But how long can it hold out? Today Abbot Kinney is trying to go upscale, but with a local twist that makes it the hardest to catagorize of all the areas in the Boardwalker's relm. New buildings have been popping up in the past couple of years that are more of a mixed use style and it's questionable how long the little bungalows can remain viable and their owners ignore the big buck payoff that redevelopment could bring. So the best thing to do is just check it out yourself and form your own opinition. There were no chain stores until Pinkberry moved in recently and I personally think the eclectic flavor of the street is really a reflection of the way the locals like it. Nothing flashy, just comfortable, like an old sweater. On Abbot Kinney you will find community art centers, five star restaurants, rib joints, outdoor bookstores, and vintage furniture shops that cater to fans of a certain type of funk. It's kind of how Melrose was 25 years ago before it became a parody of itself. Abbot Kinney is your kind of street if you are shopping for vintage tennis shoes or prefer Danish modern as your decor. In addition to shopping there are over a dozen restaurants on the street and several taverns and bars.

Abbot's Habit staked an early claim to sucess as the first coffee shop to open on the street. In support of the local artist's community the Habit is also part art gallery and part poetry reading. There is also an Abbot's Habit Pizza next door. Across the street is Tortilla Grill which is always busy, it has only a few tables inside and 2 on the sidewalk, but a steady stream of people comming in for the take out Mexican food. Jin Patisserie has a great patio and seems to be full all the time also. If you are looking for a fine dining experience Hal's, Joe's, Axe, or Lilly's are all considered prime destinations for foodies from all over L.A. I have a complete list of Venice restaurants on Abbot Kinney you can peruse.
Shopping on the Abbot Kinney is mostly about vintage furniture, architectural fixtures and architectural furniture. There is a distinct modernist flavor tinged with some surfer/skateboarder chic. If you try it i think you'll like it.

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