One of my favorite things to do on weekends is to head to Grand Central Market for brunch, grab a few glasses of wine at the Oyster bar and then roam around downtown collecting pigeons.
Over the past few years the market has been modernized and has become a really trendy spot, but it still retains aspects of what it was like decades ago.
Some of my favorite stands are The Oyster Gourmet, Sarita's Pupuseria and the Belcampo Meat Co.
One of my favorite special occasion dinner places. Always low dim lighting and a calm vibe. Piano in the background and lighting make you travel back in time. An LA classic.
The Red Lion Tavern has been a neighborhood tavern in Los Angeles for over fifty years (which is a long time for L.A.), and continues to serve as a landmark for traditional German food, a wide selection of German beer, and cozy Old World atmosphere. Plus the waitresses all wear lederhosen, and it's blocks away from my parents' house.
The Rose Bowl happens in Pasadena. The Flea Market is only once a month, its usually the second Sunday of the month. Its a great place to find vintage clothes, antiques and rare treasures. I once found an amazing David Hamilton book that I bought for $15 when it was worth $500.