Thundercat's Perfect Sunday in L.A.

The acclaimed bassist shares his favorite spots for coffee, comics, movies, sushi, and jazz in his hometown.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph showcasing the intricate, sparkling texture of a shattered disco ball, capturing the glamour and energy of Thundercat's musical world.Thundercat's perfect Sunday in Los Angeles blends his love of music, comics, and local culture, offering a glimpse into the creative life of the acclaimed bassist.Los Angeles Today

Thundercat, the acclaimed bassist known for his collaborations with Kendrick Lamar and Mac Miller, opens up about his ideal Sunday in Los Angeles. From starting the day with a great cup of coffee at Commissary to browsing comics at Golden Apple and catching a movie at Universal CityWalk, Thundercat's perfect day also includes indulging in world-class sushi at Asanebo and enjoying the vibrant jazz scene at venues like Andy's and Living Room.

Why it matters

As a longtime fixture of L.A.'s progressive music scene, Thundercat's insights offer a unique perspective on the city's evolving cultural landscape. His passion for local institutions like Golden Apple comics and his appreciation for the enduring jazz community highlight how artists find inspiration and community in the face of challenging times.

The details

Thundercat's ideal Sunday begins with a coffee from Commissary to break away from 'doomscrolling' on his phone. He then heads to Golden Apple comics, a longtime hub for the city's nerdy subculture that has been a consistent presence in his life since childhood. In the afternoon, Thundercat enjoys the movie-going experience at Universal CityWalk's AMC theaters, taking advantage of the surrounding entertainment options. For dinner, he indulges in high-end sushi at Asanebo, a restaurant he praises for its exceptional food and welcoming staff. To cap off the night, Thundercat gravitates towards the city's jazz scene, namechecking venues like Andy's and Living Room that have hosted his friends' performances.

  • Thundercat starts his day around 9 a.m. with coffee from Commissary.
  • Around noon, Thundercat visits Golden Apple comics on Melrose.
  • In the late afternoon around 5 p.m., Thundercat goes to the movies at Universal CityWalk.
  • Thundercat has dinner at Asanebo sushi restaurant around 8 p.m.
  • Thundercat ends his night out listening to jazz music, often at venues like Andy's and Living Room, around 10 p.m.

The players

Thundercat

An acclaimed bassist known for his collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Mac Miller, and other prominent artists. He grew up immersed in the progressive jazz scene in Los Angeles.

Mac Miller

A frequent collaborator of Thundercat's who passed away, inspiring the poignant track 'She Knows Too Much' on Thundercat's new album 'Distracted'.

Kamasi Washington

A jazz musician that Thundercat played with during his childhood, often at 'musty bars or weird coffee houses' around Los Angeles.

Flying Lotus

A producer and DJ that Thundercat would hang out with at the now-defunct Low End Theory club nights at The Airliner.

Tyler, the Creator

A rapper who would sometimes perform at the Low End Theory events that Thundercat attended.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are cellphones at this point, basically. That's what life feels like. It's a weird one we're living through right now, to say the least. You have to try to stay inspired, to keep moving forward. But like, you're processing absolute hell and war in the background, and you're still supposed to look cute.”

— Thundercat

“After [Miller's] death, there were a lot of questions, a lot of stones left unturned. But this song came to be from the simplicity of making music between friends. It's a language, a snapshot. It was a beautiful moment between us.”

— Thundercat

What’s next

Thundercat is currently on tour promoting his new album 'Distracted', with upcoming stops in major cities across the United States. Fans can check his website for tour dates and ticket information.

The takeaway

Thundercat's perfect Sunday in Los Angeles highlights the city's vibrant creative community and the enduring appeal of local institutions that have nurtured the careers of artists like himself. His passion for coffee shops, comic book stores, movie theaters, sushi restaurants, and jazz clubs reflects a deep appreciation for the diverse cultural fabric of his hometown.