The LA Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on Grand Street in downtown LA is a must during the fall and holiday season when they have a solid lineup of opera and ballet. Very inspiring. 

The best ramen I had in LA, maybe anywhere. Even my food-critical son loved it.

My favorite diner; food is really good and the decor is fun.

Favorite bookstore. There's an art book + comics section and a chapter books section.

South Willard is both elegant and laid back. Let's call it High Folk. It functions as both an art & design gallery and boutique. It's extremely well curated with a heavy focus on ceramics by artists both known and newly discovered. Peter Shire, Ruby Neri, Jason Meadows.., work by artists I have known and admired for decades can be found here and acquired in a means considerably more approachable than through the other galleries that represent them. South Willard is a friends and family affair and the experience feels warm and welcoming. Have fun.