There's always something going on in California

Meet Chris! Living in gay California for two decades, Chris runs the b&b with his partner Frank and has been enjoying the 'LA' lifestyle. Let them give you some tips about being easygoing and flexible and taking advantage of the local delights. (Mountains, deserts, and the Pacific Ocean! ) 

What makes Los Angeles a favorite gay destination?

The weather, the nightlife, the boys AND the men!

What is the best gay event that takes place in Los Angeles?

My favorite is a smaller outdoor street party called the 'Off Sunset Street Festival.' It's held on Santa Monica Blvd, directly in front of the Los Angels Eagle. It's an annual gay leather and fetish-themed event with live rock bands!

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

The Kitchen!  It's gay-owned and operated and is an AMAZING American bistro. It's located in the same building as The Akbar, a trendy gay bar with a younger set and lots of people in the 'biz.'

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Either the LA Eagle or The Faultline, on a Sunday during a beer bust.

The best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

The Akbar (walking distance) or go to Downtown Los Angeles and try one of the three funky new gay bars. Some have a more boutique vibe, like Mattachine, and Red Line, which offer delicious cocktails.  There is also Precinct, which is more of a rock and roll gay bar with live bands. 

Otherwise, head on over to West Hollywood (a different city), and you'll be with the bigger crowds in the more traditional 'boys' town.'  It's a bit more glossy amid the high-end set, where people from all over LA come to party.  Lots of Beverly Hills folks and people in the 'biz' crowd.

Which famous gay person is from Los Angeles?

Hahaha! Who isn't? That said, if I was going to say who came out of my specific neighborhood of silver lake, Ryan Gosling, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and even the legendary Judy Garland! Some bands/musicians include; Red Hot Chili Peppers and Silver Sun Pickups.

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

Sometimes there's dancing at The Akbar. Los Globos in Silver Lake on Sunset Blvd is also good depending. A lot of times, there are special one-off clubs that occur at different venues around the city, especially downtown Los Angeles.  Check the local papers and online. Again, there is always West Hollywood, also known for gay bars that feature dancing with larger dance floors.

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

The Akbar is fun. Also, Precinct and Mattachine.

Where to start a gay tour in Los Angeles?

Start in West Hollywood, and head east to Down Town, then head on up to Silver Lake.

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

There are the various gyms, especially in West Hollywood. And there are a lot of Korean Spa just south of Silver Lake, in Koreatown.

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

LA Eagle and The Akbar.

How gay-friendly is Los Angeles?

Extremely gay-friendly.  And very gay too!

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

So many straight people love our gay neighborhoods that most of the restaurants are mixed gay and straight. So many restaurants around the Sunset Junction have good brunch. Cliffs Edge, Casita Del Campo...

What is gay life like in Los Angeles?

With a roughly 5% gay population citywide, and a much higher concentration of gays within Downtown, Echo Park, Silver Lake, Hollywood, and West Hollywood, there's always something going on.

What are your favorite gay venues in Los Angeles?

It depends on what I'm in the mood for.  If I want to escape into a funky vibe, I'll head downtown to Precinct or Mattachine. And if I'm in the mood for hanging with the upper crust and seeing the pretty younger crowd, I'll head over to West Hollywood and check out Micky's, Rage, or Revolver.  There are some really good restaurants on that strip as well.  But for me, I like the LA Eagle.  It's usually a very rock-and-roll vibe. It's also the most masculine crowd you'll find.  Mostly a beer joint and basic cocktails.  Sometimes they have live rock bands play on Sunday beer bust.  Also, Friday and or Saturday nights host fun clubs like Meat Rack and Cub Scout. The Faultline is famous for its Sunday beer bust.  Start there and head over to the Eagle after.  The Akbar is right up the street from the Eagle.