Venice, California’s Upscale Renaissance

Bobbi Fabian Venice, California Once home to artists and bohemians, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is experiencing its most upscale renaissance to date, with one-of-a-kind boutiques, galleries, and sidewalk cafés.

1. Three Square Café + Bakery

   This Bavaria-inspired restaurant has the weekend brunch crowd hooked on pretzel burgers, German apple pancakes with crème fraîche, and elderflower Prosecco.

2. The Otheroom

   The West Coast outpost of an intimate New York wine and beer bar will soon satisfy late-night snackers when its organic café and market opens next door. Expect made-to-order sandwiches and a raw bar, available until three in the morning.

3. Elizabeth Paige Smith Atelier A+R

   In addition to designing the space for neighboring Dewey, Paige Smith is one of Abbot Kinney's top gallerists, exhibiting everything from watercolors to short films. 1423 Abbot Kinney Blvd.; 310/392-8060; elizabethpaigesmith.com.

4. The Stronghold

   L.A.'s first denim line (from 1895) has been resurrected; its namesake parlor sells rugged workman jeans amid turn-of- the-century antiques such as a vintage Silvertone phonograph. 1625 Abbot Kinney Blvd.; 310/399-7200.