Jewelry Designer Nikki Erwin’s Haute LA Secrets

Nikki Erwin became jewelry designer Jennifer Meyer’s first employee at just 19 years old, which is when she discovered truly just how much she wanted to design baubles. Flash forward ten years and Nikki has launched her own collection of 18K gold pieces that hover around the $20K-$28K mark and are worn by everyone from Gwen Stefani to Demi Moore to Rachel Zoe. The name Established? Nikki loved the idea of self proclaiming establishment—a subversive message that says I am here, just like her collection. Here, Nikki, an LA native, shares her insider’s guide–her “haute secrets”—to the City of Angels.

Photo Credit: Vivien Killilea for Getty Images

Where were you born: Santa Monica, CA

How long in LA: January 1985

Neighborhood:  Malibu and general Westside

Occupation: Handbag and Jewelry Designer

Favorite Restaurant: La Scala in Beverly Hills

Best Sushi: Matsuhisa

Best Italian: Giorgio Baldi

Best dessert: Hansen’s Cakes

Best place for a romantic date: Inn Of The 7th Ray

Best Sunday brunch: The Beverly Hills Hotel Pool

Best place for a power business meeting:The Polo Lounge

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Regent Beverly Wilshire

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Melrose Place

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Established Jewelry!

Best Spa: La Prairie

Favorite Charity Event: Leonardo Dicaprio Foundation Gala

Favorite Cultural Event: LA Kings games

Favorite Cultural Institution: The Hollywood Bowl

Best Steakhouse: The new Palm

Best Pizza: Mulberry Street Pizza

Best Lunch: John’s Garden

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Equinox

Best Massage: La Prairie Spa

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Uber

Best Museum/Exhibit: The Getty Museum

Describe your city in three words: Simply. The. Best.

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: The Getty Villa

All-around favorite spot in Los Angeles:  The beach!

Best Aspect of Los Angeles: The opportunity