As a neighborhood resource for parents and soon-to-be parents in and around Los Angeles, The Agency’s Michelle Schwartz is interviewing dynamic moms and dads and asking for their valuable insights on the neighborhoods they live in. Today, Michelle talks with film producer Amanda Lewis (Fast & Furious 6, Fast Five, Fast & Furious, S.W.A.T.), who lives in the hillside community of Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO) with her husband PJ and two-year-old son Owen. BHPO lies within the 90210 zip code and is north of Sunset Blvd., south of Mulholland Dr., east of Beverly Glen and west of Coldwater Canyon.
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Where are you originally from and where do you live now? Tell me a little about why you love living in your neighborhood?
Amanda Lewis: We live in Beverly Hills, and I grew up here as well. We now live specifically in the hills— Beverly Hills Post Office neighborhood. Our street is a really nice mix of young families and older people who have lived in their homes for 40 plus years. My son goes over to our 80-year-old neighbor’s house to visit every day. Probably the best thing for us about the neighborhood is the central location. The Westside, Eastside or Valley are all just 15-20 minutes away. Having my family so close is also a huge benefit.
What are the best ways to keep your kids active in the neighborhood?
AL: We go to Coldwater Park (photo, at left) almost every day. There is a nice group of parents and kids who are regulars. Holmby Park is also really convenient and nice for a change of pace. The children’s section at the Beverly Hills Library was just redone, and their story time is great since you don’t have to sign up in advance and it’s free! Some of the other classes we’ve taken either in Beverly Hills or West Hollywood are Music Together, Outside the Box, and Fit for Kids.
Would you say you live in a kid-friendly area? Are most nearby restaurants kid-friendly?
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AL: Our street is not kid-friendly—we are in the hills and have no sidewalks. I would not feel comfortable walking there with my son. Beverly Hills itself though is extremely kid-friendly. Almost any restaurant seems to be accommodating to a toddler’s needs. Nate n’ Al’s is one of our usual places — the waitresses give babies their own bagel on a string to eat/play with while you wait for your meal. Going to the Beverly Hills Farmers Market on Sunday mornings is also so much fun for kids. Occasionally there are pony rides and a petting zoo, and kids can basically eat a whole meal just from all the food samples!
Where are you and your husband’s favorite places to go without the kids?
AL: My husband and I love to go to Yu and Mi Sushi for dinner together. Drinks at the Beverly Hills Hotel or Hotel Bel Air (photo at right) are also fun. During the day on weekends we hike in Franklin Canyon or just take a long walk on the path along Santa Monica Blvd.
What are your easy and quick go-to shopping places for the kids, from clothes to haircuts.
AL: Tom’s Toys is a great toy store for browsing or buying. Anything from kids’ shoes (Harry Harris) to kids’ haircuts (Rock n’ Cuts) are all within “downtown” Beverly Hills.
Amanda’s latest film (executive producer) “Fast & Furious 6” hits theaters worldwide on Friday, May 24. Go see it this weekend!
Michelle Schwartz is a founding agent at The Agency, a Los Angeles native, a wife and mom of 2 (ages 3 & 19 mo). Having been born and raised in Beverly Hills, and now living in Studio City, she is savvy to the city as a whole and the nuances of the areas that make LA so special. Now with 2 young children, she is more and more aware of how her life revolves around the needs and conveniences of the children. Michelle has asked her friends to help her create this series to serve as a neighborhood resource for parents and soon-to-be parents in and around Los Angeles. Should you need any assistance or want more information on finding or selling a home, please feel free to contact Michelle.
