A new Hayley Kiyoko era is upon us with lots of new music. The pioneering pop star and LGBTQ+ trailblazer recently unleashed her new single, titled "Found My Friends," and to celebrate she's sharing some of her favorite spots in Los Angeles.
Less"Not only does this restaurant offer an amazing mac & cheese dish (my favorite cheat day food), but the location also played a very important role in LGBTQ+ history. In 1967, 2 years before the monumental Stonewall Riots in New York City, this was the site of a major demonstration protesting police brutality against LGBTQ people."
"I recently filmed my new music video for "Found My Friends" at this historic hotel. Aside from being a gorgeous location for filming or going out for easy cocktails, this landmark also played a big role in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ civil rights. In 1971, a psychiatry conference held here supported electro-shock therapy as the official "cure" for homosexuality. Pro-LGBTQ+ activists crashed the conference and initiated a debate. This led to declassification of homosexuality as a disorder."
We can't talk about Pride and LA without mentioning The Abbey! This place has been an institution for the LGBTQ+ institution and the LA nightlife scene since 1991. Growing up in LA, the idea of hanging out in Weho was really intimidating for me because I struggled with accepting myself, much less being open about my sexuality in a public way. But the Abbey's vibrant, welcoming atmosphere makes it impossible not to enjoy yourself. Extra points for their GirlBar night for the WLW crowd too!"
My friends and I are low key bargain hunters, and love to frequent vintage and thrift stores around town. Out Of The Closet has been around for years as a major thrifting hub, but was also founded with the intention to serve the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Whenever you shop at these locations, you are directly helping people living with HIV and AIDS: 'ninety-six cents of every dollar collected at our stores directly fund AIDS Healthcare Foundation's HIV/AIDS programs.'"
"This yummy cafe is owned and operated by talented Chef Alisa Reynolds, who describes her dishes as 'conscious comfort food' with an 'evolved nostalgia' touch. The gluten free grits and mac & cheese are hands-down masterpieces! As I try to follow an anti-inflammatory gluten free diet, My Two Cents is literally a dream come true for people like me with certain food sensitivities."
"I absolutely love Cuban cuisine, and this spot does not disappoint. Located in Atwater Village, Baracoa’s authentic menu is full of delicious, homestyle Cuban food made with love by Chef Alejandro; be sure to order their plantains with everything!"
"As the city slowly recovers from the pandemic, I am so thrilled to be able to perform onstage again as a headliner at the OUTLOUD: Raising Voices Pride Month Kick Off Concert on June 5th. While the PRIDE community continues to build back, this event is a one-of-a-kind global concert experience at the Los Angeles Coliseum in partnership with Stonewall Day/PrideLive, celebrating LGBTQIA+ artistry, organizations and the brands that support them."
"I am obsessed with seafood and this place is my go-to spot by the water. Order some crispy fish and chips and hop across the PCH afterwards for a hang on the beach. The mom-and-pop charm, scrumptious seafood, and expansive ocean view places this joint at the top of my list."
"After traveling to Japan, Daichan in Studio City is arguably one of the most authentic Japanese soul food restaurants in town. It’s the cutest place to have lunch or even eat alone. The sukiyaki is so comforting it’ll cure any bad day, and is definitely worth the trip to the valley!"