TODAY! April’s First Friday on Abbot Kinney
Today, Abbot Kinney Boulevard transforms into the world’s best open-air dining room.
If you’ve lived on the Westside long enough, you know the drill for First Friday. It’s chaotic, it’s vibrant, and it is arguably the most authentic way to kick off the spring season. This Friday, April 3rd, the food truck lineup is hitting that sweet spot of global fusion and local staples.
The April Lineup: A Global Hit List
From 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, AK becomes a mix of amazing tastes. Whether you’re a devotee of the Kogi BBQ short rib taco or you’re hunting for the vegan mastery of Man Eating Plant, the variety this month is particularly strong.
A few "insider" picks for this Friday:
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The Comfort Classic: Cousin’s Maine Lobster for that "spring-is-here" roll.
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The Fusion Fix: 8e8 Thai and Sus Arepas for when you can’t decide which hemisphere you want to eat in.
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The Sweet Finish: Sure Good Soft Serve—because you can’t walk the shops without a cone in hand.
Our Strategy
For those of us who call the Westside home, First Friday is an art form. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the flow.
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Arrive Early (or Late): The 5:00 PM start is perfect for beating the peak crowds, but the "golden hour" around 7:00 PM is when the energy truly peaks.
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Know the Relief Zones: If you’re navigating the crowds with a group, remember that restrooms are stationed at California Ave and Palms Blvd.
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The "Walk and Shop" Pivot: Grab your plate and duck into the local shops & spots that stay open for the event.
The Campbell Wellman Take: First Friday isn’t just a food event; it’s a heartbeat check for Venice (which is already pumping steady, thanks to Weezer’s and the Chili Peppers' recent surprise shows!). It reminds us why we live here—the authenticity, its signature culture, and the incredible food. It’s a reminder that real estate in Venice isn't just about the square footage; it's about being steps away from this kind of cultural gravity.
See you at the food trucks!