Coffee Shops, Retro Bowling Alleys, Jewish Delis and Everything In Between

Highland Park has long had its finger on the pulse of what makes LA cool—without ever trying too hard. A little gritty, a little glossy and fully packed with character, this Eastside neighborhood balances its working-class roots with a steady flow of creative energy. On any given block, you’ll find old-school taco stands next to design-forward wine shops, punk rock bars around the corner from vegan cafes and a crowd that’s as diverse and dynamic as the offerings. Whether you’re here for the food, the vintage shopping, the architecture or just a break from the usual LA scene, Highland Park delivers.

This 48-hour itinerary hits all the right notes—from early morning croissants to flaming cheese dishes, puppet musicals and pickle martinis. It’s a hyperlocal look at where to go, what to eat and how to make the most of a weekend in one of LA’s most magnetic neighborhoods.

 

DAY 1

9 a.m.
Start the Morning at Fondry

Begin your Highland Park weekend the only right way—croissant in hand, espresso in the other. Fondry is a temple of laminated pastry, the kind of place that inspires lines down the block (and sells out in under two hours). Brought to you by the same minds behind Kumquat and Loquat coffee shops, this croissant-centric bakery is just a block from Kumquat, in the heart of the neighborhood. The stars here are the kouign-amann and the keu-loong-gi, a Korean-style flat croissant that’s subtly sweet with just the right crisp. Every bite reflects years of R&D across Seoul, Tokyo and NYC. Grab a coffee brewed from Loquat beans and a pastry (or three), then find a seat outside and watch the neighborhood wake up.

 

10:30 a.m.
Explore Figueroa Street + Drop by LENITA

Stroll Figueroa Street, Highland Park’s main artery lined with indie boutiques, record shops and art galleries. Be sure to stop by LENITA, the pastel-pink flower and art shop housed in a charming storefront or roaming via their iconic vintage truck. This is not your average flower stop. Founder Nemuel DePaula merges floral design with LA’s creative pulse, offering fresh blooms alongside ceramics, candles and works from local artists. It’s a perfect place to pick up a souvenir or brighten your hotel room.

 

Noon
Lunch at Kitchen Mouse

Around lunchtime, head to Kitchen Mouse, a bright, plant-filled cafe serving bold vegetarian and vegan-friendly plates that convert even the most devoted carnivores. Owned by private-chef-turned-restaurateur Erica Daking, Kitchen Mouse offers hearty, nourishing dishes like the Brown Rice Bowl with yams, collard greens, black beans and a spicy buffalo sauce. Want something lighter? The dill pesto quinoa salad is fresh, crunchy and citrusy. Grab a vegan pastry to go—they’re baked daily and often still warm when you order.

 

2 p.m.
Browse and Graze at Sip Snack + Carla’s Fresh Market

Continue your afternoon by popping into Sip Snack, a tiny corner shop loaded with the kinds of snacks and natural wines you didn’t know you needed. The shop’s curated selection includes local cheeses, conservas, tinned fish and indie chocolates that feel more like art objects than candy. If you want something more substantial or just need a cold drink, walk a few minutes to Carla’s Fresh Market. Think farmers market meets boutique grocery: a deli with fresh bread, a veggie-forward sandwich counter and a natural wine fridge curated by a sommelier. Don’t skip the daily sandwich special—it’s usually something seasonal and killer.

 

4 p.m.
Check in at Silver Lake Pool & Inn

Just a quick ride from Highland Park, Silver Lake Pool & Inn is your go-to basecamp for an Eastside weekend. Tucked off a low-key stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard, this boutique stay surprises with its warm, desert-meets-coastal design—think vintage leather, wood accents and Baja-inspired touches courtesy of Venice design studio Electric Bowery.

Inside, the 54 spacious rooms are flooded with sunlight and stocked with Diptyque bath products. But the real draw? The rooftop pool deck, where striped loungers, frozen cocktails and that signature Silver Lake glow make it feel like a scene out of a music video.

Downstairs, Marco Polo serves Mediterranean-meets-California plates that are anything but boring. Don’t miss the spicy ravioli caprese or the focaccia with olive oil, rosemary and confit tomatoes.

This is where stylish locals and off-duty creatives mix—some poolside with mezcal margs, others pushing strollers past vinyl shops.No flashy lobby needed—Silver Lake Pool & Inn nails the vibe. It’s relaxed, design-forward and close to the action without ever feeling too in it.

 

6 p.m.
Dinner + Cocktails at Checker Hall

Evening plans begin upstairs at Checker Hall, a vibey restaurant and bar tucked into a restored Masonic lodge. The space is warm and cinematic—arched windows, plush booths, moody lighting—and the menu is a Mediterranean-meets-California spread of small plates. But the must-order dish? The flaming cheese dish. A sizzling skillet of halloumi with herbs, lemon, honey and olives that’s lit on fire tableside. Pair it with their signature cocktail, The Screaming Parrot—an herbal, tropical, citrusy concoction that hits just right. Depending on the night, you might catch a live band or DJ in the attached music venue.

 

9 p.m.
Nightcap at Highly Likely

End your evening at Highly Likely, Highland Park’s all-day café that transforms into a cozy dinner-and-drinks spot after dark. The open, airy space features a breezy patio filled with greenery and glowing string lights—perfect for a slow sip and some fresh night air. If it’s Wednesday, don’t miss Chicken Parm Night. The golden cutlet comes topped with tangy tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella fonduta—comfort food at its finest. Pair it with a glass of natural wine or their Fig Negroni, a subtly sweet and herbal twist on the classic. Even without a theme night, the seasonal dishes, relaxed crowd, and easygoing vibe make Highly Likely a place you’ll want to linger just a little longer.

 

DAY 2

9 a.m.
Breakfast at Civil Coffee

Start the day where the locals do: Civil Coffee. This stylish and always-buzzing neighborhood cafe was born from a red pickup truck. Now it has grown into one of LA’s best coffee spots. Grab their Liquid Gold—matcha, cashew-almond milk and lavender syrup on ice—for something refreshing and unexpectedly addictive. For a heartier start, go for the Figueroa: espresso, sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon and a Maria cookie to finish it off. Snag a breakfast burrito or just people-watch on the sidewalk out front.

 

10:30 a.m.
Highland Park Farmers Market (Sundays only)

If you find yourself in Highland Park on a Sunday, swing by the Highland Park Farmers Market. Here you can enjoy fresh fruit, local greens and handmade goods. It’s community-forward, unfussy and full of character—just like the Highland Park neighborhood. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a nice way to walk off breakfast and see what’s in season.

 

12 p.m.
Lunch at Villa’s Tacos

A Highland Park icon, Villa’s Tacos started on the sidewalk and never lost that soul. Chef Victor Villa’s blue corn tacos are the stuff of legend—griddled crispy, packed with flavor and served with pride. Go for the Villa’s Trio: three cheesy tacos—ranchera asada, papas con chorizo and black bean with chicken. It’s the perfect sampler. Grab a seat outside and soak up the neighborhood energy while you nosh.

 

2 p.m.
Matinee at Bob Baker Marionette Theater

Yes, you read that right—puppets. But the Bob Baker Marionette Theater is not just for kids. Their current show, “Something to Crow About,” is a surreal, heartfelt musical with Broadway energy and old Hollywood charm, brought to life by marionettes in dazzling costumes. It’s kitschy, magical and absolutely worth experiencing. Bonus: the theater honors LA’s cultural legacy and Tongva land, bringing depth and community care to their programming.

 

4:30 p.m.
Midday Break + Drinks at Belle’s Delicatessen and Bar

Take a breather at Belle’s, the evolution of cult favorite Belle’s Bagels. It’s now a full-service Jewish deli and bar, with retro vibes, deli classics and some of the best drinks in the area. Try the Pickle Martini—yes, really—or grab a sandwich with a side of fried pickles. The Cherrywood Beet Bagel is a sleeper hit: thin-sliced smoked beets, dill and cashew cream cheese that’s plant-based perfection.

 

6:30 p.m.
Bowling + History at Highland Park Bowl

End your weekend at Highland Park Bowl, one of LA’s most beautifully restored buildings. Originally opened in 1927, it’s been everything from a doctor’s office to a prohibition-era whiskey front. Now it’s a retro-chic bowling alley and bar. The refurbished lanes, vintage details and old-school cocktails make this place more than just a game—it’s a vibe. Order a wood-fired pizza and sip a local beer as you wrap up your Highland Park weekend with laid-back charm. Add a little friendly competition to the mix, and you’ve got the perfect ending to a weekend well spent.

 

Bonus Stop Before You Go: Sunday Morning at Marco Polo

If you’re in no rush, enjoy a relaxed farewell brunch poolside at Marco Polo, the Italian-inspired spot at Silver Lake Pool & Inn. Order the lemon ricotta pancakes—they’re a must. Take a final dip in the pool, mimosa in hand, and toast to a weekend well spent in one of LA’s most creative, charismatic neighborhoods.