If you love karaoke like I do, there's a ton of spots to check out in LA, but none quite as charming (or David Lynch-y) as Melody Lounge. Be forewarned, this spot is intermittently open. You'll know they're ready for business if they plant a sandwich board outside offering cold sandwiches and cheap beer. Hopefully, you'll get a chance to meet the owner Willie, whose (possibly embellished) life stories rival Hemingway. As for the song selection, the campy MIDI versions and painfully less than accurate lyric translations can suddenly turn your favorite tunes into high-wire acts (i.e. "Leaving On A Jet Plane" magically transforms into "Libyan on A Jet Plane"). Hell, they even have a song called "Schindler's List" on the menu! Even if you don't sing, Willie or his wife will gleefully take the stage. Special tip: for a true Chinatown boner, request Willie sing Enrique Iglesias' "Bailamos."

It's site says it's "A Friendly Store For Friendly People," and this is completely true. They throw fun parties in the back, and have a sick collection of clothes, housewares, and other goodies.

Peacocks everywhere!

It’s so unassuming from the street, but the build out and design are gorgeous. But the food is 💪🏽

This is my sanctuary. I spend 75% of my time here. to the left is my file cabinet and printer, to the right is my bookshelf. I have an alarm clock, a Knoll Pollock executive chair, notebooks, pens, pencils, everything I need. It's my favorite place in town.