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
The Six Best Ice Cream Specials: It May Be Fall, But It’s Still Hot!
It may be fall, but the heat doesn’t look to be leaving any time soon. While we most definitely endorse ice cream any time of the year, there’s something about cooling down with a cold dessert that makes it feel like summertime all year round. We found six ice cream specials that are guaranteed to deliciously take the edge off even the hottest L.A. days. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM The artisanal menu choices at Cold Rolled Ice Cream are not only IG-worthy, they are exceptionally delicious. In particular, White Chocolate Rose with its rose water base, white chocolate drizzle, and dried rose buds, is the most exquisite example of the create-your-combo Thai rolled ice cream system. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM 7266 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 (323) 452-0881 coldrolledicecream.com LN2 It might be a challenge to save some room for dessert after seeing the pizza menu at LN2, but trust us: save some room for dessert. It’s a build your own sundae opportunity with nth level ingredients. If you are a strawberry fan, try the strawberry chamomile ice cream with whipped cream and a fresh berry. LN2 7212 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.917.5178 ln2restaurant.com MILK All hail Christina Tosi, […]
6. Oct 2019
After Hours Eats
Best known for its lively daytime crowds and sun-kissed shopping strolls, you may not think of the Melrose Arts District as a nighttime destination. Historically the neighborhood has closed its doors around 11pm, however, with a new generation of restaurants and bars, things have changed. If you are looking for late night eats, there are a myriad of options ranging from outstanding bar food to delicious Asian and Italian cuisine. Here’s the round-up. FRANKIE’S Sometimes you just need to have an old-school experience. I mean Rat Pack throwback, real Italian food with stiff cocktails, classic service, and good friends. The kind of meal where you eat till you fall out of your chair, then order some cannolis. Lucky for you, Frankie’s is open late (midnight) and is no doubt the right choice. Where else can you get Osso Bucco and cannolis good as Brooklyn? FRANKIE’S 7228 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles 90046 323.655.3331 frankiesonmelrose.com HOT WINGS CAFE ` Famous for their wings which come in over 5 styles, Hot Wings Cafe makes for a perfect late night pairing with sports and drinking. You can dine-in or make it to-go which seems to be popular for this establishment. They also serve beer […]
30. Sep 2019
Savings, Specials, And Secrets: The 12 Best Melrose Arts District Lists To Be On
There’s so much happening on Melrose every day – from pop ups and events to seasonal sales and daily specials – how the heck are you supposed to make sure you don’t miss out? Easy answer: get on the lists! Give these Melrose businesses your email and get the scoop on all your favorite places before anybody else. 2nd STREET With the amount of one-of-a-kind, high-end merch coming into 2nd Street on the reg, you really have to stay on it. New subscribers to the stores mailing list get 10% off as well. 2nd STREET 7560 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 424.433.5997 2ndstreetusa.com/find-a-store 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS Learn about cool new 60Out experiences, get first word on promos, and keep the brain in action with puzzle challenges when you sign up. 60OUT ESCAPE ROOMS 7270 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 (213) 995-6890 60out.com/los-angeles/locations ALTIVO TIMEPIECES Altivo Timepieces makes you a VIP with exclusive updates, new arrivals 411, and insider-only discounts. ALTIVO TIMEPIECES 7221 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.933.1460 altivo.com BLU JAM CAFÉ Get all the good news from Blu Jam: events, specials, and more. Check out what coupons you can use while you’re waiting for your table. BLU JAM CAFÉ […]
24. Sep 2019
Five Melrose Avenue Restaurant Dishes That Celebrate Fall
Not matter what the temperature says, autumn has officially arrived. While it may not feel like it, it can certainly taste like it. Melrose Avenue restaurants are the place to go if you’re into seasonal ingredients, clever flavor combos, and a total sense of satisfaction after a meal. Check out these offerings that celebrate the flavors of the season. AUBURN Eggplant is a ridiculously flexible fruit (yes, fruit) with a distinct flavor and texture that is exploited to its rustic fullest in this dish at Auburn. The eggplant is charred in the hearth and served with puffed grains, black garlic, almonds, and onion essence. AUBURN 6703 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90038 323.486.6703 auburnla.com/menu COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM No way we’re skipping dessert. If you like your fall flavors frozen, take a look at Cold Rolled’s monument to cool fall nights. S’more Tonight has a s’more base, chocolate drizzle, crushed graham cracker, and a for-real toasted marshmallow. COLD ROLLED ICE CREAM 7266 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046 323.452.0881 coldrolledicecream.com LA CHOUQUETTE This is most definitely apple season. A simple, elegant, and dizzingly delicious way to enjoy the fall fruit is at La Chouquette. This tarte aux pommes has a perfectly crisp, […]
20. Sep 2019
Meatless Meals In The Melrose Arts District
For meat-eaters it’s become nearly impossible to ignore the problems with the cattle industry and the effects it has on the environment. But whether you’re a full-blown vegan or someone experimenting with “Meatless Mondays,” going out to dinner can be tough, so we’ve found some dishes for you where the flavor isn’t missing just because the meat is. We’re going to take you through a few meals from different restaurants in the Melrose Arts District. E.A.K Ramen E.A.K. Ramen is easily the best ramen on Melrose in addition to Tatsu! The vibe is cool, trendy and hip. Normally a Vegan Ramen would illicit thoughts of a flavorless bland water broth, but this is just the opposite. The ratatouille broth is full of flavor from the shio tare, and it’s served with thin wavy noodles, cauliflower, tomatoes, red and yellow bell peppers, celery and radish sprouts. With all these vegetables you feel like you’re getting your Popeye on while still enjoying a delicious ramen bowl. The noodles can be made gluten-free from Konjac root if you’re gluten intolerant or just gluten opposed. E.A.K.Ramen 7455 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 EAKRamen.com (323) 866-1866 Fala Bar Fala Bar is the place to […]
4. Sep 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
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
$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
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
