In this edition of Smith & Berg Partners' Neighborhood Spotlight, we're diving into the glamorous Hollywood Hills — a true LA haven, boasting incredible architecture, and an unbeatable blend of luxury, with an often unexpected tranquility. From star-studded hikes amongst iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign to world-class dining and shopping, this prestigious enclave offers an exclusive lifestyle amidst the glitz and greenery of some of LA’s most coveted terrain. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly-desirable ‘hood.
Culture
Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House: Explore this architectural masterpiece, a stunning example of Wright’s early modern design, located in Barnsdall Art Park.
Hike to the Hollywood Sign: Embark on a scenic hike up to the world-famous Hollywood Sign for breathtaking views of Los Angeles. Take it easy on the Mt Hollywood trail or challenge yourself on the Cahuenga Peak Trail.
Attend a concert at the Hollywood Bowl: Experience live music at this iconic outdoor amphitheater, known for its incredible acoustics and historic performances.
Explore the Griffith Observatory: Discover the wonders of the universe at Griffith Observatory, featuring exhibits, a planetarium, and panoramic views of the city and stars.
Photos: Journal Hotels & Condé Nast Traveler
Restaurants
Mother Wolf: Chef Evan Funke's homage to the Eternal City and La Cucina Romana, offering upscale thin pizzas, handmade pasta, and other Italian staples in a refined setting.
Pace: Nestled in the heart of Laurel Canyon, this cozy and romantic Italian eatery features pizzas and pastas made from locally sourced and organic ingredients.
Gwen: A European-style butcher shop and elegant restaurant by Curtis Stone, Gwen redefines fine dining in LA with a menu highlighting fire-based cooking techniques.
Musso & Frank Grill: Hollywood’s oldest eatery, serving classic American fare and martinis to diners in a vintage setting since 1919.
The Butcher, The Baker & The Cappuccino Maker : This cafe reimagines modern California cuisine with European influences, featuring farm-fresh ingredients, baked goods, specialty coffee, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list.
Photos: Eater LA, Infatuation, Foodle, Reddit
Coffee
Beachwood Café: Situated in historic Beachwood Canyon, this café offers farm-to-table fare and mouthwatering coffee creations like their s’mores and nutella lattes.
Black Canvas Coffee: A modern café with outdoor seating, known for its unique lattes, pastries, and an array of toasts.
Tiago: Enjoy classic coffee, breakfast bites, and lunch fare in a spacious, art-adorned setting at this community favorite.
Mad Lab: Focused on quality and sustainability, Mad Lab offers great-tasting coffee made from responsibly sourced beans.
Photos: 1st Dibs, Postmates, Tiago, Mad Lab
Real Estate
When it comes to stellar real estate in Hollywood Hills, few properties can compare to several of SBP's recent sales. Our team's latest story at 1871 North Stanley Avenue, an architectural marvel in the hills, is a testament to our collective expertise. Despite multiple failed attempts on the market over the past two years with other agents, the SBP team came in and swiftly generated multiple offers, leading to a sale at 96% of the list price-- in record time.
This 10,087 square-foot retreat boasts six bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a zero-edge infinity pool, and panoramic views from the Pacific Ocean to DTLA.
Another SBP team standout is 2307 Castilian Drive, a Spanish villa reimagined by Ome Dezin in Outpost Estates. We represented the buyer, securing this dream home among multiple offers--- within just 12 days on the market. Brimming with luxurious, custom-curated details, it’s the perfect blend of timeless charm and modern amenities.
Our listing at 8406 Kirkwood Drive, is a stunning 1920's artist retreat with high-profile former owners like Chaka Khan, John Landis, and Ry Cooder. With crisp white walls, oranted fixtures, vaulted ceilings, and ample natural light, this home showcases the unique character and high-profile allure of the Hollywood Hills.
Interested in buying or selling in Hollywood Hills? Make SBP your next call. Get in touch with us at 310.500.3931 or [email protected] today.
Left to Right: 2307 Castilian Drive, 1871 North Stanley Avenue, 8406 Kirkwood Drive
Shops
Amoeba Music: This iconic record store on Sunset Boulevard offers a vast collection of vinyl records, CDs, and movies. It's a haven for music enthusiasts looking for rare finds and new releases.
Reformation Vintage: Located on Melrose Avenue, this boutique offers sustainably made clothing and a curated selection of vintage pieces. It's a favorite among eco-conscious fashionistas.
Book Soup: An independent bookstore on Sunset Boulevard, Book Soup offers an extensive selection of books, including rare and signed editions. It's a literary landmark and a must-visit for book lovers.
Lawson-Fenning: This boutique store on Beverly Boulevard features a curated collection of mid-century modern and contemporary furniture, lighting, and accessories. Each piece is selected for its quality and design.
Photos: LA Times, Reformation, LA Conservancy, Cool Hunting
Bars
Chateau Marmont: The bar at Chateau Marmont offers a chic and intimate setting for enjoying classic cocktails and upscale bar bites. The historic setting and celebrity sightings add to its appeal.
The Spare Room: Located inside the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, The Spare Room offers a unique blend of cocktails, bowling, and a vintage game parlor. The speakeasy vibe and sophisticated decor make it a perfect spot for a night out.
No Vacancy: Housed in a historic Hollywood mansion, No Vacancy offers a speakeasy experience with craft cocktails, live entertainment, and a charming courtyard. The secretive entrance and vintage ambiance add to its allure.
Good Times at Davey Wayne’s: This retro-themed bar takes you back to the 1970s with its garage entrance, vintage decor, and classic cocktails. The lively atmosphere and backyard patio make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Photos: Condé Nast Traveler, Spare Room, Eater LA, Tag Venue
Self-Care
Le Grand Wellness: Located in the heart of Cahuenga Pass, Le Grand Wellness offers chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and med spa services. Their holistic approach and customized plans optimal health and well-being.
DESUAR Spa: Housed in a charming Spanish hacienda-style building, DESUAR is designed to be a peaceful escape from bustling city life with massages, facials, CBD treatments, and more.
Sweatheory: Situated on the corner of Sunset and Cahuenga, Sweatheory is your destination for all things wellness, featuring a custom-built infrared yoga studio and six private sauna pods with individual showers.
Runyon Canyon Yoga: For those who enjoy outdoor yoga, Runyon Canyon Yoga provides donation-based classes in the picturesque Runyon Canyon Park — an ideal way to connect with nature while practicing yoga.
Photos: Le Grand Wellness, DESUAR, Sweatheory, Condé Nast Traveler
Schools
Hollywood Hills is home to great public schools including Valley View Elementary School (K-5), Cheremoya Avenue Elementary School (PK-6), and Hollywood High School (9-12). However, many families opt to go “over the hill” for private options including Immaculate Heart Middle & High Schools (girls 6-12) and Harvard-Westlake (7-12) — LA’s most prestigious and competitive college preparatory school, which is just a short drive from Hollywood Hills.
Photo: LinkedIn
Access
The area is bordered by major highways, including the 101, making it convenient for commuting to DTLA, the San Fernando Valley, and other parts of the city. It’s also relatively close to both LAX and the Burbank airport, making air travel convenient for residents.
Photo: Homes.com
Interested in learning more about the lifestyle or real estate opportunities in the Hollywood Hills? Reach out to us at [email protected].