14 of the coolest places to hang out in LA, according to the startup execs who work there

Though not everyone is on board with the term "Silicon Beach," it's hard to deny that Los Angeles' tech scene is growing to rival its northern neighbors in Silicon Valley.

Communities like Santa Monica, Venice, and West Hollywood - where many startups have set up shop - are known for their proximity to the beach and laid-back lifestyle.

But Los Angeles is much more than sun and sand - there's a huge food and drink scene to enjoy there as well. Startup execs can sample top-notch cuisine from a large variety of restaurants, many of which place a priority on locally sourced ingredients and innovative construction.

We've asked some of our friends working in Silicon Beach startups where they like to eat and drink in their neighborhood. Their suggestions covered quite a bit of ground, from coffee shops in Hollywood to vegan establishments in Venice. Whether it's for a quick power lunch or after-work drinks, the focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients they can enjoy on the go.