets. Non-members must buy advance tickets online to ensure entry.

Descanso Gardens near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

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

Descanso Gardens is an urban retreat of year-round natural beauty, internationally renowned botanical collections, and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays, located just 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles. The principal collections include California native plants and oak woodlands; one of the largest collections of camellias in the Western Hemisphere; a rose garden with specimens from all corners of the globe; and significant presentations of lilacs, maple trees, cherry trees and iris. Members can enter without an advance ticket, but visitors who are not members and guests not covered under a membership will need advance tickets with timed entry.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Photo #2: Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Photo #3: Arlington Garden in Pasadena

Photo #4: Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden

Photo #5: Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Photo #6: Huntington Botanical Gardens

Photo #7: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Descanso Gardens

Enjoy Elegant Outdoor Dining in Downtown Los Angeles

Summer weather beckons with sunny days and starry nights! Your favorite Downtown Los Angeles restaurants near Circa are answering the call, expanding their patio seating, adding street side tables, and even commandeering alleys and parking lots, so you can enjoy elegant outdoor dining. Did you know there’s a new “European Corner” at 6th & Los Angeles Streets? Mignon has teamed up with their neighbors L’APPART restaurant and Cento Pasta Bar to bring you more outdoor seating and more culinary choices!

From luxury hotel rooftops with breathtaking views, to charming garden patios, and lively street side seating, there’s a table waiting for you! Check their websites for hours, reservations and takeout/delivery options.

Mignon outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Mignon 128 E. 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Mignon is teaming up with L’APPART restaurant to bring you more outdoor seating and more culinary choices. You can enjoy alfresco dining in front of either restaurant and receive both menus. They are also collaborating with Cento Pasta Bar, who is back in action across the street at JJ’s. True to its name (mignon roughly translates to “small and cute” in French), Mignon specializes in small production, offering natural wines from all over the globe with an emphasis on the Old World. They also serve seasonal, rustic French cuisine, including a three-course pre-fixe option, small plates, and fine artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The space is also a retail shop, so make sure you grab some bottles for your home cellar.

L'APPART by AIR FOOD outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

L’APPART by AIR FOOD 130 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

L’APPART by AIR FOOD will make you feel that you flew straight to Paris where you’ll enjoy an exclusive French culinary experience. Created by two passionate visionaries, Marc and Thierry, L’APPART by AIR FOOD takes your tastebuds through a miraculous journey from traditional French cuisine to French & World Fusion from Europe, Middle East, Africa, and North America.

Cento Pasta Bar outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Cento Pasta Bar @JJ’s Sandwich Shop 119 E 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Mignon Wine Bar becomes this handmade pasta bar at lunchtime several days a week. You can buy takeout pastas from Cento, walk across the street to Mignon, purchase a glass or bottle of wine, and enjoy your food al fresco. In 2015, long-time friends Avner Levi and Santos Uy opened Cento Pasta Bar as a lunch residency at Santos’ downtown wine bar, Mignon. Cento is inspired by Avner’s desire to share his experiences with the people around him through cooking. At Cento, Avner is responsible for all facets of the kitchen, including menu design and development, bringing his philosophy of thoughtful, seasonal ingredients to every dish with an element of fun.

Strada Eateria & Bar outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Strada Eateria & Bar 825 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

A new spot in Downtown LA near Staples Center, Strada Eateria & Bar presents world flavors made with local ingredients.. The eclectic menu includes ceviche, lobster ravioli, and an ahi tuna steak burger, along with a full bar. Strada is now offering al fresco dining with sidewalk seating on W. 9th St. Complimentary parking. Reservations are recommended.

Faith & Flower outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Faith & Flower 705 W 9th St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Faith & Flower is open for patio dining. Located in the Watermarke Tower in DTLA’s South Park district, the name Faith & Flower pays homage to the two major Renaissance periods – the 1920s and modern day – that have fundamentally shaped the Downtown Los Angeles community. “Flower” refers to the street on which the restaurant lies today, and “Faith” for the street’s alleged name during the early 1920s. Inspired by a global influence of flavors and techniques, complemented by the use of a wood-fired oven and pristine raw bar, the menu redefines Californian rustic cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended. Takeout and delivery are also available.

Bestis outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Arts District darling Bestia is now accepting reservations for outdoor dining. Their menu is also available for takeout. 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!

Redbird outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Redbird 114 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Redbird is open with three different outdoor dining options! In addition to the Redbird Courtyard, they’ve created two new open air dining rooms: the Redbird Garden and the Lounge on the Vibiana Courtyard. Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems – the former rectory building of Vibiana, cathedral-turned-event-venue. Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser feature Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles.

Perch outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Perch 448 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Perch Los Angeles is a French inspired rooftop bistro that offers unobstructed views of Downtown Los Angeles that will make you feel as if you’re floating over the skyline. Their 15th floor outdoor patios and 16th floor rooftop are now open for outdoor dining. The elevated spaces offer outdoor fireplaces, rooftop fire pits, indoor and outdoor dining experiences, and lounge seating to experience the city skyline views. Perch executive Chef Gerardo Benitez has created a playful menu inspired by French culinary classics utilizing the freshest of seasonal ingredients. Pick up and delivery is also available.

Broken Shaker outdoor dining near Circa apartments 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.

Rossoblu outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Rossoblu tells the story of the two places Chef Steve Samson considers home – Los Angeles and Bologna, Italy. The restaurant is an homage to Samson’s heritiage, inspired by childhood memories spent in Bologna and its surrounding region, Emilia Romagna. Rossoblu 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. Rossoblu is open for al fresco dining, takeout and delivery.

Veranda Al Fresco outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Chef Adrian Garcia is serving up an authentic Mexico City-inspired menu, befitting the tropical vibe at Veranda Al Fresco, DTLA’s urban oasis at Hotel Figueroa. Savor a tasty, simple street taco menu paired with a great selection of cocktails. Veranda Al Fresco is open Wednesday to Sunday 12pm-7pm. Salud y buen provecho!

Manuela outdoor dining near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Manuela 907 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Manuela is excited to welcome guests back to dine in their spacious outdoor patio. Located in the DTLA Arts District, Manuela unites chef, farmer and artist to create an authentic and original dining experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Kris Tominaga, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients sourced from the best farms and producers in Southern California. Serving a wide range of vegetables, grains, fish, and game, Manuela also features an exemplary bar program, which serves classic cocktails using house-made bitters and tonics. Local beers are on tap, while the carefully selected wine list is designed to pair with the smoke and acid at the heart of Manuela’s menu.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Rossoblu

Photo #2: Mignon

Photo #3: L’APPART by AIR FOOD

Photo #4: Cento Pasta Bar

Photo #5: Strada Eateria & Bar

Photo #6: Faith & Flower

Photo #7: Bestia

Photo #8: Reedbird

Photo #9: Perch

Photo #10: Broker Shaker

Photo #11: Rossoblu

Photo #12: Veranda Al Fresco

Photo #13: Manuela

Let’s Get Fresh: Shop for Produce in DTLA

Looking for some culinary inspiration? Let’s get fresh with produce. Stone fruits are in full swing, along with luscious greens, tasty veggies, colorful berries, and more! Toss yourself a fruit salad dressed with locally-produced honey. Try your hand at making a soul-satisfying ratatouille, accompanied by a fresh baguette or pane rustica. Or roast up a pan of mixed vegetables, brushed with an excellent olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. Did you know August 2 – 8 is National Farmers Market Week? Shopping at your local farmers market is a great way to support small growers and artisans, and bring some farm-to-table goodness into your home. Feeling inspired? From Grand Central Market to specialty grocery stores and open air markets, you’ll find endless possibilities when you shop for produce in DTLA! Check websites for pickup, delivery, in-store, and patio dining options.

Urban Radish 661 Imperial St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Urban Radish is a family-owned full service market carrying everything from fresh produce to dairy, eggs, cereal, hand-cut meats, wine & beer, and staples. Supporting local farms is at the heart of Urban Radish’s commitment to the community. They pride themselves on cutting out the middle man and procuring their produce directly from the growers, wherever possible. This cutely-monikered establishment is also an eatery, founded on a reverence for raw ingredients, using the same ultra-fresh, organic and carefully curated ingredients they sell in their store. The grocery store is open daily from 9am-7pm. You can also order online for pickup and delivery.

Tender Greens 505 W 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Tender Greens offers a variety of fresh produce boxes such as the Farm Fresh Box (butter lettuce, romaine hearts, arugula, carrots, beets, and red butter lettuce); Seasonal Fruit Box (fuji apples, navel oranges, strawberries, blackberries, pineapple, lemon, banana, grapes, ginger, turmeric); and Seasonal Veggie Box (carrots, vine ripe tomatoes, white corn, button mushrooms, broccolini, eggplant, green & yellow zucchini, baby sweet peppers, yellow onion). You can also Build Your Own grocery box. Pick the exact food items you want, choosing from an array of goods including fresh produce, dairy, high-quality proteins, go-with-everything grains, artisan breads, and even wine. Order online or download the Tender Greens app. Tender Greens is also open for patio dining.

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.

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 Monday – Saturday.

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.

Historic Downtown 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 and floral arrangements; natural homemade skincare products; and 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. The Historic Core Farmers Market is held every Sunday from 9am – 2pm.

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: Urban Radish

Photo #2: Urban Radish

Photo #3: Tender Greens

Photo #4: Torres Produce

Photo #5: 7th Street Produce Market

Photo #6: The Wall Farmers Market

Photo #7: Historic Core BID

Photo #8 -Whole Foods Market

Smoke ‘Em Out! DTLA’s Best BBQ

It just wouldn’t be summer without the tantalizing aroma of barbecue wafting in the breeze! Whether you like your chow Texas-style, hot and spicy, or classic American, we’ve smoked out some of DTLA’s best BBQ joints, guaranteed to tempt your tastebuds with fresh grilled goodness. For the vegetarian in your household, many menus offers salads and other meatless sides. Check their websites for takeout, delivery, and patio dining details.

Horse Thief BBQ Grand Central Market 324 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Horse Thief BBQ is a Grand Central Market window from proprietors Wade McElroy and Russell Malixi, serving central Texas inspired BBQ, along with smoked meats and gourmet sides. Signature dishes include pork spare ribs, beef brisket, pulled pork, and turkey breast butter brined. Pair with classic sides like coleslaw, BBQ baked beans, potato salad, banana pudding, sweet potato casserole and corn bread. Order ahead for pick up. Delivery is available through Caviar or Doordash.

L.A. Brisket 736 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

A popular destination originating in Artesia, L.A. Brisket recently opened a spiffy brick-and-mortar location in Chinatown. The restaurant specializes in hand crafted sandwiches loaded with all natural meat sold by the pound, with house BBQ sauce and bread. The menu offers brisket, chicken, pulled pork, pork ribs, and BBQ Bowls served with LA slaw, salsa verde, garlic, and jasmine rice. Sides include elote (grilled Mexican corn), French fries, truffle fries, and sweet potato fries. Order online for pick up or delivery.

Moo’s Craft BBQ

Acclaimed by LA Times and Eater LA as perhaps the best underground barbecue cooking in Los Angeles, Moo’s Craft Barbecue is smoking up a storm this summer! With owners Michelle and Andrew Muñoz at the helm, the Texas-styled menu includes classics like ribs and brisket, smoked meats, and homestyle sides. Check their website to order ahead for curbside pickup in the LA Arts District.

Spring Street Smokehouse BBQ 640 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Spring Street Smokehouse is an American BBQ joint offering all the classic barbecue meats, hickory-smoked from four to 12 hours. The meat is wonderfully dense and smoky and includes all the favorites you’d expect: Beef and Pork ribs, Texas hot links, Brisket, and Pulled Pork. The down-home sides of mac & cheese, beans and cornbread round out a truly authentic BBQ experience. Spring Street also features some surprises, like chicken stuffed with peppers, onions, and cheese, then wrapped with bacon and pit-smoked. Fresh made desserts including Bourbon bread pudding and Peach cobbler. Open for sidewalk dining, take out and delivery.

TBLA Catering & Cafe 765 Santee St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

A cozy spot in the DTLA Fashion District, TBLA Catering & Cafe is open for pick up and delivery. Specializing in American comfort food, try their signature Memphis Style BBQ baby back ribs served half and full rack, or their juicy BBQ pulled pork sandwich. Sides include a choice of mac n cheese. sweet potato fries, potato salad, and onion rings. TBLA also offers a selection of wraps such as Texas BBQ, Rajun Cajun, and Charbroiled Gal Bi, along with salads, burgers, sandwiches,and pastas.

Nickel Diner 524 S. Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Featured on Diners, Drive-In’s and Dives, the Cooking Channel and Jonathan Golds 101 List, this vintage-style diner serves updated versions of old-school comfort fare on the site of a long-forgotten eatery, with the original hand-painted wall menus still intact. Specialties include beer braised brisket with ancho chile sauce, charred broccolini & cowboy beans; pulled pork sandwich; and fried chicken with maple bacon jam. They also serve an array of creative sweets and desserts like their famous glaze bacon doughnut. Check their website for order and pick up details.

Red Herring LA 770 S Grand Ave A, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Red Herring is offering BBQ Boxes to go! Box #1 contains one meat, one sauce, one side, pickles & Texas toast (Feeds 1-2). Box #2 contains two meats, two sauces, two sides, pickles & Texas toast (Feeds 2-3). Box #3 contains three meats, three sauces, three sides, pickles & Texas toast (Feeds 4). You can also order their BBQ sauce to enjoy at home, which comes in three flavors: St. Louis BBQ Sauce, Vinegar Sauce, and South Carolina Mustard Sauce. Founded by husband and wife team Chef Dave Woodall and Alexis Martin Woodall, Red Herring offers Refined New American cuisine with global influences. Order ahead for curbside pick up.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Horse Thief BBQ

Photo #2: Horse Thief BBQ

Photo #3: LA Brisket

Photo #4: Moo’s Craft BBQ

Photo #5: Spring Street Smokehouse

Photo #6: TBLA Catering & Cafe

Photo #7: Nickel Diner

Photo #8 -Red Herring

The Heat Is On: Pamper Your Pet This Summer

Summer is here and temperatures are rising. Time to pamper your pet. Your fur baby deserves the best, so we’ve come up with some great local resources – from healthy food and fun toys to doggie day care, grooming, and puppy training. No pet, no problem! LA Animal Services will match you with the perfect animal companion. We also found some helpful tips from Web MD on how to keep your furry friend safe and cool all summer long.

Healthy Spot 1000 S Grand Avenue Suite A Los Angeles, CA 90015

Healthy Spot is a pet retail destination that also offers best-in-class dog grooming, dog daycare, and community experiences. The company prides itself on assuring that every stocked product contains premium-quality ingredients and is procured and manufactured safely and ethically. Healthy Spot is now offering phone orders and curbside pick up or home delivery. Check store hours, plus grooming and daycare availability by location at Healthyspot.com/covid19 and then place your order.

Pet Project LA 548 S Spring St. Ste. 107 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Pet Project LA wants to show your fur babies the love! Pet Project LA stocks the hottest trends plus all the essentials to keep your pet happy, healthy, and in style! And to keep your pet piqued, their vast inventory is constantly curated to support the DTLA community with creative products for dogs, cats and small animals. Offerings include seasonal pet apparel, pet party supplies, grooming products, bowls, carriers, e-collars, and food & treats from all your favorite brands. Curbside pick up & delivery available.

Bone Sweet Bone 435 Molino St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Located in DTLA’s Arts District, Bone Sweet Bone offers a full range of services to pet parents who seek loving alternatives to conventional pet care. Their indoor/outdoor facilities are a cage-free environment with 24/7 supervision, so you never have to worry about what your pup is getting into. Guests of the canine-persuasion can take advantage of Stay + Play Care (half- or full-day supervised daycare), Slumber Care (for overnight or longer visits), our full-service Salon + Spa (for baths, specialty haircuts, and other grooming needs), and the Bark Boutique (for retail items like premium food and treats, toys, supplies, clothing, and accessories).

Petco 850 S Hope St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Got a new puppy? Petco makes puppyhood easy with the PupBox toy, treat and training kit, customized for your pooch. Each month you’ll receive a box of all the products and training information you need to be the best puppy parent paw-sible. Toys, treats, chews, and accessories are all handpicked based on your pup’s age and physical characteristics. Your box will change based on your pup’s growth and development, introducing you to new products and themes along the way. From the potty training blues, to chewing on shoes and the terrible twos, Petco will be with you every step of the way. Order for curbside pickup service and get 10% off your entire order with pick-up in 1-2 hours.

LA Animal Services

Looking to adopt a furry friend? LA Animal Services provides a wealth of information for prospective pet parents, including adopting a pet, finding a lost pet, licensing, animal vaccinations, spay/neuter information, microchipping, and what to do if you find a stray animal. Search for your perfect animal companion on the website’s Adoptable Pet Search. Centers are open by appointment only, but you can still foster, adopt and donate. Adoption fees include vaccinations, spaying/neutering and microchipping for dogs, cats and rabbits; and the first year City of LA license fee for dogs.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Healthy Spot

Photo #2: Healthy Spot

Photo #3: Pet Project LA

Photo #4: Bone Sweet Bone

Photo #5: Petco

Photo #6: LA Animal Services

Cocktails To Go: Your Favorite DTLA Bars Offer Take Out & Delivery

Now you can support your favorite LA bars while getting your buzz on, all from the comfort of home. Some of the best boîtes in town are offering specially-crafted, pre-batched cocktails for pickup and delivery. Pair your libations with delicious dishes, from burgers to tasty small plates and full menu choices. Some establishments even stock meal kits and pantry items. Check their websites for pick up and delivery details.

Broken Spanish 1050 S Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Mix it up. Broken Spanish is now offering their Mix Kit, which includes one bottle of Tequila or Mezcal, one quart of Broken Spanish’s signature margarita mix, and all of the fixings for $49. Broken Spanish presents a distinct culinary perspective expressed in bold yet refined flavors, demonstrating elements of long-established traditions, finished with modern appeal. The bar offers an aromatic selection of tequilas, mezcals, and intriguing craft cocktails.

Barcito 403 W 12th St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Barcito is pouring batch cocktails, available for pickup and delivery daily from 3pm to 8pm. Order from their delicious snack-inspired menu and choose 16 ounce or 32 ounce batched cocktail options. Barcito is an entrepreneur-owned and operated Argentine-style cafe and cocktail bar turned bodega, selling natural wine, craft beer, deli sandwiches, coffee, provisions, and more. Barcito is currently open for takeout/delivery, offering full menu, pantry goods, natural wine, and craft beer.

Here and Now Cocktail Bar 300 S Santa Fe Ave. Suite N Los Angeles, CA 90013

Here and Now is offering food, cocktails, beer and wine pickup through their online shop, and delivery through their partners at Caviar and Postmates. Whiskey flights are also available to order online or pick up in person. Named one of America’s best bars by Esquire magazine in 2019, Here and Now is located at the south end of the Arts District’s One Santa Fe building.

Manuela 907 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Arts District icon Manuela is offering five pre-batched versions of their craft cocktails to enjoy at home. They’re available with delivery orders, which can be placed through Postmates, DoorDash, and Caviar. Try their Old Fashioned with Evan Williams bourbon and bitters, or get adventurous with the Nightshade, featuring Milagro Blanco tequila, yellow bell pepper, heat, and lemon.

Flask & Field Row DTLA 767 S Alameda St. Ste 180 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Order a wine or cocktail gift set from DTLA’s super cool cocktail shop, Flask & Field. A modern destination for the discovery of wine, spirits, art and design, Flask & Field also offers a selection of quality goods for house, home and adventure. The eclectic establishment was founded by entertainment attorney Miriam Yoo, who was driven by her lifelong passion for wine, hospitality and design to create a new kind of shop that would address a range of lifestyle needs. Place your order online and pick-up safely or have it delivered. Walk-ups are welcome too!

Arts District Brewing Co. 828 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Arts District Brewing is open for Burgers & Booze To-Go. Choose from their curated craft beer list, which is updated on a regular basis. The hearty food menu offers a beer-appropriate selection of wings, burgers, fries, salads, fried calamari, fish tacos, and nachos. Order ahead before coming on down.

First Draft Taproom & Kitchen 1230 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Get your cocktails to go at First Draft Taproom & Kitchen, a unique tasting experience in South Park. They offer a huge variety of craft beer, wine, cider, and kombucha, and the taps are ever-rotating to bring you a wide selection of craft and small-batch libations from across the country. The kitchen serves delectable plates and shareable items that pair with the beverage offerings, such as popcorn cauliflower, crispy brussels sprouts, mac & cheese, burgers, sandwiches & panini, salads, sweets, and more.

Mignon 128 E. 6th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Mignon is offering wine and food for take out. True to its name (mignon roughly translates to “small and cute” in French), Mignon specializes in small production, offering natural wines from all over the globe with an emphasis on the Old World. They also serve seasonal, rustic French cuisine, including a three-course pre-fixe option, small plates, and fine artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The space is also a retail shop, so make sure you grab some bottles for your home cellar.

The Mermaid 428 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Mermaid is offering cocktail and food to go. The Mermaid is a cozy little bar in the hear of Little Tokyo, with mermaids! Swim in for refreshing tropical cocktails, savory bar snacks, and good times to enjoy in the comfort of your own home! To go menu HERE

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

Bar Amá offers no-contact pickup through their online Amá To Go & General Store. The store stocks your favorite dishes, meal kits, pantry items, wine, beer and cocktails. Merchandise by chef Josef Centeno’s Prospect Pine and the Baco and Amá cookbooks are available for purchase as well. Bar Amá will tickle your tummy with Tex Mex specialities like fideo and borracho beans with cilantro and pork belly. The bar offers a great selection of tequilas and mezcals, along with absinthe, whiskey, gin, beer, wine, and more. Food and drink items are available for pick up only. Delivery is available through Caviar and Grubhub.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: First Draft Taproom & Kitchen

Photo #2: Broken Spanish

Photo #3: Barcito

Photo #4: Here and Now Cocktail Bar

Photo #5: Manuela

Photo #6: Flask & Field

Photo #7: Arts District Brewing Co.

Photo #8: First Draft Taproom & Kitchen

Photo #9: The Mermaid

Photo #10: Bar Amá