“I moved to L.A. from New York City in 2020, and it took some time to find my go-to spots and routine. As a writer, nothing makes me happier than spending the afternoon in a bookstore, and Skylight instantly made me feel like I was home. My launch event for my book, Drinking Games, will be at Skylight on January 18, 2023, which is a dream come true!”

“I got sober when I was 28 and immediately replaced my alcohol habit with a bit of a caffeine addiction. Canyon Coffee has some of my favorite coffee in L.A.; they sell their beans at different shops around the city, but I love to pick up bags in their shop, get a latte, and pop into the bookstore next door. The perfect afternoon!”

“When I first got sober five-plus years ago, I felt so alone in my decision not to drink. Now, going alcohol-free feels much more accessible. Nonalcoholic bars and spirit shops provide a fun space for sober-curious folks to gather, and the New Bar in Venice in particular does an amazing job of creating a sense of community with tons of events, readings, and happy hours.”

“I remember worrying that I would never have fun again when I made the decision to get sober, but there are so many restaurants and bars with incredible nonalcoholic drink options. Great White in West Hollywood is one of my favorite spots for amazing food and mocktails in a beautiful space.”

“When I have writer’s block or feel stuck on a project, getting outside immediately helps me clear my head, and one of my favorite things about living in California is the ability to squeeze in a hike all year round. Fryman Canyon is a beautiful trail and especially close to my heart because my husband proposed here after one of our morning hikes!”

“This light and airy nonalcoholic spirit shop in Westwood has quickly become my go-to spot for picking up alcohol-free mocktails and mixers like Ghia, Kin, and De Soi. They also have very chic barware for purchase so you can elevate your at-home mocktail experience.”

“Self-care is a big part of my sobriety, and sometimes self-care looks like an overflowing antipasto board for dinner with all the meats, cheeses, and olives. Eataly has the best homemade pasta, olive oil, and cheese selection, and they also have amazing nonalcoholic beverages and gifts, especially around the holidays. It’s my happy place.”

“I have struggled with acne since I was a teenager, and even wrote an essay for Vogue about my endless quest for clear skin. Finding Corrective Skincare has been a game changer: They bring a truly personalized approach to skincare, and their treatments and locally made products have completely cleared my skin.”

“Nestled in the heart of Laurel Canyon, Pace is one of my favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. I was sitting at Pace on a date with my now-husband when I first came up with the idea for my book, Drinking Games. There’s something so cozy and special about the space, and I love their pizzas.”

“One of my favorite things about being sober is waking up without a hangover on the weekends. I love getting up early, grabbing a coffee, and driving out to the beach with a book. Los Angeles has so many beautiful beaches, and El Matador—with picturesque caves and arches overlooking the ocean—is one of my favorites.”