Meet one of the Faces of the Historic Core Rachel Long from your dog’s favorite place on earth. Pet Project LA is the number one stop for all Downtown LA pet necessities! Learn more about how Rachel came to own Pet Project and where in the neighborhood she likes to go with her pups, Shakespeare and Angus!

Pet Project LA

528 S Spring St

Meet two more Faces of the Historic Core: Kristen Trattner and Monica May, the owners of the best diner in town. The Nickel Diner is a treasure amongst Main St in the Historic Core. Chef Monica’s satisfying menu has everything from her iconic pop tarts to a Hangover Helper that might have saved some lives. Check out this video interview with Monica and Kristen and learn more about how they were destined to run the Nickel and why they’re local superheroes serving up a true piece of Americano.

Nickel Diner

524 S Main St.

Meet one of the Faces of the Historic Core: Chip Brown, a local baker that established his roots 10 years ago in the Historic Core. Big Man Bakes is a staple in our community and even Oprah knows it. Chip’s cupcakes alongside his big smile and personality, tie together an unforgettable experience. In fact, the only things that aren’t big are the mini-sized cupcakes. Check out this video with Chip and learn more about how this New Yorker turned Angeleno came to charm the pants off anyone with a sweet tooth.

Big Man Bakes

413 S Main St.

Meet one of the Faces of the Historic Core: Sofian Ketfi, local resident and business owner of Garçons de Cafe a French wine bar inside the Spring Arcade. It has become a safe haven for wine lovers, friends, and locals alike. Thanks to Sofian’s vision and dedication, Garçons de Cafe is a great cozy spot for wine, culture, and the tranquility to enjoy both.

Garçons de Cafe

541 S Spring St

Meet one of the Faces of the Historic Core: Emmeric Konrad, a local artist who has lived in DTLA since 1989. He was part of the collective who started Downtown LA’s Art Walk, so trust us he knows Downtown, specifically the Historic Core. You can check out his art in multiple art galleries, local businesses, and electricity boxes around the neighborhood. Check out our video interview with Emmeric and learn more about his style of art, how it started, and where artists nowadays are showing and hanging out.

Meet one of the Faces of the Historic Core: Deisy Suarez-Giles from Desuar Spa. Desuar Spa has been the relaxation destination of the Historic Core for 5 years. Deisy’s story and dream to open a spa on 5th street is truly inspiring. Check out our video interview with Deisy and learn more about her trek from New York to LA, finding love while opening her own business, and starting a family in the Historic Core.

Desuar Spa

220 W 5th St.

Meet one of the Faces of the Historic Core: Andrew Sinclair, a local coffee brewer, business owner, and husband. Mad Lab Coffee has been brewing in the Historic Core for over 6 years, & now they have partnered up with another Historic Core business- Spread Mediterranean Kitchen- to bring you the best of both worlds. Located inside the Gas Company Tower, this marks Mad Lab’s first brick and mortar. We spoke to Andrew about the uniqueness of his business, his experience living and working in the heart of our city, and why his coffee is the one your neighbors are drinking. 

Mad Lab Coffee

555 W 5th St.