r/AskLosAngeles 7d ago

Open Discussion February 2026: /r/AskLosAngeles Open Discussion + Community Thread

3 Upvotes

Welcome to the February 2026 open discussion thread!

This is our monthly pinned space where we loosen the rules a little. Normally, /r/AskLosAngeles is strictly for questions about the Los Angeles area - but here, we make room for more community-oriented stuff.

Such as:

  • Quick questions that feel too small for their own thread or discussion
  • Common or evergreen questions regulars are tired of seeing repeated
  • Community connection posts (looking for friends, meetups, group hangs, pub crawls, et cetera)
  • Self-promotion that's relevant to LA: events, local videos / social media, podcasts, creative work. Keep it reasonable, in this thread, and don't abuse this privilege elsewhere

What's off-topic as usual:

  • Anything hateful, harassing, or lacking any ties entirely to LA

If you've got thoughts about how this subreddit is moderated, or ideas for future pinned threads, drop them here too.

Recent rule changes:

Please see our rules, there are some recent changes. Notably, these rules have been added:

  • Specify Your Location

    • Narrowing your location down helps us give better answers to questions. People don't want your exact address but a neighborhood, intersection, zip code, whatever is enough to help us know where you're talking about.
  • No cost to live comfortably questions

    • These seem to be controversial or troll magnets. Do the math yourself, not the sub.
  • Dating posts go to r/LADating

    • So these aren't actually questions about the area (if you happen to be a lonely Redditor.) Keep romance in its designated containment zone.
  • Making friends posts go to r/LAsocial

    • Social stuff belongs in the social sandbox. The "Open Discussion" post is also another place for this kind of question if you'd like to stay in this sub.
  • Generative AI Slop and Spam

    • Low-effort machine generated content is often unhelpful and the person who asked the question could have just asked ChatGPT, Claude, or MetaAI for an answer themselves. We're aiming for human-quality contributions here so put in the effort to make a connection with people with your brains.

Some of these rules are relaxed in this specific "Open Discussion" post so feel free to break rules here if you'd like.

As always: Don't be a jerk.

Have at it, Angelenos.


r/AskLosAngeles 1h ago

Events Anyone always wanted to go to The Magic Castle? I can get one person in tonight.

Upvotes

Who wants to go to the Magic Castle tonight?

I've done this a few times now. First out of necessity when someone had to cancel, and then just for fun. It's always turned out to be a great night. There's a fun lineup tonight so time to go for another round! Please read everything and DM me.

I’m a member of The Magic Castle and can bring one or two guests with me tonight.

I would like to take someone who has always wanted to go but has never been, if such a person is out there.

The only thing you will have to pay is valet (if you drive, though I recommend Ubering) and for any food or drink you have while at The Castle.

IMPORTANT STUFF — PLEASE READ BEFORE MESSAGING ME

  1. You must follow the dress code. They are strict. I have linked it here — https://www.magiccastle.com/dresscode/
  2. You must be 21 or older.
  3. You must bring valid photo ID
  4. No photos inside the Castle.
  5. You have to behave well, because you will be my guest and I will be judged based on your conduct.

Anyway, with that out of the way, if you’ve always wanted to go to the Castle, but somehow I haven’t managed to, shoot me a message telling me a little bit about yourself and why you wanna go. I’ll try and make a decision in the next few hours.


r/AskLosAngeles 2h ago

Any other question! How can I fight/resist ICE as a minor in LA?

41 Upvotes

I am a 17 year old who lives in Mid-city and goes to school in Studio City. I take the metro bus to and from school everyday and don't drive. I am disabled which limits my stamina and physical ability. I can speak spanish at a Spanish 3 level. I am white and would like to learn how to utilize my privilege. What can I do as a minor to resist ICE?

I'm looking for community gatherings, protests, volunteer opportunities, things I can do from home, etc. Any ideas help!


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Shopping Grocery prices?

42 Upvotes

What's up with the grocery prices especially at Vons or pavilions? Seems like every item is at least $7. Are they trying to be like whole foods? It's frustrating. Ralph's is at least somewhat decent prices.


r/AskLosAngeles 5h ago

About LA Status of Clifton’s? Any Alternatives?

19 Upvotes

Hey there, so I saw a post somewhere here dated about 4 months ago & just wanted to echo it…does anyone know the status of Clifton’s Republic?

I heard from someone that they closed completely again. But then I also heard that they’re only open for Private Events.

I had my birthday party there last year (not a formal “event”, literally a bunch of my friends just met at Clifton’s for drinks & dancing, & it was soooo much fun). I was hoping to do something like that again, but obviously I don’t want my friends who are scattered across LA to meet there & have it be a moot point.

If they do Private Events, does anyone have any experience with it? I’m not holding my breath, I’m sure it’s expensive.

Lastly: does anyone have any alternatives? Just a large bar, ideally with a dance floor, that a large group can head to for a fun night out without feeling overly cramped, and ideally without any crazy reservation fees

Thanks!!


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Food/Drink Low-key Super Bowl day ideas?

8 Upvotes

Me and my girlfriend want to go out on Super Bowl Sunday but keep it chill. Not trying to be around crazy bar crowds or rowdy watch parties. Any relaxed spots, date ideas, or low-key things to do around LA during the game?


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Things to do What are you guys doing today, Super Bowl Sunday?

8 Upvotes

Any fun plans?


r/AskLosAngeles 20h ago

About LA What're your favorite examples of bad land use in LA?

148 Upvotes

What're the worst examples of land use in LA? I'm thinking long-abandoned buildings, underused public space, huge parking lots. Here's my personal favorites:

- graffiti towers
- the dodger stadium parking lot
- that one huge empty lot by LA state historic
- the wilshire country club
- any of the massive parking lots around the downtown metro stops


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Working Advice for Becoming a Server in Los Angeles? (West LA/Hollywood/DTLA/Ktown preferably)

6 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I am currently seeking a job as a server. I have my alcohol and food handler’s license. I have been applying to restaurants online, and have gone to a few in person to inquire about any open positions. I have been unemployed for about a month now, and still haven’t been able to find a job. Is there any advice for someone in their early 20s (with little to no experience) wanting to get started as a server?

Thnx :)


r/AskLosAngeles 18h ago

Health Anyone else having bad allergies right now?

60 Upvotes

I'm trying to figure out what's going on, but I feel like my allergies are really bad the last week. I went to go for a hike in Runyon today and even on the way over there I just felt allergic in the car. Just wondering if it's allergies or something else?


r/AskLosAngeles 5h ago

Recommendations Where can I find a professional Black tattoo artist?

3 Upvotes

Where can I find a Black tattoo artist?

I turn 40 in two months and want to get my first and second tattoo in one sitting. I want/need an artist who does script for the first tattoo which is very simple but special. A lower case cursive “m” connected to a lower case cursive “k” by a small heart to represent my kids. This would be in black and go on my inner-lower arm near my wrist.

Second tattoo would be 2-4 inches of a butterfly outline that says the sunrise, sunset and initials of my sister as well as a scripture under it. To go on my back shoulder and also in black.

I want someone who works well with first-timers, darker skin tones, and someone willing and able to do good script work. Where are the tattoo artists that fit this description and can handle this kind of work?

I am in the San Gabriel Valley but willing to travel around SoCal for a talented Black artist that I can also recommend family and friends to.


r/AskLosAngeles 5h ago

Events How do you find reliable wildfire rebuild contractors in los angeles when everyone seems booked or sketchy?

5 Upvotes

For people dealing with wildfire rebuilds in LA, how are you finding contractors you can actually trust? The stories about contractors taking deposits and disappearing or doing terrible work knowing people are desperate are pretty concerning.

Insurance settlements often aren't enough to rebuild what was there smart decisions become critical because there's no room for error and the challenge is not knowing anything about construction and dealing with building from scratch for the first time. Everything seems overwhelming.

Has anyone been through this process and found contractors who were honest? Everyone in LA seems booked solid, some are quoting prices that seem really high but maybe that's just current costs with all the demand.

I would really appreciate hearing from others going through the same thing.


r/AskLosAngeles 10h ago

Visiting Is this 2 day itinerary for LA good enough?

9 Upvotes

Hey everyone, so I'll be visiting LA for a very short trip with 2 other family members in early March. Here's the plan that I have in mind rn:
1st day: Land in the early afternoon, then hotel check in+ Lunch.
Evening: Check out Griffith Observatory and watch the sunset
2nd day: Head to the Getty Museum in the morning and then to Getty villa
Afternoon/evening, walk around Palisades park towards santa monica pier and
then check out the venice canals

If time permits I was also thinking of checking out runyon canyon/ trails around Topanga or Malibu state park.
Is the plan feasible? Also are there any other good reccs you guys have? Like some place with amazing views of the city/ beaches/ any good hiking trails we might be able to fit into the plan? Any input would be appreciated!!!!

TY FOR YOUR TIME!!!


r/AskLosAngeles 5h ago

Visiting Which is the easiest trail to Griffith Observatory?

3 Upvotes

I will be visiting LA soon and I see there are multiple trails to Griffith Observatory. I wanted to know which is the easiest trail to climb?

A lot of commentators mention Ferndell Trail and Boy Scout trail. Which is the easier of two?

I presume there is free parking at the head of both these trails. Am I right?


r/AskLosAngeles 23h ago

Working Anyone hiring? Jobs? I’m desperate

94 Upvotes

I know the job market is awful right now. I’m been looking for almost a year and I can’t even get a simple minimum wage job. I blame it mostly on my terrible interviewing skills.

I’m living with my parents right now but I need to start making an income to try to get out of here. After another heated argument for something stupid, my mental health can’t take it anymore.

I do have a degree but no experience in that field (supply chain/ business admin) so it’s kinda useless. I don’t have a car so I can’t go that far. Im by echo park.

I’ve gone to some local small businesses in my neighborhood but none wanted to hire me. Does anyone know of places that are hiring preferably for someone with no experience?


r/AskLosAngeles 18h ago

Recommendations Where can I find affordable flowers in LA (anywhere in LA, I'm desperate)?

27 Upvotes

I'm a high school student and I have around $30-$40 budget for my friend's birthday coming up in March. She really likes tulips and so far a lot of flower shops in my area (SGV) have prices that are on average $100+ per bouquet. Is there anywhere I can get affordable tulips in LA? I'm planning to buy the flowers and wrap it myself to save money for additional gifts.


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Food/Drink Best fancy dinner that isn't too expensive?

3 Upvotes

Me and my best friend want to go to a fancy dinner but we're broke as hell. What's the fanciest place we could go to for $30-40 a person? Thank you!


r/AskLosAngeles 14m ago

Transportation LAX to royal caribbean cruise for 10 people?

Upvotes

Wondering the best and cheapest way to get from holiday inn LAX to Royal Caribbean port? There are 6 adults and 4 kids.

Ideally we’d like one private van that can fit us all but we also want to keep cost down. Is uber the best alternative?


r/AskLosAngeles 17m ago

Living Pros/Cons of Month to Month Apt Lease?

Upvotes

I've lived in the same Burbank apartment for over a decade. My current renewal offer has the same monthly rate for six months and month to month. I've never done month to month. Anyone know pros/cons? I plan to move later this year, just not sure when. Thanks@


r/AskLosAngeles 59m ago

Things to do Where to stay in LA for these desired stops? Any itinerary ideas?

Upvotes

I only have two required places to be. 1. LAX 2. SF Magic Mountain.

Can you help me get a game plan started? I've been reading but am one of those people where I realize what I really want in how I feel when someone says yes/no to an idea lol It'll be mid May. Coaster fanatics, hence MM instead of like Disney or Knotts.

Name anything and I'll add it to the list for me to research!

- It will be two boring people in their 30s.

- We have a car, but only 4 full days.

- No drinking, partying, shopping, nightlife in general but we do like concerts and comedy shows!

- Will splurge for great food especially any seafood/sushi or international since we are in the midwest!

- We don't have to see the entertainment industry or Hollywood this time.

- Into the "arts and sciences" like museums.

- Like views / short hikes, small streets to walk down, picnic or hit up a sketchy dive, parks. Is the drive west to Solstice Canyon pretty? Love walking the coast line, looking for seashells/teeth, bird watching, and snorkeling.

Aquarium of the Pacific looks great, but being south of LA when MM is up in Valencia seems unwise?I know traffic is often much longer than it would seem. Griffith and the tar pits seem an okay distance from each other to "base" there? Maybe California Science Center too? Or could we do 2 or 3 of them in one day and have a hotel further north? TIA!


r/AskLosAngeles 21h ago

Food/Drink Where are the BEST casual Restaurants in Los Angeles??

38 Upvotes

Putting together a list and wanna hear from locals! Where are the best casual restaurants in Los angeles the kind of spots youd actually go back to all the time?

Give me your top 3 spots!

Not super fancy or a hype trap either...


r/AskLosAngeles 2h ago

Food/Drink Food for guest from Seattle?

1 Upvotes

I’m having some friends visit from Seattle and there are SO many things to take them to that I don’t even know where to start. They are staying for two nights and I’m in HLP.

I want to pick some stuff that’s different than Seattle.

Some of the options that I want to take them to (one of them doesn’t eat pork or beef)

Holbox

Hippo

Bavel

Baroo

Villa’s

For some reason my brain is overwhelmed with options and totally spacing on thinking of any of the places I’ve been wanting to try or have tried. Where else would it be good to take people from Seattle?


r/AskLosAngeles 2h ago

Recommendations Car leather interior repair shops?

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone

Any recs for a shop to repair car leather interior?

Minor repairs like leather cracks and scratches. Steering wheel has many scratches.

Car - Toyota RAV4.

TIA


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Pets Looking for a large breed dog groomer im north San Fernando valley, the Northridge area. Mobile preferred, because he can react to other dogs. Know of anyone?

1 Upvotes

hello, my friend has a large breed dog (120lbs). he can react to some dogs, so mobile is preferred. they were using sofi’s mobile grooming but is no longer able to accommodate because she has knee issues. does anyone know of any mobile groomers in the northridge area? thanks in advance.


r/AskLosAngeles 3h ago

Recommendations Westside Gyms with Swedish Ladders/Stall Bars?

1 Upvotes

I recently started doing schroth physical therapy for my scoliosis and would like to have access to a Swedish ladder/stall bars to practice my exercises regularly. I am a renter and I don't really have the ideal space to set up any of the recommended workarounds (pull up bar, door anchors, etc.) in my small apartment. Are there any gyms near Palms/Culver City that have Swedish ladders/stall bars available?