Play, indulge, unwind — and come back to the basics.

Los Angeles is where wellness meets indulgence, where dinner might be truffle pasta and the next morning starts with a green smoothie and a long walk in the hills. It’s the perfect city to explore through the lens of The Gut Cø — have fun, enjoy yourself, and always return to the simple rituals that keep you feeling good. This guide is a reflection of that balance — a collection of Pernille’s personal recommendations for where to eat, sip, recharge, and feel inspired.

Where to eat (and drink)

A mix of iconic institutions, elegant new arrivals, and dinner spots where the atmosphere is just as memorable as the menu.

Cipriani Beverly Hills & The Jazz Café

A timeless Italian experience. Classic service downstairs, and a moody, live jazz lounge upstairs Thursday to Saturday. The Jazz club gets booked out weeks in advance so plan ahead.

 

 

The Polo Lounge & Cabana Café – Beverly Hills Hotel

The essence of old Hollywood. Crisp salads, indulgent classics, and a setting that makes you feel like you’re in a Slim Aarons photo.  Do late dinner in The Polo Lounge and/or do lunch at the Cabana Café. The soufflé is unforgettable.

Funke Beverly Hills

Elegant yet relaxed. Handcrafted pastas, seasonal dishes, and an open rooftop with stunning views. Perfect for a golden-hour dinner.

Novikov Beverly Hills

For a louder, later-night dinner. Lively, chic, with excellent cocktails and a social energy that leans into the Mykonos vibe.

 

Dante at The Maybourne

Sophisticated terrace dining with live piano and views of Beverly Hills. Their Passionfruit Aperol Spritz might just be the best you’ll have.

 

 

Drake’s Hollywood

Dark, cinematic, and atmospheric. The steak is exceptional, and the interiors make it feel like a scene from a classic film. People come here for their desert (24 layer cake).

Il Pastaio Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills staple. Truffle pasta, sidewalk tables, and a lively crowd. Simple, satisfying, and always consistent. Great for people watching.

Jon & Vinny’s – West Hollywood

Laid-back, loud, and beloved for a reason. Italian-American comfort food that hits the spot. Go for the spicy fusilli.

 

 

 

 

Élephante – Santa Monica

Mediterranean-inspired food with a rooftop view of the ocean. Relaxed and stylish, with great cocktails and coastal energy. Go for late lunch and walk along the beach to Santa Monica Pier or go for dinner and watch the sunset.

 

 

Cafés & Casual Bites

Fresh, casual spots where health-forward meals meet relaxed California style — perfect for daytime refuelling.

Great White Larchmont, Hollywood, Venice

An Aussie-style café with fresh bowls, smoothies, and great coffee. Light, bright, and ideal after a morning walk or beach visit.

Gracias Madre Hollywood

Organic, plant-based Mexican in a beautiful space. A go-to for happy hour — their $9 margaritas are a highlight.

Sweetgreen

Reliable and refreshing. Great for a quick salad or bowl between meetings or shopping. Their dressings are always perfectly balanced.

Cantina Frida

Lively, colourful, and great for a quick lunch with bold flavours. Tacos, guac, and a fun, upbeat vibe.

Coffee Spots That Hit Right

Thoughtfully brewed coffee, beautiful interiors, and wellness-friendly menus for your daily rituals on the go.

Maru Espresso Bar

Simple, beautiful coffee. No distractions, just really good espresso. A minimalist’s dream with serious flavour.

Verve Coffee Roasters – Melrose

Vibrant and full of life. Excellent plant-based milk options, and a lush café space that invites you to linger with your laptop.

Erewhon

The cult-favourite for a reason. Not just groceries — their smoothie bar, matcha, and takeaway meals are clean, creative, and gut-friendly.

A Few Fun Add-Ons

For when you want to wander, explore, or just soak in the local energy. These are great in-between moments.

The Grove & Original Farmers Market

A mix of classic charm and modern shopping. Great people-watching, and easy to swing by for lunch or a stroll.

The Comedy Store

Iconic stand-up venue on Sunset Boulevard. Catch a show if you’re up for a late night and a lot of laughs.

Abbot Kinney Boulevard – Venice

Boutique shopping, beach-town energy, and fun food options. If you’re there on the first Friday of the month, stay for the food trucks.

Brentwood Court Mart, Brentwood

Brentwood Country Mart is a charming open-air marketplace that has been a beloved community hub since its opening in 1948. Designed to evoke the feel of a rustic village, the Mart combines a curated selection of boutiques, eateries, and services, all centered around a welcoming courtyard.

The Mart hosts a variety of unique shops catering to diverse tastes such as a GOOP store, James Perse, a beautiful Jewellery store and cute book store that transport you back in time.

Final Thought: Travel Well

Los Angeles is a city where you can eat late, wake early, and feel good doing both. The key is to stay anchored — bring your supplements, drink your water, and move your body when you can. You don’t have to do it all perfectly. Just plan ahead, tune in, and make room for joy. That’s the Gut Cø way — balance, beauty, and coming back to the basics that keep you feeling your best.

See you under the palms.

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