Hollywood is iconic and represents a level of glitz and glamour that I did not fully comprehend until I traveled through Europe last winter. I was in line for the bathroom in Amsterdam chatting with a German woman I had just met when I revealed where I was from. I was shocked to see how incredibly excited she was to talk to me about her aspirations to move to Los Angeles and live amongst Hollywood history. It made me realize that the place I call home is a place that may call their dream.
When people visit Hollywood they generally visit top sites like the Chinese Theater and the Walk of Fame, leaving the area without fully recognizing and appreciating what else is has to offer. Just one block off Hollywood Boulevard, removed from the tour buses and costumed characters, you can find a wealth fabulous of eateries, bars and attractions, all of which are 95% tourist free, if you only know where to look.
For this month’s edition of Around LA I’m sharing with you one such area, the two block span of North Cahuenga Boulevard between Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard. The area has been a favorite of mine since I first began visiting my now-husband in Los Angeles years ago and is home to some of my most preferred spots in the entire city.
Possibly the most unique spot on today’s tour, The Record Parlour is home to an endless selection of pristine original records.