Venice Beach with Pat Lok
THE LAYOVER
Photo: Kharen Hill
We love DJs. We love LA. So, we thought we’d keep with the theme this week and caught up with the inimitable Pat Lok on the West Side.
Originally hailing from Vancouver, the DJ/producer cut his teeth lending his feel-good vibe to numerous remixes before signing to legendary French label Kitsuné and Pete Tong’s publishing company. His debut full length EP dropped in 2017 and his signature fusion of disco, r&b and soul was soon dominating BBC’s Radio 1 and New Music Friday on Spotify.
After completing his first headline tour across North America, Pat is back in his Venice, CA studio preparing for the release of his second EP… just in time for a bangin’ summer.
Which hotel would you choose for a quick stay?
The Erwin has the best views in Venice but the real secret is to look for an AirBnB in the canals, hands down one of my favorite areas in LA.
Photos: Hotel Erwin
What is your favorite place to go for a walk and take in the views?
The aforementioned canals are just a couple blocks from the beach, and one of Venice’s better kept secrets. The cute houses and their respective docks range from quaint to beautiful, with no shortage of birds and little bridges adding to the serenity. Bring some snacks (but not bread) to feed the ducks, if you’re lucky you might even catch some ducklings. Keep your eye out for the turtles too.
Photos L-R: Sweet Ice Cream Photography // Viviana Rishe // Viviana Rishe
What is one thing we can only find in Venice to take home and where do we find it?
Only the worst tees in the world to impress your little brothers and sisters. If it's cringey, it's on a shirt here. If you have enough swag you just might be able to pull it off ironically but even that might be a stretch.
Also beware of any mixtapes handed to you by street vendors - they ask you for your name and then write it on the CD, so you have to purchase it. Recognize the hustle!
Photo: Kharen Hill
Where do you go for great music (when you’re not the one playing it)?
Townhouse has great DJs on the weekend and is open late. Roosterfish on Abbott Kinney during the week to avoid the busy crowds.
Photos L-R: Townhouse // Roosterfish
What is your favorite shop and what should we pick up there?
Gotta Have It on Windward is a great spot for vintage finds. Keep your eyes peeled for that classic band tour merch.
Photo: Gotta Have It
What’s the best spot for a quick bite to eat?
Hinano’s on Washington is a truly local bar, it might look a bit divey but has one of the best burgers you’ll find anywhere.
Photos: Hinano’s
Who makes the best cocktail?
Rose Cafe is a great spot for a cocktail or three (the patio is great for lunch or just to hang out), and you might see your favorite actor sneak in for a drink
Photos: @therosevenice
What is one place everyone needs to see?
The Venice skate park on a Saturday never gets old. There's both pros and little kids out there going for it and the vibe is really positive and cool to see. Across the way, you have the (mostly) older roller skaters doing incredible freestyle routines with a classic boombox blasting 80s jams. Serious vibes.
Photos L-R T-B: Alexander Londono // John Verhoestra // Jeff Kepler
What’s your number one travel tip?
I spend way too much time in airport so I do absolutely whatever it takes to avoid checking bags. Usually my large leather weekender and a larger backpack will do the trick, rolling up your clothes goes a long way towards saving space.
Photo: Kharen Hill
…and while we’re at it, here’s a little hump day musical snack from the man himself.