COACH KWON
DTLA WEEKLY
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Granting Healthy Wishes: Naturewell Juice and Smoothie Bar
Once upon a time in the Historic Core of Downtown Los Angeles, stood a place of enchantment known as Naturewell. A magical haven for healthconscious individuals seeking refreshing and revitalizing pick-meups, and it held a secret to health and longevity that made it truly extraordinary.
As visitors stepped into the Spring Arcade, a historical landmark built in 1924, spanning the length of Spring Street to Broadway, they noticed a glowing green leaf hanging above the Naturewell entrance with an equally glowing enchanted wishing well just beneath.
Legend had it that this Naturewell possessed the power to grant health wishesto those who cast almonds into its depths with purest of intentions.
With each eager arrival, Naturewell’s granted wishes came alive in the form of juices, smoothies, Açaí bowls, snacks and variety of purities.
The Coconut Kale smoothie, made with creamy coconut meat, refreshing coconut water, ripe bananas, nourishing kale, a touch of cinnamon, and a drizzle of agave syrup, granted energy, strength, and vitality to those who longed for it.
The Berrylicious smoothie, a vibrant blend of raspberries, blueberries, strawberries,
apple juice, and agave, not only delighted the taste buds but also fulfilled the wish for radiant skin and immune support.
For those seeking protein and stamina, the Protein Smoothie combined hemp protein, ripe bananas, crunchy almonds, coconut meat, agave, and hydrating coconut water, providing the strength and sustenance they desired.
The signature Naturewell Special, crafted with coconut meat, coconut water, grapes, bananas, strawberries, and a touch of agave, became the embodiment of balance and vitality, answering the wishes of those seeking overall wellness.
But it wasn’t just the menu that held the magic. Naturewell’s welcoming staff helped patrons discover the essence of their desires with each sip and hearty Açaí Bowl spoonful.
@naturewelljuicebar
As the day unfolded at Naturewell, the Spring Arcade came alive with the joyous laughter and conversations of those who had their health wishes granted. They reveled in the magical setting, surrounded by the historical charm of the Spring Arcade Building and became the whispers
Brought to DTLA by Tina and Michael Mikhail in 2021, the two told DTLA Weekly they just loved the energy of DT saying,
“The different cultures, business types old historic buildings made a mixture of old and new… It just felt like we belonged. Every few blocks felt like a different European city.”
And so, in this tale of health, joy, and fulfillment, savoring the magical moments, embracing their well-being, and celebrating the extraordinary power of fresh organic ingredients, patrons of Naturewell lived healthy, strong and happily ever after. Renewed.
DTLA Farmer’s Markets Pipeline to Health from Farm to Table
STAY HEALTHY DTLA!
There’s a network of farmers’ markets connecting urban residents with the fresh, local produce of California’s farms and fostering a deeper appreciation for the farm-totable movement. To all the green-thumbed ladies and gents who help to make this pipeline possible, Downtown Weekly Salutes You!
Wealth of Connections at City Hall Farmers Markets
Just across from City Hall on Main Street is the City Hall Farmers Market.
Always welcoming new vendors, throwing raffles, and even a pumpkingrowing contest keep the excitement alive.
The market is also known for teaming up with city and county officials to help build bridges to healthy food access. Entities like Market Match boost every $20 spent with EBT with an equal $20 voucher for added freshness.
Other recent partnerships include Hunger Action Los Angeles, PHFE WIC, and OrganicsLA, with occasional visits from supporting local leadership, including Mayor Bass and, most recently, council member Eunisness Hernandez, who recently sparked Food Days with a celebration on the West Lawn of City Hall. The market operates every Thursday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. located at 200 N Main St.
Social Saturdays at LA Social District’s Farmer’s Market
With change comes healthy choice options for LA Social District (formally known as South Park DTLA); this local farmers market is brought to the city by Farm Habit.
An organization not shy about calling attention to negative impacts of unsustainable conditions, believing every time we buy food, we cast a vote for the kind of world we want to live in.
With Farm Habit markets, rest assured veggies are grown in healthy soil and allowed to ripen in the field for a more nutritious and unforgettable flavor. Expect the good family vibes of LA Social District with regular visits by Pico the Dog, LA Social District’s official mascot.
Every Saturday, visitors can find a delightful array of locally grown produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and the soothing sounds of acoustic music and holiday giveaways. The market operates every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is located at 1100 S Grand.
Sunday in the Historic DTLA Farmer’s Market
Sunday’s Historic Farmer’s Market is organized by the Southland Farmers’ Market Association and has over a decade of healthy fresh goodness for its supporting roots. Partnered with Kaiser Permanente, every Sunday, the DTLA market takes place between Broadway and Main on 5th.
Thank Southland Farmers’ Market association for helping to draft legislation that allowed bakers and food vendors at farmers’ markets, supporting the development of farmers’ markets located in low-income communities and changing the LA County Health Department policy to allow product sampling at Certified Farmers’ Markets.
Grab a toothpick!
It’s strawberry picking time!
The market operates every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Eating to Live: Au LAc RESTAURANT Downtown LA’s Healthy Vegan Haven
Âu Lac is a haven for those seeking organic, plantbased cuisine, and a true hidden Downtown LA gem.
Originally from Orange County, Âu Lac has been delighting vegan diners and raw-food enthusiasts for almost 20 years.
More than a restaurant; it’s a space where food becomes a celebration of health, life, flavor, and community.
At the heart of Âu Lac are Linh Nguyen, the gracious host, and Chef Ito, a culinary artist who has taken a vow of silence for over 20 years.
Despite his quiet, humble demeanor, Chef Ito’s dishes speak volumes. With Vietnamese roots and a fusion of flavors, the menu offers an elevated palate of all things natural and healing designed to nourish the mind, body and soul.
Signature dishes include the Spicy Calamari, made from crispy organic eryngii mushrooms, and the BBQ Pork Roll, made with soy, greens, and pickled daikon, wrapped in brown-rice paper with almond hoisin sauce for dipping. But it doesn’t stop there.
Nuts, legumes, leafy vegetables, roots, and grains throw a healthy get together each and every day at Âu Lac. From exotic sea vegetables to plants native to distant lands, all that is nutritious and energizing, makes its way to the menu at Âu Lac.
Even the beverages have a healthful edge, with offerings like Gynostemma tea, also known as “Miracle Grass,” a drink as intriguing as its name.
Fresh juice blends of watermelon, beets, and pineapple refresh the body with every sip.
Like taking a voyage into a new dimension of taste-filled health, the dishes surprise meat-eaters, used to comparing vegan food with traditional meat dishes. Surprise, surprise Âu Lac is a win-win for first-time encounters, and a perfect destination for fostering meaningful connections.
Whether impressing a date or enjoying a quiet meal, the ambiance is warm, inviting, and effortlessly romantic.
Rooted in a mission to promote health and sustainability, Âu Lac has become a cornerstone of the vegan movement in all of Los Angeles.
With its vibrant dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to holistic well-being, it’s no wonder Âu Lac is considered one of the healthiest—and most soulful—places to eat in DTLA and beyond.
Where is it?
You can find Âu Lacon Bunker Hill in Downtown LA, just steps away from the city’s cultural landmarks like the Music Center and City Hall. It’s just a short walk from Metro Grand Station, or there’s $10 parking below the plaza. 710 W. 1st Street, LA, CA 90012 – www.aulac.com
the body whisperer - Coach Kwon Downtown’s Favorite Fitness Coach
Coach Kwon is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach and a longtime downtown LA resident with accreditations from the National Academy of Sports Medicine in Personal Training and Nutrition.
Technically, Coach Kwon possesses the expertise to guide clients in strength and conditioning, help them make better nutritional choices, and assist them in achieving their weight loss goals. Yet, there’s something very special about Coach Kwon that sets him apart from your typical personal trainer….
Like a body whisperer, Coach Kwon is not there to force his clients onto fitness machines, standing over them like a drill sergeant as they pound away at body fat to the point of exhaustion.
Nor does a session with Coach Kwon feel like a competition at all. Instead, Kwon exudes a calming presence, attentive to each client’s individual pace.
Coach Kwon guides his clients with gentle suggestions and a tone of genuine care. Demonstrating each movement first and patiently observing to ensure proper form, he celebrates each milestone and builds trust through tangible results.
Instead of dreading the next session, working out with Coach Kwon doesn’t feel like a chore; it’s an empowering experience that leaves his clients feeling invigorated and accomplished.
Ah. Dry January. That time of year when America, gripped by a collective bout of self-improvement, vows to conquer its inner sloth with ambitious health and fitness New Year’s resolutions complete with everything from new gym memberships to kale smoothies. Yet, for many, as the weeks unfold, the initial fervor cools faster than a forgotten cup of coffee. The allure of the elliptical wanes, replaced by every excuse in the book to continue that sweet familiar siren song with the sofa.
And that’s where Coach Kwon comes in.@coachkwon
Focus, functional strength, mobility, and sustainable habits are key aspects of his approach. Making sure every workout has a purpose, Coach Kwon ensures his clients achieve their fitness goals. On top of that, as a certified nutrition coach, his work benefits the community by helping downtowners take control of their health in a way that fits their busy lives.
As both a coach and trainer, Coach Kwon has gained a deep understanding of athletic performance and how to develop individuals both physically and mentally.
DTLA Farmer’s Markets cont..
LA River Farmers Market in Chinatown
Established on May 26, 2022, the LA River Farmers’ Market is brought to Downtown by Food Access LA, a nonprofit organization building sustainable food systems to ensure everyone has equitable access to fresh, affordable, locally grown foods.
But it doesn’t stop there; LA River Farmer’s Market also provides curbside pick-up or delivery to the home or office, high-quality composting, handson nutrition and cooking classes, and professional coaching for urban growers. The market operates every Thursday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at LA State Historic Park, 1245 N Spring Street, Chinatown.
TGIF at Echo Park Farmers Market
Stocking up on groceries, getting some fresh air, and supporting local businesses is what Echo Park Farmer’s Market is all about. Another market established by Food Access LA, since 2006, the Echo Park Farmers’ Market has grown steadily to become one of the most popular and well-attended certified farmers’ markets.
Every Friday, 15 local farmers set up tables and offer up Earth’s vibrant jewels alongside artisan jams and jellies, honey, and fresh farm-grown flowers, just to name a few, with free samples adding to the symphony of colors, aromas, and flavors fresh fruits and veggies have to offer. The market operates every Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 1146 Logan St, Los Angeles, CA 90026.
Everyday Freshness at GCM
What started off as Los Angeles’ largest and oldest public market opening its doors in 1917 has long become one of
Downtown’s most frequented culinary attractions.
For over 100 years, Grand Central Market on 3rd and Broadway has been a home for legacy vendors, showcasing the diverse array of cultures and entrepreneurs. From juicers to freshshucked oysters, GCM is yet another daily opportunity for downtown to fortify itself with a vast variety of tasty nutrients.
Minerva Torres of Torres Produce, situated in the mid-market, says her fresh choices mimic the same market her family runs in Mexico, opening as early as 5 a.m. Her life consists of various vendors for fresh selections of pineapple, tomatillos, avocados, and chilis, making vendors and the visitors of GCM never run out of fresh, healthy selects. The market has daily operating hours of 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and is located at 317 S. Broadway.
the body whisperer cont..
Coach Kwon’s personal health journey started as a high school basketball coach in New York City, where he quickly realized the importance of proper training when helping his young athletes perform at their best.
In 2016, Kwon moved to Los Angeles and expanded his focus beyond athletes, specializing in building sustainable fitness habits that empower adults to become the strongest versions of themselves—both in and out of the gym.
“Many working adults struggle with finding the time, motivation, or right approach to fitness and nutrition. I simplify the process, providing personalized training and nutrition guidance that helps them build sustainable habits—not just quick fixes.”
Living in a luxury high-rise or working out at a private gym? It’s very possible you’ll run into Coach Kwon. Kwon focuses on making fitness accessible and sets appointments where he can meet his clients anywhere at any time.
Whether it’s through one-on-one coaching or online resources, Kwon is here to help people make lasting changes by improving their physical health, gaining more energy, reducing stress, and building the discipline that carries over into every aspect of life.
Taking control of your health isn’t just about looking better—it’s about feeling stronger, more confident, and showing up as the best version of yourself every day. The hardest part is starting. After one session with Coach Kwon, we promise you won’t want to stop.
Photo courtesy The Social District
The End of an Era: Big Brand Names Jumping Ship Leave DTLA with Dampened
Spirits
You win some, you lose some, and Downtown Los Angeles is proving to be no exception, with a string of recent major retail outlets shuttering their doors.
However, DTLA possesses a unique energy and resilience, and will continue to thrive as a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike, even if this list of recent closures seems to be dampening some downtown spirits.
Saying Goodbye to Macy’s at The Bloc
Media announcements published Macy’s closing over 150 stores began in 2022, but downtown didn’t bat an eye until finding out recently the Macy’s at the Bloc was one of the locations slated for closure, ripping a tear through the fabric of DTLAs retail empire.
Formally known as Broadway Plaza, a landmark development opened in 1973. Since then, the location has seen significant transformations. Rebranded as Macy’s Plaza in 1996, it underwent a major renovation in 2015, emerging as The Bloc, with an evolution of modern amenities like LA Fitness, Starbucks, Metro, and Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.
After withstanding the test of time, and numerous days of reconstruction, sources say the store, which, like many others in the chain, has suffered from low in-store sales, employee shortages, and theft.
In 2024, downtown Macy’s fans saw a gradual breakdown beginning with the cosmetic section in early December of 2024 and should expect to see a full store closure by March of 2025. After that, our nearest opportunity to shop in-store at Macy’s will be in Glendale.
Set New Finish Line for Firecracker
10K
Registration has been halted for all of the February 2025 Firecracker L.A. Year of the Snake Chinatown in-person and virtual events.
Celebrating 47 years, the L.A. Chinatown Firecracker is one of the largest and oldest running races in the U.S. with its upcoming Lunar New Year run, walk, cycling and dog walk events has been postponed to a later date in 2025, at the historic LA Chinatown Plaza.
The festival is a two-day expo including exhibitors, beer garden, vendors, activities for children, plenty of live entertainment. The event runs are approved 2025 USATF Sanctioned Events. Each registered participant receives a commemorative 2025 Firecracker race bib, exclusive collectible finisher’s medal, limited edition t-shirt (even for registered kids and dogs), goody bag, and much more. Participants and their guests will enjoy an opening ceremony in the heart of historic Chinatown with an opening ceremony filled with lion dancers and the traditional lighting of 100,000 firecrackers on both days.
The annual event is produced by the nonprofit L.A. Chinatown Firecracker Run Committee (LACFRC), a group of volunteers who donate their time and energy to organize and stage events and programs promoting healthy lifestyles, fitness, cultural awareness, supports education and encourages community participation. LACFRC continues to give back with proceeds reinvested in the community providing service and programs benefiting elementary schools and local nonprofit organizations. @firecracker10k.org
is Fire Burning Away the Sense of Safety in DTLA?
Walking down Broadway, a homeless man stands in front of a dingy comforter he’s carefully placed upon the ground. With no music to be heard, he dances to the beat of his own drum, calling attention to himself, having the most insane fun. Unfazed by passing glances, all smiles turn to frowns as he begins approaching each passerby, asking them for a lighter. –True Story
Fire in the “Whole”
Homeless individuals have been setting fires to stay warm in Downtown LA since the beginning of time. Before Charlie Oh’s became the now shuttered Down N Out, the corner, like many, was known for hobos setting trash fires into the wee hours of the morning.
Since those wire trash bins across the city have been replaced, but in this desperate act of survival, it has never truly died down in downtown Los Angeles and still rages on.
Under the Freeway
When a significant fire broke out under the 10 Freeway in the summer of 2023, engulfing a homeless encampment and causing major traffic disruptions, taxpayers were left to fork the bill. Reports say, the first pallet yard, that went into flames was 40,000 square feet, engulfing multiple trailers.
Come on, Baby, DON’T Light My Fire!
Like an eerie precursor to the LA fires, a fire erupted at the historic Morrison Hotel on Dec 26, a landmark building that had fallen into disrepair, just one of many that had become a haven for homeless individuals seeking shelter within it. Then, as the wildfires raged across Southern California, homeless arsonists were captured on video setting fires to various parts of the city.
With smoke filling the air and all of LA in a panic, two more mysterious fires broke out, one adjacent to the Morrison Hotel, and the other at Pershing Square, causing damage to the exterior wall, palm trees, and pipes below.
Definitely not the result of high winds and dry conditions, flames raged, and tempers flared as some speculated the LA fires could have been the act of homeless arsonists as well.
Somebody Please, Send Fresh Air Community events, from neighborhood festivals to sporting events, have been canceled due to concerns about fire safety and air quality.
Historic Core’s annual Holiday Ice Rink cut its shimmering spectacle short two days, while the Firecracker 10K run of Chinatown was postponed, with organizers stating, “After careful consideration of our participants, volunteers, committees, and local resources, we have made the decision to postpone the Firecracker 5K/10K run.”
Historic Core Resident Night was also canceled, with organizers releasing a statement expressing their commitment to the safety of their guests and staff:
“Due to the ongoing fires in Los Angeles and our commitment to the safety of our guests and staff, Historic Core Resident Night has been canceled.”
Great for safety; however, these cancellations not only disrupt the social fabric of the city but also have a significant economic impact on local businesses.
A week later, the fires have died down. Almost fully controlled, leaving a combination of smoldering remains, forces, and anxiety of knowing homeless encampments, or even resentful human beings, could spark such flames at any time, still simmering in the back of everyone’s mind.
Downtown residents are asking the community, if you see something, say something, but not to endanger themselves by taking the law into their own hands.
big brand names jumping ship cont...
The Grinch Who Stole Starbucks
The Grinch would have stolen a Christmas tradition in the Historic Core if Starbucks had chosen to close before the year 2024 was out.
Still adding to the mayhem and loss of the beginning of the new year, Starbucks announced they were closing the second week in January, sparking a wave of mixed sentiments from DTLA locals.
When it opened in 2010, this centrally located spot of Starbucks on 6th and Spring seemed a perfect testament to modernization, bringing in a bold brand name to complement the old-age momand-pops that surrounded the area.
For locals and visitors, it became a beloved pit stop for those exploring DTLA, offering a caffeine fix. But just as many will mourn the loss of their peppermint lattes, others aren’t surprised the doors shuttered and are looking forward to something new.
Of all the Starbucks locations, 6th and Spring seemed to have the lion’s share of bad luck. Vagrancy and safety concerns had long seen management cutting off access to the bathroom and electric outlets covered, denying guests Wi-Fi in the years that followed.
The straws that broke the caramel camel’s back: numerous back-to-back riots that led to broken windows, stolen property, and frayed nerves, including random acts of violence like the October 2023 stabbing where both victim and suspect lost their lives in front of dozens of witnesses.
Soon after the closure, the Starbucks brand announced they would no longer offer free Wi-Fi, restrooms, or charging stations for non-paying customers at any Starbucks locations, ending years of welcomes for non-paying visitors.
Speculation is already rife about what will occupy the space next. Will it be a trendy new cafe or perhaps something entirely different? Only time will tell.
No More Guerrilla Tacos
Located on the industrial corner of 7th and Mateo in the Arts District, the end of January approaches, and Downtowners will be lining up one last time to savor the magic of Guerrilla Tacos.
The vibrant space, decorated with colorful murals, managed somehow to mix fine dining with casual taquería vibes in its quaint stand-alone brick and mortar, along with coffee and cocktails creating a spicy salsa revolution, with one of the first sit-down taquerías to truly embrace a gourmet farm-to-table approach.
The decision to close was not taken lightly. With the pandemic, rising costs, staffing shortages, and two back-to-back burglaries in 2024, bad luck seemed to be hitting the business blow after blow.
Brittney Valles, the co-owner of Guerrilla Tacos, stated in an announcement on social media, “Now that it’s our time to say goodbye, all I feel is pride in what we did for the last seven years.”
