Actor and writer Ken Marino, known for his roles in television series such as “Veronica Mars” and “Party Down,” shared insights into his typical Sunday routine in Los Angeles, highlighting his strong connection to the city and how it shapes his daily life.
Marino, who moved to Los Angeles in 1997 after starting his career with the sketch comedy group the State, begins his day early by caring for his two dogs. He describes himself as the family’s morning person, taking the dogs out before sunrise and preparing their breakfast. His morning coffee ritual often includes a visit to Project Bloom Coffee, a local establishment that combines a café and florist, where Marino appreciates the unique experience of carrying coffee and flowers simultaneously.
After his morning walk, Marino dedicates time to playing online chess, often competing against players worldwide on chess.com. He mentioned occasionally getting frustrated but continues to improve his skills through tutorials found on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
By mid-morning, Marino returns home to prepare coffee for his wife and encourage his teenage daughter to wake up. He describes their shared interest in the television series “9-1-1,” which they watch while discussing favorite characters. Breakfast during this time may include creative dishes preferred by his daughter, such as Nutella crepes accompanied by cherry tomatoes or oatmeal.
Midday often finds Marino at their apartment in Marina del Rey, where he enjoys walking along nearby beaches with the dogs. For lunch, he frequents establishments in Venice, such as the Italian restaurant Ospi, known for its homemade pasta, or places like Guisados and Venice Ramen, where he favors the oversized gyoza.
Sunday afternoons are busy with family activities. Marino transports his daughter to rehearsals at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre in Santa Monica, and while she rehearses, he sometimes visits nearby bars like the Weary Livers or the Brixton to watch basketball and unwind.
Music also plays a significant role in Marino’s Sundays. He participates in rehearsals with the Middle Aged Dad Jam Band, a group he co-founded with fellow actor and writer David Wain. Their sessions typically occur in Wain’s garage, where they work on new material ahead of upcoming live performances.
In addition to their entertainment work, Marino and Wain actively promote their film “Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass,” which was sold at Sundance. Among their promotional efforts, they recorded humorous segments with passersby on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, creating a fictional cinematic universe around the movie’s character.
Evenings for Marino usually feature takeout from Luv 2 Eat Thai Bistro, a local restaurant praised for its crab curry and street food sausages served with traditional accompaniments. He and his wife enjoy these meals while catching up on the reality show “Survivor.”
Marino concludes his day with more chess, using the game as a way to unwind before sleep. He typically plays several matches online, stopping once fatigue begins to affect his concentration and gameplay.
Through this daily routine, Marino exemplifies an engaged lifestyle grounded in family, creative pursuits, and a deep appreciation for Los Angeles’ diverse offerings.