Small Adventures Near Baum-kuchen Studio / BK Staff Picks

As the Inspiration Lab with The Superior Labor approaches, we are so excited to share the magical experience with our beloved community. Last year we had quite a few participants fly in from all across the miles to participate in this special event. Many made it part of a weekend Los Angeles trip! We thought it would be fun to recommend a few of the BK team favorites for those who are anticipating to explore the city before or after the event.

TO EAT : 

2. Cafe Amara, Pasadena / 55 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105

This quaint cafe has amazing quality Venezuelan food and is also a great stop for their fresh and crunchy churros. Ame loves their brownies (she quoted “they are to die for”). Being located in Old Town Pasadena makes it perfect for a day of strolling through the charming boulevard if you are in the mood for some shopping after. 

3. Again Café x Chibiscus Ramen / 132 W Green St, Pasadena, CA 91105
Also in the Old Town Pasadena neighborhood, this bright and cozy cafe offers beautiful, delicious eats along with refreshing coffee and drinks made with only organic ingredients. The Charcoal waffle with fruit is worth trying paired with one of their lattes or unique refreshments. 

4. 85°C / 201 N Brand Blvd #100, Glendale, CA 91203

This bakery offers pastries and drinks with roots from Taiwan and is a great place for a quick bite and coffee. (Their Iced Sea Salt Coffee is one of Eunice’s favorites). They have another location in the Old Town Pasadena! 

A Cuban cafe offering everything from sandwiches, desserts, and drinks. Treat your palate to something both savory and sweet! Ame recommends the Cuban hot plate for a savory lunch. Eunice loves their meat pies, potato balls, and cheese rolls.

6. Half & Half and Good Old Time / #E2, 704 W Las Tunas Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776
For the Taiwanese food lovers and food adventurers, here lies street food style small dishes and bubble tea! We highly recommend getting there when they open if you would like to avoid the long wait for a table. 

7. Gingergrass Silverlake / 2396 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039

A Baum-kuchen team favorite! If you’re in the mood for some delicious pho or banh mi, this is a great place with a casual but warm ambiance that will hit the spot. There is also a coffee shop right next door that will add the perfect ending to the meal! 

8. Lincoln / 1992 Lincoln Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
A local favorite of Wakako and her family and less than ½ mile away from our new BK location in Altadena. Half cafe, and half bakery in a bright and airy space where you can sit inside or on the patio to enjoy a slow morning. They offer thoughtful and wholesome food such as sandwiches, bowls, and pastries with a twist. (We recommend arriving before 9 am to avoid the crowds especially on the weekend. But if you get there during lunch time, the wait is worth it:). 

TO DO :

1. Arcadia Arboretum  / 301N N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

Located in Arcadia, a beautiful and affordable option to Huntington Library. Local peacocks are a common sight. It’s hot in the summer, so arriving at morning hours is suggested (with water of course)! Stop by the Santa Anita Mall just across the street for a cold treat and lunch. Inside the mall, is also the friendly stationery shop Maido.

2. Burbank Farmers Market (Saturday Mornings) / 101 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91501
From cold pressed juices to hand-roasted nuts, you can expect to find a vast array of local vendors that provide fresh quality produce. Perfect for a short stroll with the locals to grab some fresh juice before lunch.  

3. Americana On Brand / 889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210
Recommended by Nerine, a local favorite outdoor mall to take a nice walk while browsing the shops. You will also find a variety of restaurants along the walkways to select from and In-n-out hamburger (a must if you’re from out of the state or country) is only a short walking distance away! 

4. The Last Bookstore / 453 S Spring St Los Angeles, CA 90013
Bibliophile heaven. Get lost in this magical bookstore where you can browse aisles upon aisles of old and new books, records, along with a second floor featuring local art and artifacts. Afterward, browse the downtown area where you can easily find a joint to grab a bite or coffee! 

5. Hightide Store /  787 S Alameda St, Ste 140 Los Angeles, CA 90021
A lovely Japanese paper goods boutique featuring modern and unique stationery. Situated at The Row DTLA, you can explore the rest of the historic 30-acre district which features many retail shops along with great eateries such as Tartine Bakery. If you stop by on a Sunday you can take advantage of Smorgasburg which displays the largest open-air food market in America! 

6. Griffith Park Hike / 2800 E Observatory Ave Los Angeles, CA 90027
For those who still want a part of the L.A experience but prefer to be surrounded by nature, you can take a 4-mile hike on the Mt. Hollywood trail. If you prefer a shorter hike, there are numerous other trails to select from and explore. When you reach the top of the Griffith Observatory, you can take in the beautiful panoramic view of downtown L.A all the way to the San Gabriel mountains. Do not forget to take advantage of night stargazing and the observatory which are both free of charge!

7. The Pasadena Ballroom Dance Association / 73 N Hill Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
A favorite weekly adventure recommended by Emil, features a swing dance social every Saturday night! The cover charge of $20 includes live music, snacks, and a beginner dance lesson at 7:30. If you swing dance (or have ever wanted to try) join the fun!

8. The Norton Simon Museum / 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
A beautiful hidden gem featuring permanent collections from world-renowned artists. Enjoy a slow day taking in this lovely museum. Emil especially enjoys the ballerina paintings by Édouard Manet and the Base Mural by abstract artist Sam Francis.

9. No-Tox Life / 3351 Fletcher Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90065
A small business dedicated to clean and sustainable living selling amazing soaps, candles, and other lovely items! Their scents are divine and make great gifts or self-care packages!

Los Angeles and the surrounding areas are full of culture and inspiration. We hope that during your visit, you have the chance to stop by and discover local gems as an added memory to your Inspiration Lab adventure!