All of my best dates lately have been with myself. There’s something really empowering about going out alone and having a great time. Plus, it’s a chance to explore some of this city’s amazing offerings without the pressures of your plus one.
These are a few of my favorite places to wine and dine myself, among other things. The best part is you won’t wonder if your date will call you the next day…
1. Mohawk Bend - This Echo Park gem has a decent amount of bar seating and with 72 beers on tap, you won’t go thirsty. The food is great and there are plenty of options for carnivores and vegetarians alike. The buffalo cauliflower has made a cameo in my dreams on more than one occasion.
2. New Beverly Cinema - For $8 you get a double feature, and all films are presented in 35MM. The theater offers a diverse and eclectic lineup from hokey horrors to classic rom-coms. Plus, your $5 will get you far at the concession stand.
3. Larchmont - A whimsical escape from the grind of the rest of the city, Larchmont Village is the perfect place to take a stroll with you and yourself for some people watching. My favorite thing about Larchmont is that you can find nearly every dessert category like macarons at Lette, cupcakes at Crumbs or ice cream at Salt & Straw, just to name a few.
4. The Last Bookstore - You don’t have to be an ardent reader to enjoy a date with yourself at California’s biggest used and new book and record store. The place is a spectacle with plenty to browse including several small gallery shops, and if you are in need of your next read, the back room has more than 100,000 books for just a dollar each.
5. Melrose Trading Post - An idyllic “Sunday Fundate,” this flea market is home to vendors that sell antiques, collectibles, gifts, art, vintage clothing and more every Sunday from 9 to 5. There’s usually some live music near the food vendors, and the tamales are always on point. The $3 admission goes towards programming at Fairfax High School, so you’re even helping a good cause.
Psst. Here are more date ideas in LA.