Georgia alumna and former BI intern Ashley Hanna gives us her top spots to check out in Los Angeles and Pasadena while Bulldog Nation is in town for the Rose Bowl on Jan.1, 2018.
food:
NIGHT + MARKET — One of the best modern Thai restaurants LA has to offer with a killer wine list. Address: 9043 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069
BLUDSO’S BBQ — Proof that Los Angeles can tackle the meat and three. Address: 609 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
A.O.C. — Wine-focused California-/ French-inspired fine dining in a beautiful setting. Address: 8700 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
JON AND VINNY’S — A modern take on the pizzeria, with a menu full of Italian- American comfort food. Seating is tight, so make a reservation and go early for a tasting at Helen’s Wines in the back of the restaurant. Address: 412 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
REPUBLIQUE — French-influenced cuisine that proves simple is best, served in a visually stunning building. Address: 624 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
UNION — A cozy Pasadena spot that churns out some of the city’s best pasta. Address: 37 E Union St., Pasadena, CA 91103
SUGARFISH — One of LA’s most beloved sushi chains, just trust me. Address: 146 S Lake Ave #108, Pasadena, CA 91101
FLOAT — No fuss lunch spot, serving sandwiches and seasonal floats of all kinds. Address: 380 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101
MESSHALL — The perfect spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner with a creative cocktail list that shouldn’t be missed. Address: 4500 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
HOMESTATE TACOS — Breakfast tacos and queso, need I say more? Don’t let the line worry you, it moves fast and it’s worth the wait. Address: 4624 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
where to watch the game(s):
GOAL — One of LA’s official Georgia- affiliated sports bars, so you can expect southern hospitality. Address: 8334 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
35ER BAR — Family owned and operated since 1963, this sports bar will keep you close to the Dawgs in Old Town Pasadena. Address: 12 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
BIG WANG’S — For the rowdier set, this sports bar is in the heart of all the action in Hollywood. Address: 1562 N Cahuenga Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
drinks:
GO GET EM TIGER — Perhaps one of the best cups of coffee in the city, with a full food menu and great outdoor seating. Address: 4630 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
71ABOVE — For stunning views and carefully crafted cocktails named after LA neighborhoods, you can toast to the city here. Address: 633 W. 5th Street, 71st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
MELROSE UMBRELLA CO.— This day-to-night spot pours lattes in the morning and shakes seasonal cocktails when you need them. Address: 7465 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90046
GRACIAS MADRE — This plant-based Mexican restaurant’s focal point is that bar that meets you when you walk in and the expansive list of creative cocktails will keep you there. Address: 8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069
THE ROGER ROOM — Wedged beside one of LA’s best comedy clubs, this dark circus-themed bar serves trendy and delicious cocktails. Address: 370 La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
activities and more:
GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY — If you’re feeling ambitious, you can hike to the Observatory for incredible views of the city. Don’t worry, you can drive too and admission is always free. Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
WARNER BROTHERS STUDIO TOUR — The Warner Brothers tour is one of LA’s best and offers a 3-hour glimpse into a real working Hollywood studio. You never know who you might run into! Address: 3400 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91522
OLIVE & JUNE — If you’re looking for a red & black mani ahead of the game, this is your spot. Go for the nail art, stay for the totally “instagrammable” decor. Address: 146 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
AMOEBA MUSIC — If you’re a music lover, take a few minutes to explore this landmark’s massive selection of records and more. Address: 6400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
LACMA — You probably want to take a photo of the LACMA’s iconic ‘urban light’ anyway, so get your art fix and get your gram in one. Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
UPRIGHT CITIZENS BRIGADE — Go see some of the best comedy in LA for $10 or less. You won’t regret it. Address: 5919 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
shopping:
THE GROVE — The junction of 3rd Street and Fairfax Avenue lands you at one of LA’s most iconic shopping destinations and the farmer’s market. Venture down 3rd if you’re looking for more specialty boutiques. Address: 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
CLOVER — Carrying clothes for men, women and children, this Silver Lake boutique has something for everyone, from jewelry to housewares and more. Address: 2756 Rowena Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039
ESPIONAGE —A quirky gift store specializing in couture clothing, vintage home decor & accessories that are truly one of a kind. Address: 7456 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
THE AMERICANA — LA is an expert when it comes to outdoor malls, so if you didn’t get your fix at The Grove, head to Glendale for round two. Address: 889 Americana Way #330, Glendale, CA 91210