El Cholo is a fabulous authentic Mexican restaurant in the midtown area that was built in the 20’s and serves the BEST Mexican food anywhere! it’s family owned and operated. http://www.elcholo.com/

You should also dine or just have cocktails at the Formosa Cafe in West Hollywod. It is an ‘opium den’ decorated bar that was a favorite of countless thousands of movie and rock stars over the years. Elvis was a regular. LA Confidential had a scene shot in it. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formosa_Cafe

The Derby (not to be confused with the original Brown Derby which was demolished) is a very cool venue, bar and restaurant that hosts a variety of rock acts and has a 40’s big band night. Located in Los Feliz. http://www.clubderby.com/

Wacko is a collectible store with a fascinating low brow art gallery and an amazing selection of bizarre, alternative gifts and books. http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&q=wacko+los+feliz&fb=1&gl=us&ei=kDfzSoXSGc3hlAfd3Zm1Aw&ved=0CBoQtgMwAw&hq=wacko&hnear=Los+Feliz,+Los+Angeles,+CA&z=15

Olvera street is a great slice of local culture. http://olvera-street.com/

Mel’s diner is an authentic 50’s diner that has a few locations around the greater area. The Sunset location is the best. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you American Graffiti was shot there, that was a different Mel’s that is long gone. http://www.melsdrive-in.com/

Rainbow Grill used to be The Stork Club, which was a sexy hangout in old Hollywood. Later it became a sexy hang out for the rock and roll crowd. http://www.rainbowbarandgrill.com/

Ah cheers for all that guy! An awesome list for a couple of rock fans I think! And we totally dig Mexican food/culture. It sucks it’s so dangerous to go there, or else we would make it part of our trip. But Olvera Street sounds like a safer alternative!

Thanks again, you’ve made me that bit more excited about checking out LA! (so much so that we’re going there for any extra day)