Kelly Akashi's Recommendations in Altadena

Kelly Akashi's Recommendations in Altadena

On Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, 2026, Los Angeles Nomadic Division presents Field Set, a new sound installation and series of sculptural interventions using recordings and materials from the site of artist Kelly Akashi’s former home and studio in Altadena, California.

The project features a collaboration between Akashi and Phil Peters. Using subterranean microphones, Peters has been continuously recording Akashi’s property since May 2025, capturing the sounds of demolition and nearby rebuilding. Presented for the first time, these field recordings focus on the debris removal and excavation period and are arranged into a three-hour durational soundscape. Played through large-scale subwoofers constructed by Peters, the work unfolds across the ground and through low-frequency sound, using the site as a physical surface and a field of resonance.

Following the soundscape, each day will conclude with a live musical performance by an artist with ties to the neighborhood. On Saturday, experience a live performance by Celia Hollander; Sunday will feature a live performance by Paul McCarthy, Alex Stevens, and John Wiese.

Here are some places that Kelly Akashi recommends you visit during the weekend of Field Set, or the next time you visit Altadena.


“Scanner” at The Bunny Museum

Lake Ave. and Altadena Dr.

While The Bunny Museum is still in its reconstruction phase, you can still see the 14-foot tall bunny sculpture, “Scanner” by Jesse Zhao. Support The Bunny Museum by donating bunny items to: The Bunny Museum, 2335 E. Colorado Boulevard, Suite 115 #350, Pasadena, CA 91107. Alternatively, you can bring bunny items to Field Set and Kelly Akashi will drop them off at a later date.

Fair Oaks Burger

2560 Fair Oaks Ave.

Open Mon-Fri: 7AM-8PM and Sat: 7AM-4PM

A staple since the 1980s, Fair Oaks Burger serves up Mexican, Chinese and American food. Stop by this family-owned establishment to grab breakfast (served all day) or a couple of tacos.

Alto Beta Gallery

2359 Lincoln Ave.

Open Sundays from 12-5PM or by appointment

Established in 2022 and run by artist Brad Eberhard, Alto Beta focuses on art by emerging and mid-career artists. Stop by right before you visit Good Neighbor Bar, just a short distance away.

Good Neighbor Bar

2311 Lincoln Ave.

Open Tues-Thurs: 5PM-12AM, Fri: 5PM-1AM, Sat: 4PM-1AM, Sun: 4-10PM

Patio open: Tues-Fri: 5-9PM, Sat: 4-9PM, Sun: 4-8PM

Good Neighbor bar continues to be a gathering space for the neighborhood, with a patio that’s kid and dog friendly. The menu features a range of cocktails plus wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options. A rotating pop-up schedule features food by Tacos Casa, Triple Beam Pizza, and more.

Miya

2470 Lake Ave.

Open Tues-Sun: 11AM-9PM

Miya is a fixture in the Altadena community that has gotten rave reviews from the Los Angeles Times and Eater LA. Visit the eatery for curries, noodles, soups, and rice dishes; every Tuesday, the restaurant offers a 100% plant-based menu.

Norman Jr.

Fair Oaks Ave. and Mariposa St.

An eight-foot werewolf became an Altadena icon a few years ago after a resident set up the creature near a house owned by a sober housing organization on Fair Oaks. When the Eaton fire destroyed the house, and the werewolf, residents found a new one on eBay. Now, Norman Jr. is the new sight to behold.

Rhythms of the Village

Online

A retail store and cultural space that hosted drum circles and art festivals, Rhythms of the Village is a family-owned business that amplifies African culture and community exchange. You can support their rebuilding efforts by shopping their clothing selection online.

El Patrón

2555 Lake Ave.

Open Mon-Thurs: 9AM-7PM, Fri-Sun: 9AM-8PM

El Patrón has been in the neighborhood for more than a decade. The restaurant serves up Mexican dishes like burritos, tortas, fajitas, and menudo.