Since I was born and raised in Los Angeles, I thought I could write about some places people may not know about in my city that I consider gems!

Melrose Avenue

Melrose runs thru the heart of West Hollywood and is home to some of my favorite stores like Reformation and Restoration Hardware, and favorite restaurants such as Urth Caffe and Zinque. It is also is known for many walls with writing and unique art such like the Made in LA mural and the pink Paul Smith wall. Any photographer, tourist, or someone who loves taking photos (like I do) is sure to love wondering Melrose Avenue and Melrose Place, home to Alfred's coffee!

 Steampunk

I was introduced to Steampunk, a local coffee shop serving great breakfast and lunch about two years ago. Not only do they make a ridiculously good dirty chai, but they also serve their famous dish called "The Stack" (a fried egg, a waffle, fried chicken, and potatoes) which is my personal favorite. Everything is made fresh and from high quality ingredients. This place is a must if you are willing to venture into the San Fernando Valley just about a 15 minute drive, with no traffic, from Hollywood.

Shibuya

If you have seen my Snapchat, it's clear that I am sushi fanatic! Shibuya in Calabasas is my all time favorite sushi restaurant. It is a little hole in the wall restaurant that has a wait from the time it opens to the time it closes. They get fresh fish daily and serve generous portions for reasonable prices. If you are willing to make the 20 mile trip, it is definitely worth it! Just be sure you are prepared to wait up to an hour to get a table depending on the day and time.

Escondido Falls Hike in Malibu

If you are visiting Los Angeles, Malibu is a must. Malibu has some of the nicest beaches and homes in California and it also has my favorite hike! Escondido Falls is right next to the beach, about a 3.8 miles roundtrip and when you make it to the top, you get to see a waterfall! It is a semi-challenging hike just because it is a tad treacherous so be prepared to use your hands for some climbing, but it's nothing crazy! A perfect day in Malibu in my eyes consists of doing the hike, then going to John's Garden at the Malibu Country Mart about 10 minutes away, and then going to the beach!

The Grove

Located in the heart of the Hancock Park area, the Grove is a beautiful outdoor shopping experience with an amazing fountain, some great stores like Nordstrom and Topshop, and restaurants perfect for anyone! The Grove also is home to the original Los Angeles Farmer's Market since 1934. You can get anything from fresh donuts, to flowers, to meats. I highly recommend going to the Grove for a couple hours to shop, eat, and walk around!

Rodeo Drive

The famous Rodeo Drive is definitely worth the hype! Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, the stores on Rodeo are sure to blow your mind. They are so beautiful and over the top, a picture doesn't even do it justice, you NEED to see for yourself!