sprinkle city
It’s exactly what it sounds like. the museum of Ice Cream, first made famous in New York City, has found its sweet spot in downtown L.A. The Instagram-worthy museum has attracted tourists and locals alike for its adult-size pool of sprinkles; swings; hot pink and banana wall paper; and of course, ice cream. If you check out its Instagram page, it’s hard not to get swept up in the museum’s playful posts that seem to pop out of a scene from Willy Wonka.

diamonds are an angeleno’s best friend
A friend and fellow st. Louis transplant introduced me to XIV Karats over brunch one saturday morning and at the time, I had no idea what I was about to experience. A famed beverly Hills jeweler for more than 30 years, XIV Karats has been the go-to for stars like beyonce and rihanna. but unlike name-brand jewelers, it caters to plebs by offering surprisingly affordable precious jewelry. the next time you find yourself in L.A., indulge in beverly Hills’ best-kept secret.

flower power
St. Louis has Soulard for Farmer’s Market Flowers, and Los Angeles has the Los Angeles Flower Mart. Another downtown hot spot, it’s a warehouse filled with every flower imaginable. Vendors line up to sell everything from succulents to snapdragons. It’s almost overwhelming (picture Soulard times 10), but sometimes you just have to stop and smell the roses.

nothing but nigiri
Sorry St. Louis, but you have nothing on L.A.’s sushi game. Sugarfish, the city’s go-to chain of sushi restaurants opened by famed chef Kazunori Nozawa, serves up the best in simple sushi rolls featuring little more than rice and raw fish. Customers choose from three courses: Trust Me, Trust Me Lite and The Nozawa trust me. No mayo-based sauces, no cream cheese and no deep-fried rolls. Just sushi the way it was meant to be!

damsels in distress
A recent stroll into the Cotton Citizen store on melrose place was a stark reminder that L.A. truly knows how to embrace the trendiest of trends. Bleach and perfectly placed holes are two details found on almost every clothing item in the store. Beyond melrose place, you can’t go to the grocery store or club without spotting someone in overly distressed apparel. St. Louisans who want to embrace the look without making a major investment can check out Urban Outfitters for its plethora of distressed denim and street wear.