Jefferson Park

Jefferson Park isn't a great area. It was actually one of the areas under duress during the 1992 riots. And, it's considered to be part of "south central." It is predominantly african american and latino and has been that way since the late '50's. It's not terribly safe and there isn't much to do there. There aren't any notable restaurants and watering holes.
But, a lot of the houses in this neighborhood are beautiful. Jefferson Park was one of the first wealthy neighborhoods in Los Angeles. There are giant Victorian mansions, art-deco estates and craftsman bungalows lining this neighborhood. It's an eclectic mix of homes, but they're all really lovely. And, because the neighbhorhood took such a turn for the worse and hasn't come back around again, the houses are dirt cheap. I have a feeling that it's going to get cool again and I would advise anyone to buy a home here now before the prices blow up.
One cool thing of note: this neighborhood has a huge Creole influence. A lot of people moved into this neighborhood when they relocated from New Orleans in the '50's and '60's. So, if you want Creole food and jazz music, this is the place to look.