Single readers, you're in luck. Each week, Time Out will feature one of our very own smart, sexy, eligible buddies for your potential dating pleasure. No crazies, no creeps, no pressure. Enjoy!
We're starting with our friends for now, but we're also taking recommendations. Do you have a single friend who's a total catch? Nominate them for I have this friend... at dating.la@timeout.com.
Victoria was recommended by Kate Wertheimer, our senior associate editor: "I have this friend, Victoria. She's a big personality in a small frame: intelligent, hilarious (must appreciate sarcasm) and driven. She's got a big heart and knows how to have fun—she has an infectious smile and laugh, and owns a rad golden retriever named Guera who has her own Instagram account. Vic's from Texas, and her southern hospitality is evident in her manners—she'll treat you right. This babe is fiercely loyal and romantic, and a total catch."
Here's Victoria, in her own words:
What's at the top of your LA bucket list? I've heard of a few ways to sneak into the Hollywood Bowl that I want to try out. I'm also kind of tempted to try and find the "tree people" that Neil Diamond references in the album Hot August Night because apparently, it's an entire community of people that watch concerts at the Greek from trees on the hill, and word is these people have stories for miles.
What's your favorite neighborhood in LA? People in LA seem to either love or hate Downtown, and I happen to love it. There's a lot of history Downtown, and there are a lot of beautiful buildings that haven't been turned into housing structures yet. There are great theaters, venues, bookstores and restaurants there. It's also gritty and unmanicured, unlike most of LA, which I appreciate. Sometimes you see things that are uncomfortable in the Downtown area, but I think it's important to know the reality of the city you're living in.
Beach, mountains or desert? Mountains, as long as there's enough snow to go snowboarding.
What's the most underrated part of LA? The independent music scene. Growing up in Austin, you get used to having live music everywhere you go, and when I first moved to LA I was pining for the Austin music scene. Over time I realized that besides all the obvious big headliners and acts that come through LA, there are so many bars or coffee shops that have amazing local musicians playing on a daily basis.
Dive bar, cocktail bar or juice bar? Dive bar with a good jukebox wins every time.
Think you and Victoria might hit it off? Shoot her an email at thatgirlfromaustin@gmail.com (include a photo!) and let the sparks fly.
Still looking? Meet our friends Pete (35, straight), Meredith (26, straight) and Diallo (43, straight).
If you've got a great single friend that should be featured here, send us an email at dating.la@timeout.com or nominate them below.