Culver City has undergone a significant transformation over the years, evolving from a small town to a bustling urban hub that attracts young professionals and families alike. Originally founded as a movie studio town in the 1920s, Culver City has since grown to become a diverse and thriving community with a rich history and culture. In recent years, the city has undergone a wave of development, with new businesses, restaurants, and residential complexes popping up throughout the area. Additionally, the opening of the Expo Line in 2012 has connected Culver City to the rest of Los Angeles, making it a more accessible and convenient destination for commuters and visitors alike. Despite all these changes, Culver City has managed to maintain its small-town charm, offering a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that makes it a great place to call home.

My family and I live just on the western outskirts of Culver City and spend a lot of time enjoying everything it has to offer. Here are a few of my favorite spots!

Restaurants & Bars

Hatchet Hall

Only about 5 minutes from our house, this has been a long time favorite of ours and unfortunately for us, now that they have a Michelin star… the secret is out. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and Southern-inspired cuisine - the menu is always changing but don’t miss out on their homemade rolls! The cozy atmosphere and inventive cocktails make it a great spot for a night out - the Old Man Bar nextdoor is great for a drink before or after your meal. And they recently started doing a Sunday brunch which my girls absolutely love!

The Platform

This outdoor shopping center is home to several trendy and delicious restaurants and bars, my favs are Margot, Loqui, and Roberta's. Margot has a great ambience and super cool roof top. Loqui has killer tacos. And Roberta’s is some of the best pizza in LA (exported from NYC).

Juliet

Designed by Jeremiah Bryant, this new restaurant has the most beautiful decor and romantic atmosphere. From the same people that brought us Margot and Norah, Juliet offers a unique twist on traditional French cuisine. 

Etta

I love this place. Super fun and incredibly delicious. The pastas, the pizza, the grilled octopus and of course the MIND BLOWING Fire-baked focaccia with ricotta-honey & truffle!! 

Citizen Public Market

This food hall features a variety of local vendors and chefs. So far we’ve had (and loved) fried chicken from Go Go Bird, a raw bar selection form Jolly Oyster and cocktails from Bar Bohemian. A great place to meet up with friends, everyone can grab what they want and then meet up at the setting area in the back!

Uzumaki

Our favorite, not super expensive sushi spot. They do a fixed menu / to-go box thing that’s kind of like Sugarfish but WAY better IMO. 

Lodge Bread

The first time we came here for breakfast, Stella was a baby and we walked (I remember because she cried the entire walk home). The coffee and bread were delicious and they played The Grateful Dead the whole time, we loved it. 

The Culver Hotel

A little piece of history, this hotel was apparently where all the actors that played the Munchkins in The Wizard of Oz stayed during filming! Now it’s a great spot to meet for a drink in the lobby or grab lunch on the terrace.

Coffee Shops

The Boy & The Bear

Right around the corner from one of our favorite playgrounds (and where my oldest takes tennis lessons) this place has delicious coffee and offers a great environment to work / catch up with friends.

Go Get Em Tiger

Yes the coffee is good, but I come for the breakfast burritos! 

Super Domestic

This family-owned coffee shop offers delicious coffee and pastries, along with a selection of home goods and gifts. Super cute spot.

Goodboy Bob

Love the coffee at this spot within the Citizen Public Market

Menotti’s

Delicious coffee, great space. My only beef is that they close at 2pm and I love an afternoon coffee!!!

Shopping

The Platform

This outdoor shopping center is home to several trendy retailers, including Aesop, Reformation, and Wyeth. Their pop-ups and markets offer a rotating selection of local artisans and designers.

Midland Shop

This female owned boutique offers a curated selection of homegoods, clothes, jewelry and beauty products with a focus on quality, sustainability and community.

Hi-Lo Liquor

This boutique liquor store offers a wide selection of wine, spirits, and beer, along with a selection of gourmet snacks and gifts.

Lundeen's

Super charming, cozy and eclectic gift shop!

Noodles Children's Resale

This consignment shop offers gently-used children's clothing and toys at affordable prices.

Erewhon

LA’s latest Erewhon recently opened in downtown Culver at the Culver City Steps. Easy on the eyes, tough on the wallet…it’s not your typical grocery store. I must say, I really love their soups. Whenever I am under the weather I grab some of their Coconut Red Lentil soup - just remember to bring the jar back for your $2 deposit!

Aldea Home & Baby

This modern home goods and baby store offers a curated selection of furniture, decor, and clothing for parents and kids.

Health & Wellness 

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

This hiking trail offers stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles and the surrounding area. It's a great spot to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

Milk & Honey Spa

This luxurious spa offers a variety of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and body treatments.

Equinox

Once a hater, I discovered many years ago what all the Equinox hype is about! These gyms really are beautifully built out, impeccably maintained and have the best group fitness classes. If you can afford it, and will actually USE it (here’s my biggest problem), I think the memberships are genuinely worth it.

Activities 

Sony Pictures Studio Tour

This behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Sony Pictures Studios offers visitors a glimpse into the world of filmmaking. You'll see sound stages, sets, and props from some of your favorite movies and TV shows.

Culver City Farmer's Market

This weekly farmers' market offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, and prepared foods from local vendors. It's a great spot to stock up on ingredients for a picnic or a home-cooked meal. Tuesdays 2-7pm

Wild Child Gym

This indoor play space offers a variety of classes and activities for kids! They also offer camps during school breaks and amazing birthday parties (both on and off site). My girls love it!!

Kirk Douglas Theatre

This intimate theater hosts a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to stand-up comedy and improv. It's a great spot to catch a show and support local talent. We took the girls to a Winnie the Pooh puppet show last year!

If you find yourself in Culver City and want some company at any of these places or elsewhere, hit me up!