When we first featured 431 Howland Canal on The Agency blog, we noted its steps-away proximity to Abbot Kinney Boulevard’s collection of fashionable boutiques, great eateries and numerous art galleries, all situated in a laid back setting that only Venice Beach can offer.
Well, GQ has taken notice of what locals have long known (and perhaps wanted to keep their own little secret), declaring Abbot Kinney Boulevard “The Coolest Block in America.”
“Just about everything in GQ‘s Style Bible (plus delicious cocktails and a swim) can be had on Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice California,” says the magazine (view article here). In making its claim, GQ highlights 14 of the boutiques (Jack Spade, A+R, Guild, Waraku, Milkmade and Surfing Cowboys, to name a few) that earn Abbot Kinney the title of coolest stretch of road around.
The appeal of Abbot Kinney though doesn’t end with its superb shopping. The culinary scene is among the best in Southern California with its diverse mix of casual and up-scale restaurants, such as Gjelina, 3 Square Bakery, Joe’s Restaurant and The Tasting Kitchen. And if food trucks are your thing, and in L.A. they should be, you have the once-a-month gustatory feast that is “First Fridays,” which features the city’s best four-wheel gourmet purveyors parked along the street as shops stay open late and offer live entertainment.
Add to all of this the fact that you’re outside soaking up the SoCal sun while enjoying the fresh ocean air coming off the Pacific just blocks away, it simply doesn’t get any better; that is, until you return home to your serene oasis on the Venice Canals just a short walk away.
Experience 431 Howland Canal in person by contacting Billy Rose or Jonathan Ruiz today.
(Photo above by Jessica Sample, courtesy of GQ)