Where Do Hipsters Hibernate in LA? A Guide for the Clueless
So, you're curious about the elusive hipster species and their preferred habitat in the concrete jungle that is Los Angeles? Well, buckle up, because we're about to embark on a journey into the heart of hipsterdom.
Silver Lake: The Hipster Valhalla
Let's start with the obvious: Silver Lake. It's like the hipster capital of LA, the place where ironic beards and vintage tees were invented. If you see someone sipping a cold-pressed juice while discussing obscure indie bands, chances are they're from Silver Lake. It's a place where you can find everything from artisanal kombucha to overpriced avocado toast. Just don't be surprised if you overhear a conversation about the merits of vinyl records or the latest microbrewery.
Echo Park: Silver Lake's Edgy Cousin
Just next door to Silver Lake is Echo Park, its slightly grittier and more affordable sibling. Think of it as Silver Lake's rebellious teenage phase. While it still has its fair share of hipsters, it's also home to a thriving Latinx community, giving it a unique and eclectic vibe. You'll find plenty of taco trucks, murals, and live music venues here.
Highland Park: The Hipster Frontier
If you're looking for a hipster neighborhood that's still a bit undiscovered, Highland Park is your spot. It's got a strong sense of community, a thriving arts scene, and a growing number of trendy shops and restaurants. It's like Silver Lake, but with better tacos and less pretense.
Other Hipster Hangouts
- Atwater Village: This neighborhood is slowly but surely becoming a hipster hotspot. It's got a laid-back vibe and a growing number of cool shops and eateries.
- Eagle Rock: With its charming old houses and tree-lined streets, Eagle Rock is attracting a younger, hipper crowd.
- Venice: While Venice is known for its beach bum culture, there's a definite hipster contingent hanging out around Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Important Note: Hipsters are a fickle bunch. They're always on the lookout for the next big thing, so these neighborhoods might change in a heartbeat. Plus, let's be honest, hipsterdom is more of a mindset than a location. You could find a hipster anywhere, even in the Valley (shudder).
How to Spot a Hipster
- They have a carefully curated wardrobe that looks like they just stepped out of a vintage store.
- They have strong opinions about obscure bands and coffee roasters.
- They own a fixed-gear bike and probably wear a helmet that doesn't match their outfit.
- They can quote obscure indie films and TV shows.
- They have a tattoo that tells a deep, meaningful story (or so they claim).
How to...
- How to dress like a hipster: Don't try. Just be yourself.
- How to talk like a hipster: Use words like "authentic," "curated," and "artisanal" excessively.
- How to find a good hipster hangout: Follow your instincts and look for places with exposed brick walls and Edison bulbs.
- How to avoid hipsters: Move to a suburb.
- How to become a hipster: It's not something you can force. It just happens.