By: Christa Allen
We asked our gorgeous friend, Actress Christa B Allen (you definitely know her from 13 Going on 30 and Revenge – she never ages, but that’s for another issue), to take us on a virtual tour of Downtown Los Angeles and reminisce on all of her favorite things as we look to step out of lockdown and step back into supporting our local communities.
Christa is our go-to girl for some of the best wellness, clean beauty, food, fitness and spiritual advice. She’s an all-around gorgeous human inside and out so do yourself a favor and follow her on IG, TikTok and beyond!
Q: What do you love about Downtown LA? Its essence and character traits?
A: I love that DTLA and the Arts District are teeming with creativity. This part of the city feels like home for the misfits, the underdogs, the innovators.
Q: Favorite street corner?
A: Garey and 3rd near Hauser & Wirth is the perfect spot for a little weekend stroll.
Q: Favorite coffee shop and coffee order?
A: Philz Coffee– Iced Mint Mojito made with oat milk!
Q: Favorite restaurant – lunch/ dinner and favorite food there?
A: Bavel is a classic!
Mariscos Jalisco (slightly east of the Arts District) serves the BEST street tacos.
Guelaguetza (Koreatown) has unbelievable Oaxacan food with a stellar mezcal selection. They make their legendary molé in-house; they are so known for it that their website is ilovemole.com!
Q: Favorite bar + cocktail or mocktail there?
A: The Nomad; I order the Sakura Maru. It’s no longer on the menu but if you ask for it by name they will still make it for you.
In Sheep’s Clothing is a wonderful hidden Japanese jazz bar that plays records and serves cocktails, coffee, and tea. I really hope it survives the pandemic.
Q: Your favorite building and why?
A: The Bradbury is epically beautiful inside. It is the city’s oldest landmarked building. I also think ROW DTLA is absolutely beautiful.
Q: Favorite free activity – park, library, etc?
A: I love taking my dog Luna to the little park across from Urth Caffe in the Arts District. It’s not a dog park but everyone brings their dogs as it’s the only outdoor area for dogs to play in this part of the city. It’s lovely.
Q: Favorite place to meet up with friends?
A: Everson Royce bar! Their burger is legendary, and the vibe is chill.
Q: Favorite place for business meetings?
A: Soho Warehouse.
Q: Best Neighborhood Hotel/ where you’d suggest friends stay
A: Soho Warehouse.
Q: Spot that inspires me the most
A: The rooftop at ROW DTLA is shockingly special. Best 360-degree views of the city and there’s a little “park” of sorts up there.
Q: Best people watching locale
A: Santee Alley. It’s also the best place to find last minute Halloween costumes or clothes for Burning Man.
Q: If there was one billboard in the city, to welcome visitors and showcase its essence, what would it say…. Welcome to…?
A: Welcome to The Arts District sums it up perfectly!