I'm Gary Baseman, an LA-born visual artist/illustrator in love with this amazing city—its humor, heartbreak, strip malls, museums, and quiet corners. LA isn't a backdrop for me; it's a collaborator. Every character, sketch, and story I make is a conversation with this place. I'm excited for you to visit and hopefully appreciate a few of the very special places here that have shaped me and my work.
Canter's
Classic DeliLos Angeles, CA
Canter’s feels like home. It’s where my mother worked for 35 years as the head bakery salesperson, and where I go with my older siblings to reminisce. There’s always comfort in their matzo ball soup and potato knish. My favorite is their chocolate rugelach.
Musso & Frank
Hollywood SteakhouseLos Angeles, CA
For over 100 years, this establishment is an essential part of Hollywood legacy. One can’t help but feel the spirits of the past while dining on top-notch food or drinking the best martini. You feel instantly glamorous with its decor and fancy uniformed staff.
KazuNori
Sushi BarLos Angeles, CA
This is the best Japanese fast food spot in LA. If you’re ever hungry and don’t want to spend too much, you can get 4 to 5 tasty handrolls and be happy. Every time I eat there, I draw on the placemats to create my own kind of character hand roll.
La Brea Tar Pits
Natural featuresLos Angeles, CA
I’ve been going to the La Brea Tar Pits since I was a child, and still find it fascinating. To think that in the middle of the city one could find fossils of dire wolves, saber-toothed cats and Columbian mammoths. I’m always reminded of mortality and the passage of time here. We are but blips.
Jurassic Magic
CafeLos Angeles, CA
This hidden gem has really good coffee and matcha drinks. I love sitting and drawing in the lovely little garden patio. Sweet Mid-City oasis.
Apple Pan
Diner BurgersLos Angeles, CA
This LA legacy restaurant hasn’t changed since it opened in 1947. Same location, same look, same great quality burgers and fries. Everyone’s friendly. Don’t leave without having a piece of apple pie a la mode.
Langer's
Classic DeliLos Angeles, CA
The best sandwich in America (No. 19) can be found here. Located in MacArthur Park, once a major center for art and now a struggling area, it’s worth going to keep one’s perspective broad and open. Good food, friendly people, Langer’s and its neighborhood is proof of the city’s ever-evolving landscape and resilience.
La Sorted's Pizza
PizzaLos Angeles, CA
The best pizza in LA. Originating in Silverlake, there’s now a new sit-down location in Chinatown near Dodger Stadium. Tommy, who makes the pizza, makes the best dough: firm and chewy. Each bite tastes like the best of Los Angeles.
Griffith Park
Tourist attractionsLos Angeles, CA
Hiking in Griffith Park is the perfect way to feel like you’re both part of the city and away from it. You could hike up to the Observatory, one of the most beautiful buildings in Los Angeles; or go farther up to Tom LaBonge Panorama. I love my quiet sunrise hikes, watching birds, feeling the breeze, hearing my footsteps. being above the morning clouds.
Bob Baker Marionette
Marionette TheaterLos Angeles, CA
If you want your heart to smile, check out a show here. This beautiful, playful theater features marionettes that sing and dance. Retro, informal, wholesome fun for all ages. Great place to celebrate a birthday.