Los Angeles Neighborhood Guide: Atwater Village
Atwater Village is one of those Los Angeles neighborhoods that newbies to LA aren't yet familiar with. That's because this neighborhood has only grown in popularity over the past couple of years, as evidenced by steadily increasing housing prices. Located in Northeast Los Angeles, Atwater Village is a family-friendly hipster neighborhood that's relatively walkable - a rarity for sprawling Los Angeles. Glendale Boulevard is the main stretch where you can easily find parking and spend an afternoon exploring stores, restaurants and coffee shops.
Stop 1: Bon Vivant Market and Cafe (3155 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
Bon Vivant is a neighborhood favorite, boasting a fully stocked bar for happy hour as well as breakfast that's served all day. The menu ranges form fancier items like Oysters on the Half Shell, or Grand Marnier & Butter Crepe, to standard fare like Avocado Bruschetta or the Breakfast Burrito. The space is large and inviting, and the restaurant is more of a hang out spot for locals. You'll see a fair share of people camped out on couches working on their laptops. Good for: happy hour, brunch, dining solo or with a group
Stop 2: Alias Books (3167 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
If you're a book lover and swoon over coffee table books then you'll appreciate Alias Books. Alias curates a collection of gently used books across every genre imaginable. Not willing to blow $50 on a coffee table book about Eames design? You may be able to find one at Alias for half the price. Good for: unique gifts, books for yourself
Stop 3: Treehaus (3153 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
Treehaus is a colorful, eclectic, and modern store that carries home furnishings, gifts and apparel. Many of their products are made by Los Angeles or California based designers. This is the store to hit if you need a last minute housewarming gift. Good for: housewarming gifts, gifts for anyone (including kids), home accents
Stop 4: Black Elephant Coffee (3193 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
Not only does Black Elephant Coffee have amazing coffee drinks like a Nutella Latte (and plain old Stumptown Coffee), they give back a portion of their proceeds to the World Wildlife Fund. The shop is situated conveniently in the middle of the main commercial stretch on Glendale Boulevard. Good for: caffeine fix, afternoon sugar high
Stop 5: Kin & Kind (3229 1/2 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
On their website: "Kin and Kind takes inspiration from the artisan tradition with a thoughtful selection of handmade and curated goods cleanly edited for those seeking something unique". Everything in Kin and Kind's small shop is beautifully crafted and Instagram-worthy. From Moroccan textiles to handmade ceramics to hand woven straw bags, the shop is indeed tastefully curated, and a testament to the beauty of handmade goods. Good for: window shopping, gifts, home decor
Stop 6: Common (3229 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
Common is a contemporary women's boutique that carries it's own namesake line as well as other brands. The store carries cute everyday basics (tees, denim) and surprisingly affordable pieces (jumpsuits, sundresses, blouses) that transition easily from work day to a weekend outing. Great for: easy to wear, affordable, versatile clothing
Stop 7: Individual Medley (3176 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90039)
Owned by wife and husband duo Monica Navarro and Justin Boys, Individual Medley has become a cult favorite among fashion-savvy Angelenos. Step inside the store and you'll be transported to a space that channels Ojai/Joshua Tree woodsy vibes. The store carries cult designer brands (Ilana Kohn, Ace & Jig, Levi's, Carhart), as well as handmade ceramic housewares made by local artists, and a great selection of accessories and apothecary items. Great for: mens and women's apparel, home accents, gifts
