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.

If you want to witness what architecture is about, visit SCI-Arc. This is where I went to school ,and I can tell you there is not one day that you will not be surprise what goes on inside this school. From open to the public lectures every wednesday to galleries and installation, and not to mention the student work.

I had a studio in this neighborhood for 3 years. Just take your camera and spend a couple hours walking around admiring the colors and people and odd shops. 

Recommended by hipsters and did not disappoint. Excellent coffee and even better music.

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.