Top 10 Places for Kiwis to hang out in LA

LA can be pretty overwhelming if you are visiting for the first time. There are plenty of tours and touristy activities to take part in but my recommendation is to do the theme parks and then use my list of 10 places to guide you through the city like a local to get the best experience in this crazy town. Also: remember to carry your ID with you at all times and don’t forget to tip! 

Elephante– One of the newest and hip places to visit in Santa Monica for drinks with a view.  Because it is a trendy spot I would recommend getting a reservation. They make great cocktails and flatbreads. 

Malibu café– This is a great spot to spend the day. There is amazing BBQ, lots of games, great drinks and loud country music to make you feel like you for sure are in America. There is a great vibe here and an awesome spot to agree to meet people if you have a large group. 

Malibu Wine Safari – Wine tasting and feeding a Giraffe? Seems too good to be true. This is a really fun activity for LA locals and tourists. The property is stunning and there are lots of animals to feed while you try a selection of wines. You won’t have any service but you will want to take a bunch of photos! 

Getty Villa – This is a great place to stop off if you are near the coast and in need of a bit of culture. The Villa is an educational center and a museum dedicated to the arts and culture of ancient Rome and Greece. Grab a coffee and walk around this stunning location for a few hours before you head to the beach. 

Venice Ale House – A great low key spot for brunch before a day at the beach. They have a massive menu and you will be VERY entertained while you eat with the buzz of Venice all around you. Possibly the best people watching around. They also do flights of beer in skateboards which is bloody cool and one of the main reasons people flock to Venice Ale House in Sumer.

Fritto Misto– In need for a cheap and cheerful dinner that will make you so full that you need a nap? Well this is the spot. Tucked away in Santa Monica this pasta joint will blow your socks off. If you are open to it, try the jumbo ravioli – you won’t regret it! 

Eataly – This place is super rad. It’s essentially a food market with little restaurants around the outside. If you are a foodie and love to cook this will be a very exciting place to check out. Its located in one of the fancier malls I have ever encountered so if you are looking to also buy a tesla after your lunch or dinner you will be in luck. 

Sprinkles– LA might not be known for its desserts but if you have a sweet tooth and you are in Beverly Hills it is quite exciting to check out the Sprinkles ATM. 

Joans on Third– This café / market is a healthy and funky spot to look for celebs and get a quick bite to eat. Their coffee is great and they have good to-go options too if you need something to take with you on the run.

Dialogue – This is the very best food experience I have ever had. It is expensive but it is such a tremendous dining experience you will remember it for life. This small restaurant is hidden in the alleyways of Santa Monica and only seats 18 people. You eat roughly 18 courses as the chef takes you through a journey. If you can sit at the bar seating you can see them prepare all the dishes which for me was the highlight second to the phenomenal meal! 

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Kimberley Crossman

Kimberley Crossman is a kiwi actress, author, and presenter. Oh and you are currently on her website reading a blog she has written.