Spotlight On Studio City

For big city amenities at a small town pace, Studio City is a destination for many Angelenos looking to settle down. Studio City's mixture of hip enclaves and residential escapes attract big-name celebrities, struggling actors, studio execs and Los Angeles families. With walkable Ventura Boulevard serving as downtown, there are many enticing restaurants and shops for all as well as nearby hiking trails for a little greenery.

 

Things to Do

Fryman Canyon Park

Get out and take a walk in this sprawling park. One popular route is the Rainforest Trail, a one-mile narrow footpath inside the park that’s a little harder to find. The trail leads to a gully covered by lush foliage- it's quite a sight in the late afternoon.

 

CBS Studio Center

Watch a taping of your favorite TV show at one of the studio’s 18 sound stages. Some shows currently in production at the studio include Young & Hungry, The Odd Couple and Last Man Standing. There’s no easier way to have a celebrity sighting! Request tickets here: http://www.tvtickets.com/.

 

Shopping on Ventura Boulevard

Ventura Boulevard is packed with chain stores, independent shops, toy stores and more. Book lovers should head to the Barnes & Noble that’s housed in an old movie theater. If you’re looking for a new outfit, pop into one of the many clothing boutiques, many with unique pieces. There are even a variety of upscale thrift stores. What more could you ask for?!

 

Where to Eat

Aroma Coffee & Tea - Coffee Shop/Cafe

There’s often a line out the door at Aroma, but it’s worth the wait. With a cozy atmosphere, vast menu, unique tea flavors and specialty coffee, you might just stay there all day.

Matsuda - Sushi

Studio City is known for its sushi- it even has an area called Sushi Row. But one stand out is Matsuda, which has reasonable prices and high-quality sushi all tucked into a strip mall. Pass the wasabi please!

Laurel Tavern- Gastropub

Enjoy bar classics with an extreme twist at this hip restaurant. Head here for Cantonese lollipop wings, steamed PEI mussels or a burger topped with bleu cheese and caramelized bacon.

 

Where to Drink

Black Market Liquor Bar

This unmarked, low-key spot has a cozy setting and seasonal craft cocktails mixed by skilled bartenders. This is a black market you’ll be happy to attend.

 

Oil Can Harry’s

If you’re ready for a wild night out, this bar has it all- country line dancing, disco music, karaoke, reasonably priced stiff drinks and a friendly easygoing vibe.

 

River Rock Lounge

Located in the classic Sportsmen’s Lodge hotel, this modern bar has live music during the week and DJs on the weekend.

 

Schools

Harvard Westlake Upper School

Known as one of the best high schools in the country, Harvard Westlake offers excellent academics, athletics and other enrichment programs. A private college preparatory academy, the class of 2017 has 26 students who were National Merit Recognition Semifinalists.

 

Robert A. Millikan Middle

This middle school is home to a Performing Arts Magnet Academy, Cinematic Arts Academy, Math Academy and more. The charter school also offers rigorous honor courses to prepare students for high school and beyond.

 

Carpenter Community Charter

This top-ranked elementary school is beloved by students and parents alike. The charter school prides itself on providing a full enrichment program including music, dance, art, fitness and technology literacy.

 

Upcoming Events

Winter Family Festival

Celebrate the winter season on December 11th with the Studio City Residents Association Winter Festival, which trucks in 70 tons of snow for sliding, snowball fights and snowman making. This family event brings a little bit of winter to sunny SoCal- no snow tires necessary.

 

Studio City Film Festival

From November 3rd-6th, this international film and TV festival honors short films, features, music videos and more. Buy tickets for a 2-hour block, which screens numerous films from up-and-coming filmmakers.

Whether you’re just here to visit, or thinking about relocating, Studio City is a bustling city with great food, shopping and atmosphere. Come over the hill and check out this hip valley spot!