GETTING OUT > NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE SAN PEDRO.

Byline: CARLEY DRYDEN

>LA.COM

Once past San Pedro's gruff industrial exterior, you'll find the harbor town has more to offer than rusty barges and dilapidated warehouses. Its quaint downtown retains a 1950s feel, and paired with seaside tourism hotspots, this city proves the

perfect destination for an afternoon outing.

>restaurants

If you like your dining choices ethnically diverse, you've come to the right place. And you can find a pretty mean omelet here, too.

Papadakis Taverna

301 W. Sixth St.

[phone]

www.papadakistaverna.com

Moussaka, dolmathes, spanikopita, baklava -- all of the classic Greek dishes are here. And don't be surprised to run into the owners of this 30-plus-year-old San Pedro landmark, too. They enjoy mingling with their patrons. Come for the food, and enjoy the Greek music and dance.

Ante's Restaurant

729 S. Ante Perkov Way

[phone]

www.antesrestaurant.com

Founded in 1945, Ante's serves up Croatian fare popular, in particular, among San Pedro's sizable Croatian community. The restaurant was founded by Ante Perkov, an immigrant from the former Yugoslavia, who brought over recipes from his homeland on the Dalmatian coast.

The Whale & Ale

327 W. Seventh St.

[phone]

www.whaleandale.com

If you're looking for a bit of Old England, this is the place to go. The restaurant hosts special events, musical entertainment and -- no surprise -- a fine selection of beer to round out your experience.

Marcello Tuscany Room

470 W. Seventh St.

[phone]

www.marcellorestaurant.com

Find Old World Tuscan fare, an extensive wine list and an elegant interior at this Italian restaurant in Old Town. And don't forget to save room for one of their delectable desserts.

Pacific Diner

3821 S. Pacific Ave.

[phone]

If you find a spot in the bedroom-size parking lot, congratulations, you've made it past the most difficult part of your trip to the beloved local eatery. Enjoy one of dozens of inventive omelet options or a fruit waffle. And if breakfast just isn't your thing, you can't go wrong with a burger or sandwich either. It can all be enjoyed on the covered outdoor patio. If not for the food, at least go for the pleasant ambience.

>recreation

Between historical sites, gorgeous views and a visit to the port, there's plenty to fill your time.

Point Fermin Park and Lighthouse

807 Paseo Del Mar

For you history buffs out there, this 37-acre scenic park, the southernmost point in Los Angeles, won't leave you wanting for more -- there are plenty of historic houses and points to go around. The lighthouse, built in 1874, is not only historic but spectacular with its Victorian-style structure and colorful gardens. Or head to the bluffs for an awe-inspiring view of the coast toward Catalina Island. No wonder the park is a popular filming site.

Ports O' Call Village

Berth 76, Nagoya Way

This 15-acre New England-style village overlooking the Port of Los Angeles features specialty shops packed with items from countries across the world. Follow the meandering cobblestone streets to fresh fish and seafood markets, the nearby Los Angeles Maritime Museum or to the shore to wave at the numerous ships that sail by daily.

>arts

San Pedro has a burgeoning arts community. If you happen to be in town at the right time, the monthly 1st Thursday Artwalk takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. downtown, with dozens of artists and studios participating.

Angels Gate Cultural Center

3601 S. Gaffey St.

[phone]

www.angelsgateart.org

The toughest decision you'll have to make here is whether to spend your time checking out the scenery indoors or out. The cultural center and work studio is situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean with views of the peninsula. Inside, the center offers year-round classes and exhibits. The works of artists Benicia Gantner and Kim Schoenstadt are on display through Jan. 13 in Gallery A. In the Downstairs Gallery, the handiwork of printmaker-in-residence Dirk Hagner also is showing through Jan. 13.

Warner Grand Theater

478 W. Sixth St.

[phone]

www.warnergrand.org

It's not surprising that this impressive art deco theater, which has stood as a salute to the 1920s and '30s since its completion Jan. 20, 1931, was built by the designer of L.A.'s Pantages Theater. Called "The Castle of Your Dreams" by Hollywood mogul Jack Warner of Warner Bros., it holds true to its nickname with its stunning exterior and even more spectacular interior, providing a welcome Hollywood flashback. The Warner Grand holds screenings of classic films and live concerts -- it's the home base of the Golden State Pops Orchestra.

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4 photos, map

Photo:

(1) no caption (San Pedro)

STEVE McCRANK>LA.COM

(2) no caption (spaghetti)

(3) no caption (Point Fermin Park and Lighthouse)

(4) no caption (Warner Grand Theater)

Map:

San Pedro