The 3rd on 3rd

Eager for any reason to have a mini-break, I milked the July 4th weekend for all its worth and took the 3rd off—and spent it on 3rd St.. The day began with a pot of tea and a touch of sympathy. Chado Tea Room provided the tea—and tomato soup, Waldorf salad, sandwiches, a scone with cream, and lemon cake. A friend who joined me for the day supplied the sympathy.

Then we strolled along 3rd St.. Although in the intense sun, we wilted, as well as walked down the street. We browsed through a series of stores: furniture, clothing, and curios shops. I couldn't seem to touch any item under $100 dollars, save the books at the Cook's Library.

We ended the day at Joan's on Third —my first time there, I might add, although now, definitely not my last—cooling ourselves over cups of gelato














The Chocolate Caramel Crunch was mine, and the Blackberry Cabernet was hers. Both were wonderful in their own way. The chocolate was rich and creamy and the pockets of caramel swirl added grace notes of buttery sweetness to the velvety mix. The blackberry sorbet was pleasantly icy and intensely fruity; the Cabernet left a hint of something deeper on the tongue—a subtle spice. I cooled by degrees with each spoonful. The noonday sun became a distant memory, and I couldn't think of a better way to end my 3rd on 3rd. Now, if only I had every Monday off....

Chado Tea Room
8422 1/2 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(800) 442-4019
www.chadotea.com

Joan's on Third
8350 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 655-2288
www.joansonthird.com

The Cook's Library
8373 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 655-3141
www.cookslibrary.com