A couple of years ago New Balance opened what they call an Experience Store in Shanghai and I pretty much begged them to bring one to the United States. There is something I really love about a well designed and nicely done retail store. Call me old school (as I sit next to a stack of current magazines on my desk), but human interaction and the experience will always be my preference over online shopping. Last summer New Balance opened the New Balance NYC Experience Store, which unfortunately I have not made it to.

Today they grand open the Boston New Balance Experience Store in Copley Square. and were kind enough to send over some pictures to share the new location (or maybe to tempt me to come visit?). The design features a company timeline that runs along the ceiling showcasing the rich heritage of the company. With roots in the Boston area, their strong partnership with the Boston Red Sox is a natural fit and they pay tribute with an area dedicated to the Red Sox, including some love for Dustin Pedroia, who is from Woodland, California, just outside of my hometown of Sacramento. Of course, showcasing some of the latest New Balance runners is a must and from the pictures you can see the creatively placed 860 V2, 890 V2, Minimus runners and others.

I think I may need to make a trip to Boston this summer and document my experience, even rent a New Balance Hubway bike to get around, what do you think?

Since moving to the Los Angeles area I’ve been able to meet some great people and experience a small piece of what makes millions of people want to live here. One of the great people I have met since moving here is my friend Frank, and the restaurant he’s involved with, Blossom Restaurant. The downtown location on Main Street is a great place to grab lunch or dinner. I’m a big fan of the Rare Steak Pho, and of course, the Vietnamese coffee.

Blossom opened a second location today in the Silverlake area of Los Angeles, for out of towners, it’s just down the street from Undefeated on Sunset, making it a good spot to stop while visiting. This past weekend Blossom hosted a friends and family event to introduce the new location and it’s really quite impressive. As you walk in the door there is a nicely laid out dining area with kitchen situated in the back of the restaurant. However, when you head downstairs, the space opens up into a uniquely designed and impressively inviting space. You’ll  find a bar, beautiful wine cellars on each side of the room that are tucked into the walls and encased in glass. The sunshine from the above street shines down in to provide a natural light for the plants and flowers tucked in to the back wall. There is plenty of booths to sit in that give privacy, and plenty of standing room around the bar if you prefer to stay on your feet.

I’m excited for the new location and think it’s well worth your time to visit next time you’re in the Los Angeles area.

Blossom Restaurant
4019 W Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90029
MAP