Living in Downtown LA can feel like a workout in itself some days. But, in the big picture, it’s really important in our day and age to stay active, think of our posture (raise your hand if you sit at a desk on the computer more time than not!) and get out and move. If you are looking to build up your core, build a better posture and have people noticing how toned you are looking, consider Pilates. Pilates was discovered by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, and was designed to strengthen one’s self with proper alignment and breathing techniques.

While it can feel like a challenge as you enter these intense workouts, most begin to see results after 6 sessions. Whether you are brand new or a pro, we decided to round up some of the best Pilates studios here and around City West. Read on and get going on your hundred!

If you are looking to start a bit on the slower side, the classes at Club Pilates tend to be on the slower-paced side, except for their cardio sculpt class. While the cardio sculpt class BURNS and is basically a level 2 class, several other classes like their Foundation class will be ideal.

Club Pilates studios are some of the most well-equipped studios around, our Hope Street location included. Each class will utilize different equipment depending on the instructor and class level!

If you want a studio that is hip, fresh and classy, with killer views of Downtown LA to boot, check out The Main Barre on Main Street. They’ve got an incredible and very knowledgeable staff of skilled instructors who encourage and motivate while pushing everyone to do their best.  They are also said to be great with first time students so newbies should feel very welcome and comfortable.

Ever tried Aerial Yoga, or how about a post-massage after Pilates? Well, then, check out The Bridge Mind Body Movement here in City West. Another Pilates studio with a fantastic staff, The Movement is a beautiful studio with such good energy and has everything you could want in classes but also popular sessions like myofascial release therapy and reike. Everybody raves that they always leave their Pilates classes feeling strong and flexible.
And, this is just a few to get you started. Downtown LA and our City West is bursting with terrific Pilates studios and, what a great time to get in shape with the holidays practically here! Tell us about your progress on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Who does not await a weekend brunch? Something may be wrong with you if you do not. We know we do. Luckily for us, living in Downtown LA and being whistling distance from our infamous Financial District, we thought it was time to share with you our top picks for brunch in our Financial District. We have had our faves for a while, but, we were keeping them a secret. We trust you. Enjoy!

LA Chapter

Once you walk  through The Financial District’s  Ace Hotel’s lobby, you’ll fall in love with the checkered marble floors and elegant half booths lining the windows at their decadent restaurant, LA Chapter, before you even taste their fantastic cocktails and delicious food. Often said to be the best brunch in the Financial District (or anywhere in Downtown LA, for that matter), LA Chapter got their start with weekend brunch and have been serving satisfied diners with their coffee’s, mimosas and dishes ever since.

Other must-try’s is their Moroccan scramble, avocado toast and Bloody Mary’s. Writes one Yelp review, “One of the best brunch experiences I’ve had by far! The ricotta pancakes are simply amazing. Pair with a black coffee and you’re over the moon

Overall vibe and atmosphere is very casual. The staff is mega friendly, and had a great dining experience.

If you’re like me and get pancake cravings, make sure you come here because these pancakes are definitely worth it!” we second those ricotta pancakes. Just sayin’.

Blu Jam Café

A local favorite throughout Los Angeles, Blu Jam’s Spring Street location is always jammed (see what we did there?) but, well worth the often long weekend wait. Whether you want to go griddle crazy on their crunchy French toast and pancakes, or select a more healthy approach with their protein and egg white scrambles, Blu Jam truly has something for a brunch in the Financial District for everyone; keeping it allergen friendly with gluten free and vegan symbols.

Otium

Oh, Otium. Where do we begin? From their Cold Brew Martini to beers on tap and the traditional Bloody Mary’s and mimosas, we haven’t even mentioned their brunch! We adore their Hoe Cake and pork loin, as well as the more traditional eats like scrambles and crispy potatoes. Often, their special of the week is bacon French toast; that is a sure way to get your Sunday Fun Day off to a grand beginning!

Poppy and Rose

“Seasonally Inspired, Classic American Fare” is the motto at Poppy and Rose. Another beloved brunch spot in the Financial District, Our favorites at Poppy and Roses have got to be their rib tips breakfast burrito and their buttermilk fried chicken with waffles. “Pulled Pork hash was delicious topped with a fried egg.” Writes one reviewer, “The hash was thick and cooked perfectly. The pulled pork was the most delicious part & the egg yolk completed the awesomeness!

While another boasts, “Fried Chicken and waffles…best in the world! Next level from Roscoe’s. The fried chicken is what edges Roscoe’s out. Great service and people too!”
When the weekend rolls around, keep these brunch spots in mind to venture over to the Financial District, and let us know what you’re enjoying on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

We think it’s safe to say that Downtown LA and Los Angeles in general has made their mark on the map for some of the best craft beers and breweries around. The South Park district of DTLA is thriving with must-see (and drink) breweries. We are also loving this movement of spend the day at a brewery; start your day with terrific coffee and pastries, then check out the evening craft menus and apps! Read on to discover a few of our picks for when the feeling strikes for a cold one (which has been a lot lately, given our weather). Enjoy and drink responsibly!

Mega Bodega

“Come Early, Stay Late” is the motto at Mega Bodega. As it becomes a fast trend in Downtown LA to be half a coffee shop, half a brewery, Mega Bodega is one of the pioneers within this fun niche. After you stop by in the morning for coffee and donuts, return after work with your boo’s to have  12 crafts are always on tap, and, just in-case you want to mix it up, they have their day menu available all day, too!

Mikkeller

Mikkeller is one of the newest (and fantastic) craft beer gems located in the South Park area of Downtown LA. With a slew of beers on tap starting at 45 degrees and going down from there, Mikkleller understands the importance of “A Cold One”.

“Very cool bar located in Downtown LA.” Writes a happy Yelp-er, “I visited on a Monday night after a group run. Mondays and Tuesdays are flight night. Pick any 4 drinks for only $15. I recommend you try the fries…they add a very delicious red wine seasoning. Plenty of seating at both the bar and tables.” While parking can be difficult (where is it not difficult in Downtown LA?!), if snag a golden ticket, parking is free after 8pm.

Bonaventure Brewing Co.

We love the Bonaventure for the ambiance while we eat and drink among the LA skyline. Their outdoor patio is one of the best while enjoying your craft beer overlooking South Park and Downtown LA.  Their staff rocks and keeps the beer flowing and is extremely knowledgeable. Psst, their strawberry blonde is the bomb. So is their calamari and juicy steaks.
And, this is just a start. If we missed a spot you love to head to for some craft beer in South Park, let us know on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!