ucla adpi
- Jun 2, 2021
- 3 min read

Chaplain’s Monthly Choice - LGBTQ+ Businesses for Pride Month!

Falling shortly behind New York City, Los Angeles has one of the largest gay communities by population in the nation. In celebration of the start of Pride Month, below is a list of my June monthly favorites that support and highlight LGBTQ+ owned businesses in Los Angeles!

FRUITLOOTS Gifts

Knowing that your purchase is supporting diverse businesses really makes a difference. That’s why FRUITLOOTS has crafted innovative gift boxes that feature high quality items from LGBTQ+, POC, Women, and Ally-owned brands. Upset that they couldn’t find “one cool place where you could find quality gift giving options that featured LGTBTQ+ makers,” owners David Cruz & Allan Nguyen took it upon themselves to change the narrative. With gift boxes such as “The Happy Vibes Box” and “The Cheeky Bday Box,” there is bound to be a unique gift box for any present-giving occasion. For June, FRUITLOOTS has crafted "The Pride Box," filled with books, pencils, fans, candy and more to celebrate pride and the queer community. Recognized by the Los Angeles LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce’s business directory, FRUITLOOTS has taken on a name for itself in the LA community. Know of a great diverse business that could enhance a gift box? Email FRUITLOOTS at heyfruitloots@fruitloots.com to have them consider adding your suggestion to their gift item selection.

Address: 8616 Holloway Drive Apt. 16 West Hollywood, CA 90069

Socalo Restaurant

Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger know how to curate beloved and delicious menus, and Socalo is no exception. These names seem familiar? Miliken and Feniger are Food Network and Top Chef fan-favorites. However, you may have not known that Feniger active in the LGQBT+ advocacy scene in Los Angeles as a board member at the Los Angeles LGBT Center and at various other queer-supporting and promoting organizations. Opened less than two years ago, Socalo has become a Santa Monica favorite for Mexican pub classics. Located only 12 minutes away from campus, Socalo is worth even a quick drive. This 4.5 star rated restaurant on OpenTable is known for its outdoor dining, pleasant neighborhood atmosphere, and sustainable ingredients. I am already craving the Vampiro Steak and Shrimp Tacos…

Address: 1920 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Otherwild

Rachel Berks founded Otherwild in 2012 and has since expanded the company to New York City. Famous for bringing back “The Future is Female” shirt (which is currently on sale), Berks has created Otherwild to feature LGBTQ+ lifestyle and clothing items. Through ethical practices and proceeds which go to social justice causes supporting diverse communities in need, Otherwild demonstrates their care for the community and the good of the products they put out into the world. Otherwild General, a subsect of their main brandline, sells zero-waste cleaning products to add sustainability to your average day. But personally, the T-Shirts with the bold and often hilarious designs are the true winner for me.

Address: 1768 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Crossroads Kitchen

It’s hard for many people to tell that Crossroads Kitchen’s delicious food is plant-based, but openly gay executive chef Scot Jones is known for converting any meat-lover into someone who enjoys vegan food. This vegan restaurant highlights a selection of refined Italian classics as well as Mediterranean staples. The comfort of Chef Jones’ restaurant makes patrons eager to try out their delicious and unexpectedly vegan plates, such as the Artichoke Oysters or the Spicy Meatball Pizza. Less than 6 miles from campus, Crossroads Kitchen is a must-go. Jones is also quite involved in the West Hollywood queer advocacy scene, being an active supporter of the LGBTQ Center in Hollywood and a participant in the Aids Walk. Taking a trip to West Hollywood to enjoy the house made pastas is at the top of my to-do list.