As you know, I don't really go in for what most people consider "LA." I'm rarely west of Western, and almost never on the Sunset Strip. I haven't been to the beach in a year or more. My LA is different, better.
Without further ado, here are five things that make me glad to live here.
1. The Vista.
This is the best theater in the world. It's a beautiful, odd combination of faux-egyptian and art deco architecture. It has legendary amounts of leg room. It shows all the big blockbusters during the summer before settling down to more cerebral fare for the fall. And best of all, it's right up the street. If you live in LA and haven't been, go now. Broken Flowers is currently playing.
2. Little Tokyo.
For some reason, I drive down to Little Tokyo a couple times a month. I go into the grocery stores, the kitschy stores, and the comic/manga/toy stores. I love Mr. Ramen, the only Rasta Ramen house in the world. It's also home to the Shabu-Shabu house and Frying Fish, the only sushi restaurant with a moving belt in LA. Invariably, I come home with a full stomach and some interesting baubles.
3. Wacko/La Luz De Jesus.
This combo store/art gallery is also right around the corner from me. It's sort of a Costco for indie culture. In among the rows of book shelves, tiki gods, action figures, hats, and ashtrays also lies a fantastic art gallery that usually features the kind of art I'd buy if I were rich and had infinite wall space. It's a bit chaotic, but that's the fun of it all. The first time I stepped inside I was truly amazed.
4. Grand Central Market.
Hopping on the Red Line and going downtown is always fun, but a trip to Grand Central Market makes it complete. It's the best place to get lunch downtown, and also the best place to get groceries, spices, flowers, and whatever else you need. Also, the Bradbury building from Blade Runner is right across the street. Word.
5. Skylight Books.
Can you tell I like Los Feliz? Someone should build an underground tunnel between Skylight and Wacko. I'd never leave. This is the best bookstore in LA. A wide selection and an inviting atmosphere spell bad news for my wallet every time I go inside.