If you’re checking out the LA Art Book Fair (February 23-26), you’re in for pleasant weather and a unique event for artists’ books, catalogs, monographs, periodicals, and zines presented by more than 300 presses, antiquarians, artists, and independent publishers from over 20 countries.
The LA Art Book Fair is the companion fair to the NY Art Book Fair, held every fall in New York City. The fair sees over 39,000 artists, book buyers, collectors, dealers, curators, independent publishers, and other enthusiasts from around the world.
Los Angeles can be tricky for first-timers since it’s not the most walkable city. So we made this travel guide super easy. Everything on this list is within a 3-mile radius of the fair which is taking place at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA in Downtown LA.
Where to stay: Ace Hotel
The Ace Hotel is located in downtown Los Angeles in the historic United Artists building. Reasonably priced and great amenities, the hotel is 2 miles from the fair.
Ace Hotel, 929 South Broadway, Los Angeles
Where to eat breakfast: Grand Central Market
Fuel up on coffee at G&B Coffee and a lox sandwich from Wexler’s Deli. Take a Ruski to go just in case you don’t have time for lunch.
Grand Central Market, 317 South Broadway, Los Angeles
Where to eat lunch: Sonoratown
This place serves some of the best tacos in downtown LA. Grab a few and eat them there or get them to go. We’re partial to their carne asada tacos.
Sonoratown, 208 E 8th St, Los Angeles
Where to eat lunch: Rice Bar
This isn’t your standard Filipino fare, it’s one of the best we’ve had. Comfort food at it’s best. Another fast and casual option.
Rice Bar, 419 W. 7th St. Los Angeles
Where to eat dinner: Bäco Mercat
Bäco Mercat gives small plates a new whole meaning. They are hearty, delicious and bound to keep you full. Be sure to order the Toron, a pita meets taco sandwich filled with oxtail hash, they’re kind of famous for it.
Bäco Mercat, 408 S. Main St., Los Angeles
Where to eat dinner: Redbird
One of the most instagrammable interiors in LA, they also serve a duck that you’ll never forget. Wash it down with an Indian Summer which is made of gin, byrhh, rose petals, hibiscus, lemon, juniper, pink peppercorn, and soda.
Redbird, 114 East Second Street Los Angeles
Where to eat brunch: Poppy + Rose
Inspired by the country kitchens we all know and love, Poppy + Rose serves classic American comfort food made with fresh ingredients. Get the chicken and waffles or the Poppy burger.
Poppy + Rose, 765 S. Wall Street, Los Angeles
Where to have a drink: Resident
After a long day at the fair, you’ll need a drink. Resident has a great indoor/outdoor situation and perfect for big groups.
Resident, 428 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles
Where to have a drink: Westbound
Hello train car from Westworld. The interior at Westbound (no relation), brings you back to the 1890s, so naturally you’ll want to order from their classic house cocktail list. Clover Club anyone?
Westbound, 300 S. Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles
top image// L.A. Art Book Fair 2016, photo by Ruben Diaz
