One third of Rancho Palos Verdes residents look upon San Pedro, but how many of us up on the hill choose to spend time in this historic port town and how do we find out what’s going on over there?

It’s a novelty to spend time somewhere so close, yet feels like a completely different world, full of atmosphere, character, and fun. There are upscale places like Compagnon Wine Bistro and La Boca Felice. There are cool and funky bars like Godmother’s, Crimson, and Goodfella’s. And, if you take the time to find them, some really hip shops.

San Pedro is a proud town. There is a push and pull of what San Pedro has been and what it could be. There is a reluctance for gentrification, yet there is also hope for something that respects what San Pedro is, and all that it could be.

I had so much fun talking with local owners of some of my favorite shops and restaurants-the one’s that were open anyway. The overwhelming feeling I had was hospitable. One gripe I have is that I am dying to go into a lot of stores that don’t have consistent hours of operation.

The places that were open were fantastic. These owners are smart, savvy, and optimistic. They were all generous with their time, sharing with me their commitment to each particular craft, and their loyalty to San Pedro. There is a tremendous amount of pride and dedication to a city that is primed for visitors and these owners are counting on the revitalized port West Harbor to increase interest in San Pedro.

6th and 7th Streets, the area generally known as the gallery district, or downtown, is a great place to walk around. First Thursdays, when the district comes alive with lights, open stores, restaurants, and galleries, you become quickly immersed in what the area has to offer. After my first time at First Thursdays, I was hooked. The places I’ve mentioned here are ones I really love and would like to shout out-SEE THIS PLACE! I usually park on Mesa Street between 6th and 7th, so I always stop at Round Trip Collective. Their clothes are stylish and reasonably priced. The employees are very friendly. Pick up one of their Locals Only baseball caps. They could mean anything to anyone, but here, everyone knows it means San Pedro pride.

I spent time talking to the owner of PM Sounds, Erving Johnson, who specializes in Jazz. His collection is personal, and his knowledge of Jazz is dazzling. Every time I’ve been in the store, I hear music that I want to know more about, and Erving is not shy with a detailed story. Records are back in fashion, so if you’re looking for Jazz classics, or need some help building a collection, this is the place to visit. I bumped into Sunken City Book Store, which was new to me, and because I’m bookish, I immediately fell in love with this store. The store hours are consistent-12:00-6:00. They carry new, used, and an impressive collection of collectible books. Rodrigo Barretto designed the store’s interior where any bibliophile would feel immediately at home. It’s eclectic, cozy, and his artistically designed displays conveys his graphic art background. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to spend hours sifting through the bookshelves to find that book you’ve been looking for but can’t find, or seek out a unique gift.

At Badfish Clothing Company, I spoke with Joshua Garcia, who works with local artists to create way out of the ordinary t-shirts and hoodies. I just bought one of their new designs because I can’t get over how cool I feel after gifting one of these t-shirts. Prepare to be asked where you got yours. Fishing Alliance is your basic tackle shop with cutting edge graphic tees. Their logo t-shirts Liquid Assassins are cool, humorous, and very San Pedro. As gifts, these go over so well because they are local and full of meaning. The Lost on Land t-shirt represents the owner’s inability to get back on a boat due to an injury. I love the idea of representing Fishing Alliance because it is symbolic of the loyalty to fishermen and the history of San Pedro. I was very excited to get a sneak peak into what looks like a promising new hot spot for craft beer drinkers.

Port Town Brewing Company is very close to opening. I saw the glowing vats of stainless steel, the cool, relaxed interior, and the huge walk in refrigerator, which is an optimistic sign of how popular this place will become. I’m really excited for their grand opening, because, in my mind, it encapsulates movement toward broadening interest in San Pedro as a destination. I have been watching this place come to life peeking in the windows late at night, and finally got a chance to speak with Jason Welke, who crafts the beer. He is anxiously awaiting the final inspections to pass so they can celebrate their grand opening to the public.

A hidden gem for punk music fans, The Sardine on Pacific Avenue is a must. It is well known and a true San Pedro Destination for raw, rough, and passionate musicians, and noted as one of the best punk venues in Los Angeles. There are great high end restaurants in San Pedro. La Compagnon Wine Bistro is a lovely, cozy, authentic French Restaurant. A romantic destination for a glass of wine while sitting on a settee, or having an authentic French meal. La Boca Felice has a full bar, creative pizzas, pasta, seafood, and desserts. You will feel transported to Italy at La Siciliana, a truly authentic Sicilian restaurant. The owners are welcoming, and their menu is comprised of traditional Sicilian dishes. The Arancina, or fried risotto appetizer is divine. They also prepare a spectacular pizza which is only served a few days per week due to the careful preparation of their dough. Their ingredients are top notch and their wine selection is as authentic as their food.

I have to give an honorable mention to The Chowder Barge, technically not in San Pedro, but in neighboring Wilmington. You may have to wait for a cargo train to pass before crossing over, but that’s part of the fun! Watching port activity, you will have renewed appreciation for our neighboring port town. There is ample parking, and you may see a cat or two, but what a really different kind of experience eating in a floating barge docked in a populated marina! Any New England transplant will appreciate the appearance of fried clams on the menu, and the clam chowder is a must to order. In the age of half-filled wine glasses, prepare to have a generous pour while dining.

People have been saying San Pedro is about to change for decades. The store owner’s I spoke with are beginning to feel the momentum. It’s time to get off the hill and have some fun in San Pedro!

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Bio:

Jennifer Boissavy’s is a Palos Verdes Peninsula resident who also works part time with the PVLD Friends of the Library.
She has great appreciation for books, fashion, and antiques.