Century City

Occupying a cavernous space in Century City's Westfield, this Italian gourmet food emporium and restaurant space—which stretches across multiple floors—makes a solid attempt at replicating the charm of the Italian grocery shopping experience in America. Dozens of counters and mini kitchens make and sell everything from fresh mozzarella and home-made pasta, to vegetables and desserts. While the lines for each of Eataly's three restaurants are admittedly long the wait is worth it, whether you're opting to try the pizza at La pizza & La Pasta, the sustainably caught, wild California fish at the incredible Il Pesce Cucina, or just a few small bites and a glass of wine at La Piazza. The real beauty of Eataly is that after your meal you can wander back downstairs and purchase everything you just ate to recreate an authentic Italian meal at home—helped along with some solid advice from the highly knowledgeable staff that man every counter. Avoid weekends and arrive early until (or if), the initial buzz dies down.

We've long been fans of Aritzia's suped-up basics—a well-tailored trench, a crisp poplin ruffled blouse, lacy bralettes, and high-waist trousers, are among our favorites—so when we heard the Vancouver-based retailer was opening their first LA flagship over at Westfield Century City mall, we collectively rejoiced. Across 11,000-square feet the warm, wood-heavy space feels like a well-appointed residence, with built-in millwork, marble accent tables, steel-and-glass dividers, and herringbone marble floors—and lots of greenery. (This is LA, after all.) A bonus: there's a VIP shopping area too for those who want a bit more privacy.

A view of the Century Plaza Towers from below (the duo were designed by Minoru Yamasaki, the architect who designed The World Trade Center, and the visual similarities are eery), and free admission are just bonuses: The photo exhibits here are both excellent and manageable.

Inspired by the aromatic wood of Tokyo, the walls of this beautiful, organic-looking restaurant (named after a favorite scent by Comme des Garçons) are lined with fragrant cedar and one of the most popular dishes, the black cod, is infused tableside with hinoki smoke. The Asian-inspired menu by chef Brandon Kida (who came to Hinoki from Clement at the Peninsula in New York) incorporates the fresh, healthy Californian fare, including a raved about lobster roll and kale salad.

Clementine is a go-to for light, fresh breakfasts, salads, and a solid heat-at-home selection—but their build-your-own grilled cheese is actually one of their best offerings. For the last 15 years, grilled cheese month (April), has been marked by a grilled cheese-specific menu centered on a specific theme, like “Curds Against Humanity” and “Melt the Vote.” Execution? Buttery, goo-ey, salty, and browned to perfection. They also have a location in Beverly Hills.