Culver City

From Halal Explorer

caption=Entrance to Sony Pictures Studios Culver City is a city on the West Side (Los Angeles County) | Westside of Los Angeles County. It was given the moniker the "Heart of Screenland" during the 1930s and 1940s when it was responsible for half of America's motion picture production; today it remains home to Sony Studios (formerly MGM Studios) and Culver Studios. In addition to its role in the film and television industry the city has a reputation as a great food destination due to the huge number of trendy restaurants found in the downtown and elsewhere.

Culver City Halal Travel Guide

Culvercity-5044804355 12843d66a2 o - Culver City has a history in the film industry that goes back to the 1920s.

Harry Culver, a real estate developer, founded the city in 1913. Located along the roads and rail line that connected the beach resort city of Venice (California) | Venice with downtown Los Angeles and the town grew fairly quickly. Culver attracted migrants from the Midwest by offering homes that included furniture and even appliances in exchange for a monthly mortgage payment.

During the 1920s the film industry arrived, with silent film comedy producer Hal Roach and Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) building studios. During the 1930s through the 1940s Culver City was home to half of America's motion picture production and was dubbed the "Heart of Screenland." Today the entertainment industry is represented in Culver City by Sony Studios (formerly MGM), Culver Studios, National Public Radio's "NPR West" facility and the NFL Network studios, and a handful of smaller media companies.

Movies that have been produced in Culver City include classics such as Citizen Kane and the original King Kong, and Gone With the Wind. The Wizard of Oz was filmed at MGM studios, and the original yellow brick road is still inside the lot on Stage 27 of Sony Studios. In addition to being the home of classic films and the television show I Love Lucy was produced at Desilu Studios. More recent productions include Grease, Raging Bull, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, City Slickers, Men in Black, Air Force One and Spider-Man. In addition to I Love Lucy, television shows made on Culver City sets include Lassie, Batman, The Andy Griffith Show, Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.

The city has other ties to the entertainment industry beyond the movies and television shows created at its studios. The iconic Culver Hotel was once owned by Charlie Chaplin, and was later sold to John Wayne, legend has it for the price of $1 after a high-stakes poker game. The town's streets also reflect Culver City's entertainment history, with names such as (Mary) Pickford and (Douglas) Fairbanks.

Culver City was in a state of decline in the 1990s, but since that time has undergone a tremendous revival. The downtown area is now a bustling neighborhood that is home to dozens of restaurants and multiple theaters, while other neighborhoods throughout the city are gaining reputations for the culinary and artistic businesses that have set up shop.

Climate

{{climate | align none | units imperial | janhigh 65 | febhigh 66 | marhigh 67 | aprhigh 70 | mayhigh 72 | junhigh 75 | julhigh 78 | aughigh 79 | sephigh 78 | octhigh 74 | novhigh 69 | dechigh 65 | janlow 48 | feblow 49 | marlow 50 | aprlow 53 | maylow 57 | junlow 60 | jullow 63 | auglow 63 | seplow 62 | octlow 57 | novlow 51 | declow 47 | janprecip 2.8 | febprecip 3.8 | marprecip 2.4 | aprprecip 0.6 | mayprecip 0.3 | junprecip 0.1 | julprecip 0.0 | augprecip 0.0 | sepprecip 0.1 | octprecip 0.5 | novprecip 1.2 | decprecip 2.1 | description See Culver City's 7 day forecast


The Metro light rail Expo Line stops in Culver City on its way between Santa Monica to the West and Los Angeles/South Central|Exposition Park and Los Angeles/Downtown|Downtown LA to the east. The Culver City station is at the northern end of downtown Culver City, off National Blvd between Washington and Venice Blvds, roughly a five-minutes walk from downtown Culver City. Metro bus lines 33/Rapid 733 run frequently along Venice Blvd past downtown Culver City, with service to Downtown LA and Venice Beach.

Culver CityBus has several bus lines that link Culver City and surrounding communities. Routes of particular use to visitors include Line 1 to Venice Beach via Washington Blvd and Fairfax Ave, with a stop at the Expo Line Culver City station; Line 3 between the Westfield Shopping Center and Los Angeles/West|Century City, with stops at West LA College and the Westside Pavilion, and the Expo Line Westwood/Rancho Park station along the way; and Line 6 between Los Angeles/West|Westwood/UCLA and the Los Angeles International Airport|LAX City Bus Center via Sepulveda Blvd, with stops at the Westfield Shopping Center and the Expo Line Sepulveda station. Service on these three lines is daily and tends to run every 15-20 minutes for most of the day. Fare is $1, with transfers to another Culver CityBus costing $0.25 and inter-agency transfers $0.40, with TAP cards accepted.

Get Around

Culver CityBus operates buses in and around Culver City.

There are red light cameras throughout Culver City, and at $490 per violation the fines are some of the highest in the nation.

What to See

Despite having two movie studios and several television production facilities within the city limits and the only public tour is at Sony Studios, which offers a tour rather than a theme park attraction like Universal City. In addition, a handful of museums are scattered throughout the city, each one small and focused on a particular subject - those looking for large museums geared towards a general audience might want to take the Expo line to Los Angeles/South Central|Exposition Park, but those with special interests will find Culver City's offerings to be excellent. Two highlights include the Wende Museum, which is highly regarded for its Cold War collection, and the Museum of Jurassic Technology, which has somewhat of a cult following for its general weirdness and for its willingness to mix truth and fiction.

  • Culver City Historical Society 4117 Overland Ave 34.012956, -118.402523 Veterans Memorial Building ☎ +1-310-253-6941 +1-310-253-6942 Opening Hours: 1PM Monday - 3PM on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, and by appointment An archives and resource center preserves local history, and aims to serve everyone from young children to senior citizens.

CulverStudios - "The Mansion" at Culver Studios.

  • Culver Studios 9336 West Washington Blvd 34.023894, -118.392475 at Ince Blvd and Lindblade Street - Culver Studios - CulverStudios Located in downtown Culver City, Culver Studios was founded in 1919. Fans of classic motion pictures will immediately recognize the studio's colonial mansion from the opening credits of the David O. Selznick International productions such as Gone With the Wind and Duel in the Sun. Unfortunately public tours are not available.
  • Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum 4130 Overland Ave 34.013138, -118.401396 ☎ +1-310-202-1647 Opening Hours: Thursday - Saturday 10:30AM–4PM African-American history and culture, with a collection of over 2 million items. It began as a solo effort of Dr. Clayton in 1975, housed in her garage. By 2007 there was a foundation and the collection moved to its present home. Guided public tours at 11AM and 2PM Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
  • Museum of Jurassic Technology 9341 Venice Blvd 34.02579, -118.39505 four blocks west of Robertson Blvd ☎ +1-310-836-6131 Opening Hours: Thursday 2PM Monday - 8PM, F-Su noon-6PM $8 for adults; $5 for students, retired persons, unemployed individuals, or those age 13-21; $1.50 for disabled persons or military personnel in uniform Museum of Jurassic Technology - A954749 This museum is a truly unique experience, as it is an artistic mixture of fact and fiction, featuring weird and wonderful displays of things that never happened, next to strange but true trainings of bygone years; it can be hard to distinguish between the two, and it's best not to try. Exhibits include micro-sculptures that fit within the eye of a needle, portraits of the canine astronauts of the early Soviet space program, and artwork made from the scales of butterfly wings that can be viewed under microscopes. An enjoyable afternoon's visit and a tribute to the weirdness of the world. The Tula Tea Room is located upstairs and serves complimentary tea and cookies, while the Borzoi Kabinet Theater has free movie screenings hourly; both open one hour after the museum, closing two hours before the museum. Photography and cell phone use (including texting and pictures) is not allowed in the museum. This attraction is actually in the Los Angeles/Palms|Palms neighborhood of Los Angeles, although it has a Culver City address.
  • Center for Land Use Interpretation 9331 Venice Blvd 34.02588, -118.39491 next door to the Museum of Jurassic Technology ☎ +1-310-839-5722 Opening Hours: F-Su noon-5PM Free Center for Land Use Interpretation A unique organization and the CLUI is devoted to researching and illustrating how land is used and perceived. The exhibits hosted in their minuscule gallery space are small, but are very intriguing and often draw attention to features of the landscape you would normally overlook. The tiny bookstore (more of a bookshelf, really) is a real treat, selling some excellent texts as well as humorous postcards.
  • Star Eco Station 10101 Jefferson Blvd 34.01194, -118.38957 near the intersection of Jefferson & Overland ☎ +1-310-842-8060 Opening Hours: Saturday Sunday 10AM Monday - 3PM $8 for adults, $7 seniors, $6 for children, infants under 2 years free An exotic environmental science & wildlife rescue center that is in a nondescript building and the Eco Station is a hidden attraction offering hands-on experiences with rescued tropical birds, mammals, reptiles and other critters. Most of the facility's animals are illegal shipments seized by US customs that needed a home. Hands-on tours lasting 45-60 minutes leave every hour on the hour from 10AM Monday - 3PM on weekends. Hands-on opportunities as part of the tour. Special community events throughout the year. If you are in the area for Earth Day they hold a massive celebration including hands-on experiences and special events.
  • The Wende Museum 10808 Culver Blvd 34.0115, -118.4062 ☎ +1-310-216-1600 Opening Hours: Friday 10AM Monday - 5PM. Also by appointment Monday - Thursday 10AM Monday - 5PM Free Wende Museum The mission of the Wende Museum is to preserve Cold war history. The museum's exhibits and artifacts include artwork, films and personal histories from the fall of Communist Europe in the late 1980s. Much of the collection is about the (German) Democratic Republic (DDR). Also has materials from Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union.

Public art

The city has a wide array of sculpture, murals, and other installations that will be of interest to art lovers.

  • Game Show Building 10185 Culver Blvd 34.018235, -118.398894 - From the sidewalk, you can see Terry Allen's sculpture "Golden Time", a humorous comment on work after overtime. Michael Hayden's sculpture uses cutting edge materials (holographs) producing a rainbow spectrum on the sidewalk and surrounding areas of the Game Show Building. Hayden collaborated with Game Show Building architect, Steven Ehrlich, AIA, who won a National AIA Design Award for the project.
  • Hobbit House 3819-3827 Dunn Dr 34.0223, -118.3994 - The Lawrence and Martha Joseph Residence and Apartments have been aptly called the "Hobbit House," and people live in these unusual apartments. Los Angeles city historic-cultural landmark No. 624.
  • Jim Heimann's sculptures 9336 West Washington Blvd 34.0242, -118.3925 near Ince Boulevard at The Culver Studios - Jim Heimann's sculptures "Studio Pass I", "Studio Pass II", and "King Kong Gone" (1995-6), celebrate the history of Culver Studios and Sony Pictures
  • Plato's Cup 9412 West Washington Blvd 34.0237, -118.3935 - Jim Heimann's sculpture "Plato's Cup" (1995) is a riff on a weathervane, which pays homage to the film industry, a former cafe at the location, and the initials of the building's owner.
  • Primordial Reflections 9050 West Washington Blvd 34.0252, -118.3910 - Albert Paley's entrance gates "Primordial Reflections" (1996) provide a monumental entry to architect Jaquelin T. Robertson's Media Building.
  • Scan 9050 West Washington Blvd 34.0252, -118.3910 - Jud Fine's courtyard installation "Scan" traces the history of television.
  • Sony Pictures Child Care Center 3861 Clarington Ave 34.021366, -118.399559 - From the sidewalk, you can see sculptural gates and fencing, created by artist John Okulick, using the colors of "My First Sony" (red, yellow, blue). Also, Margaret Nielsen designed a mural maquette .
  • Wading Pool 10202 West Washington Blvd 34.0178, -118.4016 - R. M. Fisher designed "Wading Pool" (2000) and the plaza fountain, which celebrates Sony's history of filmmaking and references the set of "Lost Horizon."

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Culver City

  • ArcLight Culver City 9500 Culver Blvd 34.0234, -118.3943 ☎ +1-310-559-2416 - The Culver City ArcLight is the fifth LA location of the popular movie chain that opened its doors in Hollywood in 2002. The chain has made a name for itself with excellent service, clean theaters, reserved seating in comfortable chairs, excellent picture and sound quality, onsite and cafe, no advertising before the movie, and a distraction-free theater in which cell phone use and late arrivals are strictly forbidden once a movie has started (seriously, don't be late). The chain is also famous for special presentations, some of which include Q&As with actors, writers and directors (sign up on their email list for notifications). Prices are a bit higher than at other venues, but if you want to be able to choose your seat in advance and be certain that your movie experience will be pleasant and the extra couple of dollars will be worth it.

Baldwinhillsoverlook - The view from the Baldwin Hills overlook.

  • Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook 6300 Hetzler Road 34.01919, -118.38434 off of Jefferson past Duquesne - Opening Hours: overlook open 8AM Monday - sunset daily, visitor center open weekdays 10AM Monday - 6PM, weekends 8AM Monday - 7PM, closed Tuesday $6 for self-parking Over three hundred feet above the surrounding neighborhoods, this overlook provides tremendous views of the LA basin, as well as some short nature trails for those interested in native plants and animals. A self-pay parking lot is available at the top of the hill, but hearty souls can park for free along Jefferson Blvd and then walk up 315 vertical feet of switchbacks and steps (note: no dogs allowed on the trails). There's also a county.gov/pdd/transit/docs/BaldwinHillsBrochure.pdf shuttle that operates on weekends and holidays from the La Cienga/Jefferson Metro Expo Line station. The visitor center features exhibits on area history and nature. Special events including twilight walks, junior ranger programs, and bird-watching are scheduled regularly.
  • Culver City Plunge 4175 Overland Ave 34.0123, -118.4016 ☎ +1-310-253-6680 Opening Hours: Open daily, hours and schedules vary $4 for adults, $2.50 for youths; passes good for fifteen visits provide significant discounts The Culver City Municipal Pool, affectionately known as "The Plunge", is a heated, Olympic-sized swimming swimmingpool that was first opened in 1949. It is open to the public (resident and non-resident) for recreation swimming, lap swimming, water aerobics, swimming lessons, and diving (1-m and 3-m springboards). Lockers and showers are available on-site. Schedules vary, so call or check the web site before visiting to ensure that the swimmingpool is available for your desired activity.
  • Kirk Douglas Theater 9820 West Washington Blvd 34.0217, -118.397 ☎ +1-213-628-2772 Tickets $25-$50 for most performances Kirk Douglas Theatre This performing arts center was built in 1947 as a movie theater with over 1,000 seats, and today the original marquee and tower are still in place, creating a striking presence in downtown Culver City. It underwent an $8-million renovation in the 1990s that created two playhouse stages, one with 350 seats and the other with 100 seats. The theater is owned by the Center Theatre Group, which also operates the Ahmanson Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum in downtown LA. There are regular performances several nights a week.
  • Sony Pictures Studio Tour - 10202 West Washington Blvd 34.017222, -118.401667 ☎ +1-310-244-8687 $50 per person Sony Pictures Studios Sony Pictures Entertainment entrance 1 Formerly the MGM studios and the two-hour guided tour leads through stages that have seen the filming of such productions as the Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Spider-Man. Visitors may also see the homes of the game shows Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. Tours are offered Monday to Friday at 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 1:30PM and 2:30PM. Reservations are recommended, and the tour is only available for visitors age twelve years and older.

Events

  • Cruisin' Back to Culver City Car Show 34.023, -118.395 downtown Culver City ☎ +1-310-499-4840 Opening Hours: Held annually in May This vehicle show features hundreds of classic cars, food, and entertainment, with proceeds benefiting local charities. The streets of downtown are closed and filled with stalls and classic cars, with owners competing for awards in dozens of categories such as "Best of the 20s", "Best of the 70s", "Best Paint", "Most Different", "Best Hearse", etc. The first vehicle show was held in 2005, and it has since become a yearly event.
  • Culver City Farmer's Market Main Street 34.02498, -118.39470 downtown between Venice and Culver Blvds - Opening Hours: Tuesday 2PM Monday - 7PM Held every Tuesday, rain or shine. The market offers fresh foods, flowers, crafts, and other fare. Two hours of free parking are available in downtown garages. When you walk across the alley, you are actually moving from Los Angeles to Culver City (or vice versa).
  • Fiesta La Ballona 4117 Overland Ave 34.01284, -118.40253 Veteran's Park - Free admission, rides are generally $1 each This annual festival is held at the end of the summer and generally lasts from Friday through Sunday. The festival features a organic juice & garden, carnival rides, petting zoo, food trucks, a farmers' market, 100 booths selling artisan wares, and live music.

Shopping

Culver City offers a bit of everything when it comes to shopping. The Westfield Malls, located just off of I-405 at Sepulveda, is a 200 store mega-mall. The neighborhood near the intersection of Washington Blvd and La Cienaga Blvd is a major art destination, featuring dozens of galleries. The downtown area is home to several smaller and more upscale shops, as well as the old Helms Bakery complex, now home to a variety of furniture stores. And for those looking for familiar shopping establishments, major chain stores such as Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy and Toys 'R Us are also represented within the city limits.

Shopping centers

  • Culver Center 34.017, -118.407 Venice & Overland - Culver Center was one of Southern California's first shopping centers when it opened in 1950. Today it is anchored by a Best Buy electronics store, a Ralph's Grocery store, and an LA Fitness club. Numerous dining options as well as a Rite-Aid drug store, several boutiques, and numerous smaller stores make thit is a useful destination for those that need to pick up basic necessities. Parking can be difficult: spaces that are often overlooked can be found by following the ramp onto the Best Buy roof.
  • Westfield Culver City Shopping Center 6000 Sepulveda Blvd 33.98524, -118.39213 at the intersection of Slauson and Sepulveda ☎ +1-310-390-5073 Opening from Monday to Saturday 10AM Monday - 9PM, Sunday 11AM Monday - 7PM With nearly 200 stores, Westfield Culver City is a major shopping center close to the 405 and 90 freeways. The complex underwent a major expansion in 2010 and now features a Target, Best Buy, Gold's Gym and BJ's Restaurant in addition to the many smaller stores.

Notable stores

  • Choco Vivo 12469 West Washington Blvd 33.99694, -118.43047 ☎ +1-310-845-6259 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 9PM, Friday Saturday 9AM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 9AM Monday - 9PM Choco Vivo is a unique Chocolates shop that makes Chocolates from scratch, starting with beans imported from a grower in Mexico and using a stone grinding technique dating back to the Mayans and Aztecs. Their Chocolates contains no dairy, so the end result is a dark Chocolates that is very different from what most people are used to. Bars are sold at $6 each that include different amounts of cacao and flavorings such as sea salt or almond. A "tasting" option is also available in the store, as well as flavored Chocolates drinks, organic tamales, and chocolate-inspired gifts. Events are held frequently that range from Chocolates & tequila pairings to speed dating.
  • Copenhagen Pastry 11113 West Washington Blvd 34.00935, -118.41203 ☎ +1-310-839-8900 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 7AM Monday - 5PM, Saturday Sunday 8AM Monday - 4PM, closed Monday Don't be fooled by the relatively small selection - if you show up to a party with a box of flaky Danish pastries from this bakery, you're going home a hero. The pastries are made fresh throughout the day using traditional Danish recipes, and samples are available if you are unsure of what to buy. The Kringle lines and Copenhagen lines - flaky pastries made with almond paste or custard - are the specialties. They also have wholegrain rye bread, small cakes, and other items that are worth the visit to the gym that it will take to burn off the extra calories.
  • Sorrento Italian Market 5518 Sepulveda Blvd 33.99303, -118.39513 ☎ +1-310-391-7654 Established by the former mayor (and councilman) of Culver City, this market has a reputation as the place to go for authentic Italian grocery items on the West Side. The deli offers amazing sandwiches and the friendly family owners are more than willing to help with everything from selecting a to choosing a dessert.

Halal Restaurants

This page uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:
Budget Under $10
Mid-range $10 - $20
Splurge Over $20

Since the late 1990s Culver City has been undergoing a transformation and today has been known as a destination for food lovers, with a huge number of unique and well-reviewed restaurants setting up shop in the city. The downtown area is home to dozens of restaurants opened by famous chefs or aspiring restaurateurs, while other foodie hotspots include the Helm's Bakery complex and the Culver West neighborhood along Washington Boulevard. For those who just need a quick bite and the standard chains are well-represented including Pei Wei, Denny's, Coco's, Chipotle, and dozens of other fast food restaurants. On a historical note and the steakhouse chain Sizzler, which today has hundreds of locations across the nation, got its start in Culver City in 1958 as Del's Sizzler Family Steaks House.

  • Annapurna Cuisine 10200 Venice Blvd 34.02133, -118.40174 ☎ +1-310-204-5500 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 9PM, F-Sa 11AM Monday - 10PM, closed Monday Mains $6-10 This Indian Vegetarian restaurant serves up tasty South Indian dishes including a large selection of masala dosas. It's full of Indian families.
  • Grand Casino Bakery 3820 Main Street 34.02473, -118.39438 ☎ +1-310-202-6969 Opening Hours: 6AM Monday - 8PM daily Thit is a simple, quaint little Argentine bakery. The Empanadas are delicious, and you can always find the big screen in the dining area tuned to a soccer match.
  • S&W Country Diner 9748 West Washington Blvd 34.02211, -118.39648 at Hughes Ave ☎ +1-310-204-5136 $5-10 Affordable, home-cooked style breakfast and lunch in a cozy, neighborhood diner. Food is good and portions are reasonably large, but be prepared for long lines in the mornings, especially on weekends. Cash only.
  • Tito's Tacos 11222 Washington Pl 34.00811, -118.41440 west of Sepulveda ☎ +1-310-391-5780 Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 11:30PM daily Cheap (a full meal for under $5) and authentic Mexican food, individually prepared while you watch. You stand in line to order and then move aside to wait. Delicious and unusual. Noisy; you hear Spanish and English spoken here in equal amounts. Family-friendly. Park in the lot or under the freeway (feed the meters with dimes or quarters), not in the red cul-de-sac.
  • Cafe Surfas 8777 West Washington Blvd 34.02852, -118.38643 corner of Washington & National ☎ +1-310-558-1458 +1-310-558-1459 Opening from Monday to Saturday 8AM Monday - 5PM, Sunday 10AM Monday - 4:30PM Located within Surfas Restaurant Supply and the cafe offers absolutely amazing (although small) Italian sandwiches for $7-14. In addition, Italian drinks, pastries, cheeses, and salads are available for those looking for top-quality food to go.
  • Gaby's Mediterranean Grill 10445 Venice Blvd 34.02031, -118.40457 at the intersection with Motor Ave ☎ +1-310-559-1808 Opening Hours: 11AM Monday - 1AM daily Meals are between $8 and $20 Reasonably priced and very tasty Lebanese restaurant. Seating is in an outdoor patio complete with hookahs, heat lamps, candles, and a bustling crowd that mixes young hipsters with Lebanese local residents. Service is friendly and the place stays busy until closing.
  • Govinda's 3764 Watseka Ave 34.02521, -118.39715 - The unusual Vegetarian restaurant operated as part of the hospitable and charitable tradition of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. A buffet luncheon or sandwiches will cost you less than ten bucks. Above the restaurant you will find a boutique filled with fine garments and unusual handicrafts and art objects from India and the spiritual home of the Krishna devotees.
  • J R's Bar-B-Que - 3055 La Cienega Blvd 34.03093, -118.37241 ☎ +1-310-837-6838 - The industrial location is appropriate for a barbeque place that's "Tender as Mother's Love." Real pit barbecue beef ribs, Beef ribs, "rib tips", great sides, and if you have room left, peach cobbler or 7-up cake! Three choices of Sauce - they're serious when they say it's hot. The proprietor, "Robert Johnson", may or may not be the famous bluesman.
  • Kay & Dave's - 9341 Culver Blvd 34.02483, -118.39361 downtown Culver City across from the Ince Parking Structure ☎ +1-310-558-8100 $10-20 per person Tasty fresh Mex food made without lard or trans fats. The vibe is easy-going with plenty of outdoor seating (including a firepit) and a friendly, slightly quirky staff. Happy hour specials include 2-for-one margaritas and appetizer specials.
  • La Dijonnaise - 8703 West Washington Blvd 34.02933, -118.38462 in the Helms Bakery complex ☎ +1-310-287-2770 - Worth a visit if only to be served by waiters with authentic French accents and the cafe also offers excellent French cafe fare at reasonable prices. A few blocks from downtown on a corner of the old Helms Bakery complex; expect large crowds, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
  • Novecento Pasta & Grill 3837 Main Street 34.02515, -118.39489 between Venice Blvd and Culver Blvd ☎ +1-310-842-3838 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 11:30AM Monday - 2:30PM and 5PM Monday - 9PM, Friday 11:30AM Monday - 2:30PM and 5PM Monday - 10PM, Saturday 5PM Monday - 10PM, closed Sunday Northern Italian cuisine on Main St. Try the homemade gnocchi.
  • Pho Show 4349 Sepulveda Blvd 34.00359, -118.40851 ☎ +1-310-398-5200 Opening from Monday to Saturday 11AM–3PM, 5PM Monday - 2AM. Sunday 11AM Monday - 3PM, 5PM Monday - 10PM $7-15 Founded by three techies who wanted to be able to eat pho at a local restaurant, Pho Show serves the Vietnamese Rice Noodles soup to a crowded house. The soup that gives the restaurant its name is delicious, with a particularly aromatic broth that is different from other pho restaurants, and portions are generous. For those who chose this restaurant but for some reason decided against the soup and there are numerous Rice, Noodles and Curries dishes on the menu. Fruit Juices and is available for dine-in clients.
  • Tender Greens - 9523 Culver Blvd 34.02318, -118.39494 downtown ☎ +1-310-842-8300 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11:30AM Monday - 9PM, F-Sa 11:30AM Monday - 10PM $10 and up As you might guess and the emphasis here is on the fresh salads of all types, but you can get them small, meal-sized or pair them with Steaks, Chicken or fish. This popular chain uses local, organic produce to assemble fresh and healthy salads and soups, as well as delectable hot dishes from the grill, such as free-range Chicken, Angus flatiron Steaks, and line-caught tuna. This eco-conscious restaurant also uses biodegradable to-go containers, reclaimed timber, and non-toxic cleaners. The atmosphere is relaxed and beautiful, with a spacious patio for outdoor dining. Portions are large, and a wide array of boutique soft drinks and microbrews will please any palate. Friendly service.
  • Ugo - 3865 Cardiff Ave 34.02458, -118.39584 downtown Culver City across the street from the movie theatre ☎ +1-310-204-1222 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 11PM, Friday 11AM Monday - midnight, Saturday 10AM Monday - midnight, Sunday 10AM Monday - 11PM $10-30 A cozy Italian cafe with extensive outdoor seating and a reasonably-authentic Italian menu. This establishment specializes in Italian cafe food, so expect sandwiches, carpacchio, insalata, Pasta and gelato rather than the standard "spaghetti and steaks" fare common at most Italian restaurants.
  • Akasha Restaurant - 9543 Culver Blvd 34.02314, -118.39489 Corner of Culver and Watseka ☎ +1-310-845-1700 $15-35 Opened in 2008, Akasha features New American food, meaning that everything is delicious, organic, seasonal and local. You'll never feel trendier but welcomed. Good for dates and business meetings. There is also a well-stocked café. Happy hour is daily from 2:30-7PM and features significant discounts on drinks and appetizers. Bonus trivia: the owner, Akasha Richmond, was formerly the personal chef to pop star Michael Jackson and actors Barbara Streisand and Billy Bob Thorton.
  • K-Zo 9240 Culver Blvd 34.02517, -118.39314 downtown ☎ +1-310-202-8890 Opening Hours: Lunch: Monday to Friday 11:45AM Monday - 2:30PM; Dinner: Monday - Thursday 5:30PM Monday - 10:30PM, F-Sa 5:30PM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 5PM Monday - 10PM $6-15 for most sushi rolls and tapas items Another restaurant born of Culver City's downtown renaissance, K-Zo is a sushi and "Japanese tapas" restaurant, offering various hot and cold bites in addition to the more standard Japanese fare. Prices are a bit higher than some other restaurants, but the food is generally excellent, service is friendly, and the atmosphere is great. For those seeking to maximize their eating dollar, happy hour is daily from 5:30-7PM.

Bars

Most of the downtown restaurants also have a lively bar scene. Other bars located throughout the city include:

  • The Alibi Room 12236 West Washington Blvd 33.99707, -118.42612 1 block East of Centinela ☎ +1-310-390-9300 Opening Hours: Open nightly 5:30PM Monday - 2AM. Food served Monday to Saturday 5:30PM Monday - midnight, food truck Sundays 5:30PM Monday - midnight. Happy hour Saturday - West 11PM Monday - 2AM This lounge is most famous for chef Roy Choi's Kogi Korean barbecue tacos ($7 for three), but also offers a unique selection of fruit cocktails including the Cuban Mistress (rum, hibiscus, strawberry, rhubarb bitters, lemon, ginger Cola) or the Breaking Bad (tequila, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, pear, fresh lemon, serrano chile infused agave). All food is ordered directly from the and brought to you based on the oversized playing card you'll receive after paying. The vibe is upscale hipster, with a younger, affluent crowd. It gets extremely full and very noisy as the evening goes on, so consider an early arrival if you want a cushy lounge seat and the chance to talk to your dining companions without yelling.
  • Backstage - 10400 Culver Blvd 34.01633, -118.40026 near Culver and Overland at the intersection with Motor ☎ +1-310-839-3892 - Proudly advertising itself as "the best dive bar in the world" Backstage offers a high-energy atmosphere with a really fun crowd. Expect a packed house on weekends and call ahead to reserve a table if you don't want to be standing. Drinks are reasonably priced ($4 for a draft Cola) and the staff is extraordinarily friendly, and there is karaoke (Thursday - Saturday), pool, darts, and nice bar food to help keep the evening entertaining.
  • Blind Barber 10797 West Washington Blvd 34.01544, -118.40708 behind Best Buy ☎ +1-310-841-6679 Opening Hours: Bar: Monday to Saturday 6PM Monday - 2AM, Sunday closed; Barbershop: Monday to Saturday noon-9PM, Sunday noon-6PM Fruit cocktails $10+, Colas $5+ If you didn't know it was here, you'd never find this great hangout. The front is a working barbershop with a nondescript door in the middle of the back wall. Walk through that door and you're in a bar with a roaring-twenties theme. The cigarette dispenser by the bathroom sells hair product and the fans are operated on pulley systems, and a free drink is offered with every barber service. Fruit cocktails are fancy and made by bar tenders who double as waitstaff. Snacks include numerous varieties of grilled Cheese and upscale bar munchies like sloppy joe sliders or imported olives.
  • Corner Door 12477 West Washington Blvd 33.9970, -118.4307 ☎ +1-310-313-5810 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 5PM Monday - midnight, F-Sa 5PM Monday - 2AM When it first opened in 2012 Corner Door made fried brussel sprouts famous, but their other food items are equally well done if a bit on the pricey side. What they are best known for, however, are the upscale cocktails - Beau du Bois and the bartender who has been at Corner Door since its opening, was named "2014 LA Bartender of the Year" by Eater LA and can fashion a drink for any taste. Be warned that the interior gets LOUD when it fills up, so arrive early or sit on the patio if you want to be able to hear the person next to you. Daily happy hour from 5PM Monday - 7PM features $7 cocktails, $3-$5 soft drinks, and $5 none-alcoholic drinks, as well as $5-$9 Snacks. Sunday night is "Burger R&D" night, featuring the weekly burger, fries and soft-drinks for $15, and $5 old fashioned cocktails.
  • Father's Office 2.0 3229 Helms Ave 34.03038, -118.38466 in the Helm's Bakery complex - This upscale pub is famous for its burger, just don't try to make any substitutions - they don't allow them, and they really mean it. There are also over 70 soft drinks on tap.
  • Tattle Tale Room 5401 Sepulveda Blvd 33.99493, -118.39541 at the intersection of Sepulveda and Sawtelle - The crowd at this bar combines students from Loyola Marymount with middle-aged regulars. Karaoke every night but Thursday, swimmingpool tables, and an atmosphere that borders on dive-bar without actually crossing the line.
  • Velvet Lounge - 9400 Culver Blvd 34.02385, -118.39427 in the Culver Hotel downtown ☎ +1-310-838-7326 Opening Hours: Thursday 7PM Monday - 1AM, F-Sa 7PM Monday - 2AM While the hotel's downstairs lobby has a and live music most nights, up the stairs on the second floor is a speakeasy that is slightly less crowded and offers views of downtown. Opened in 2014 after a hotel remodel and the bar's ambiance is a cross between 1920s Paris and Hollywood, making for a sophisticated yet comfortable environment. While the cocktail selection and furniture evoke the Prohibition era, sadly prices are on the high side and most definitely reflect 21st century Los Angeles.

Coffee & Teas

  • Conservatory for Coffee, Tea and Cocoa - 10117 West Washington Blvd 34.02065, -118.39884 across from Sony Studios ☎ +1-310-558-0436 - Family-run coffee shop that roasts their own beans daily and makes one of the best macchiato's this side of the Big Pond. They are known for their "latte art" - you have to order one in a china cup to appreciate it. A local favorite and they also have a huge variety of teas from around the world and make a wonderful Mexican hot Chocolates.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Culver City

Culver City - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Culver City, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Culver City. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Culver City and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Culver City. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Culver City. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Culver City: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Culver City.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Culver City: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Culver City, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Culver City.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Culver City, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Culver City, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Culver City and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Culver City, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Culver City, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Culver City without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Culver City is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Culver City.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Culver City is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Culver City, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Culver City Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Culver City

eHalal Group Culver City is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Culver City. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Culver City.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Culver City ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Culver City. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Culver City, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Culver City are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Culver by Night - Seiichi Niitsuma - The historic Culver Hotel in downtown Culver City

Culver City has a handful of large hotels located near the intersection of I-405 and Sepulveda Blvd, with several cheaper but more rundown options located on Sepulveda near the intersection with Venice Blvd, and also along Washington Blvd. The historic Culver Hotel is located downtown and offers a more unique lodging option. Neighboring cities such as Santa Monica, Venice (California) | Venice, Marina del Rey and El Segundo have numerous options within a 10-15 minutes drive of Culver City.

  • Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside 6333 Bristol Pkwy 33.98065, -118.39217 3 miles north of LAX, visible from the 405 ☎ +1-310-484-7000 +1-800-321-2211 +1-310-590-2593 Rates range from $139 for a room with two queen beds to $299 for a one-bedroom suite Opened April 2008, this hotel features 260 spacious rooms and suites in addition to 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a full catering department.
  • Culver Hotel - 9400 Culver Blvd 34.02385, -118.39427 downtown ☎ +1-310-838-7963 +1-888-328-5837 $89 for a room with queen beds to $299 for the John Wayne Suite Culver Hotel Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located in the heart of downtown Culver City, this hotel opened in 1924 and offers a unique lodging option with rooms featuring antique furniture. The hotel was once owned by John Wayne and served as lodging for most of the cast of the Wizard of Oz during its filming.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Westside 6161 West Centinela Ave 33.98216, -118.39710 ☎ +1-310-649-1776 Rates start around $125 per day Renovated in May 2014, rooms in this hotel are 350 ft2 and offer 37-inch flat-screen TVs, complimentary wired and wi-fi internet, cotton bathrobes, and turndown service. There are also three suites available. Hotel amenities include a business center, restaurant, lounge, 24-hour market, meeting space, coin laundry, gift shop, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
  • Travelodge 11180 Washington Pl 34.00878, -118.41334 intersection of Sepulveda Blvd and Washington Pl ☎ +1-310-839-1111 Rates start around $120 per day Rooms include free wi-fi, complimentary breakfast, a microwave, refrigerator and free parking. The property is a bit run-down, and would be much improved by renovations. The Metro Cafe, located downstairs, is a surprisingly good dining option, serving sandwiches and excellent breakfasts and attracting mostly non-hotel guests. This hotel is located at the intersection of two busy streets, so request a room that doesn't face the road if available.

Internet & Phones

Culver City offers free internet access in several areas.

  • Culver City WiFi downtown - Free wireless internet access is provided in downtown Culver City, but connectivity varies greatly depending on your location. Login is required using any web browser to activate access.
  • Culver City Julian Dixon Library 4975 Overland Ave 34.00681, -118.39603 near Overland and Culver ☎ +1-310-559-1676 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 2PM Monday - 6PM, Saturday 11AM Monday - 3PM, closed Sunday - Monday The Culver City library offers free internet connections (wired and wireless) as well as an extensive book collection. The library underwent extensive renovation in 2015.

News & References


More Muslim friendly Destinations from Culver City

The cities and neighborhoods that border Culver City include the following:

  • Venice (California) | Venice - Culver City's western neighbor offers miles of sand, an eclectic Halal dining, and the infamous Muscle Beach.
  • Marina del Rey - Located west of Culver City and the "marina of the king" is home to a vast number of Halal restaurants and hotels, and while not as tourist as some of the neighboring beach cities is nonetheless a fun spot to spend an evening.
  • Westchester (California) | Westchester - Culver City's southwestern neighbor is home to Los Angeles International Airport and a number of lodging options.
  • Los Angeles/South Central|South Central LA - Located east of Culver City, South Central has its rough parts but is definitely worth a visit to see the Space Shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center, as well as the campus of USC and the sights of Exposition Park.
  • Los Angeles/West|West LA - The west side of the sprawling city of LA forms Culver City's northern neighbor, and is home to UCLA and the Getty Museum.



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