4 Venice Businesses We’re Excited About

Making lists is tough. There’s always someone left out and feelings get hurt, but here goes nothing. There’s plenty happening in the community to be excited about, so we wanted to give a few local favorites their shine:

1. Ghost Town Management – Let’s be honest, Lincoln Blvd has looked much worse. The reason the neighborhood is safer than it was a year ago is singular: Ghost Town Security. Full stop. Co-founders, Ricky Myers and Bobby Luna have honored the streets of Venice their entire lives and their families have been here doing the same since the 1930s. Their security service diligently ensures that Venice residents and businesses are safe. They do this in non-traditional ways that have improved the lives of those on the streets and their clients as an intermediary that is neither the police nor a top-down housing authority. With a client roster than includes single families and Whole Foods Market, their impact is vast! 
2. Dudley Market – these guys are not new to town, but there is so much to say. During the day, they are home to Los Angeles’ best coffee experience. Period. It’s called Hooked and is led by coffee icon Christopher ‘Nicely’ Alameda. During coffee, you might witness the chef and a few helping hands bringing in a two hundred pound tuna through the front door, because the fresh crudos and sashimis on the menu are caught on the owner’s fishing boat. They begrudgingly have a Top 5 burger in LA on the menu, too. Want to dabble in natural wine? Their wine club is wildly affordable and well curated! 
3. Companion – it’s happening! Lincoln Blvd is evolving and we needed this one! Not only is their dinner a delicious experience with an ambiance that makes you fall back in love with Venice dining culture, they are open as a cafe during the day. I fear ruining the vibe by letting the cat out of the bag, but it’s well lit with great tables and open until 3:00p if you need a place to hang! 
4. La Isla Bonita Taco Truck – All these tacos stands on Lincoln need to recognize the giant shoulders they stand on. These Venice originals have been holding it down at 4th & Rose since 1987. The whole menu is incredible, so have at it. Don’t forget: they are closed on Thursdays. 

Get involved!

There’s so much to enjoy in Venice and this is by no means an exhaustive list, but it’s a shout out to some people doing great work. Get in the mix! Your neighborhood can only benefit from your support.