Sasha Spielberg’s Mini Los Angeles Guide
In a city comprised almost entirely of transplants, Sasha Spielberg—a born-and-bred Angeleno—is something of a unicorn. So it was no surprise that when we asked for a few of her regular haunts around town, she named the kind of off-the-beaten-track spots you need to be a local—or be friends with one—to know. And being that she has excellent, subtly retro taste, and spends a good part of her life on stage (she’s one-half of indie-folk band Wardell, the other half is her brother Theo Spielberg) her vintage shopping recs are nothing short of priceless.
Shunji
12244 W. Pico Blvd, West L.A. | 310.826.4737
This is a very special place. Sit at the bar and order the omakase tasting. Also, get the tomato tofu—I’ve never tasted anything like it before.
Acu Therapy Pain Clinic
11674 W. Olympic Blvd, West L.A. | 310.473.5533
I was hesitant to tell you all about this place because to me, it’s the best-kept secret in Los Angeles. But here I go, my selfless gift to you: $39 for an hour-long massage…the best massage I’ve ever received. Ask for Hana or Cindi. Afterwards pick up fish/Japanese vegetables/Japanese chips at the Nijiya Market and then fun beauty supplies next door at Daiso.
Santa Monica Seafood
1000 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica | 310.393.5244
I love this place and find it to be oddly romantic—it’s a great date spot, in my opinion. Go early and order white wine and oysters.
Ostrich Farm
1525 W. Sunset Blvd, Echo Park | 213.537.0657
Very sweet place, and the food is tasty.
The Old Place
29983 Mulholland Hwy, Agoura Hills | 818.706.9001
This place in Agoura Hills is a bit out of the way but worth it. I think the best time to go is early on a Sunday. Get the shepherd’s pie.
SquaresVille
1800 N. Vermont Ave., Los Feliz | 323.669.8464
This place has the widest range of vintage in Los Feliz. I always walk out with something memorable.
Painted Bird
4208 Santa Monica Blvd, Silver Lake | 323.522.3368
A very nicely curated vintage store in Silver Lake with a great selection of jewelry and sunglasses, too.
Playclothes
3100 W. Magnolia Blvd, Burbank | 818.557.8447
This is my heaven: A huge selection of vintage clothing with little bits and bobs floating around.
The Wig Shop
5376 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile | 323.930.5617
In true “freelance job” fashion, I go here when I’m bored and just try on wigs. And I always bring a friend…and I always make them take pictures…and I become the most annoying customer.
Jon and Vinny’s
412 N. Fairfax Ave., West Hollywood | 323.334.3369
The bucatini cacio e pepe pasta, burrata pizza, and wine are the ideal order here. Also great for breakfast.