We’ve scouted out the best gourmand v. gourmet experiences in Venice so you can mix and match the west coast trip of your dreams!
Accommodation
First thing’s first; somewhere to crash after a big day (and night) of soaking up L.A. For a treat, we reckon Hotel Erwin, a boutique hotel with Venice’s only rooftop bar, is the pick of spots to rest your head in this quirky beachside neighbourhood.
The rooftop is the perfect vantage point to watch the West Coast sunset, and has plenty of room to mingle with the locals. While there’s no swimming pool or fitness centre at the hotel, guests have complimentary passes to nearby icon Gold’s Gym (where we’re reliably informed you can still catch Arnold Schwarzenegger working out).
For something on the more affordable end of the spectrum, the Samesun Venice Beach hostel is in literally the best location on the strip! A range of private and shared rooms are available, placing you right at the centre of the action for less. Hot tip: the hostel’s bar does killer specials every.single.night. so you can stretch those USDs even further.
Location, Location
Venice Beach is a great location from which to explore the best chunks of the West Coast. Download the app, grab a Breeze Bike and cycle your way up to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, home to a classic amusement park with nostalgic Ferris wheel, arcade games and historic carousel – and plenty of people watching.
Venice Beach is also an easy walk to the iconic Abbot Kinney Boulevard, full of amazing shopping (or browsing) destinations, iconic coffee shops like Intelligentsia, and LA staples like Gjelina and Plant.
Foodie Finds
Just off the main strip, you’ll find famed fast food juggernaut Eggslut. Inspired by a love of eggs, there’s a concise menu of sandwiches on brioche buns (which makes for great hangover fodder after a big night on the rooftop) or their signature ‘slut’ of super soft coddled egg on top of smooth potato purée – heaven in an eggcup.
If you can’t live without espresso, head across the street to Aussie-owned café Great White for epic flat whites and menu of nourishing, delicious goodness. Come evening, foodies will enjoy The Tasting Kitchen for its broad European-influenced flavours and laid-back L.A. styling, while a croissant and coffee from Menotti’s is a must-do the morning after.
There’s so much to see, eat, and do in this oceanside suburb, whether you’re chasing a flashy L.A. experience or a relaxed Venice immersion!
