Karina Longworth, a film critic, author, and podcaster known for her extensive exploration of Hollywood’s early history, shared her ideal Sunday routine in Los Angeles, highlighting her deep connection to the city’s neighborhoods and cultural landmarks.
Longworth, who grew up in the San Fernando Valley, begins her day around 9 a.m. with coffee at Kings Road Cafe, a longtime favorite. She favors its strong almond milk latte, whether iced or hot depending on the weather, appreciating the combination of flavor and generous portions that she feels are rare in Los Angeles.
Her morning continues with a hike in Laurel Canyon, near her home and recording studio. She prefers the Laurel Pass trail up to the Nancy Hoover Pohl Overlook, valuing its relative solitude and scenic views. The hike is challenging but rewarding, particularly for Longworth, who recalls the Valley’s past as less developed and culturally delayed compared to areas like Hollywood and Beverly Hills in the 1980s and ’90s.
After the hike, Longworth enjoys a meal at Art’s Deli on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, a spot she has frequented since the late 1980s. She often orders turkey on rye with mustard, coleslaw, and Russian dressing, accompanied by split pea soup, reflecting her affection for the once-thriving deli culture in Los Angeles.
For dessert, she visits Humphrey Yogart, a frozen yogurt shop named with a nod to classic Hollywood actor Humphrey Bogart. Longworth typically opts for creative combinations such as tart yogurt with dark chocolate syrup, orange, and espresso, sometimes topped with sprinkles.
The afternoon is reserved for cinema, with Longworth favoring the historic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood for its programming and ambiance. She also notes the Los Feliz Three theater’s “Sunday Print Edition” series, which features 35mm film screenings paired with discussions.
If there is a Los Angeles Dodgers game in the late afternoon, Longworth prefers watching it at Colombo’s, a bar known for its laid-back atmosphere away from typical sports bar environments. She usually pairs the game with classic cocktails or wine.
Dinner options include Da Prato, a downtown supper club led by chef Elisa Da Prato, which offers a relaxed but refined Italian dining experience described as intimate and reminiscent of a Roman alleyway eatery. On more special occasions, Longworth prefers Jacaranda, the restaurant operated by chef Daniel Patterson and Sarah Lewitinn, known for its well-paced tasting menu that combines sophistication with approachability.
Longworth’s day concludes with a quiet evening at home, focusing on a skincare routine and reading before aiming for an early bedtime. She emphasizes the importance of these routines as a moment of calm in her busy life.
Through this itinerary, Longworth offers a glimpse into how she blends personal history, longstanding local favorites, and cultural passions in crafting her perfect Sunday in Los Angeles.