Before the Date…
Take a time travel back to the 1960’s in Tennessee. It’s a humid summer evening and you finally had the courage to ask your crush on a date. You want to impress but not come off as over the top so a dinner sampling the finest fried chicken around comes to mind. Top that off with some handmade ice cream in hopes that maybe, jut maybe a “romantic movie moment” might happen. Then finish your night hopefully holding hands while circling the local roller rink. It’s almost perfect, you just need to make it happen.
So call up your crush and let them know you’ll pick them up at 7 cause tonight’s your night.
St0p #1: 7:30pm
HOMESTYLE CLASSICS
from a legit southern joint
What to Know
There is parking in the back of the building. However parking across from Stop #2 will save you time in the end.
Originally called Maggie’s Short Orders the history and recipe has been in the same family since 1953. An incredible story of rags to riches
On “Tennessee Tuesday” nights they have a $7.50 two piece meal deal that’s not advertised.
Alternative: Down the street is maybe the best Italian you’ve never heard of in LA, Pasta Sister’s. If that’s your vibe go there but beware, the lines can be very long.
St0p #2: after ckicken
ICE CREAM TREATS
from a southen Mexico legend
Mateo's Ice Cream
What to Know
Pre-Paleta: Watch this quick video from Vice on Mateo’s.
Priciliano Mateo is the namesake and creator of Mateo’s. He emigrated here in 1982 from Oaxaca and fashioned the paletas after his hometown fruits. Sadly he passed away in 2018.
The parking lot is usually packed. There should be space on Victoria Ave. on the other side of Pico.
Try a flavor you don’t recognize. Sapote Negro or Tamarindo. You’ll either be pleasantly surprised or have a solid laugh.
Keep your eye out for the bench outside to be free. That’s the perfect spot to indulge.
St0p #3: 9pm
ROLLER SKATE
at a South LA institution
What to Know
World on Wheels opened its doors on Halloween 1981, making it the oldest running rink in LA.
Skating doesn’t start until 9pm with each night having its own theme. Wed: R&B, Thur: Old School, and Sun: 90s & 2000s.
Getting your skates can be a bit confusing, you need to trade in one shoe for them. Also, a locker costs $2, bring cash.
The slow track is on the inside. Fast skaters on the outside. Standard roller rink stuff but please, please skate safely.