For inspiration.

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.

Yes- I'm going to anger some people by sharing this hidden gem with you. It is very special and I expect hate mail.  They have been serving Japanese comfort food since the late 60's and is the last gasp of a neighborhood in Boyle Heights that was once predominantly Japanese. No frills. Just a warm and loving environment- a place to escape and eat spicy tuna rice bowls and sip miso with your Japanese Grandmother. Shhh, don't tell anyone. 

This is a great place to walk around. It really feels like a mini Lake Shasta or something tucked right up in the Hollywood Hills. Ornate statues on the bridge and sweet smelling trees. If you squint you almost feel like you're not in the middle of a massive city.