Realm
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 628-4663
- Cross Street:
- Broadway
- Hours:
- Daily 11am-7pm
Editorial Review for Realm – by Kim Cooper
In Short
Chinatown's most beautiful shop was once the historic Hong Kong Low restaurant, restored by architect/shopkeeper Richard Liu as a home goods, gift and bookstore. The polychrome dragon ceiling, vintage neon and built-in cocktail bar are an incredible backdrop for a carefully curated mix of retro-styled items, high quality Chinese decorative arts, and natural shells and branches. Shelves in back are packed with a large selection of books on gardening, pop culture, architecture and design.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
The ExtrasGift wrapping is always free, and purchases can be shipped anywhere for actual mailing costs.
Look GoodCheck out the original restaurant blueprints and elevation drawings behind the register, in addition to the vintage L.A. Chinatown photos throughout the shop.
Save MoneyGet on the email list for announcements of store sales.
User Reviews for Realm
02/09/2007 Posted by lwmango
Indicative of the 'new' Chinatown known more for its trendy galleries on Chung King Road and fusion cafes like Via, this gift store stands out amongst the sea of tourist shops. The well-lit and organized interior is slightly reminiscent of a gallery and it features small paintings from local artists as well as large black and white photos of Chinatown taken in the 1950s on its walls. Realm retains a Chinese flavor but brings it upscale by taking typical themes like lotus blossoms and using them for sleek silver vases or minimalist tea sets. There's a large selection of art books in the back of the shop and a variety of items perfect for a hip kitchen or living room. While they're a bit on the pricier side, it's worth the extra money for the functional items that resemble works of art.
Pros: Organized, Friendly Staff, High quality of products
Cons: No Parking
