We're back with our second event of the year with CicLAvia—Mid City meets Pico Union! Join us on Sunday, April 16th, from 9am - 4pm to celebrate 4 miles of open streets connecting Mid City and Pico Union and turning the streets into a car-free public park for the day.
The Mid City / Pico Union area consists of historic LA neighborhoods known for their diverse communities and rich cultural heritage. The area is home to a variety of local restaurants, art galleries, and landmarks that offer visitors a glimpse into the vibrant and dynamic culture of the neighborhood. Not sure what sights to see or bites to eat? Not to worry, let this list of local gems in the area start you off!
Local Businesses
Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles
1865 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019
When it comes to soul food, Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles is a household name in Los Angeles. What started off as one small restaurant in 1975 by Herb Hudson now includes seven locations, and has fans of all backgrounds, even celebrities such as Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, former President Barack Obama, and LA Mayor Karen Bass.
LA Libreria
4732 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Established in 2012, LA Libreria is a bookstore that aims to promote Spanish literature and culture in young children. From graphic novels and comics to poetry and non-fiction titles, LA Libreria has crafted a unique set of resources that reflect the rich history of Spanish speaking countries. Beyond the materials they offer, they also host cultural events for the public. While they are closed on Sundays, be sure to check them out next time you visit the area.
Palm Grove Social
4660 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Located a couple of stores down from LA Libreria is Palm Grove Social. They go beyond just serving coffee and pastries here and pride themselves on being a cultural hub in Mid City which celebrates coffee, music, art, and books.
Brother Brother
4565 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Brother Brother is more than just a clothing store, it’s a way of life and place to share ideas and socialize with your friends. Whether on their website, instagram account, or in person you’ll see the phrase, “Come by and hang,” which is something the owners Greg Okawachi and Gary Indijian promote and cultivate at their shop. Be sure to stop by during CicLAvia–Mid City Meets Pico Union as they will be selling food and drinks too!
Gish Bac
4163 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018
Searching for authentic Oaxacan food in the area? Look no further than Gish Bac located on Crenshaw Blvd and Washington Blvd. Chef Maria Ramos and her family have passed down their recipes for generations and have perfected their dishes such as their famous mole negro or barbacoa roja.
Pacific French Bakery
4152 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018
Established in 1986, Pacific French Bakery is a family-owned Central American bakery which specializes in French bread, rolls, baguettes, as well as Hispanic sweet treats.
Alibi Coffee Co.
2268 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006
Alibi Coffee Co. is the first coffee roaster in the West Adams area of Los Angeles and takes pride in sustainable practices all while providing their coffee at an affordable price to all. They encourage people to stop by and enjoy some time on your own, or with others, in their welcoming space.
Dino's Famous Chicken
2575 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006
Started in 1969 by the late Demetrios Pantazis, Dino’s Famous Chicken has become a go-to place for flavorful chicken with Greek and Latin inspiration. Dino’s now has four locations including the original on Pico Blvd. Demtrios' four daughters now run the business along with their families, continuing to serve the community great food with great customer service.
Landmarks
Nate Holden Performing Arts Center
4718 W Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016
The Nate Holden Performing Arts Center is a multi-use facility operated by the Ebony Repertory Theatre. The center consists of a theater, rehearsal space, studio, concession stand, open-air lobby, and much more. Their main mission is to create and sustain their art with its deep roots in the African Diaspora.
Catch One
4067 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90019
What started in 1973 as the first disco nightclub for LA’s Black LGBTQ+ community, Jewel Thais Williams was ahead of their time for creating this safe space for a community under many restrictions. Despite being sold in 2016, Catch one continues to be a popular nightclub in the area for all to enjoy.
St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral
1324 S Normandie Ave STE 28, Los Angeles, CA 90006
While in Pico Union it’s hard to miss the stunning architecture of the St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Back in 1952, when the cathedral was built, this area of Los Angeles was considered to be the center for Greek culture and people. While not directly on the route, it is located only one block north of Venice Blvd.
Angelus Rosedale Cemetery
1831 W Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007
Along the route you will notice the Angelus Rosedale Cemetery. It was established in 1884 and is considered one of the older cemeteries in the LA area. The iconic palm trees also make a statement as this cemetery is one of the first in the country to adopt the lawn style format. Beyond the aesthetics, the Rosedale Cemetery was also the first integrated cemetery in Los Angeles.
We can’t wait to see you all at CicLAvia—Mid City Meets Pico Union. Be sure to sign up for our mailing list so you don’t miss a beat and to support open streets by making a donation here.
