village pizzeria

If you love Larchmont and you love a thin crust slice as much as I do, you owe yourself a trip to Village Pizzeria.

I've only been in at lunch for pizza and garlic rolls, but both are worth the extremely reasonable price of admission - 3 huge slices, 2 garlic rolls, 2 sodas - 12 bucks! The space is small which can make evening dining a pain in the ass, but at lunch with the outdoor patio, it's perfect.


Try the sausage or the clam and garlic - both were deelish. The veg pizza was just as yum, but a little oily for my taste. They all have the perfect thin crust.

The owner just bought a building in Hollywood near my office. I hear he's a dick, but hey, it's great pizza none the less. Look for a second location to open up on Yucca across from Joseph's as soon as he's done kicking out the rest of the old time tenants...

And PS, if you're local, the pizza will come to you. They deliver.


131 N Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 465-5566


Photo courtesy of Joan S.

larchmont hardware

I love this place! I suppose I should add that I love Larchmont - it reminds me that there's a city within the city, and without the trek up to Montrose for my other favorite "small town" vibe main street.

Anytime I'm in the area, I stop by to see what's new. This place carries the basics we all need - cleaning supplies, pest control, basic tools, housewares (including random brik-a-brack like tea cups and sink strainers), batteries, glues and the like. My personal favorite - the huge selection of Mrs. Meyer's cleaning products displayed right next to the door in all three scents - Lavender, Geranium and Lemon Verbena. Pick up some of the dish soap or the scrubbing powder, which gives Comet a run for the money without the harsh chemicals. You'll be glad you did.

If you're in the market for some lumber or a new toilet, you'll still need to make your way over to the Home Despot to line up with the rest of the plumber crack crowd, but for everything else, give this little mom and pop shop a try.

Tip - If there's no street parking, don't waste your time driving around the block. You can park for free in the structure located off the Rite Aid lot just a couple of doors down.


152 N. Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 463-5783


Photo courtesy of Joan S.

kiku sushi

Aside from the casual sidewalk seating, Kiku offers a pleasantly surprising comfy and upscale neighborhood environment for moderately priced, fresh, creative sushi.

Time and care has been spent decorating the space to transform it from being another generic box with a sushi bar, and the dim lighting, painted walls, cushy window seats and choice of jazz standards playing (at just the right volume) really enhanced the vibe.

Edamame and miso were brought to the table when we we were seated which is always a nice touch - especially on a cool night after a long day.The amaebi was far from the best I've had, but the menu was full of options with a wide variety of rolls and appetizers - the baked New Zealand mussels were great. All of the rolls we had were a departure from the standards we all expect and delish. One stand out is the fiery Heart Attack - a concoction of spicy tuna, crab meat and cream cheese stuffed into a halved jalapeno and baked open face. If you're in the mood for something light and fresh tasting, ask for the Kiku roll which isn't on the menu anymore - salmon and mango - yum.

From the wall of polaroids depicting regulars (including a handful of recognizable faces), we clearly weren't the only fans. Instead of being tacky, it actually lent itself to the warm, homey feel here. Last time we were here, we sat next to the Mayor. Our server was a sweetheart who confided she was a regular before becoming an employee. You may expect parking to a bear, but aside from being able to find a few open meters, even on a Saturday night, the public lot across the street is a good bet.

If you're in the mood for a relaxed evening and leisurely din in the city, don't overlook this find in quaint Larchmont. The whole street is packed with little known restaurants and shops worth checking out (including a wine shop that imports tons of British choc - woo hoo!) and a nice area to enjoy a walk after dinner.

246 N Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 464-1200

Photo courtesy of Joan S.