May 7, 2025

Los Angeles is a city built on creativity, culture, and community—and it’s packed with gems both hidden and well-loved. 

Whether you’re a local on the hunt for something new or a visitor craving an authentic LA experience, this vibrant city never disappoints. From the charm of a delicious coffee shop to a locally loved bookstore, a creative live music venue or two, and a one-of-a-kind gift store, we’re spotlighting some of our personal favorite spots that capture the true spirit of LA. 

These places aren’t just great—they’re part of what makes Los Angeles feel like home. Ready to explore the best hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems in Los Angeles? Let’s dive in.

Nam Coffee

The perfect example of sharing what you love and know. Founded by Vince Ngyuen (a 3rd generation coffee maker) NAM Coffee delivers rich and authentic Vietnamese coffee each time their doors are open. 

Coffee lovers, regardless of milk preference, will be able to enjoy the rich taste of Nam coffee mixed with condensed milk. The love that has gone into the shop and products is palpable. If you’re wanting to try your hand at it you can make it on your own. They offer their roast of beans as well as traditional filters to take home. 

Thank you Vince for bringing a little slice of home here to LA.

Location: 4876 Fountain Ave in East Hollywood 

Type: Coffee

BSPOKE/LA

Opened in Spring of 2024 BSPOKE/LA is the physical manifestation of an all-encompassing space. With the ability to record top-of-the-line audio that is good for podcasts, voice-over acting, audiobooks and more. As well as host an array of events stretching from Wildfire Fundraisers to DJ Industry Nights to Korean Skincare Product Company launches. A place to house your online brands and bring your product into a physical space. While ultimately being a pillar of connection in the community. 

No matter the event or time you're in the BSPOKE/LA space you feel welcome and connected. 

Location: 439 N. Fairfax Ave in the Melrose/Fairfax District 

Type: Chameleon Event Space

Mystery Pier Bookstore

Tucked just off the glitzy buzz of the Sunset Strip, Mystery Pier Books is a time-traveling gem hiding in plain sight. Step through a little side passage, and you’re suddenly in an old-world literary wonderland—think cozy English cottage meets secret museum, but you can actually buy the artifacts. Run by a father-and-son duo who clearly love what they do, this place is packed floor to ceiling with rare first editions, many signed by legends like Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and even Queen Victoria (yes, really). 

Whether you’re a hardcore collector or just love a good story, Mystery Pier is one of those magical LA spots that make you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a movie set—only it’s real, and full of books. 

Location: 8826 Sunset Boulevard on the Sunset Strip 

Type: Hole in the Wall Bookstore

Wacko

Wacko (also known as Soap Plant) has been around since 1971 as a true family run shop. It started with hand-crafted soaps by the mother. Graphics designed by the father. With the sons producing ceramics and leatherware. 

This legit “mom-and-pop” has grown in the past 40 years to be a staple to those in and around Los Feliz, and has been the home to over 4 million products in its time. 

Currently they house an array of giftable items from books, to stickers, purses, socks, fragrances, collectibles and tchotchkes galore. Along with being the home to so many fun items they double as a venue for live music events and host recurring swap markets. 

Wacko never fails at bringing new experiences to those in Los Angeles.

Location: 4633 Hollywood Blvd in Los Feliz 

Type: HodgePodge Shop for artists, collectors, and creatives