Around these parts, there’s a little something we like to call Southern hospitality.

Southern Californian hospitality, that is.

Here, life is a bottomless pitcher of iced organic green tea. Drivers wave as they pass by (or was that the finger?). And though random grandmas may not invite you to hang on the porch (the last one you approached socked you with her handbag), Sugar on La Brea wants you to come on in and sit a spell.

Of course, you’ll be on your feet most of the time, checking out the shop. The walls are lined with racks of Natalia dresses, Pegah Anvarian silk and cashmere skirts, super-soft Jenny Jen tees, Loomstate denim, and skirts and tops by Nay-Nay (made from reworked vintage scarves). The antique jewelry comes from estate sales and auctions across the American South.

And not to be missed: the Sugar Cakes, mini cupcakes in flavors like chocolate cabernet, mint chocolate chip, and strawberries and cream, packaged in egg cartons by the half dozen. Stop by the grand opening party tomorrow night for a sample. Just don’t forget to thank them with a curtsy and a tip of your cowboy hat.

You know, the one you bought on Melrose at the height of your pre-Dukes of Hazzard fever.


Sugar on La Brea, 633 North La Brea Avenue, between Melrose Avenue and Clinton Street, Hollywood (323-965-0359).