In a world where every coffee shop is a “concept” and your bagel has more pedigree than a Westminster show dog, it’s refreshing to find places that deliver without all the fuss—well, sort of. At Kumquat Coffee, the beans might just have more passport stamps than you do, and over at Belle’s Bagels, they’re fermenting dough like it’s a fine wine. Then there’s the Norton Simon Museum, where you can ponder whether Monet was just really into water lilies, or if maybe he just needed a better glasses prescription.
Kumquat Coffee
📍 4936 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
In Highland Park, a neighborhood already bustling with café culture, Kumquat Coffee stands out not just for its name but for its approach to coffee. Owners AJ Kim and Scott Sohn, with their deep roots in the coffee scene, decided to strip back to the essentials when they opened Kumquat in November 2018. It’s all about the origins here—the syrups are sourced directly from U.S. farms, and the coffee is a global affair with beans from a dozen international roasters. Named after the small, bright fruit that symbolizes their Asian American heritage, Kumquat is a nod to their experiences of coffee culture in Korea and Japan, serving up a truly thoughtful cup that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor.
Know Before You Go
✔ Dive into the diversity of their coffee menu; each bean has a story.
✔ The name is a conversation starter—ask about its cultural significance.
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Belle’s Bagels
📍 5022 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Belle’s Bagels on the busy streets of Highland Park crafts a bagel that’s more than just bread; it’s a double-fermented, yeasty marvel that’s setting the bar high. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Loxsmith sandwich—a gastronomic gem layering locally smoked salmon with beet cream cheese, crispy salmon skin, and pickled fennel. It’s an explosion of flavors—earthy, crunchy, vinegary, smoky—all held together by one of Belle’s malty bagels. This isn’t just a meal; it’s possibly the best bagel sandwich you’ll find in Los Angeles, making Belle’s a must-visit for anyone serious about their bagels.
Know Before You Go
✔ The Loxsmith is a must; it’s a local legend for a reason.
✔ Arrive early; these bagels sell out fast, especially on weekends.
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Norton Simon Museum
📍 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
Stepping into the Norton Simon Museum, especially after its Gehry-led late ’90s makeover, feels like walking into a carefully curated sanctuary of art. Known for its enviable collection of Old Masters—including standout pieces by Dutch greats like Rembrandt and luminaries of French Impressionism like Monet and Renoir—the museum offers a deep dive into the art history books. But it’s not just the classics that shine here; modern works, a striking Modigliani, vibrant Diego Rivera paintings, and the eclectic Blue Four group share space with vast arrays of European prints and Far Eastern art. The museum’s design is as thoughtful as its collections, creating a serene environment that enhances each visit. Don’t miss the sculpture garden after touring the indoor galleries; it’s a breath of fresh air wrapped in artistic genius.
Know Before You Go
✔ Give yourself plenty of time; the collections are extensive and deserve attention.
✔ The sculpture garden is a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the galleries.
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