Before the Date…
Neighborhoods in cities tend to change over hands from time to time. The artists move in, then out, then come the hipsters before the yuppies. One zone struggles to hang on in the changing of the guard down Hollywood Blvd: Little Armenia. The few holdouts stand strong delivery baked goods and lunch bites but time will only tell if their time is up. This date is designed to look over the old neighborhood before diving into a few of it’s gems.
So gather your friends to walk through the sea of change along the Blvd of Dreams.
St0p #1: 1 hr before sunset
WINE TOAST
next to this name sake
What to Know
Pre-Plan: Make sure to pack a bag with a blanket (to sit on), wine, cups, and any cheeseboards/snacks you might want.
Rooted in theater and art the original owner was Aline Barnsdall, an oil heiress who had a romantic interlude with Frank Lloyd Wright, the architect of the Hollyhock House at the top of the hill, nicknamed California Romanza. Apparently, she despised the house at it’s finishing and donated the land to Los Angeles in 1927.
Driving? You can park your car at the top of the hill right next to where you would post up for the sunset. No need to park at the bottom and walk.
St0p #2: after the sunset
HOOKAH
from a legit source
What to Know
This is a 2 block walk down the hill. If you drove it is best to not leave your car in the park after dark. There should be parking in front of this cafe.
When you arrive it will seem like you’re in the wrong place. Ask for George and let him know you’d like to sit outside. A flurry of excitement may ensue to set up your hangout.
What to order: Double apple hookah and a pot of tea.
Middle East Club fans drive from all over the city to hangout and smoke here due to one thing: the coals. George has special ones that most hookah joints don’t use. They make for a smoother drag.
St0p #3: after hookah
DINNER
at an Armenian legend
What to Know
The story of the Tcholakians is one of battling adversity that only immigrants would know. Moving here in 1978 they made ends meet until 1984 when they opened this location. Their 2nd and more known opened 14 years later in Glendale.
How did they get this name? They checked a book out from the library on business. One of the suggested names, “carousel”, stood out. Simple.
If you’re looking for a big night head in on Friday or Saturday to be delighted with a live belly dancing show. It’s a set family style menu that is $50/person. Friday: 9pm-1am, Saturday: 9:30pm-1:30am.