How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Bryan Fuller

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If you ask Bryan Fuller what his ideal L.A. Sunday looks like, prepare for a delightfully macabre tour. As a critic, I was fascinated to hear him describe an itinerary packed with visits to iconic horror movie locations – it’s exactly the kind of visually rich, atmospheric detail that defines his shows like “Pushing Daisies” and “Hannibal.” He clearly lives and breathes that aesthetic, and it’s amazing to see how it informs even his downtime.

Fuller enjoys a unique Sunday activity: visiting the locations used in the original ‘Halloween’ movie in South Pasadena. He says it’s a great way to connect with Los Angeles’ film history. He can walk to Michael Myers’ childhood home near the train tracks, then to Laurie Strode’s house just two blocks away, and finally to the hardware store where Myers got his iconic mask and weapons. He considers this a fun and memorable way to spend the day.

Bryan Fuller, the creative mind behind shows like “Wonderfalls” and “American Gods,” recently directed a film called “Dust Bunny” – a quirky story about a young girl who tries to hire someone to get rid of the monster under her bed. Given his imaginative work, it’s fitting that his favorite places in Los Angeles are centered around art and design, such as the Broad museum and the Los Angeles Athletic Club. He says he’s particularly drawn to the vibrant energy of downtown L.A.

Before heading out for any weekend activity, Fuller always begins his day with his dogs at his Silver Lake home. He says starting with plenty of time with them would be perfect. He especially enjoys watching them, and finds it rewarding to care for his older dogs.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for length and clarity.

8 a.m.: Dogs and breakfast in a bar

My mornings revolve around taking care of our three dogs. We have Louise, a senior puggle at 18 years old, Henry, a 13-year-old Chihuahua terrier mix, and Lily, a lively chug who’s a year and a half old. We used to enjoy long walks with Louise, but now I mostly supervise her in the yard and make sure she’s safe from coyotes.

On some days, we like to make pancakes at home. Other times, we go to Relentless Brewing & Spirits in Eagle Rock. It’s a bar that also serves breakfast, and their ube French toast is amazing! It’s perfectly sweet – a real treat without being overly sugary.

10 a.m.: Get lost in an Infinity Mirror Room at the Broad

I’m a big fan of downtown events, and The Broad museum is a highlight. It’s thoughtfully arranged and easy to enjoy. While it features popular, widely-liked art, it also has a strong background in contemporary art that anyone can appreciate. The exhibitions are often amazing – from iconic pieces like Jeff Koons’ “Balloon Dog” to showcases of work by Indigenous artists. The Broad draws you in with fun, accessible art, then offers something more substantial – it’s like a delicious treat that’s also good for you.

Noon: Swim laps in a historic landmark

I love swimming at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. The pool is located on the sixth floor and has large windows offering stunning views of historic early 20th-century buildings in Los Angeles. With its tile work, the pool feels charming and reminiscent of a bygone era.

1:30 p.m.: Lunch at KazuNori

I always head to KazuNori Hand Roll Bar on Main Street after a swim. I usually order two servings of albacore sashimi and drink water, which makes me feel energized and powerful, like Aquaman! It feels good to eat something from the sea right then, and it’s the perfect way to recharge after exercising.

2 p.m.: Visit a classic horror movie location

My perfect day downtown would definitely include a visit to East West Players – I really recommend checking out one of their shows. The building used to be Union Church, and it’s special to me because it was a filming location for my favorite John Carpenter movie, “Prince of Darkness,” from 1987. It takes me back to when I worked at a movie theater in high school – we played that movie constantly! My manager even joked that I was a devil worshiper because I watched it so much. Seeing the church always brings back those memories and makes me appreciate living in L.A., with its rich film history and storytelling opportunities. It’s a little sad, though, because it doesn’t feel like movies are filmed here as often anymore.

3 p.m.: Catch a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse

When I’m craving a movie, I love going to the Alamo Drafthouse. It’s a wonderful theater that shows unique and interesting films you won’t find everywhere. What really sets it apart is how seriously they enforce good behavior – something many other theaters have let slip. I’ve had too many frustrating experiences with people talking or using their phones during movies. It reminds me of the ArcLight, and I especially miss their funny, over-the-top PSAs – like the threat of being stuffed in a sleeping bag by Sasquatch if you dared use your phone! Those really kept people in line.

5 p.m.: Shop for vintage eyewear Elvis would appreciate

I love finding vintage glasses at Gentleman’s Breakfast in Echo Park. They have a fantastic collection spanning the entire 20th century – I even discovered gold frames identical to those Elvis wore on his 1972 tour! They carry great brands like Gucci and Dior, as well as military-style frames from the 1940s and 50s, and even cuff links. The shop itself is located in a garage, but the owner creates a cool, speakeasy-like atmosphere where you can enjoy bourbon, cigars, and good company.

7 p.m.: Dinner at San Laurel at Conrad Los Angeles

San Laurel, the restaurant at the Conrad Los Angeles, is one of my favorites. They have a wonderful patio with stunning views of the Broad, Disney Hall, and the Music Center. While there are many reasons to visit, the food is the biggest draw – especially the salads! I often order several salads and the crab and fennel soup. Plus, I love supporting chef José Andrés, who’s doing incredible work through his food. I even had the pleasure of working with him as a culinary consultant on the show “Hannibal.” He was always full of creative (and slightly macabre!) ideas for cooking.

9 p.m.: Dog snuggles and sci-fi reruns

I love to relax on the couch with my dogs after dinner, even if it’s just to watch a bit of an old TV show. It’s so nice to have them close, with their heads in my lap and me petting their bellies. We’re currently rewatching the original “Battlestar Galactica” from 1978, and I’m surprised by how good it still is.

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2026-01-23 14:01