Looking at Emelia Hartford, one might assume that the five-foot six-inch stunner spends her days luxuriating in the Los Angeles sun. However, for more than a decade, Hartford has defied convention with her skills as a leading automotive content creator. Parlaying her on-screen skills—she boasts over 6 million followers across her platforms—Hartford took the leap onto the big screen with a starring role in last summer's blockbuster hit, Gran Turismo. But beyond the screen and track, Hartford uses her platforms for good. As the founder of apparel brand Return to Life, Hartford not only raises awareness for mental health, but also donates a percentage of proceeds to the non-profits the Alive and Well Foundation and Project Healthy Minds. Below, we get the first place picks from Hartford on where to dine, lounge, and enjoy life in Los Angeles.
My go-to sushi spot! The food is amazing and the staff treat you like family.
Broad Street Oyster
I'm semi-obsessed with uni. I named by dog Uni, and this is my favorite spot to hit on a Sunday cruise in Malibu. They have fresh uni and lobster rolls.
Boa
My go-to steakhouse; their steak is unreal and the staff is amazing.
My favorite hotel in LA - a must for elegant old Hollywood vibes.
This place is legendary and is the spot if you are looking for top-tier Korean BBQ!
I'm French and love French cuisine. This place nails it every time.
Roma Market
I love the Italian Classic Sandwich—very traditional with basic Italian cold cuts.
The Apple Pan
Hands down the best pie in town, and of course, you have to get it with extra ice cream! This place takes you back in time.
Another great sushi spot in Beverly Hills.
Craig's
The quintessential spot for a dinner meeting.
The Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel
For hanging and the McCarthy Salad!
Great Quiet Place to Meet and Pool is great.
Vibrato Jazz Bar and Alamo Draft House Theater
Two places I love to go for fun.
Address Book:
Broad Street Oyster
317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
BOA Steakhouse
9200 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Roma Market
918 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104
The Apple Pan
10801 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Craigs
8826 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Polo Lounge
9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Vibrato Jazz Bar
2930 Beverly Glen Cir, Los Angeles, CA 90077
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles
700 W 7th St Ste. U240, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Hero image: Jonny Marlow / Emelia Hartford