When in Venice

Hinano Cafe, a Venice institution since 1962, is a laid-back beach bar known for its cold beers and burgers. It has dive bar charm and an oceanfront location–the quintessential Venice experience.

Established in Venice Beach in 1975, L.A. Louver's clever name reflects its dynamic approach to art. This renowned space showcases an impressive roster of influential artists, both contemporary and historical. Notable names include the vibrant works by David Hockney, the urban-inspired pieces by Gajin Fujita, the emotive portraits by Alice Neel, the textured paintings of Leon Kossoff, and the monumental sculptures of Mark di Suvero. Their exhibitions are curated around fun and engaging themes like “The Flower Show,” which included both contemporary pieces and earlier abstract artworks. They always foster a unique dialogue between artistic periods and styles. 

Central Server Works’ Venice is a project space in collaboration with artist residency program EC3. It is a charming, transformed family home that pulses with creative energy. Eschewing the traditional white box setting, this intimate, artist-run gallery brings together innovative exhibitions, dynamic performances, and fresh collaborations across art, theater, and film.  Beyond exhibitions, CSW extends its creative reach through Central Server Works Press, publishing unique artist books and editions. It is also poised to launch "Opposite People" in 2025, a platform dedicated to spatial and interior design for fine art, theater, performance, film, fashion, residential spaces, and more. This multifaceted approach cements CSW's position as a dynamic force in Venice's art scene, continually pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. 

The Brig, a historic bar established in 1952, is a beloved local spot on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. It has pool tables, DJs, an outdoor patio with picnic benches, and live music regularly–it’s an awesome, relaxed gathering spot.

American Beauty is a neighborhood steakhouse. Its food is a blend of elevated comfort and bold flavors, where wood-grilled steaks shine next to inventive dishes. The open-air bar, with its expertly crafted cocktails and impressive wine list, embodies the coolness of Venice Beach.

Gjusta is a Venice staple. It is a daytime spot, a bustling deli and gourmet bakery offering some of Los Angele’s best house-made pastries, smoked fish, and hearty sandwiches. Its open-air courtyard is one of the area’s most beautiful communal seating. 

Dudley Market is a neighborhood wine bar, nestled in a cozy corner off the Venice Beach boardwalk. Despite being crowned as one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles, it maintains the vibe of a neighborhood hangout. With some of the best fresh seafood and incredible burgers, this is a must try.

Special shoutout! Not in Venice but such a short drive away, 18th Street Arts Center has been a hub for contemporary art in Los Angeles since 1988. With two locations in Santa Monica – the “18th Street Campus,” and “Airport Campus” at the Santa Monica Airport, 18th Street hosts an important artist residency program. Exhibitions by the resident artists are paired with public events and vibrant community engagement. Through artistic collaboration with local institutions and community groups, 18th Street gives space to traditionally excluded voices while challenging notions of art expertise.