Melrose Avenue is renowned throughout the world as one of Los Angeles’ most walkable and unique shopping, dining and entertainment destinations. Downtown Melrose encompasses the 22 blocks along Melrose Avenue that stretch from Fairfax to Highland. More than 300 alternative and independent stores offer a wide array of merchandise found nowhere else in the city.
Happening on Melrose
Ten Unique Places To Dine Al Fresco On Melrose Avenue
It’s always nice to sit outside and have a great meal. On Melrose, it’s particularly special because we have the best people watching in the city. Outdoor seating is aplenty in the Melrose Arts District, from sweet quiet patios to sunny sidewalk tables. Here are ten uniquely Melrose places to order up excellent food, a refreshing drink, and enjoy summer, al fresco. ANTONIO’S The outdoor seating at Antonio’s is some of the most prized on Melrose: ample, comfortable, and right in the thick of the activity. Enjoy one of Antonio’s classic Mexican dishes, or just guzzle potent margs until it’s time to go home. ANTONIO’S 7470 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.658.9060 antoniosonmelrose.com AUBURN Nature is the star at Auburn, on the menu and by design. The beautiful, comfortable minimalism of the atrium allows your attention to be focused on the incredibly thoughtful seasonal food and the definitively LA dining experience. AUBURN 6703 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 323.486.6703 auburnla.com THE DARKROOM Possibly the booziest place to be outdoors on Melrose. The Darkroom patio is big and boisterous, with the indoor rock ‘n’ roll energy flowing outside along with strong drinks, cold beers, and the best bar food to go with […]
25. Jul 2019
Ghost Pizza Kitchen: So Good It’ll Haunt Your Taste Buds
Delicious? Check. Fast and convenient? Check. Good people? Check. The newest addition to the Melrose Arts District pizza row is Ghost Pizza, and it brings some special twists to the pizza experience. You’re gonna want to check it out. Benjamin George Sales II is a creator of this special spot. He was born in Italy and traveled the world quite a bit with his military family. He eventually enlisted in the Army and did three tours overseas before deciding entrepreneurship was more in alignment. He ran a motorcycle company and a couple of dispensaries in Sacramento before being courted by Chipotle. The food and beverage industry was not on Ben’s radar, but Chipotle really wanted his expertise in team development, sustainability and scalability so he jumped on board in 2014. He explained, “I started washing dishes. You’re never too good to do any job – your team will never believe you if you act like you are.” He got his first store in the Glendale Galleria, then quickly became a field leader with multiple locations. The culture – guest experience, valuing and empowering employees – was important to Ben. And it’s what he wanted especially to bring to his own […]
17. Jul 2019
Spend Your Summer Drinking On Melrose
Here it is, folks. The complete and exhaustive list of all the bars, pubs, restaurants, and cafés in the Melrose Arts District that serve alcohol. The addresses, the hours (including the happy ones), and our drink recommendations. Keep it bookmarked as you’re looking to wind down (or up, it’s vacation time) this summer. Just FYIs: parking is ample in convenient lots, and at meters. There is some free street parking, but please read all signs, and be cool to the neighbors. Better yet, ride share if you can. Also, if you’re sober or a non-drinker, all of these fine establishments have satisfying summer bevvies for you. Cheers! ANTONIO’S Antonio’s is an epic Melrose restaurant and bar, with a legendary owner who crafted his own line of tequilas. You’ll need plenty of nachos at the bar to offset the amount of margaritas you’ll want here. Recommendation: a shot (or three) of Antonio’s Reposado Antonio’s is open daily from 11a – 11p. ANTONIO’S 7470 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.658.9060 antoniosonmelrose.com AUBURN We love a fresh face, and Auburn is a welcome addition to the drink and dine options on Melrose. Fresh and comfortable, apps and cocktails in this warm environment will […]
28. Jun 2019
The Arts District: How Creators Are Makin’ It On Melrose
Art exists in all its forms on Melrose Avenue: visual, fashion, live entertainment, dining. Behind the scenes in alleys, kitchens, and workspaces, creators are creating the amazing things you see in store. Here are some of the incredible innovators to check out on Melrose. COSMOS GLAMSQUAD It’s easy to imagine that the back of Cosmos Glamsquad boutique is part Wonka’s Chocolate Factory and part Project Runway workroom during the avant garde challenge. But more fun. With design partner Donato Crowley, Cosmo is creating and showing some of fashion’s edgiest, sexiest innovations. COSMOS GLAMSQUAD 7367 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.951.1141 cosmosglamsquad.com GARNISH MUSIC With locations all over the world, Garnish Music is the place to learn music production. In L.A., up-and-coming music soundmasters are coupled with award-winning instructors to create the music you’ll be hearing on the street (likely Melrose) tomorrow. GARNISH MUSIC 7600 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 424.653.6481 la.garnishmusicproduction.com GROUNDLINGS Every day of every week there’s boundaryless, fearless creativity happening on the stages at Groundlings. Students, alumni, sometimes even celebs are working out their improv skills or tweaking sketches in preparation for evening shows. GROUNDLINGS 7307 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.934.4747 groundlings.com LA CHOUQUETTE You can smell […]
13. Jun 2019
Father’s Day: The Most Excellent Gifts on Melrose
Sunday, June 16 is Father’s Day. We know parents can be impossible to shop for, which is why Melrose is such a great destination for gift giving – we have something unique and appropriate for the coolest of dads. ACE OF FADES Men in general don’t always make time for pampering. And they totally deserve it! Doesn’t hurt to get his head a little cleaned up, either. Bring your pop to Ace of Fades barber shop for a steam, shave, and style, old-school. Looking good, Dad! ACE OF FADES 7518 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.852.3942 instagram.com/aceoffadesla BLACK ANCHOR LA Give a gift that lasts a lifetime, and that will always remind your dad of what a special kid you are. Take him to Black Anchor, ask for Dan McWilliams, and then hold his hand while he gets a stunning piece of work he’ll be showing off forever. BLACK ANCHOR LA 7460 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 blackanchorworldwide.com BLACKBIRD PIZZA SHOP Treat your pops to some quality time with you – and pizza. And beer. That’s a helluva triple treat! Blackbird Pizza Shop has some of the best deep dish this side of Chicago, a sweet beer list, and the […]
10. Jun 2019
Community
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Melrose Action Neighborhood Watch
To sign up and become a member of Melrose Action and their Neighborhood Watch, click the link below. You’ll receive their weekly newsletter, notices and invitations to their neighbors only meetings and email alerts about serious crimes in the area. It’s free and supported by local residents and businesses.
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Fairfax to Ogden
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Alta Vista to Formosa
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Formosa to Detroit
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Detroit to La Brea
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La Brea to Sycamore
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Sycamore to Orange
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Orange to Mansfield
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Mansfield to Citrus
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Citrus to Highland
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Ogden to Genesee
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Gennesee to Spaulding
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Spaulding to Stanley
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Stanley to Curson
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Curson to Sierra Bonita
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Sierra Bonita to Gardner
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Gardner to Vista
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Vista to Martel
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Martel to Fuller
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Fuller to Pointsettia
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Pointsettia to Alta Vista
Melrose Downloadable Map
Melrose Avenue runs through the heart of West Hollywood and Hollywood. It is easily accessible by freeway (close to the 10 and the 101) and public transportation. Its sunny outdoor setting and colorful selection of shops and restaurants provides a unique, walkable experience unlike any in Los Angeles.
Best Of Melrose
$1 Food Festival Happening Right Before Your Eyes on Melrose
If you’re into eating, saving money, and saving time, you’re going to love the food “festival” happening right now on Melrose! Starting June 3 until June 14, you can get all sorts of delicious and nutritious treats at some of the yummiest restaurants on Melrose simply by downloading an app. The Ritual App allows customers to find awesome deals at their favorite restaurants, order them in advance, and pick them up by skipping the line. By downloading the digital app, you can experience savings in real life. You can get certain menu items at various restaurants along Melrose for only $1. So, here’s a run-down of what to order and where to get it on our section of Melrose—between Fairfax and Highland! 1. Naturewell Organic Juice Bar – Berrylicious Smoothies instagram.com/p/ByDuWMihz5u The sweet Berrylicious smoothie has raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and agave. And you can get that berry delicious smoothie for simply $1 if you order through the app during the festival. With a deal like that, you can splurge and treat your body with a wheatgrass shot before the smoothie for extra vitality throughout the day. Naturewell Organic Juice Bar 7261 Melrose Ave #7635 Los Angeles, CA 90046 naturewell2.com 2. […]
3. Jun 2019
Memorial Day Weekend: The Very Best Ways To Spend It On Melrose
If you’re staying local on this upcoming long holiday weekend, we’ve got some good ideas for how to spend that time on Melrose Avenue. There’s a little something for everyone – families and friends, people who want to be active and folks who just want to chill – and every budget. RELIVE YOUR GAMING GLORY DAYS Whether you’re ready to show your kids some well-honed Gauntlet skills, or you’re ready to take on your friends for leaderboard superiority, Game Over is ready for you with all the arcade classics from the ‘80s and ‘90s. Really enjoy your day playing NBA Jam, Mortal Kombat, Mario Bros. and so many happy-time more. GAME OVER 7406 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.207.9510 gameovermelrose.com SPEND THE NIGHT WITH GROUNDLINGS You may not have been invited to camp night at the Met, but you can get your high fash on with the new Groundlings main stage show: New York Fashion Groundlings. A little sketch, a little improv, all hilarious. You can catch it Friday at 8p, or Saturday night at 8p and 10p. GROUNDLINGS 7307 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.934.4747 groundlings.com GO SHOPPING Just shop. Melrose is one of the best known shopping districts […]
20. May 2019
Dating In The Digital Age, Melrose Style
Melrose Ave is the perfect meet-up point for a Tinder soirée with a wide variety of destinations from bars and restaurants to coffee and dessert shops. Whether you’re looking for a daytime espresso and jaunt down the boulevard or an evening cocktail with small plates, Melrose has it all. The centrality of Melrose makes it a great meeting point for those on opposite sides of the city and there are conversation starters everywhere you look, like world-class street murals, unique establishments, and cutting-edge fashion. Here are some ideas for creative dates around the Melrose block. MELROSE UMBRELLA COMPANY Melrose Umbrella Co. is craft cocktail and burger bar decorated with antique old timey furniture that would fit well in a haunted house. Cocktails range from $12-14 with a Happy Hour offering a House Old Fashioned option for $9 and Schlitz beer for $4. The crowd is a mix of eclectic hipsters, tourists, laptops, dogs, etc. The vintage décor and ambience is the winning factor here, combo’d with the full bar and food options. You can dress casual hip or come from work and fit in nicely either way. MELROSE UMBRELLA COMPANY 7465 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 (323) 951-0709 melroseumbrellacompany.com MILK BAR […]
14. May 2019
The Perfect Mother’s Day From Melrose Avenue
Got a hard-to-buy-for Mom? Tired of the same old card and flowers gift? Then you’ve come to the right place. The shops and restaurants on Melrose have gifts that for sure will keep you her favorite kid. BEND GOODS If your mom was really into your school arts & crafts, she might love a slightly elevated piece of art. Bend Goods has this amazing custom combo of modular art and macramé. Totally ‘70s and totally cool. BEND GOODS 7007 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 310.265.3939 bendgoods.com GENERATION 8 TATTOO Yes she can! Mom can get some ink. She just needs a little nudge from you, and the right place to do it. Take her to Generation 8 where no matter how small or big she wants to go, the piece will be something to celebrate on her special day. GENERATION 8 TATTOO 7216 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.591.0808 generation8tattoo.com HOUSE OF INTUITION House of Intuition put together a special Queen Mother Gift Box. It includes the Moon Arcana Mystics Spray, Mermaid Tea Bath, a You Are Loved Magic candle, and more to help her nurture herself and soak up some much needed relaxation. HOUSE OF INTUITION 7449 Melrose Avenue, […]
7. May 2019
Nail Art On Melrose: The Ultimate Guide To Getting Nailed
Clothing, murals, graffiti, barber shops, tattoos…Melrose is the place to go if you’re looking for artistic expression. Add nail art to the list. A growing trend on the socials, people are using every part of themselves as canvas for art and nails, though small, can display some amazing talent. There’s some serious work coming out of the salons on Melrose Avenue. Here’s a little taste. BLUSH LA For nails you can see a block away, consider neon. These ‘80s throwback colors have never really gone out of style, and Blush LA does a fab job of clean, solid polishing. BLUSH LA 7471 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.433.7143 blush.la @blush_la DAISY NAIL SPA If the warm, sunny weather is giving you tropical vibes, get inspired by the fun, fruity work from Daisy Nail Spa. Just a reminder that you don’t need two-inch claws; a little nail goes a long way. DAISY NAIL SPA 7260 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.931.8888 @daisynailspamelrose NAILBAY With a gorgeous spin on the French tip, Nailbay delivers a crisp, classy, colored chevron over a nude nail. Practical yet elegant and a little unexpected, this is a new go-to. NAILBAY 7201 Melrose Avenue. Ste. B, Los […]
24. Apr 2019
Best Tattoos Inked On Melrose This Month
Let us make shopping around for your next (or first) tattoo really easy. First, some of the best artists on the planet are stationed right here on Melrose Avenue. Second, the shops are all clean, comfortable, and safe; you really then just have to meet your artistic match. So finally, we’ve found some of the latest and greatest from ALL the shops, and linked to their ‘grams so you can scroll through the amazing portfolios. BAMBOO TATTOO Every line of a tattoo should be a thoughtful choice, but a good sleeve requires a lot of foresight and planning to make the best use of space. This is typical of the work done by Timbo at Bamboo Tattoo: sharp detail, impeccable cohesiveness, and evocative imagery. BAMBOO TATTOO 7664 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 instagram.com/bambootattoo BLACK ANCHOR This is on skin! I repeat, on skin. Drawn with a needle! This is the type of amazing portraiture done by Hilmar at Black Anchor Tattoo. The nuance in her face – the shadows, lines, skin tone – and the movement of her hair is the type of realism only an experienced pro can pull off. BLACK ANCHOR 7460 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.424.7762 […]
17. Apr 2019
All The Pizza Places on Melrose – A Definitive Guide
If you’ve walked around Melrose Ave. lately, you may have smelled some mouthwatering scents wafting through the air. That’s in large part thanks to the numerous rich pizza options that have popped up within the 21-block area from Fairfax to Highland. Pizza lovers from all over the city have begun flocking to Melrose, testing out all the savory pizza types and attempting to decide upon a favorite. If you’re overwhelmed at the number of pizza options or perhaps want to cater your pizza experience to a specific style, here is a definitive guide to all the pizza places on Melrose. Blackbird Pizza Come for the deep dish pizza, stay for the microbrews. A casual newer pizza joint that serves both deep dish and thin crust options, Blackbird is a great place to hang with friends when you want to unwind and be a bit decadent. Since good deep dish pizza isn’t always easy to find (outside of Chicago, of course), people seem to love the yummy cheeses and extra crunch the deep dish has to offer at Blackbird. The pizzas here come in full size only – no slices available. You can order the eponymous Blackbird pizza for a great mix […]
11. Apr 2019
Coachella One Stop Shopping At 7600 Melrose Avenue
In L.A., “historical buildings” are hard to come by; you pretty much have the pink wall and the La Brea tar pits. But the 7600 building has been a staple on Melrose Avenue since 1982. The following year they were featured in People magazine, pictured above, referenced as the place where goths, weirdos and high heeled ladies could all come to shop. The owners, Deny and Sylvia, who have been there since the beginning, are still dedicated to curating cool new businesses and stores. 7600 is truly a one-stop-shop for the coolest services and clothes. And with Coachella around the corner you’ll definitely want to go check it out for all your festival fabulous needs. Garnish Music Production & DJ School Everyone wants to be a DJ these days, don’t they? If you want to be the next DJ Khaled, (he’s a DJ right?) David Garnish is your man. He’s a DJ trainer who was born in England so you KNOW he’s good. So good he trained Paris Hilton, let’s just say that. And with Coachella coming up around the corner, you may want to go check in with David and see if you can get the talent to go […]
1. Apr 2019
Melrose Spotlite
Pretty, Funny Women on Melrose
On Melrose, there’s no shortage of restaurants, shops and nail salons, but sometimes, particularly these days, you just a need a laugh. With the exception of The Groundlings and Sal’s Comedy Hole, there haven’t been many places to see and perform comedy on our stretch of Melrose— until now. Lisa Sundstedt, a comedian, actress and renowned “Madam of Comedy” is changing all that with her new Pretty, Funny Women studio at 7456 Melrose Ave. Pretty, Funny Women Studio opened in the former Zephyr Theatre lobby at the end of May and is the new hot spot for all things comedy. The studio provides classes, specialty workshops, shows, space rental, and open mic opportunities. Pretty, Funny Women began as an industry showcase of the same name in 1995 that ran at the Hollywood Improv for more than ten years. In 2005, Lisa started teaching stand up, and was able to mentor thousands of women through her classes—even helping to manage some of their careers. Opening a brick and mortar studio was the natural next step. According to Lisa, the name Pretty, Funny Women came from an incredibly unhelpful man telling her that, “pretty women can’t be funny.” She says many people, […]
7. Jun 2019
Debut of SUCKER PUNCH at Tiger Boxing Gym, Where The Gentleman’s Sport Meets The Arts
On Tuesday, June 4th, Coeurage Theatre Company will debut SUCKER PUNCH by Roy Williams at Tiger Boxing Gym (708 N Gardner St, 90046). The play, which is set in a boxing gym, focuses on such powerful issues as class, race and identity. Tiger Boxing Gym provides the perfect, intimate setting (27 seats), bringing the audience into the action. Tiger Boxing Gym is owned by Charles Nwokolo, known as “Young Dick Tiger,” a fierce young fighter who won 84 of 91 amateur fights, and represented his country in the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. His wife, Elizabeth Wilson, is a classical violinist. When she was approached by Coeurage with the idea of staging a live theatre production in the gym, she jumped at the opportunity. “I love the idea of the unexpected co-mingling and collaborative efforts between our gym and the Arts,” said Wilson. “Last spring we held a chamber music concert inside the boxing ring and it was wonderful! My husband and his son are training the actors and helping to choreograph the fights. It’s shaping up to be a very exciting and super intimate production.” About Sucker Punch In the red corner: Leon Davidson – Black British champ […]
4. Jun 2019
Spartina LA: So, You’re Addicted to Pasta
So, you’re addicted to pasta– it’s ok. The first step is admitting you have a problem. The good news is, there’s help. I have personally struggled with a pasta addiction all my life. I remember a time when my father found me freebasing cold, sauce-less penne into my mouth out of a strainer in the kitchen (I was seven, and they were dark times). I’ve grown a lot since then, and I’m here to impart that wisdom upon you. The best pasta on Melrose is served at chef and culinary wizard Stephen Kalt’s Spartina. The original Spartina opened in New York and was named top 5 on Food & Wines neighborhood restaurants. They mix rustic decor and place settings with fine dining cuisine. The pasta is made in-house, so it has the consistency of an angel’s wing, and the menu is ever changing to support the use of local in-season ingredients. I suggest going on Mondays as they have happy hour all night with pasta at $15 dollars and wines for $8. Because pasta is meant to be eaten with wine, or beer, or soda—or maybe it’s just meant to be eaten, period. The short rib tortelloni with brown butter […]
26. Feb 2019
Martin Diller Brings The Best Music In L.A. To Melrose Trading Post
The Melrose Trading Post has become one of the greatest success stories of the LA Unified School District raising over $7 million for Fairfax High organizations since 1997, growing to attract 5-8K thousand visitors every Sunday. Even if you are unfamiliar with the Melrose area, you have probably witnessed the bustling bazaar it all its glory while driving past the iconic Fairfax High on any given Sunday. What you probably haven’t heard about is the Trading Post’s concert series. It is easy to miss the live music stage among the vast selection of vendors and top-notch people watching complete with star-studded appearances by celebrities like Taylor Swift, Kendall Jenner, Lana Del Rey, Matt Bellamy of Muse, band members from the Chainsmokers, Tyler the Creator, Willow & Jaden Smith and Kehlani. Upon entering the food court, you will be greeted by the Greenway Arts Main Stage resting underneath a shady tree, inviting those with tired legs and a plate of food to chill and check out the local talent. FYI, the food court is filled with intoxicating fragrances from delicious foods like crepes, tacos, acai bowls, infused teas or just about anything you would want. In most situations, local talent refers […]
19. Feb 2019
Severance: A Fondue And Fine Wine Hot Spot On Melrose
Just three and a half months new, Severance is a welcome new food and wine hot spot on Melrose Ave. According to owner Evan Charest, “We’re a wine bar with extensive food, and we focus on cheese fondues, dessert fondues, and flat breads.” Charest says the flat breads use dough made in house and are cooked on their wood-fired grill. “And when it comes to beverages, we offer a wide variety of wines, as well as large format punch drinks made from sherry and champagne,” he adds. Charest’s background includes running the beverage program for Patina on the west coast. Severance is his first solo project. Why focus on the absolutely delicious creamy fondue in his menu? “I have a huge passionate love for fondue. It is easy to make and hard to master,” he laughs. “We have done a lot of R & D on it, and created something wonderful.” Additionally, he adds “It has that great après-ski vibe, and of course the whole communal food aspect. Food to share and fun drinks, those are the things we wanted here. We wanted shareable.” Charest describes his most popular item as his Emmentaler & Gruyere cheese fondue, made with carmelized […]
19. Dec 2018
Milk Bar Offers Cream Of The Crop Cookies And Cakes, How Sweet It Is
With a full line of bakery treats, classroom, kitchen, catering, and ice cream truck, Milk Bar’s flagship eatery has arrived in LA., and how sweet it is for Melrose shoppers. Where else would a hip, happening, ultra-coveted cookie and soft serve ice cream empire choose to set up shop but Melrose Ave. Milk Bar was founded by Chef Christina Tosi in 2008; the tasty cool dessert and bakery chain is part of the New York City-based Momofuku restaurant group. Its Melrose outpost is the first on the West Coast. Tosi is a two-time James Beard award winner who began by creating the dessert program at Momofuku and went on to build her own dessert-focused chain. And in doing so, she created indulgent and unique sweets like Cereal Milk ice cream, Compost Cookies, and Crack Pie®; desserts that inspired ravenous fan followings, ready for flavor and fun. Tosi has been looking for an LA home for eight years, and now she’s got one: an approximately 4000 square foot shiny and pink-walled location in the heart of Melrose. Cakes, cookies, breads, soft-serve ice cream, and Counter Culture Coffee – it’s all here now, even a coffee version of the venue’s renowned Crack […]
26. Oct 2018
