A few years ago, when I first moved to Hollywood, I started keeping a running list of my favorite local spots. Now, after celebrating five years of calling this neighborhood home, I figured it was time for an update. The funny thing is, most of my original picks are still at the top of my list—they’re tried-and-true classics that never let me down, whether I’m hosting out-of-town guests or just looking for my own go-to dinner plans.
That said, Hollywood is constantly evolving, and a few incredible new additions deserve some love too. From iconic hotels to hole-in-the-wall coffee shops, here’s my take on where to stay, what to eat, and the best places to burn off all those extra cocktails and late-night desserts.
Where to Stay: Classic Hollywood Vibes
The Roosevelt Hotel
When I first came to Los Angeles to decide if I could make this city home, I stayed at The Roosevelt Hotel. And honestly, it’s been one of my favorite places ever since. This spot is dripping with history and old Hollywood glamour—it’s been around forever, and locals will tell you it’s haunted (which only makes it cooler).
The Roosevelt is dark, sexy, and always buzzing. The restaurants and bars are top-notch, and they really go all out with the holiday decorations. It’s not the cheapest option, but if you want to immerse yourself in that quintessential LA experience, this is the place to book.
Where to Eat and Drink: Old Favorites + New Additions
One of the best things about Hollywood is the food scene. You can go from trendy new hotspots to long-standing institutions that have been serving locals for decades. Here are some of my forever-favorites along with some newer gems:
- Rubies + Diamonds – A stylish café that feels equal parts coffee shop and cocktail lounge. Great for people-watching.
- Tocaya Organica – Fresh, modern Mexican food that never feels too heavy. Perfect for lunch before an afternoon of exploring.
- The Highlight Room – A rooftop spot with gorgeous views of the city. Ideal for brunch or cocktails at sunset.
- TAO – Glamorous, buzzing, and always packed. It’s a see-and-be-seen kind of place that still manages to deliver great food.
- Blackwood Coffee Bar – A cozy spot for a caffeine fix that makes you want to linger.
- Lono – A tiki bar with incredible cocktails that transport you straight to vacation mode.
- Division 3 – Casual and laid-back, with comfort food that hits the spot every time.
- Afters Ice Cream – If you’re craving something sweet, their unique flavors and playful vibe make this an instant favorite.
- Pace Joint – A newer place with great food and a fun, lively atmosphere.
And then there are the “OGs”—spots I somehow didn’t mention in my original list but have since become staples:
- Mashti Malone’s Ice Cream – A Hollywood institution for nearly 40 years, known for its unique Middle Eastern-inspired flavors like rosewater and saffron. Truly unlike anything else.
- Tiago Coffee Bar + Kitchen – My breakfast go-to back when I first moved here, and still one of the coziest, most dependable spots around.
A Note on Atmosphere
I wish I could share more photos of these places, but here’s the thing: most of them are intentionally dark, moody, and atmospheric. That’s part of what makes them so fun to visit—they feel immersive and sexy. But it also means photos don’t do them justice. Think of it as all the more reason to experience them in person.
Balancing It Out: Where to Work Out
Of course, if you’re hopping from rooftop brunches to late-night ice cream runs, you’re going to want some balance. Luckily, Hollywood also has a great selection of gyms and fitness studios where you can burn off some of those indulgences. From trendy boutique fitness classes to more classic gyms, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to get your heart rate up.
And honestly, it feels good to sweat a little after diving into all the incredible food and cocktails this neighborhood has to offer. Plus, some of the studios are just as much of a scene as the restaurants—you might even spot a celebrity or two mid-spin.
Final Thoughts
Hollywood has a reputation for being all glitz and glamour, but once you spend some time here, you realize it’s also about comfort, history, and community. Some of the best spots are the ones that have been around for decades, while others are shiny new additions that bring fresh energy to the scene.
Whether you’re staying at a classic hotel, sipping cocktails under string lights, grabbing late-night ice cream, or sweating it out at a local gym, Hollywood offers the perfect mix of indulgence and balance. And that’s exactly why, even after five years, I’m still in love with this neighborhood.
So next time you find yourself in LA, skip the tourist traps and check out a few of these spots. They might just become your new favorites, too.
