How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Hannah Pilkes

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Despite being a native New Yorker, actor and comedian Hannah Pilkes admits to having fallen for Los Angeles. She expresses her affection by saying, “I loved the New York comedy scene, but the charm of LA is irresistible.

Actress who plays Leanne Morgan’s daughter in the fresh Netflix comedy “Leanne,” admits to being smitten by the continuous outdoor living options that Los Angeles provides. She expresses her affection for Pasadena, stating, “I simply adore it here.” The possibility of spending time on the patio all year round, she finds, is a perfect representation of that feeling.

In her spare time, when Pilkes isn’t performing as a supporting act for comedians such as Meg Stalter and Paul F. Tompkins, or guesting on well-known podcasts like “Comedy Bang Bang” and Chloe Fineman’s Audible series “Excessive”, she can usually be found engaging in Los Angeles’ lively art community.

The 32-year-old woman shares that she could effortlessly spend a whole day in Pasadena, be it appreciating the artworks of Edgar Degas at the Norton Simon Museum or leisurely walking through the picturesque Arlington Garden with her husband, Gregory Nussen. She expresses her fascination with Los Angeles being a significant center for art. There are numerous spots where she finds an enchanting blend of creativity and magic due to the presence of numerous artists in the city, who are constantly seeking ways to convey their feelings.

It seems she’s sharing an amusing anecdote about her New Year’s resolution to play tennis regularly with a friend at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Tennis Center. However, things didn’t go as planned when she struggled initially and had a breakdown over not being immediately good at it. Despite enjoying other activities like running around the Rose Bowl and swimming there with her parents, they discovered that their shared love for tennis might be better nurtured by investing in lessons rather than playing together to avoid potential frustration.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

8 a.m.: Coffee and garden stroll in Pasadena

Every morning, I kickstart my day with an iced morning bun latte from Tartine on Green Street. Given my toddler-like taste preferences, I have a penchant for sweetened coffee beverages. Alternatively, I often cross the street to Ideology, as their baristas are like angels – we could chat for ages.

By making some adjustments and using simpler phrases, I aimed to maintain the original meaning while enhancing readability and naturalness.

I take great delight in tending to gardens, and while The Huntington Gardens certainly merit their recognition, Los Angeles boasts numerous under-the-radar treasures as well. Arlington Garden is one such gem – a quaint, secluded haven with intricate topiaries, sculptures, and an earthy ambiance that instantly captivates me. I often find myself there, jotting down thoughts in my journal amidst the tranquil atmosphere. On occasion, I’ll pack a lunch and share a leisurely picnic with friends in this delightful nook of the city. It truly is a charming escape from the hustle and bustle.

10 a.m.: Visit a jungle-like nursery in Sylmar

Delving further into the green theme: Nestled in Sylmar lies Earth Force Nursery, a breathtaking oasis that transports visitors straight into a lush jungle upon arrival. On weekends, their café, Café Escondido, welcomes guests with an array of delectable coffee drinks, authentic Mexican cuisine, and refreshing margaritas. Within this haven, time seems to stand still, offering a blissful escape reminiscent of a brief vacation.

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Noon: Shop for used books in DTLA

I’m fond of The Last Bookstore. I haven’t been to its new location in Studio City yet, but the artistic layout at the downtown branch is impressive. There’s something magical about finding $2 books there, and I adore the scent of them. Plus, it’s a great place to buy plays. For my woodland wedding at Nestldown, I aimed for an atmosphere blending elegance and quirky gnome charm. We collected stacks of used books from The Last Bookstore, arranged them along a winding pathway, and covered them with moss, creating an enchanting Jim Henson-inspired landscape. I always want to feel immersed in a whimsical fairy tale world.

2 p.m.: Lunch … Take your pick

At Descanso Gardens, there’s a new eatery called Farmhouse, which boasts a rustic charm from its repurposed wood. The ambiance is quite captivating, with a touch of the wilderness, and I had one of my favorite salads at this location. Other favorites of mine include Kismet Rotisserie, Crossroads Kitchen on Melrose Avenue, My Vegan, and Malibu Seafood – an enchanting spot for lunch. République can be a bit pricey, but their pastries and quiches are simply scrumptious. I indulged in a delightful shakshouka for lunch, as well as the best oysters I’ve encountered in Southern California. It brings back memories of Sea Ranch, my cherished destination where I savor oysters, sip white wine, and enjoy the breathtaking sunset.

4 p.m.: Scrolling on Facebook Marketplace

In a more conversational and simplified manner: My perfect day involves relaxing on a patio as I browse Facebook Marketplace for unique treasures. Recently moving into a 1895 Craftsman apartment, I initially had no furniture when we moved in. After securing a job on “Leanne,” I decided to splurge and invest in some carefully chosen pieces. I’m picky about my belongings; I prefer renting clothes and appreciate upcycled furniture with character. My dining room table was bought at Sunbeam Vintage in Highland Park, and I love the thought of each imperfection telling a story from its past. I find joy in incorporating these old memories into my new living space.

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In simpler terms, our recommended botanical gardens in Southern California stretch from Santa Barbara down to San Diego. These include must-visit gardens that everyone ought to explore at least once, as well as lesser-known ones providing tranquil shade and creative inspiration.

6 p.m.: Drinks at Checker Hall

Amongst Los Angeles’ bars, Checker Hall stands out as my most preferred. It boasts the finest cocktails and transports you to New Orleans with a single step inside. The patio offers breathtaking views of Highland Park. Its decor is a delightful blend of funky, kitschy, and classy elements; it’s nothing short of magical. Their Mediterranean bites are simply exceptional. Adjacent to it lies the Lodge Room, my favorite venue in L.A., known for its diverse offerings. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Elijah Fox there, and I’ve even performed in “Varietopia” there. The audience’s jovial and electric energy is always a highlight. I appreciate the ability to perform my comedy show and then socialize at the bar afterwards, just like in New York. I also adore the Elysian in Echo Park. They provide an area for drinks, and I cherish the post-show conversations – it’s all about reflecting on that peculiar thing we just experienced on stage! Due to my fondness for wigs, people rarely recognize me there.

If we skip Checker Hall, we’ll wind up at Edwin Mills by Equator in Pasadena as the night concludes. Their happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m., featuring delicious lychee martinis, is not to be missed, and it’s a favorite spot of mine. On nights with live jazz, you’ll see an eclectic mix of people dancing – from young to old, including my 4-year-old nephew who adores the place. It has a warm, communal vibe where everyone applauds at the end. It’s just delightful and heartwarming.

10 p.m.: Bad reality TV and impressions

At the end of the day, my husband and I often unwind by watching some not-so-great reality TV shows, like “Love Island”. Since I tend to get hungry late at night, I might give in and order food that’s perhaps not the healthiest choice, such as the vegan ramen from Tatstu. After finishing the show, we usually have a laugh by doing impressions of the characters. It’s great being married to someone who enjoys performing – life with them is entertaining, to say the least, and a lot of fun!

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2025-09-05 13:32