An Insider’s Guide to Culver City, Los Angeles
Between its silver screen history and high volume of premium dining destinations, Culver City is one of L.A.’s buzziest neighborhoods. Though it leans toward the Westside, Culver is centrally located, making it a great home base for Angelenos seeking easy access across parts of town.
The drinking scene is lively, with options ranging from moody speakeasies to modern wine bars. Though the city faced the upsetting closure of Citizen Public Market at the end of 2025, the dining landscape continues to grow and improve with exciting additions like Broken Spanish Comedor and Saijo Handroll. While there are plenty of casual places to grab a bite, Culver City is also no stranger to fine dining, as it’s home to chef Jordan Kahn’s two-Michelin-star Vespertine.
Outside of food, Culver City boasts a notable museum and theater scene, along with unparalleled shopping at The Platform, and even outdoorsy activities at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. Whether you’re a longtime local hoping to become better versed in what this thriving neighborhood has to offer, or an out-of-town tourist seeking a central location for your stay, follow this inside guide to experience the very best of what Culver City has to offer.
The Culver Hotel is a historical 1924 landmark with just 46 elegant, vintage-inspired rooms. European architecture and accents yield a transportive setting. Boiserie-paneled walls, glimmering chandeliers and heavy drawn curtains adorn each suite, but the heart of the hotel is the on-site restaurant, which extends from a fireside lounge out to a romantic courtyard patio.
Look for a pet-friendly stay that’s within walking distance to Culver’s best shopping and dining? The Shay is a modern oasis with 148 rooms, a rooftop pool, two on-site José Andrés restaurants and a hip lobby lounge with a billiards table and games. On the main level, guests can indulge in Mediterranean fare at Zaytinya or head up to Butterfly for poolside margaritas. The Platform is within walking distance, as is the downtown area, ensuring that you don’t need a car during your visit.
Like every Palisociety property, the Palihotel Culver City offers a charming, design-forward escape with attentive service and a low-key ambiance. Home to 49 chic rooms, this homey property can be recognized by its royal blue, monochromatic exterior in downtown Culver. Though amenities are slim, head to Simonette for a morning coffee or evening cocktail and enjoy premium people-watching from a floral barstool on the corner.
Helmed by renowned chef Jordan Kahn,........
