The Napoleon Perdis guide to LA

All-round make-up maestro and resident beauty expert for Rescu.com.au, Napoleon Perdis is THE ex-pat to talk to about Los Angeles. Lucky for us, he’s shared the inside word on the City of Angels.

Napoleon Perdis

Having moved to LA from Sydney over six years ago to build his cosmetics empire in the States, Napoleon loves the city and lives life there to the fullest. Here are his top tips for a LA trip to remember:
Where should we go for a cultural experience in LA?
I love the Glendale area, especially on a Friday night. Kim Kardashian brought it to fame as it’s the Armenian area of LA.
You’ll find great theatre at the Felix Theatre, the Glendale Galleria has amazing shopping plus you’ll get a taste of the culture, the incredible food and amazing belly dancing. It’s almost like you’re transported into a Middle Eastern fantasyland.
Another favourite is Little Tokyo which is based in downtown LA. It’s truly like being in Japan! There is amazing sushi that is flown in every day, beautiful artefacts and art; it’s a great way to escape LA while staying in LA!
What do you miss about Australia when you’re in LA?
The people! Australian’s have the best sense of humour and fun. Strangely enough, living in LA has made me feel more Australian than ever. I grew up there and I launched my business there, so of course Australia will always be my home.
What’s your absolute favourite thing about LA?
Obviously the weather! I really enjoy the phenomenal street style. It’s very unique and diverse — and makes for great people watching!
Napoleon Perdis’ Top Places to:

Have a drink: You can’t go past the dirty vodka martinis at Sur Lounge. I always take out-of-town guests here.
Shop: I do most of my shopping in New York or Paris but when I’m in California, Tom Ford on Rodeo Drive and the Cabazon Outlets near Palm Springs are my go-tos.

Napoleon store in LA

On Saturday I love to visit the Design District on La Brea. I particularly love the interiors store Fat Chance and Jack’s Eyewear for vintage sunglasses.
Spot a celeb: Runyon Canyon in the Hollywood Hills which is off Fuller. It’s right by my home and I always see celebs hiking there early in the morning.

Runyon Canyon the perfect position for celebrity spotting (and that amazing view!)

You can see everything out to Catalina Island and Santa Monica and all the way out to almost Palm Springs and down to the OC. It’s a great retreat and a great way to spot celebs.
Have a coffee: Caffe Primo on Sunset for their great coffee.
Eat out: Dinner at WP24 at LA Live – Wolfgang Puck really outdid himself on this one.
For more advice from Napoleon Perdis, make sure to follow his blog on Rescu.